Posts Tagged ‘valentine’s day’
Monday, February 14th, 2011
By: Erin Brady
Valentine’s Day is almost upon us, but that doesn’t mean there’s not time to make some last minute tweaks to your routine to ensure you look hot for a date with your sweetie, night out with the girls, or to impress that cute guy at the gym. NY-based trainer Jeff Teta works at a newly launched private gym called Gotham Gym (GothamGymNYC.com) in New York’s trendy West Village, and he has FIVE tips on what you can to do to quickly to ensure you look and feel your best:
1) Have a high protein breakfast: Studies have shown that eating a high protein breakfast helps reduce cravings in between meals, which can help you avoid all the chocolate laying around the office (and at home!)
2) Drink plenty of water: Drinking water will not only keep you hydrated but it can fill you up in between meals and reduce the appearance of cellulite.
3) Stay away from fruit juices or smoothies: Although they seem like a healthy snack they are packed full of sugar and calories. Instead eat an apple – it’s much more satisfying.
4) Be active: Just because its a “sweet” holiday, make sure you still go to the gym or do somesort of physical activity. People like to give themselves permission to over indulge around holidays but remember that your body can’t tell the difference, so stay active.
5) Be original: Why not trade in that old prix fixe meal and box of chocolate routine for something new this year. Surprise your special someone with something truly original like a rock climbing class or boxing course. For the more romantically minded, sign up for a ballroom dance class.
Tags: eating right, exercise, Gotham Gym, gyms, healthy eating, Jeff Teta, Personal training, physical activity, quick tips, valentine's, valentine's day
Posted in Beauty & Style | No Comments »
Sunday, February 13th, 2011
by Becky Ellis
Valentine’s Day is the romantic version of New Year’s Eve: expensive, overrated, and participation is virtually mandatory. This year, skip the $60 bouquet of roses and boxes of chocolates and try out one of these (free!) ways to express your love. Not only will you save a few bucks, you’ll get points for being creative, original and (yes) romantic. (more…)
Tags: budget, cheap gifts, gift ideas, money, romance tips, valentine's day
Posted in Blog, Couples & Married, Date Nights, Holidays, Love, Romance, Romance 101 | No Comments »
Sunday, February 13th, 2011
by Becky Ellis
Sure, if you’re single, you could spend Valentine’s Day hunkered down inside, ignoring restaurants full of fawning couples and pretending the myriad heart-shaped cards, candies and balloons don’t exist. Or you could gather your girlfriends for a chick flick–or, for the more recently jilted, slasher–movie marathon. But why not try something a little less cliche? (more…)
Tags: single, tips for singles, valentine's day
Posted in Blog, Holidays, Love, Singles & Dating | No Comments »
Saturday, February 12th, 2011
By Jennifer Latkiewicz
The rip-and-tear ritual of the bikini wax isn’t for the faint-of-heart, so if you plan to defuzz for Valentine’s Day, take the sting out of your wax job with these expert tips from Edna Ma, M.D., and creator of BareEase & Cream Painless Bikini Hair Removal Kit.
You pop some over-the-counter painkillers and do a few deep breathing exercises, but even with the pre-game pain-reducing strategy, a bikini wax can still feel like a roundhouse kick to the pubic region.
But Dr. Edna Ma feels our pain… which is why she used her knowledge and experience in anesthesiology to develop BareEase & Cream ($25), a prep kit that helps ease the inevitable pain that comes with ‘nether region’ hair removal.
Though topical anesthetic creams are now widely available, BareEase’s lidocaine cream gets a boost, thanks to the unique latex panty. The cream, formulated with the maximum amount of lidocaine available without a prescription, numbs the bikini area prior to waxing, while the BareEase panty ‘locks in’ the cream’s anesthetic power and protects your clothing.
But whether you leave to a professional (spas and salons everywhere are offering their services at a discount this month) or prefer to go DIY, a perfect (and hopefully, pain-free) bikini wax is possible. A few tips:
- Pop a painkiller beforehand. “A topical numbing cream makes more sense than orally administered painkillers because the effect is isolated to the applied area,” writes Dr. Ma. But if you don’t have a BareEase & Cream kit yet, help minimize the pain by taking a dose of over-the-counter painkillers about an hour prior to your waxing.
