BellaSugar

How-To: Make Your Ponytail More Exciting

BellaSugar — Thu, 14 May 2009 11:05:13 -0700

There are many times when tossing that hair back into a ponytail is just the easiest option, particularly during the warmer months. But, do you ever get bored by the same old, same old?

Herbal Essences stylist to the stars, Charles Baker Strahan has already shared with us a fresh haircut idea for Spring, and now, he's got some ideas on making your ponytail stand out. "Ponytails can be very chic. It is all about where you place them and the texture you have in the hair," he says.

"Stick-straight hair begs for a very high pony or a very low one, whereas I like a middle placement for more natural or wavy textures," says Strahan. Feeling more adventurous? "I enjoy seeing small braids or twists (in an odd number) on someone with a natural/wavy texture because it adds romance to a midrange pony," he added.

As far as high ponytails are concerned, Strahan likes adding three cornrows above the brow for an edgier feel. What's your favorite option for this go-to style?

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Mark's Latest Destination? Costa Rica

BellaSugar — Mon, 11 May 2009 12:14:55 -0700

Avon's hip brand, Mark, has been known to take us to exotic locales through its "Instant Vacation" fragrance collections. And now, it's time to go south, to Central America. The tropical Instant Vacation Costa Rica Fragrance Mist ($16) has notes of iced watermelon, pink guava, orchid, and warm sand accord, together creating a warm, beachy scent that's not too gag-me sweet.

Pair that with the exfoliating Costa Rica Body-Smoothing Exfoliator ($10), which I personally love for its creamy lather, light fruity scent, and fine-grit scrubbing, and then get your safe-sunning on with the Costa Rica Gradual Tan Moisturizer ($8).

Of course, no vacation would be complete - even if it's one of the faux nature - without some makeup. The Costa Rica makeup shades are centered around vivid colors like electric blues, vibrant greens, and bright oranges, all inspired by the natural beauty of the country itself, including: Eye Exotics Eye Shadow Trio ($6 each); Lip Exotics Lip Lacquer ($6); and Good Glowing Mosaic Cheek Color ($7). Check them out below:

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The Chicest Hair Length For Spring Is . . .

BellaSugar — Thu, 07 May 2009 07:00:48 -0700

Celebrity stylist Charles Baker Strahan has styled the likes of Molly Sims and Leighton Meester. And now, working in conjunction with the Herbal Essences brand, he's sharing hair tips for the warm months ahead. Over the next few days, I'll be bringing you a few of his expert tidbits, but first, let's get to the long and short of it.

According to Strahan, the length that feels the chicest and most current right now is a mid-shoulder-blade cut with long, face-framing layers that start below the chin. "It’s the healthy haircut from the long tresses that may have been taxed from over styling and growing out," he said. "This length, look, and shape is fabulous for the modern girl because waves and curls still drop below the shoulder as opposed to 'lamp shading' at the shoulder."

But if you're worried about sacrificing length, don't. According to Strahan, the blunt base of this hairstyle carries with it a line that still looks long, but polished.

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May Must Haves

BellaSugar — Fri, 01 May 2009 13:59:18 -0700

You know what April showers bring, and for the start of this month, I've gathered together some great beauty products to make these next 31 days all the more festive. With Mother's Day, Cinco De Mayo, and Memorial Day on the way, it's time to think open-toed sandals, brighter makeup palettes, and of course, things wouldn't be the same without some May flowers in the mix.
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Do You Know Your Makeup Expiration Dates?

BellaSugar — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 12:10:15 -0700

I have made a pact with myself. Clothes in my closet that haven't been worn in over a year are either going to charity or going up for auction on eBay. And as for my stash of makeup, it's time for a little spring cleaning, too.

As much as I want to prolong the life of that perfect shade of lip gloss, there's probably just too much of a chance that little critters have taken over. Not cool. So, when it comes to your own beauty stockpile, do you know when it's time to say goodbye to certain items? Take my quiz to find out.

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This Wristband Tells You When You've Had Enough Sun

BellaSugar — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 10:01:47 -0700

Back in high school, my best friend and I headed to Florida for our Spring Break. Her uncle was a beach cop at the time, and we decided to tag along with him to work one day. How very Baywatch of us. Let's just say that a lack of proper sunscreen protection and a very long day of lounging at the beach was not a good idea. How I wish I had the UVSunSense ($5 for seven) wristband back then, a new form of sun protection that helps prevent overexposure to the sun.

