Flowers and balloons are always a nice gesture, but your Mother deserves so much more (at least mine does!), so make her feel special with some of these unique gift ideas.

•    Pamper, Pamper, Pamper! You could buy your Mom passes to the spa, or bring the spa to her; it will show you actually want to spend time with her. Set a day aside and have an at-home pamper day with your mom.
Some products I recommend trying out with your Mom:
Thymes: They offer an array of body lotions, washes, scrubs, feet care, etc. The ladies at PlasticSurgery.com and I love the Naia Hand Lotion and Hand Wash! Visit their website to check out some of the kits and gift sets that they offer.
En Pointe Skin Solutions: From cleanser, toners, and moisturizers, they offer all the products you need to put together an at-home facial kit.
Philip Kingsley: To get your Mom ready for Mother’s day brunch, Philip Kingsley offers a wide range of styling products to add texture and volume or tame and smooth while protecting the hair. For bounce, control, and shine, you may want to try out their maximizer.
Adovia Mineral Skin Care: Another great facial care line! My fellow Beauty Chatter, Audrey, and I love their products! This is great for those with sensitive skin (like me), because they are made from minerals from the Dead Sea, providing a natural skin smoothing experience.

•    Expand her horizons: Take your mom on an adventure instead of the usual dinner and a movie. I am taking my Mom wine tasting! Pick a place you know she would like to go, but wouldn’t normally take herself to. I know my Mom likes wine, but she would never think of going to a winery.

•    Put on your chef’s hat: Make your Mom her favorite dish or introduce her to a new one. My favorite place to go for creative recipes is AllRecipes.com, which has reviews on the dishes and suggestions for additional ingredients, side dishes, etc.

•    Clean, scrub, and shine: You know your mother works hard, so why not give her a day off from her typical duties of cleaning up (after you!), doing the laundry, and running the house. Get your siblings together and clean the house for her and let her relax for the day!

Your mom most likely is not expecting much, so if anything, give her a day of you. I know that through the rush and chaos it can sometimes get hard to spend time with anyone for an entire day – the least you can do is give her the time. And for all you mommies out there, Happy Mother’s Day!

Photo Credit: Adovia Spa and Laura’s Journey

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

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

Have a question for one of our Beauty Chatters? Head over to our About page to contact us directly.

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

Check out our About page to personally contact one of our Beauty Chatters!

Photo Credit: Home Party Solution and Virtual Typing Services

Now that I am getting older, it becomes easier to make my shopping list shorter. My friends and I usually talk ahead of time and agree that we are not doing gifts; instead, we take that money we would’ve spent and go out to a nice dinner or pamper ourselves with a massage or pedicure. The holiday time is not about who can buy you what; it is about spending time together!

For everyone else, here are some shopping tips to consider:

1. Make that list and check it twice: Do not feel the pressure to buy everybody a gift. I really don’t think the mailman will get offended if you cut him off your list this year. Shorten your list by those who mean the most to you, i.e. family, significant others, and close friends. After you have your list you can set a budget (and the key is to stick to it!)

2. Odds and ends: For everyone else that you do want to send some holiday cheer to and can’t fit into your holiday gift budget, keep it simple; put together a tin of sweets or maybe just send a Christmas card.

3. Try to use cash and debit only: Only pull out the amount of cash you actually plan on spending on gifts. Try not to charge, you end up paying back a lot more in the long run.

4. Make as many homemade gifts as possible: Make a scrapbook, decorate a picture frame, get creative and leave more money in your pocket. Homemade gifts are cheaper and mean more to the recipient; it shows you actually put thought into the gift.

5. Surf the Web: Sometimes the best deals are online. There are plenty of Web sites that have whole sale items or out of stock items that are 50-60 % off the original price. Check out deals on www.overstock.com, you can find anything from shoes to sofas all at a discounted price. The best part is that you can get all of your holiday shopping done from the convenience of your own home.

6.  Re-gift to your advantage: I know it may sound a bit cheap, but why not bring that singing fish clock your Grandpa bought you for a gift exchange? Most of the time gift exchanges are all about gag gifts anyway, you could save $15-20. That is extra money in your pocket.

Sticking to a budget during the holidays can be painless if you don’t impulse buy, and actually plan and organize before hitting the stores.

To all of you budgeters out there, happy shopping!

Photo Credit: WordPress.com and Blogsome.com

Owner Claudia Prado opened an online boutique in 2005 selling chic clothing to women worldwide.  Last Saturday, after conquering Web site retail, Claudia held the grand opening of The Runway Boutique in the city of Brea in Orange County, California. While shopping, I had a chance to meet Claudia herself. 