- Banish painful, ugly ingrown hairs. Prior to your waxing, exfoliate the area with a loofah or scrub. Once the deed is done, disinfect the area with an alcohol-free astringent and avoid exercise, hot tubs and tight clothing for the next day or so, as sweat and friction can irritate your newly bare skin.
- Plan your wax for after your period, Dr. Ma advises. Your skin is actually more sensitive during your cycle!
- Trim the hair prior to waxing. If the hair is too long, it will be more painful, but if it’s too short, the wax will not stick, says Dr. Ma. The ideal length? About ¼- ½ inch, which means you’ll need a wax about every two to four weeks.
Want to give him a sexy V-Day surprise? Consider bikini sculpting — the landing strip is so last year! When Allure magazine interviewed the country’s top waxers, they found V-Zone trends for V-Day do vary: Chicago dares to go completely bare, while New York City and Los Angeles keep it classic with the Tiny Triangle. But Dallas and Miami get really creative — lightning bolts, hearts, Cupid’s arrow and a guy’s initial are top requests.
Ah, proof that romance isn’t dead.
Jennifer Latkiewicz is a Love/Sex blogger for LovingYou.com. She is a staunch opponent of vajazzling. You can follow her on Twitter at @JenniferLat.
Tags: bareease cream, beauty, beauty how-to, beauty tips, bikini wax, brazilian wax, hair removal, valentine, valentine's, valentine's day, valentine's day beauty, waxing
Posted in Beauty & Style, Holidays, Passion | No Comments »
Friday, February 11th, 2011
By Jennifer Latkiewicz
Roses are red. Violets are blue. So what if you’re single, make V-Day about you. Show yourself a little love with these red-hot gift ideas from Kajal Ruia, shoe guru and founder of trendsetting SoHo boutique Ruia. What better way to say “I Love Me” than with luxe accessories and to-die-for high heels?
Yes, every store front and commercial may seem hell-bent on reminding you of your solo status (as if you could forget), but that doesn’t mean you have to sit this Valentine’s Day out. V-Day is as much about loving yourself as it is about boyfriends and husbands! Even if you don’t have that all important ‘significant other’ to shower you with affection, you can still make the day special for yourself.
And since you’re not going to be spending the effort or money on a date, why not spend it on yourself? Ultra-hot NYC shoe boutique Ruia knows what women want and owner Kajal Ruia has a few gift ideas for anyone being their own valentine.
How do I love me? Let me count the ways…
 Single or attached, you deserve to indulge and treat yourself to some of the fabulous things you’ve always wanted, which of course, means “shoes”. For those who covet the most gorgeous designer shoes, Kajal keeps her super luxe boutique stocked with European brands that cannot be found anywhere in the U.S. Two sexy Ruia finds: ultra-fierce ‘Comoscio Rubino” booties by Baldan ($598) and neon ‘Tribeca’ wedges by Cleo B ($414) so ridiculously hot, you’ll wonder why you ever cared about flowers and “I Love You” teddy bears.
(Attached? Ruia boutique is offering guys everywhere a no-fail, stress-free option: a complimentary personalized gift cards for a sexy pair of shoes of your choice. Start dropping hints now!)
Equally fabulous: This soft suede Cowling Scarf by Hare+Hart (on sale $95) is made from ethically sourced Argentinian leather. Says Kajal, “Pair it with coats and chunky wool cardigans, or act like a rock-star with leather jackets and blazers.”
Explore other ways to keep it sexy in the bedroom this Valentine’s Day. Upgrade your Target sheets to luxury linens, and suddenly having the bed all to yourself every night may not seem like such a bad thing. Get the same sheets as all the luxury hotels — the Valentino Stripe 1200tc Egyptian Cotton Sheets by Luxor Linens ($253) would make anyone swoon. “Take it up a notch with this embroidered, red sheet set,” Kajal says. “It will be the second best thing you’ve ever felt against your skin!”
 Enjoy a little pampering to make the day even more decedent, and treat yourself to a fab spa treatment at home. Amp up the luxe factor to your DIY avocado masque with a plush spa robe. Nolan loves the St. Tropez Signature Spa Robe by Luxor (on sale $126) — it actually gets softer with each wash and with a luxe robe within reach, you can kick back in your private spa retreat whenever you want. Stay calm and tranquil with a ‘Lavender Lightly ‘candle by Kat Burki. With notes of lavender, vanilla and cassia, this calming fragrance makes for a decadent and soothing aroma. “The sprinkling of lavender buds atop is the final touch on a beautiful candle,” Kajal says. “Kat Burki candles are beautiful and delicious.”
