Fashion & Beauty

By Sarah Skarda 

It is so important to groom and shape your brows. The way your brows look will affect the overall image of your eyes and face. Not to mention, your brows are the external expressions of your individual personality and tell stories on their own.

One fact to remember is that your brows are “sisters not twins.” You may be able to get your brows to look pretty darn close to identical but not totally and that’s okay. This is what makes people so unique and beautiful in their way. As a make-up artist, I have come to believe that flaws and slight imperfections give each one of us our distinctly different beauty.

First, clean and shape your brows. If you are not comfortable tweezing your own brows, your local beauty shop can do it for you. Remember, a thicker brow will tend to make you look younger. Shaping your brow creates an outline, which you can fill in with color. Cleaning up under your brow will open up the eye dramatically. Comfort tip: after your brows are shaped they may be red and a bit sore so fold up and place an Ultimate Cleansing Cloth by Noodle & Boo on your brow bone to cool and soothe the skin.

Next, find a color match for your brow and make sure you are comfortable with the color. I prefer to use a powder brow color vs. a creamy brow pencil. Powder lasts longer and doesn’t smear as easy. Also, I like using the small angle brush that is needed when applying a powder brow color because I can manipulate the movements easier, placement is more precise and the brush produces a truly natural look. It is more difficult to do these techniques with a pencil.

When you place the color, start in the heavier bottom side of your brow, which is closest to your nose. Place color first by gently laying the brush flat on your skin and tap in the natural direction following your brow, then swipe to blend so you won’t be left with dark blotchy spots of color. I prefer to have the color fade lighter as it reaches upward towards the forehead area, again for a natural look. Add color slowly until you reach the intensity desired. If you add too much color, simply take a clean brow brush and brush out excess color. This is another reason to use powder; it’s more forgiving than a pencil if you add too much color.

Lastly, set your brow with a brow gel to keep the hair in place. There is a large brow gel collection to choose from in the cosmetic market today, just inquire about a brow gel with your favorite cosmetic line.

Happiness is having natural brows which define your unique look!

By Sarah Skarda 

How you apply your make-up is just as important as the colors you choose to wear. Therefore, it is important to invest in quality make-up brushes that last for a long time and give you the look you want.

I love the professional make-up brushes by M•A•C. Their brushes are hand-sculpted and assembled using the finest quality materials. They feature birch, linden and ramin wood handles, nickel-plated brass ferrules. There are 5 staple brushes to own and are really easy to use.  They will have your make-up looking fabulous once you get the techniques down.

#129 Powder/Blush Brush: $34
All-purpose for blush or face powder. This brush is particularly good for a bronzer, blush or mineral powder application. The fibers are soft and form a full, rounded shape. To apply use light sweeping motions and add color gradually to the intensity that is desired.

#150 Powder/Bronzer Brush: $42
Full and dense for dusting loose or pressed powder on face or body. Also fun to use for applying bronzer or mineral powder for a lighter application than brush #129. Remember with the tighter binding and fuller, larger brushes there will be a softer application of color.

#266 Angle Brush: $19
For creating sharp, precise lines. This brush has fibers which are carefully arranged to form a perfect angle. This brush is wonderful for applying a powder eyeliner for a less dramatic look than pencil or cream liner or use it to apply color to your brows. I love powder liner because with my oily skin it won’t smear. Lightly place color from the end of the angle onto the lash line and add to the intensity desired. Be careful not to press to hard or you will get a thicker line.

#249 Large Shader Brush: $27
For applying and/or blending eye shadow. Paddle shaped, with a flat rounded tip. Synthetic: its soft fibres provides pro-quality pick-up and distribution of powder, liquid or cream products. This brush is great for applying concealer or cream shadows that are so popular now.

#224 Tapered Blending Brush: $28
For controlled eye shadow application. This brush has soft fibers which taper to form a medium size dome shape. This brush is for applying and blending with a soft touch (the harder you press the stronger the color) in a back and forth windshield wiper motion in the crease or a small circular motion across the eyelid to blend in shadow, especially great for dark colors in the crease.

BRUSH CARE: It is really important that you wash your brushes. Ideally once a week, but if your busy like me, I wash them once per month. Use a mild shampoo to wash your brushes, I like to use the Extra Gentle Shampoo by Noodle and Boo because it has a low surfactant system and it is conditioning (great for sable and synthetic hair brushes). It is also nice to have the mild and delightful scent around your face.

