In addition to providing Beauty Chat for y’all, our company is also home to several other websites, including iEnhance.com, PlasticSurgery.com, and CosmeticSurgery.com. So the writers of Beauty Chat also spend their time contributing to these online properties.

Beauty Chat was actually developed based on the idea that beauty isn’t just about surgery; it’s about finding beauty within and working your way outwards. Skincare, makeup, and fashion all contribute to enhancing your image, which are commonly the subjects of our conversations with you!

So, in order to serve your needs and continue to create a place where you can feel at ease browsing around and reading up on your favorite topics, we have created a survey for you to take. Not only would we simply appreciate this, as it will help to gauge the direction of our articles, but there is also something in it for you too!

As a thank you for being a loyal Beauty Chat fan, we have put together a basket of goodies. By filling out our survey and commenting on this post, you will be entered to win a basket of skincare and beauty products.

This contest, in which the winner will be randomly chosen, will last about two weeks – ’til March 19th! Thank you again for being so fabulous.

Chat with ya soon!

Elana

Photo Credit: Zazzle

Brazilian-native Dr. Robert Rey, the star of E! Entertainment’s Reality TV show “Dr. 90210,” is now reaching out to women overseas. This September, he launched his lingerie line, “Shapewear,” in Brazil – a post-operative, body slimming undergarment line that has already gained popularity in the states. Having partnered up with retailer Polishop.com.br, Dr. Rey’s collection of body shaping, sexy, elegant lingerie is… Continue reading on iEnhance.com.

Photo Credit: Dr. Robert Rey

In honor of this revolutionary day, I have come up with a list of actions to take to be a little more eco-friendly.

Walk more, drive less: Instead of driving short trips around the corner, such as to pick up milk and bread, take a stroll instead. Not only are you saving on gas and not polluting the environment, you’re also getting a mini work-out in the course of it. A few days ago, my roommate and I had to return a movie to the video store and we walked there instead – it only took us 20 minutes and it felt great to get some fresh air.

Recycle, Reuse, Reduce (and close the loop!): Not only should you do the obvious and save your cans and bottle, but find uses for other products lying around your house. I like using old pieces of clothing as cleaning rags.

Invest in eco-friendly fashion: Nowadays, you can purchase anything from dresses to handbags that are all made out of organic fabrics. Not only do some of the eco-friendly fashion lines use fabrics friendly to the environment, they also use minimal packaging and guarantee livable working situations where they manufacture their products. Here is a list of retailers who manufacture for the eco-friendly and socially conscious.

Switch to organic beauty products: In pursuit of becoming more environmentally friendly, a lot of beauty companies are going all-organic. You can get anything from nail polish to lip stick with all-natural ingredients.
Some companies to consider that offer organic beauty products:
Foxy Mineral Make-up: has a wide range of selections of eye shadows, lip glosses, and foundations, which contain no chemicals and oils that can oftentimes be bad for the environment.
Karma Organic: offers organic spa products, such as organic nail polish removers, nail polish colors, scrubs, lotions, and oils.

Cut the amount of time spent in the shower: Do you really need to take a 45 minute shower? The less time you spend in the shower, the more water you are saving; long, hot showers are not good for your skin anyway, it dries it out and strips away its natural oils.

Little by little, changing everyday habits and incorporating more natural products in our daily regimens is helping the environment, plus it’s good for your own personal beauty health.

What are you doing to become more eco-friendly?

Photo Credit: GenGreenLife and Karma Organic

The temperature is up – way up – and our first reaction is to shed some layers, but what are we do to when we have to abide by our office dress code?

Here are a few simple tips to keep cool and still be work appropriate.

Tops: Breathable materials are going to keep you cool and dry. Short sleeved, button down tops go great with cropped pants (long shorts). Lighter colors are better for the heat, so try to stay away from blacks and blues.