Whether you splurge or work within a budget, just make it memorable. Says Kajal, “Make this Valentine’s Day one you’ll never forget!”
So, Ladies: Will you be spending this Valentine’s Day with “Me”, “Myself” and “I”?
Jennifer Latkiewicz is a Love/Sex blogger for LovingYou.com. She really wants those shoes — and she hopes her boyfriend got the hint. You can follow her on Twitter at @JenniferLat.
Tags: accessories, accessorize, be your own valentine, candle, candles, DIY, Fashion, heels, high heels, ruia, ruianyc, self-love, singl, single, single girls, single ladies, spa, tips for singles, valentine, valentine's day
Posted in Blog, Holidays, Love, Romance | No Comments »
Wednesday, February 9th, 2011
by Kori Ellis
On Valentine’s Day, try something a little different with your hair. A sexy yet sweet style is ideal for this romantic holiday. Experiment a few days ahead of time to find the perfect Valentine’s Day hairstyle for you.
Try a messy updo
Warm a little hair polish or serum in your hands, then finger-rake it through your hair to add some shine.
Rough-dry your hair with your hands. Add a little texurizing lotion or cream (like L’Oreal Studio Unkempt Out of Bed Weightless Texturizer) to get some messy volume and hold.
Pull your hair into a high ponytail and secure with a band. Twist and then loop it into loose sections and secure each one with a bobbypin.
If you have bangs, blow dry them smooth and swept to the side. Add a flower behind your ear to add a sweet touch to your messy updo.
Consider loose, romantic waves
Romantic hairstyles don’t have to be updos. For a glamorous look, you can leave your hair long and wavy. Check out this tutorial to find out how to get this look.
More about Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Countdown
14 Days of love
Valentine’s Day guide
Kori Ellis is an editor and writer based in San Antonio, TX, where she lives with her husband and three children. Kori has been published in dozens of magazines, newspapers and websites worldwide, writing about everything from fashion to fantasy sports.
Tags: beauty, beauty tips, hair, hair care tips, haircare, hairstyles, messy updo, romantic hairstyles, sexy hairstyles, updos, valentine's day, valentine's day beauty, valentine's day hairstyles
Posted in Beauty & Style | No Comments »
Tuesday, February 8th, 2011
by Kori Ellis
 If you are looking for the perfect Valentine’s Day dress, check out one of these red hot numbers. Each of these dresses is priced under $100.
Red Maxi Dresses by Von Vonni
You don’t have to wear a short dress to look sexy. This gorgeous red maxi dress is fantastic option from edressme. Priced at $98.00, this dress has a v-neck and halter top. It also features changeable sleeves.
JS Collections Strapless Taffeta Dress
This sweet dress is perfect for Valentine’s Day. And right now, it’s 55% off at Nordstrom. This red taffeta dress features a sweetheart neckline and flirty pleated skirt. Get this JS Collections dress for just $88.90.
Red Sequin Party Dress
For just $76.00, this red minidress can’t be beat. It features a simple, strapless style. The stretch fabric is covered with sequins. Pull your hair into an updo, put on your heels and strut your stuff in this red hot dress.
More about Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Countdown
14 Days of love
Valentine’s Day guide
Kori Ellis is an editor and writer based in San Antonio, TX, where she lives with her husband and three children. Kori has been published in dozens of magazines, newspapers and websites worldwide, writing about everything from fashion to fantasy sports.
Tags: apparel, clothing, cocktail dresses, dresses, Fashion, fashion advice, fashion tips, red dresses, shopping, style, valentine's day, valentine's day dresses, valentine's day ideas, what to wear
Posted in Beauty & Style | No Comments »
Monday, February 7th, 2011
by Kori Ellis
For Valentine’s Day, try a different makeup look than your everyday makeup. Experiment a few days ahead of time and find the perfect Valentine’s Day makeup for you.
Romantic and soft
For an ultra-romantic look, soften your makeup. Curl your lashes and just use one coat of mascara. Prep your skin/foundation like you normally do and add a soft pink blush on your cheekbones. Use a brown eyeshadow with pink undertones and finish off your looks with a pink lip gloss to add some shine.