DIRECTIONS: Put a small amount of shampoo in the palm of your hand and wash brushes in a circular, back and forth motion to get the color out. Then rinse thoroughly with warm water, squeeze excess water out and lay flat to dry on a clean towel. It is so imperative make-up brushes lay flat because if you put them upright to dry the water will move downward into the wooden handle and loosen the binding which will loosen the hair causing the hair to shed on your face during application. Enjoy your investment and have fun applying make-up everyday!

Do you find that your daily showers produce dry, tight, itchy skin? You can do less and get great results. Use soap only on select areas of the body to avoid dryness. Unless you have really oily skin, because you are a teenager or have a job that exposes you to oils and gases, you do not need soap to get yourself clean. Pure water does the job. However, you do need to use soap on your face, under your arms, and in the groin area. As you get older, the use of soap on the rest of your body can unnecessarily dry your skin. The Sugar Mama Honey Bar is a favorite in our household. You can be a Sugar Daddy and love it too! Its high moisture formula does not leave skin dry and itchy. Unlike most soap on the market, its pH balance is complimentary to skin leaving it in a perfectly healthy condition. Yes, it works nicely as a face soap too! Follow with the Lovely Body Lotion (apply when skin is still damp) for an extra treat!

When I was in college I worked part-time at Nordstrom as a salesperson. It was a great job. Nordstrom’s sales team is on commission and it is possible to make quite a bit of money, especially for a college student. Every pay-period Nordstrom would list department sales by salesperson and their sales per hour. Clearly the more clothes you sold, the more money you would make. While I only worked three days a week I consistently placed as one of the top sales producers in my department. I attribute this to one, very simple thing; I refused to say that something looked good on one of my customers, if it didn’t. Over the years it was my regulars who drove up my sales numbers, not my salesmanship.

EveryBODY has assets and everyBODY can look good. It doesn’t matter if you are big or little, short or tall, you can look good and feel good.

TWO TIPS:

1. Wear the right size (not too tight).
2. Dress for your body shape.

There you have it!

I found a really great little tool on iVillage for body shapes.  Click here, to see what they say about your shape.

Just for fun, check out how body shapes and weights have changed over the years, click here.

Happiness is feeling good with the body you have right now . . .

By Sarah Skarda 

There is a wonderful make-up line called “tarte” that is so fashionable with its packaging, tempting colors and product selection, not to mention the remarkable vitamin-enriched formulas!

“Tarte” is the talk among Hollywood Stars and can make you feel as glamorous as a star! Not to mention, it’s affordable! Tarte is one of my TOP picks for adding to your everyday look to make you feel gorgeous and chic! Every fashion forward gal has the top fabulous beauty products in her make-up bag so here is one from “Tarte” to add to your bag!

I recommend the airplane friendly Cheekstains ($28), which has 8 shades to choose from so you are “tickled” pink everyday! I love using the color “flush” for a natural sun kissed or bashful blushed look. Perfect for a fresh, new look especially with spring and summer around the corner. With cheekstains there is an alternative for applying blush, which does not require a brush.

Putting Cheekstains on is a self explanatory, virtually effortless application process, especially for an on-the-go beauty!

Happiness is looking beautiful everyday from “tarte” to finish!

I am a little bit in love with Katie Holmes these days. She is single-handedly bring old school Hollywood glamour back into style with her sharp bob and smoky eyes and sleek black wardrobe. At the same time, though, her look is entirely modern and fashion-forward, with just enough edge to make us sit up and pay attention. And she always — ALWAYS — looks fantastic.

What I love the most about Holmes, though, is not her couture wardrobe, but the way that she incorporates her fashion magazine look into her everyday life as a wife and mother. And yes, it probably is easier to do this when your husband is Tom Cruise, but the idea that becoming a mom isn’t the end of being an It Girl is incredibly appealing.

Too often, women give birth and give up. We give ourselves over entirely to our children and their needs, and we forget to take care of ourselves. And then one day we look in the closet and realize that all we own are sweat pants and tee shirts with stains on them. To see Holmes toting her daughter while wearing an impeccably fitted little black dress is inspiring. If she can do it, why can’t we all?

While I realize that most of us can’t pull off Holmes’ look every day, I do think that she is fascinating because she exemplifies what we all hope is true: having a baby is not the end of being stylish. It is entirely possible to be a soccer mom AND be an It Girl. Every time I see Holmes in the news, I feel inspired to put on some eye liner and a great pair of sunglasses and feel a little less like the mommy and a little more like a style icon.

