Recession Chic: Best At Home Manicure
by Ashlin Choate
Aug 11, 2010 12:49 PM PDT
There's no doubt about it: Getting your nails done professionally is worth the money--if only because of the pampering that comes with it. But for most of us, booking and keeping a regular appointment is next to impossible. And also, kind of expensive! It's easy to nail a good manicure or pedicure (one that lasts a week or more) at home if you allow yourself 30 minutes--about 15 minutes for prep work and application and 15 minutes for nails to dry. You can shrink that time if you use drying aids, like speedy topcoats or finishing sprays. While you are at it, pamper yourself with easy things like aromatherapy and some of your favorite music! Here's how to score a perfect 10 -- without the $40 nail salon visit.
1. Start by removing old polish. For natural nails, use a non-acetone remover. Try Cutex Essential Care Advanced Nail Polish Remover Pads.2. Use a very handy 4-sided nail buffer for polishing, buffing and shining your nails. After using this product, your nails will have a beautiful manicure shine without the polish, so this inexpensive tool is great for when you want to go bare. 3. File nails to desired shape. What looks modern now is a shortish nail,straight across the top with rounded edges. File your nails in one direction starting at the edges and moving toward the top.4. Soak in soapy water for a few minutes to soften cuticles.Hot In The Hive: Dsquared Skeletal Stilettos.
by Ashlin Choate
Jul 19, 2010 9:14 PM PDT
This year on the runway, bones other than model's ribs and knees made a debut. Alexander McQueen without a doubt has introduced the fashion industry to the wondrous world of skulls, making the normally Gothic symbol a fashionable success years ago. Karl Lagerfeld and Chanel followed the trend by creating dodgy heels, and taboo imagery nearly two years ago. Currently, these Dsquared Fall 2010 shoes carry on that legacy with an anthropologist's dream shoe - thus resulting in the creation of these skeletal stilettos. The series features a variety of high heeled boots and shoes that feature heels that look like they are made from spinal columns.