Sultry and sexy
For a sultry, sexy look, decide if you want to choose between emphasizing your eyes or your lips. If you choose your eyes, go for a smoky eye look. For lips, you can’t go wrong with deep red, high-gloss lips.
Playful and flirty
For a flirty makeup look on Valentine’s Day, pick a playful look like pin-up girl style makeup. Amy B offers thes fabulous tutorials that will teach you how to get the pin-up makeup look.
Choose from pink pin-up girl makeup
…or vintage pin-up girl makeup
More makeup tips
Best foundation for winter
MAC Cremeblend Blush for Spring 2011
Dolce & Gabbana Secret Garden
Kori Ellis is an editor and writer based in San Antonio, TX, where she lives with her husband and three children. Kori has been published in dozens of magazines, newspapers and websites worldwide, writing about everything from fashion to fantasy sports.
Tags: beauty, beauty tips, cosmetics, makeup, makeup advice, makeup tips, makeup tutorials, makeup videos, pin-up girl makeup, romantic makeup, smoky eye, valentine's day, valentine's day beauty, valentine's day makeup
Posted in Beauty & Style | No Comments »
Wednesday, February 2nd, 2011
by Kori Ellis
Are you looking for the perfect pair of shoes for your Valentine’s Day date? Maybe it’s one of these…
Okay, all kidding aside, there are some fabulous shoes available that are great for Valentine’s Day.
Here are a few of my favorite Valentine’s Day shoes.
Jeweled sandals
For a special evening out, you can add some sparkle to your look with a pair of high heel sandals with jeweled or beaded embellishments. Metallic sandals are a hot choice, as well as black, of course. My pick: A. Marinelli Terrific metallic sandals, $64.40 at 6pm
Racy red pumps
Glossy patent pumps are a hot choice for Valentine’s Day. Look for pumps with feminine details like bows, thin ankle straps and peeptoes. My pick: Ivaka Trump Bulbli pumps, $124.95 at Nordstrom
Hot pink ballet flats
Even the most casual outfit can get glammed up with sequined or glittered ballet flats. For Valentine’s Day, get a pair of sparkling flats in hot pink. My pick: Color glitter ballet flats, $24.99 at Gap
Shoes pictured from Karo’s Shoes
Tags: ballet flats, fashion advice, fashion tips, flats, metallic sandals, patent pumps, pink flats, pumps, red pumps, sandals, shoe shopping, shoes, valentine's day, valentine's day fashion, valentine's day shoes, valentine's day style, what to wear
Posted in Beauty & Style | No Comments »
Tuesday, February 1st, 2011
by: Yolanda Shoshana
If you are single, you may be at the point where you would rather have the Grim Reaper knock on your door than to have to celebrate Valentine’s Day alone. Have you become so over the holiday that every time you see the aisle of red heart shaped boxes and stuffed pink bears you think about lighting a match?
While you dread being single there is someone in a bad relationship attempting to get out of it. The grass is greener in the other side and just because you are not in a relationship that does not mean you can’t celebrate on February 14th.There is a fun alternative celebration known for singles known as International Quirkyalone Day.
International Quirkyalone Day is a do yourself celebration of romance, friendship, and independent spirit that celebrates all love. The Quirkyalone movement was started by visionary and writer, Sasha Cagan who wrote Quirkyalone: A Manifesto for Uncompromising Romantics. Cagan proclaims that the day is not anti-Valentine’s Day it just happens to fall on the same day.
events started in 2003 and have been going on ever soon. You can put together your own event with other sexy singles that you know. Some suggestions from Cagan on how to celebrate the day are to throw a dinner party, rearrange your furniture, take a long walk without your cell phone or computer, explore a new place in your city, or try a new recipe. Why limit yourself, when there are so many wonderful ways to celebrate love. Keep the movement going and growing.
Being open for the possibility of love happening anywhere and everywhere around you is a great reason to be quirkyalone!
Yolanda Shoshana “Shoshi” is a multi-platform media personality: courtesan coach™, lifestyle guru, love maker, wedding officiant, and new thought speaker. Follow her on Twitter @Shoshi
Tags: February, love, quirkyalone, singles, valentine's day
Posted in Holidays, Love, Uncategorized | No Comments »
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