And that is why I love her.

Photo via InStyle.com.

It happens to all of us. We all know that we should wash our face before we go to bed; especially if we have make-up on. Yes there are those lucky few whose skin is beautiful whether or not they are religious about washing.

So, here’s a little shortcut for those nights when you need a fast, gentle face-wash so you can hop into bed lickety-split.

The Ultimate Cleansing Cloths were developed for the most sensitive baby skin, and also make a wonderful make-up remover. Extra thick cloths soaked in a no-rinse; hypoallergenic solution they are the perfect solution to clean your face before bedtime. Dermatologist-tested.

In addition to removing the dirt and oil that has accumulated over the day, gentle moisturizers will hydrate skin leaving it perfectly soft for the pillow that is calling your name.

Once upon a time, people used to arrange their days around meals, which were less about eating than they were about being social. I find that in my day, I still look forward to similar social rituals: morning coffee (which I drink alone), afternoon tea (shared with my children), and an evening cocktail (with my husband). And while I don’t usually change out of my Mom Uniform for any of these little moments of civility, I like the idea that there are actual clothes — the cocktail dress, for example — designed around these rituals.

However, I draw the line at merging the Mom Uniform and the Cocktail Dress, particularly since the merger has lead to (I shudder to type it) Cocktail Shorts.

Yes, really.

Cocktail shorts offend every fiber of my being. Shorts are not cocktail attire; shorts are what you wear to a barbecue, for example, or to any event that will involve being outdoors or tossing a football or chasing small children. Cocktails call for grown-up clothes, pieces that do not permit running or climbing. To attempt to recreate shorts as cocktail attire is an insult to the Little Black Dress and all it stands for.

Cocktail shorts are also an insult to shorts, which are, after all, the perfect casual wear. It really IS possible to dress your shorts up by pairing them with a lovely blouse and some pretty shoes, but shorts are still casual wear, and casual wear — pieces that are specifically for lounging on weekends — is an important part of any wardrobe. To merge the two, to say that making shorts out of silk or satin and pairing them with stiletto heels makes them suddenly dressy, takes all the fun out of wearing shorts.

The whole idea of cocktail shorts as a viable trend is enough to make me start dressing for dinner.  Honestly.

Photo courtesy of Instyle.com.

There is no right or wrong answer when asked how often you should wash your hair. It comes down to what works for you. But, if you choose to skip a day, we have an excellent grooming tool for days between shampoos. The Conditioning Hair Polish was developed as a leave-in hair conditioner for children, but is becoming equally popular with our grown-up friends!

It works great on short hair, long hair, straight and curly hair. Because it is extra-light, it will not weigh down even the finest hair. It has a fresh, gentle fragrance that makes your hair smell like you just shampooed!

How do you use the Conditioning Hair Polish? Brush your hair. Spray a generous amount of polish on areas where you have “bed-head,” style as you normally would after shampooing. Your hair will benefit from the natural antioxidants and will look shiny too!

It’s alright if you want to share your Conditioning Hair Polish with the little ones in the house . . . everyone wakes up with “bed-head” or has a no-wash hair day from time to time. 

How many of you are sporting the Mom Uniform of jeans and a tee, or one of its many variants (capris and a tee, skirt and a tee, cords and … a tee). T-shirts are such a Mom Staple; they’re easy to wear and easy to care for and easy on the budget.

But they can also be boring. How about spicing up your tees with a cute jacket? So easy, and yet such a huge difference.

I love this jacket, from Francesca’s, for several reasons. It’s a cotton/spandex blend, which means that it is both versatile and washable, which makes it a nice addition to any basics wardrobe. The slim silhouette and single button keep it simple while the puffed sleeves and elaborate Elizabethan-inspired collar make it more than just your jean jacket.

Wear over a tee (long OR short sleeved) or tank, or with a beautiful blouse. Pair with jeans and chinos and an A-line skirt. Dress it up or dress it down. This jacket takes the everyday to a new level, and gives your Mom Uniform a little lift.

Tres Jolie jacket, Francesca’s, $52.00.

We must confess, we love People!  So, it is especially nice when they love us back!  Here is what they posted on their website:

We can’t think of anything more indulgent than relaxing in a long hot bath filled with our favorite products. Top picks for Valentine’s Day romance.