Developed by a nuclear physicist, this wristband measures exposure to the ultraviolet radiation found in sunlight. To use, you must apply an SPF of 15 or higher to your body and the band, as the band adjusts based on the SPF you use.

Like Homeland Security codes for your skin, four color indicators alert you of your sun status: orange, the color of the band when it's removed from the package; purple, which indicates it's been activated in the sun; dark brown, meaning it's time to reapply sunscreen; and salmon, which suggests you've had enough. Bonus? It works in water, so you can swim and float to your heart's delight.

These Flowers Won't Wilt on You

BellaSugar — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 08:01:28 -0700

It's finally Spring, and flowers are blooming. Since most of you opted out of the real thing with falling petals, how about these floral alternatives? Whether you choose it on a headband, barrette, pin, or rubberband, these blooms have real lasting power . . . but the only fragrance will come from a perfume spritzing of your choice. I'm abuzz with admiration for accessories to freshen up a look and fake blossoms wear well into summertime, too. Check these options in the widget below.

How To Find Beauty Trends on the Cheap

BellaSugar — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 12:00:06 -0700

Do you ever walk into a drugstore and wonder what the cosmetic trends of the moment are, whether it's a hairstyle or nail polish shade? It is, after all, so easy to get lost in the sea of displays. Spring is the perfect time to get experimenting, particularly with all of the weddings, outdoor events, and warmer weather ahead.

Plus, trends are a fun way to express your wilder and/or in-the-know sides, but because they're not always everyday appropriate, you might consider finding a more cost effective alternative for sporting your style. Well, I've got you covered. Here are some of my tips for identifying trends on the cheap when you read more.

On Bella: Check out some of my tagged themes to get the creative juices flowing, like Trend Alert; 2009 Spring, our most recent seasonal tag; or head to our Fashion Week coverage at 2009 Spring Fashion Week.
At the department store: If you don't have time to make a visit to the mall or your favorite department store, check out their websites for high-end inspiration. Often department store websites will feature a gallery of various designer's collections for the season. I like Neiman Marcus's comprehensive Spring 2009 look book.
Check out Pantone: When it comes to predicting color trends, Pantone leads the way. While they focus on predictions for fashion and the home, many of their featured colors also trickle down to makeup and nail polish shades and even hair accessories. If you're looking for the hottest shades right now, check them out here.
Other Sugar sites: When it comes to the latest fashions and colors, celebrities often get first pick at collections, and have easy access to the top stylists. In this case, it's always great to check out Pop and Fab for some beauty brainstorming.

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DIY Treatment Recap: Seasons Change

BellaSugar — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 08:00:31 -0700

Put some spring in your step with these DIY tips, just in time for the warmer weather on the horizon (I hope). From ways to beat the heat beforehand to treating effects afterward, check out these homegrown ideas just in time for some sunshine.

Sunburn Soothing Milk Bath	Aspirin Vinegar Hair Purifier	Strawberry Salt Skin Exfoliator
Essential Oil Sunscreen	Honey Lemon Hair Remover	Danger-Free Deodorant

Bella's April Must Haves

BellaSugar — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 14:01:55 -0700

Is April indeed the cruelest month? Nah. What I love most about April is that it marks the start of the light at the end of the tunnel (a cold and snowy tunnel for some of you). Now that Spring is underway, it's time to think bright and sunny. And I've got some great beauty ideas that are sure to put some zip in your step.

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Double Skinny Flower Headband - $24.00	Chiffon Rose Hair Elastic - $2.80
Rachel Leigh Romantic Floral Wrap Headband - $88.00	2 Pair Rose Clips - $4.00
Leather Flower Headband - $44.00	Primrose Fascinator - $30.00
So® Flower Clip - $10.00	Rosy-Posy Hairpin - $15.00
Gimme Clips Hairclip,Premiere - $3.33	FULL TILT 2 Piece Rose Barrettes - $3.99
Girls' flower headband - $16.50	Gossamer Grandiflora Headband - $32.00
Full Bouquet Clip - $18.00	Tasha Soft Leather Flower Headband - $44.00
Lace Flower Hair Clip - $4.00	Flower Head Wrap - $5.00