Cardigan Sweaters: Most companies don’t allow bare shoulders, which is why it’s wise to invest in a few light sweaters. These can help cover up those pesky straps or add color to your outfit.

Long Shorts/Bermudas: As far as colors go, stick with blacks, browns, and grays. Pinstripes dress up your ensemble, so check some out and grab a couple pairs. Add heels and you’re ready for the office!

Skirts: Flowy and thin are your best bet, just be sure to keep the length around your knees. The shortest you’ll want to go is about two inches above the knees. If the material is too thin, a slip can help with concealing your undies .

Dresses: Most summer dresses are sleeveless – this is where the cardigan comes in – but they’re also made of thinner material and are extra flowy. (Notice the pattern?) Tight fitting clothing becomes suffocating, why not let your stems breath for the day?

Well, ladies, I hope these tips help keep you stay cool in the coming summer months. If you have any other helpful hints, let us know!

Photo Credit: Claire Newell

So what was my solution? I would love to lose weight, but even with a healthy diet and regular exercise, it takes time. In the meantime, I have been hiding my flaws with SPANX ®.

Though they are nothing new, SPANX products are a great way to not only slim the body, but also hide those annoying panty lines (which I think is great! – I have never been a fan of thong underwear). Even celebrities are using SPANX to look fabulous on the red carpet!

What is great about SPANX is that they have shape wear that can suit just about anyone. If you cannot afford tummy tuck surgery or liposuction, SPANX products offer you an alternative option to slimming down your trouble areas.

My favorite body shaper is the Higher Power Panties; they slim and smooth from the lower thighs up to the waistline, which are my problem areas. When wearing shapelier dresses, I don’t have to worry about my tummy pooch bulging out or my panty lines showing. Plus, seeing how tight my body looks when wearing the shape wear has encouraged me to start losing weight; I am exercising more often and eating healthier.

If you are interested in SPANX, you can purchase them online or check with your local retailer that carries them, such as Nordstrom. Also, Sara Blakely, SPANX creator, has another shape wear line, now available at Target ®, ASSETS ®.

Photo Credit: AOL Style Blog and Jen’s camera

Award season can definitely get a bit overdone…‘cause they all seem about the same. You have the pre-show on E! with bad to OK interviews, the presenters who present scripted introductions to the nominees, and acceptance speeches that either make you cry or want to turn the channel. HOWEVER, from the Academy Awards to the Grammy Awards, and the Emmy Awards to the indie Spirit Awards; I’m the first to admit that I watch them all! The fashion choices are always exciting to view (and judge).

Unfortunately, I missed last night’s Oscar Awards. Somehow it slipped my mind! Fortunately, this morning, Jennifer kept me up-do-date and e-mailed me tons of celeb photos. Here is what hit the red carpet last night:

•    Strapless, and one-shoulder strapped gowns
•    Bias-cut mermaid-esque dresses
•    Brighter-the-better tones
•    Jeweled material
•    Oversized prints

My favorite was Alicia Keys’ lilac flowy number (looked beautiful against her skin!) and the simple black gown that hugged Angelina Jolie’s body just beautifully (bringing sexy back). I definitely appreciate many of the other fashion choices, but these were my fave. Check out the pics that Jennifer sent me below, and share your thoughts about what is hot this season:

Photo Credit: Yahoo!

]]> http://www.beautychatblog.com/2009/02/oscar-fashion-%e2%80%93-an-evening-of-shoulder-baring-glam/feed/ 5 http://www.beautychatblog.com/2009/02/prep-for-your-valentine/ http://www.beautychatblog.com/2009/02/prep-for-your-valentine/#comments Thu, 12 Feb 2009 00:00:21 +0000 Jennifer http://www.beautychatblog.com/?p=2238 Valentine’s Day is only a few days away and that means we ladies only have a limited amount of time to get ourselves looking gorgeous (not that we aren’t already). So what’s a girl to do with only a small time frame? Panic! Just kidding…here a few quick tips.