Celeb favorite Glowology by Noodle & Boo provides luxury in a bottle for sensitive skin. And the delicately scented Simply Divine bath set, $45, which contains bottles of Lovely Body Lotion and Heavenly Honey Wash, can’t help but leave you feeling uplifted.

Thank you People!!!

Fashion week is in full swing, and the Fall 2008 collections are all about sleek elegance. The shift dress — that simplest of simple wardrobing pieces — is poised to make a comeback for day and evening.

The shift is perhaps the most classic dress shape imaginable; a shift can be tailored to flatter any figure and can be rendered in fabrics that are perfect for work or weekend. The classic shift line is sleeveless and falls to just below the knee, but there are other options as well, including the cap sleeve dress shown here. Add a belt or a cardigan or a bold necklace to change the look; wear with flats or heels or peep toes.

A neutral sheath, in black or brown or navy, is versatile, but don’t sell color short. This spring is all about the return of feminine dressing, and a dress in a beautiful color can still function as a building block in your wardrobe. Choose a shade that looks great with your hair and skin, and that works with other pieces in your closet. Pinks are flattering on nearly everyone, although steer clear of very pale pink and opt instead for a sherbet or watermelon shade, for more sophistication.

Nanette Lepore La Dolce Vita eyelet dress, available at Nordstrom for $360.00.

Victoria Beckham, aka Posh Spice, is taking it all off to bring attention to an important issue — Marc Jacobs‘ new t-shirt design.

Just kidding. Kind of. According to PageSix.com, she has teamed up with the designer to bring attention to the importance of wearing sunscreen to prevent skin cancer — something she has taken to heart since moving to California. She now realizes how necessary it is to lather up herself and her three boys before heading outside, as all good Californians know.

Posh joins Heidi Klum, Dita von Teese, Joss Stone and others in posing in the buff for Jacobs’ new line of activism tees. All proceeds from the tees (which will go on sale shortly in Marc Jacobs boutiques) benefit the NYU Skin Cancer Foundation. And while I’d much prefer to see Posh’s hubby, David Beckham stripping down, I still give the girl props for getting involved with a good cause.

Victoria Beckham photo courtesy of AskMen.com

T-shirt picture courtesy of PageSix.com

What does this mean and why do you care?

The Associated Press wrote an article about the potential dangers of phthalates in baby products. The study that they reviewed was released in the February issue of Pediatrics, the official journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Phthalates are chemicals that are often in personal care products. They are used to stabilize fragrance. This study suggests that baby shampoos, lotions and powders may expose infants to phthalates that have been linked with possible reproductive problems.

In the study, phthalates were found in elevated levels in the urine of babies who had been recently shampooed, powdered or lotioned with baby products.

The current study offers no direct evidence that products used on the infants contained phthalates, and no evidence that the chemicals in the babies’ urine caused any harm. Still, the results worried environmental groups that support restrictions on these chemicals. To read the complete article, click here.

Normally if you were to learn this type of information and choose to avoid products that had phthalates, you would simply read the label. The problem is phthalates are in fragrance and the FDA does not require manufacturers to list fragrance ingredients except as “fragrance.”

We have had many e-mails and calls regarding this topic. So, for the record, Noodle & Boo products do not contain phthalates; this includes our adult products too.

Noodle & Boo is 100% phthalate-free!

Think of it as a “spa night” for your hands. Noodle & Boo’s Glowology line has two products that when used together offer RELIEF for those painfully dry hands. You will need the Sugar Mama Honey Scrub and The Balm.

Before you go to bed, run warm water over your clean hands for a minute. Take a big scoop of the Sugar Mama Honey Scrub and let it melt in your palms. Gently rub your hands together for two or three minutes making sure to get between your fingers and around your cuticles. When the sugar is gone and your hands feel oily, rinse them with water and pat dry.

When hands are still moist apply The Balm generously to your hands. Go to bed. Wake up with wonderfully soft and supple hands. During the winter months, this is a wonderful bedtime ritual.

Leave a comment on any post this week and receive free samples of both the Sugar Mama Honey Scrub and The Balm. Be sure to e-mail chatterbox@noodleanboo.com your mailing address!

Sweet dreams until tomorrow . . . .

What’s new and fashionable on the Internet this week? Well …

StyleBakery introduces us to the Winkee — for cleavage coverage without a tank or cami. I can see how this would be useful, but I’m not sure I could actually wear it.