Here’s what Claudia shared with me:
 
Stephanie: What inspired you to open The Runway?
Claudia: I have worked in the fashion industry for the past five years and have always had a strong passion for fashion and a desire to bring my favorite style of clothing to women all over the country with my boutique and online store.
 
Stephanie: How did you get started in the fashion industry?
Claudia: My mother has been in the fashion industry for almost 20 years and it’s all I know. Just like my mother, I developed a love of fashion.

Stephanie: Is The Runway the only store you have?
Claudia: At this time, yes, hopefully, I will open more in the future.

Stephanie: As much as fashion trends changes, is there one thing that always seems to remain the same?
Claudia: Season trends change, but the constant is the colors.  Bright and vibrant colors will always be around in the spring and summer time; warm, earthy tones will always be favored in the fall. So that’s a mainstay in fashion that really doesn’t change.
 
Stephanie: What do you think is the hottest fall fashion must-have this year?
Claudia: Jewel-toned, sexy, fitted dresses that can be worn as a party or red carpet dress. The Runway carries plenty!

If you would like to see what The Runway Boutique has to offer, check out their Web site.  You may also want to visit the upcoming fashion show that The Runway is holding at the Red Room Lounge in West Covina, California (info also found on her site).

Photo credits: Leeann’s camera

This week, Mythbuster Beauty gives advice on Choosing the right mineral makeup for you. It’s very helpful for those interested in various cosmetics brands.

Feel like you need a vacation, but can’t afford it? The Jet Set Girls have provided awesome Budget Travel Tips that may be useful for you.

Check out Earrings according to your face shape over at Beauty and Personal Grooming. You can learn how to accessorize with you in mind!

Do you know what is so special about this month? October Is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Read about it at FitSugar.

MyBlog.com is giving you a great recipe to Make Your Own Hair Conditioner with items right from your kitchen.

30 Green Ways to Stretch Your Family’s Budget is the latest from Eco Child’s Play. Visit the blog for some fabulous tips!

Zippers are what FricChic has Got To Have Now. She highlights how these shiny closures are so in.

I am not too picky about what I do with my hair, I am all about the blow-dry, straighten, out the door routine. I hate spending too much time in front of the mirror in the morning, so when BaByliss PRO claimed to dry hair in less time due to its ionic technology, its high torque motor, and high wattage, I wanted to see if it was too good too be true.

On top of the features I mentioned above, the BaByliss PRO and has ultimate conductivity, two heat setting (warm and hot), 1900 watts of blowing power, cool shot button, concentrator nozzle, supreme air pressure, light pistol grip design, and need I say more? I felt like I was getting a brand new car, fully loaded, specialized to fit my needs.

The result? BaByliss PRO held to its promise. With my normal hair-dryer, it can take me anywhere from 15 to 20 minutes to dry my hair, but now with my new replacement, I have my hair not only dry, but shiny, in five to ten minutes flat. I cut out ten minutes off my morning routine, which means more time to get my beauty sleep. To me, every minute counts. I liked the light weight grip and the concentrator nozzle, which allowed me to get close to my hair without feeling too much heat on my head.

If you are looking for a quick and easy way of getting dry hair with a professional, shiny finish, I definitely recommend BaByliss PRO blow-dryer for any hair type, which has a retail value of $68.95 (on BeautyChoice.com).

Beauty Chat readers: Receive 20% off any orders over $20 when you use the code: beautychat33. And if you spend over $100, save $15 when using the code: beautychat34. The first discount (20% off) is good until tomorrow Tuesday, September 30, and the second ($15 off) may be used until Friday, October 31.

Photo credits: BeautyChoice.com and Asian Models

Dolce & Gabbana for Babies? Savvy Mode wants to know your thoughts on this fashion statement.

Getting married and you don’t know how to tell your parents?  Then check out Telling It Like It Is and their article, How to Tell Your Parents You Are Getting Married.

Thinking about buying some new eye shadow? Head over to Face Candy first to read Review: Bobby Brown Long-Wear Eye Palette.

Check out Product Girl for Josie Maran is Coming to Sephora!

Jonathan Antin has a new hair kit for gals! To learn more, head over to Beautiful Makeup Search and read Get Dirty With Jonathan.

Clutch 22 gets crafty in her latest post: DIY: Bow Headbands (In Seconds).

Win the Ultimate Shoe Shopping Experience! Shoe Smitten Blog has all the details.