If you were planning on getting your hair done by a pro but forgot to book your appointment, no need to worry. Save a few bucks and do it yourself, or ask a friend to help. For you curly tressed gals, let your spirals flow. Add a few bobby pins to keep them out of your face and you’re all set. Have gorgeous, wavy hair? Add a little mouse, air dry and you’re ready to go! If you have pin straight hair like I do, just run the flat iron through to tame those pesky fly-aways and throw on a cute headband.

As for makeup, keep it simple. Focus on one area and leave the rest looking natural. My main focus are my eyes, so I make sure to have them pop out, while toning down my lips and cheeks. The key to making your eyes stand out is eyeliner. Liquid liner is fabulous, yet tricky. Practice a few times before your night out. Then, finish off with a couple coats of mascara to really open up your peepers.

Depending on how much free time you have, skip the nail salon and just use a clear coat. Make sure to shape your nails first. If you have a little more time, try out a scarlet red polish. Use a base coat first, apply two coats of color, and finish with a top/shine coat. You can repeat these steps for a quick pedicure too!

Last, but not least, your outfit! This one’s a bit tough, since it all depends on what you’re doing and where you’re going. Again, focus on one are here; if you’re showing off your killer legs, cover up a little more on top. You want to make sure you’re dressed appropriately for the venue, so ask your date or friends if there’s a dress code. And since it’s Valentine’s Day, feel free to throw in a little something red.

Hope you all have a fabulous Valentine’s Day!

Photo Credit: M.I.S.S.

Hi Elana,

I wanted to add a little spice to my wardrobe. My clothes are mostly black, white, and gray; I think it is just easy and those colors go with everything. Lately, I have been wanting to get experimental with colors, but unfortunately I don’t want to buy an entire new wardrobe. How can I gradually add more colors to my usual black, white, and gray outfits?

~YuckNotYou

A: [I love your e-mail “yucknotyou.” What is your name?]

I think “gradually” is the key word here. Do you have a pair of earrings or a necklace with some nice color? What about a pink scarf? The good news is that your wardrobe consists of the most basic shades, which means that you can work in any color, and it will work. If you are not yet comfortable wearing pieces, such as a royal blue top or a red flannel top – no worries! For many people, it takes time becoming accustomed to wearing color. So in order for you to keep your head high and maintain a strong level of confidence, I suggest that it would be best for you to start with accessories, be it scarves, headbands, jewelry, belts, brooches, etc. Camisoles with either a bright or soft hue, which can be worn underneath a sheer shirt or in layering with a shorter shirt, offers a subtle pop of color as well. You can get nearly everything I have mentioned (including the camis) for under $10 at Forever 21.

With your love for grays and black, there are other basic shades that you may feel comfortable with. Navy, chocolate brown, beige, and olive green may give you a nice transition into other darker hues that still bring color to your wardrobe. Target is my favorite place to go in search of jackets, blouses, and slacks in such colors. Go to the sales racks, and you are likely to find quality pieces for under 20 bucks.

I would also suggest browsing through fashion magazines to see how the pros do it. Lucky Magazine is a great resource to subscribe to. It even includes “yes,” “no,” and “maybe” stickers that you can post next to the items!

But ultimately, “yucknotyou,” be proud of your signature style, because black, white, and gray are classic and never go out of style.

~Elana

Q: What is the best foundation for someone with sensitive skin?
When I use eye shadow, my eyes sting throughout the day. Is there a gentle eye shadow product that will work for me? What about a mineral makeup?

A: When dealing with sensitive skin, it is always best to consult with a dermatologist or professional makeup artist to find products that will work best for you. However, in regards to your question about mineral makeup and sensitive skin; many mineral makeup products are great for sensitive skin, because they are mainly made of natural ingredients.  Also, try products that are hypoallergenic. Bare Minerals is a great mineral makeup line and Almay has many hypoallergenic products.