Manolo the Shoeblogger takes issue with Project Runway’s use of “iconic.”

But, whatever. The Manolo quibbles, as the obvious intention was to produce the piece that could be creditably sold by the Levis Company, something much more achievable than “iconic”.

No one recaps Project Runway like the Manolo — if you’re not already reading him, start today.

Carly Cais, at FashionTribes, dishes about celebrity style on a real person budget. On her must-have list: red dress with black belt, footless tights, thigh-high boots, and animal print ballet flats, all at prices you can totally afford.

Finally, the girls at Omiru: Style for All answer the age-old question “What do I wear on a date?” Useful whether you are 22 and single or 40 and married, really.

Banana Republic Monogram silk geo-print kimono-style dress, $148.00.

My interest in research and development of skincare products stemmed from having a child with eczema. I am always looking for the latest information in better understanding eczema, its causes and potential cures. Could there be a link between hard-water and eczema? Professor Hywel Williams and his research team are going to find out.

The independent trial run by clinicians at The University of Nottingham has received funding of nearly £1million from the Department of Health’s National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment (HTA) program. The study will focus on hard water areas in Nottingham and Leicester, Cambridge, London and the Isle of Wight.

The aim of the Soft Water Eczema Trial (SWET) is to discover whether eczema can be improved by deliberately softening all water used in the home - except at one tap in the kitchen which will supply mains water for drinking.

Families of eczema sufferers and some doctors have said that living in a hard water area may make eczema worse.

Recently a team of researchers at The University of Nottingham found that eczema is more common in primary school children living in hard water areas in the UK compared with children living in soft water areas. No one really knows why, but it could be because hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium, leading to increased use of soaps which can act as skin irritants.

Professor Hywel Williams and his research team at the Centre of Evidence Based Dermatology are running the trial. Professor Williams said: “I have wanted to do this study for many years as patients keep telling me that water softeners help their skin, but other people aren’t so sure. Carrying out a proper randomized controlled trial will help us find the answer. If ion-exchange water softeners are found to improve the symptoms of eczema, this will be an extremely important finding for both patients and doctors. Many patients worry about the possible side effects of the usual treatments for eczema, so this would be a welcome addition to their treatment options.”

The study is in the process of recruiting 310 children between the ages of 6 months and 16 years who have moderate to severe eczema.

Up to one fifth of all children of school age have eczema, along with about one in twelve of the adult population. The severity of the disease can vary. In mild forms the skin is dry, red and itchy, whist in more severe forms the skin can become broken, raw and bleeding. Eczema is not contagious and with treatment the inflammation of eczema can be reduced, though the skin will always be sensitive to flare-ups and need extra care and protection against dryness.

The water softener industry (through their representative body, the UK Water Treatment Association) - is closely involved in the development of the trial and a generic water softener has been specially produced for the study. The industry is meeting the costs of producing and installing water softener units. The study findings will be quite independent from any industry influence.

The trial will run until the end of next year and the results won’t be known until the end of 2009 when all the information has been analyzed.

Noodle & Boo’s ultimate ointment was developed especially for sufferers of eczema. It is an excellent alternative to steroid-based medications.

One way to simplify your morning is to rely on basics. The simplest basics are jeans and a tee; toss on a jacket and some great shoes and you’re ready to go!

Until the day you realize that you’ve worn the same outfit for weeks on end. Then you’re just in a rut.

This winter, break out of the rut with one simple piece: add a dramatic necklace to your jeans-and-tee uniform. Choose a fantastic bib shape, like the one pictured here, or opt for a simple strand of big beads. Go for color and texture; you want your jewelry to pop.

Consider your neckline; if you wear primarily crew-neck tees, look for longer necklaces. A choker length is good with button-up shirts and scoop necks, while a bib necklace works with everything. But feel free to break the rules — I am partial to a choker with a crew neck tee, because I like the way the layered necklines work together.

A dramatic necklace can take you from day to night; pair with your jeans and tee for lunch with friends or with your LBD for cocktails and dinner. For day or evening, keep the rest of your outfit simple — let the necklace be your statement.

J. Crew bubble necklace, $150.00. Available in three colors.

by Sarah Skarda  

When I was dating my now husband Tyler, I suggested that he use some face products to hydrate his skin for a better shave. Tyler’s immediate response was “only women do that stuff.”