~Dre

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Photo Credit: Photobucket and Pure Mineral Makeup Kit

Want to know how to get your eyebrows perfectly shaped? Or, where to go for the perfect top to wear on a special night? Send in your questions and we’ll help you get through your beauty dilemma.

We have a wide range of specialties within our “Beauty Chatters,” which means we’re sure to have an answer to your questions. So let’s get started!

Question: I’m really into punk rock, and I really want to look cool and edgy BUT still feel feminine and sexy. What do you suggest?

Answer: I completely understand the need to look the part but still feel like yourself as well! There are lots of little things that you can do to accomplish this. Fake eyelashes are a great way to add a little extra pizzazz to your look while giving you that little secret extra something to make you feel feminine. Giving yourself an edgy hairstyle but accenting it with something uber girly like a bow or a flower can make you look like Joan Jett but feel more like Hayley Williams.

~Audrey

Dear BC:
As my 2009 New Year’s Resolution, I have decided to pick up better habits, such as exercising on a regular basis. I haven’t been on a regular exercise program for years and I am sure where to start. I have a hard time staying motivated as it is, do you have any suggestions on how to get started?
-Exercise Challenged-

Dear Exercise Challenged:
Good for you! Starting an exercise program is a great start on picking up better habits; it will encourage you to pick up other healthy habits or drop unhealthy habits. There are so many different types of activities you can do for exercise. For an all over workout, if that is your goal, you may start jogging, walking, or even swimming, whichever you prefer. For the motivation part, find a buddy who is similar to you as far as health goals. Set a schedule to meet for working out. If you can’t find a buddy to work-out with and you have a dog, walking him/her every day is another activity you can pick up; it is not only good for you, but for your dog too. I hope those suggestions help and good luck!

~ Sara

Question:  When applying loose powder eye shadow, how do you prevent eye shadow dust from landing on your face and ruining your face makeup i.e.: foundation, blush, etc?

Answer:  Dust a heavy layer of loose translucent powder between your eyelid and top of your cheekbone before applying the eye shadow.  When application is complete, using a powder brush, sweep away the translucent powder.  This will not remove your face makeup and prevent unwanted color streaks from the eye shadow.

~Dre

Question: Starting this new year, I want to make sure that I only wear the most flattering pieces. How do I know which styles will work best for my body type?

Answer: Well, you are not alone! As someone with a “pear shape” (storing fat below my waistline, on my hips, thighs, and bottoms, as opposed to on my stomach and mid-section), I can tell you that I understand how challenging it can be to find the perfect pieces. First off, you must realistically assess your size and shape. Whether you are a pear shape or more of an “apple shape” (with a wide torso, including a full bust, waist and upper back, in which you store your body fat around the midsection of your body, such as your stomach, abdomen and chest), know what you are working with! A makeup artist wouldn’t just recommend any ‘ol color for you to wear on your lips or eyes, right? Course not. It would be based on several factors, like your lip shape, the tone of your skin, the shape of your eyes, etc.

So when it comes to your body, don’t just throw anything on just because you might like how, say, pop star Rihanna may wear it!

Take mental notes when you watch fashion television, such as: What Not to Wear, How Do I Look?, Tim Gunn’s Guide to Style, Peter Perfect, The Rachel Zoe Project, and Project Runway.

Be sure to also check out Jennifer’s “Dress Your Shape” article, in which she sheds light on other types of bodies, such as the “hourglass shape,” the “triangular shape,” and the “boyish shape.”

~ Elana

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Photo Credit: Home Party Solution and Virtual Typing Services

Thank you to everyone who entered in our FLABuLESS Contest! Our winner is…Carletta! Here’s what she said makes her feel fabulous:

“Seeing my entire family makes me feel fabulous because I miss them so much! I can’t wait til Thanksgiving Day! I love the idea of FLABuLESS- it would make me look much better in my clothes!”

Congratulations!

Photo Credit: FLABuLESS