NOT TRUE, unless you want to grow old with tattered skin. I informed him that men are jumping on the bandwagon to care for their skin these days. There is a product line specifically designed for men’s skincare needs called Anthony Logistics for Men which I think is great. I bought Tyler the Travel Kit ($35) to see how his skin would react before investing in the full sizes.

From my experience in the cosmetic world, most men adopt my husband’s pre-Sarah philosophy regarding skincare and really don’t know how to care for their skin. It seems men think they will be fine by washing their face with a regular bar of soap followed by a generic shaving cream, then a little after-shave and call it a day! WRONG!

Ladies, my advice is if you would like your man to have healthy, soft skin try buying him a pre-shave oil like the one by Anthony for their daily shaving routine. There is such a visible difference in Tyler’s skin just by using the Pre-Shave Oil ($20) AND the Facial Scrub” ($20). Tyler was sold and he has been a faithful customer using multiple products by the line ever since. His skin looks amazing thanks to Anthony!

Tyler and I also like that a portion of the proceeds go to a good cause! Anthony, is a man who saw there was a real need for men’s grooming products, and founded Anthony Logistics For Men. He donates a percentage of his proceeds to charities, which support the fight against prostrate cancer.

To read more about Anthony the founder, click here.

The months leading up to turning 40 were a little bit overwhelming. I was constantly being asked what plans I had for the “big event” and how I was feeling about being forty???

I wanted to do something special that didn’t focus on me. It seemed like the perfect thing to do was to take the opportunity to donate my hair to Locks of Love. It is an organization that I have admired for years and it gave me the opportunity to talk about it often when asked about my “big plans.” As the day got closer I did get a little nervous, but since I had been talking it up for months I was committed (picture - 5 minutes before cutting my hair)! It was so exciting to mail-in my 10 inches of hair.

I love to think of a little person smiling because they get to have hair too!

Locks of Love is a non-profit organization that provides wigs and hair pieces to financially disadvantaged children under the age of 18 who suffer from long-term medical hair loss. All of the custom hairpieces are made with hair donated from individuals.

Nexxus Salon Hair Care, with Locks of Love, created an easy-to-follow, brief video tutorial to educate interested donors and their stylists on the proper steps to donate. To view the video, click here.

To date, Locks of Love has provided more than 2,000 children in all 50 states and Canada with hairpieces. Most of the children who receive hairpieces suffer from a medical condition called alopecia areata, which has no known cure.

“We can do no great things . . . only small things with great love.” Mother Teresa

Just the words “dry, cracked skin” are enough to make us girls reach for the lotions and potions. And as the weather turns colder, dry skin becomes a common problem for most of us. When choosing lotions, creams and ointments, personal preference is important along with choosing effective products that leave skin hydrated and healthy.

Most lotions and creams contain one or both of the following agents, an oily agent and a watery agent. Most of the time, creams and lotions vary based on the amount of these two agents, or “phases” as they are commonly referred to by formulators.

Some creams or lotions can contain most of one phase and almost none of the other. Or, these agents can exist in equal amounts. In many cases, the ‘feel’ of a lotion or cream may run from very oily to not oily at all. It all depends on the relationship of the two phases. For instance the Ultimate Baby Ointment and the Elasticity Oil are two Noodle & Boo products that are oil-based (no water). The Balm has both oil and water but has a higher percentage of oil than the Super Soft Lotion or Lovely Body Lotion which are light daily moisturizers for the whole body.

Unless some unusual medical condition exists (such as Psoriasis) most skin damage occurs because of dryness. In the winter, the air lacks the same humidity as in the summer. The atmosphere contributes to dehydrating the skin at a faster rate during this time.

It is during this period that creams or lotions with an oily feel come to the rescue and provide a covering that slows the escape of moisture from the exposed surface allowing re-hydrating from below. Oil-based lotions and creams have an ‘occlusive’ function in that they cover the skin and allow healing like a band-aid. These creams and lotions may also contain additives which have proven to provide softening and soothing properties to the skin.

If you suffer from dry skin from head-to-toe, the ultimate luxury we offer is the Elasticity Oil applied just after your shower and before you dry off.

For seriously dry cracked skin on hands and feet the ultimate ointment is excellent. Since it is an oil-based product it will leave skin oily and is recommended for overnight skin therapy.

For dry skin that needs a little tender loving care to keep it in tip-top shape during the winter months, The Balm is “the bomb.” Wonderfully rich it dries quickly and leaves skin supple. For best results it should be used after you shower as well as after every hand-washing.

Happiness is well-hydrated skin . . .

Last week, I recommended that you all get a copy of Tim Gunn’s A Guide to Quality, Taste, and Style; among the recommendations that Gunn makes is that we all find an alternative to the velour track suit. While I agree with the premise that we should all stop dressing like residents of a Boca Raton retirement home, I disagree with some of the suggestions he makes for the sweatsuit alternative. For some of us, a cute dress or skirt just doesn’t cut it for errand running and dog walking and kid wrangling.

Instead, I would suggest a long, slim cardigan, one that you can pair with jeans or leggings or tights. Look for a belted cardigan, for some shape; look also for an interesting neckline, something that will frame your face. Keep your overall line clean and simple — layer over a tank or tee or turtleneck and slim pants.

And please, save the sweatsuit for yoga class. I’m begging you.

Cashmere belted sweater coat by Magaschoni, available at Bluefly for $195.20.

by Sarah Skarda

I am such a sucker for buying and trying the latest thing when it comes to beauty and pampering.

This summer my feet were really sore from standing all the time and running around after my babies. I was flipping through Shape and saw a YogaToes advertisement. They claimed that “it’s like doing yoga for your toes!”

Prompted by my overwhelming curiosity and my achy feet, I jumped online to order a pair. To my pleasant surprise . . . they worked!

YogaToes are wonderful not only for someone working on their feet all day, but for the person with chronic feet problems, the person who has to wear uncomfortable shoes to match their work attire or the mommy who runs after little ones all day. No matter how you get your sore feet, I suggest you try YogaToes.

Start your experience by giving yourself a foot-massage with The Balm by Noodle & Boo then follow by relaxing with YogaToes while you watch TV or read a book. You can even wear them in a warm bath or a hot tub, at work under your desk or in bed at night.

Happiness is happy feet . . .

A single cupcake will probably do you no harm, but eating foods with Low GI Ratings have now been linked to clearer, healthier skin.

Before we continue let’s review . . . GI stands for Glycemic Index. You have heard about good carbs and bad carbs as they relate to weight loss, diabetes and heart disease, now eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and less pasta, rice and cereal can contribute to the health of your skin as well.

Specifically, a new study suggests there may be a link between a low-glycemic diet and an improvement in blemished skin. The study, “Low-Glycemic-Load Diet May Improve Acne in Young Men,” published in the July 2007 issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition examined whether male acne patients aged 15 to 25 who followed a low-glycemic diet (25 percent of energy from protein and 45 percent from low-glycemic-index carbohydrates) had a reduction in acne lesions vs. a control group that consumed a diet rich in carbohydrates.

The study found that at 12 weeks, acne lesions had decreased more in the young men in the low-glycemic group than their counterparts in the control group whose diet had no consideration for the glycemic index. This suggests that there could be a relationship between limiting carbohydrate-rich foods and an improvement in acne.

If you would like to compare a meal you might have during the day with one that has a “low GI rating,” click here.

So, let me get this straight, healthy weight, healthy heart and healthy skin . . . sounds like a win, win, win!

Having a great wardrobe involves more than just whipping out a credit card and bringing home more clothes; you need to be a smart shopper, one who only buys clothes that are right for your figure and your life. But how do you KNOW what’s right?

You can ask the experts! Or at least read their books. Here are my three favorite style books, the ones I turn to when I am getting dressed and when I am advising others about what to wear.

Tim Gunn’s A Guide To Quality, Taste, and Style is a book that is both a valuable resource AND just plain good reading. Gunn is witty and erudite and just plain right about so many things. He offers sensible guidance about how to shop, what to shop for, and when to stop shopping.

Clinton Kelly and Stacy London, Dress Your Best: The Complete Guide to Finding the Style that’s Right for Your Body. I know there is a wee part of you that wishes someone would nominate you for What Not to Wear, just so you could shop with Clinton and Stacy. Instead, you can tote this book with you and use it to make good choices about what will flatter your figure.

The Lucky Shopping Manual: Building and Improving Your Wardrobe Piece by Piece, by Andrea Linett and Kim France. The brilliant minds behind Lucky Magazine have assembled a comprehensive guide to building a wardrobe that will work for you. Chock full of great advice about proportion and fit, this book is one you will want to toss in your bag when you head for the mall.

by Sarah Skarda

I have to tell you about these wonderful panties . . . YES panties!!! My cousin turned me on to them and it was one of the BEST finds EVER. The panty brand is called “HANKY PANKY!”

Sometimes it hurts to look good, for example, when you find that awesome pair of “must have” designer pumps but suffer all night. Or that exquisite dress with spaghetti straps which leave you with a painful rope burn (true story about me). Oh, the stories that we diva’s could tell about the pain and suffering we went through to look HOT! Well ladies, you don’t have to compromise comfort or look when it comes to your panties AND they are sexy too!

Hanky Panky panties may seem a bit pricy (3 for $33 or $18-$40 each depending on the style) when compared to your average Victoria Secret panties (5 for $25) but Hanky Panky is worth every penny. They are seamless, feminine, sexy and won’t give you wedgies! I LOVE the color selection of Hanky Panky panties and the styles are made for every body shape, size, and personal preference. Also, check out Hanky Panky’s Camisole collection for a hot date night with your man or just to feel sexier knowing what you have on under your clothes!

You might also consider Noodle & Boo’s Afterglow Gel for firming and slimming to help keep you looking your best in your pretty panties!

Hanky Panky available at Neiman Marcus.

Happiness is a little Hanky Panky . . .

Happy New Years! It’s that time of year when all of us are thinking about our New Year’s Resolutions. While losing a couple of pounds and vowing to eat healthier may be at the top of your list, there is another reason to eat well, simply put . . . healthy skin.

The old adage “you are what you eat” not only applies to our overall health and nutrition, but how our skin looks and feels as well. As the largest organ in the body, our skin can benefit from the same nutrition we get from foods that have a positive effect on our heart and other major organs. In fact, research suggests that eating foods rich in protein and certain vitamins and minerals might provide valuable anti-aging effects.

While there’s no mistaking how our diet affects our overall health, it can also impact our skin’s health.

Healthy Food . . . Healthy Skin

Perhaps the simplest way to maintain a healthy, balanced diet and ensure the skin is getting optimal nutrition from the foods we eat is to follow the recommendations of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Daily Food Guide, commonly referred to as the food pyramid.

These include:

• Choosing and eating at least three ounces of whole grain breads, cereals, rice, crackers or pasta.
• Eating a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, including more dark green and orange vegetables.
• Consuming calcium-rich foods, such as fat-free or low-fat milk and other dairy products.
• Opting for a variety of low-fat or lean meats, poultry and fish.

Research has shown that the antioxidants in vitamins C and E can protect the skin from sun damage and help reduce damage in skin cells caused by harmful free radicals, which contribute to aging skin.

Similarly, we have long known that the B vitamin biotin is responsible for forming the basis of skin, hair and nail cells, and vitamin A - found in many fruits and vegetables - maintains and repairs skin tissue. Without an adequate supply of these vitamins, you may notice it in the appearance of your skin, hair and nails.

While the direct link between food consumption and skin damage has not been widely studied, one study comparing the correlation between food and nutrient intake with skin wrinkling found a positive relationship. The study, “Skin Wrinkling: Can Food Make a Difference?,” published in the February 2001 issue of the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, determined that Swedish subjects aged 70 and older had the least skin wrinkling in a sun-exposed site among the four ethnic groups studied. This cross-sectional study, which analyzed the pooled data using the major food groups, suggests “that subjects with a higher intake of vegetables, olive oil, and monounsaturated fat and legumes, but a lower intake of milk/dairy products, butter, margarine and sugar products had less skin wrinkling in a sun-exposed site.”

Eating a variety of healthy foods and drinking plenty of water so the skin stays hydrated will help most people improve the appearance of their skin.

Happiness is eating well for beautiful skin . . .

It’s New Year’s Eve, which means a planned night of staying up late, followed by a long day of lounging on the sofa recovering from the staying up late. I’m willing to bet that you will spend a lot of time and effort on your going out clothes, only to come home and pull on some sad old yoga pants for New Year’s Day. Am I right?

This year, resolve to spiff up your lounge wear. Choose pajamas that mimic day wear, like this set from Blue Lemon, which consists of a cardigan and pants and a tank in supersoft cotton knit. Choose pants and tees that are fitted but not tight; top with a slim cardigan or hoodie for warmth and coverage. Pair with some fuzzy slippers or embellished flip flops. Look for sleep wear that you can spend the day in, drinking coffee with house guests or playing board games with the kids. But don’t leave the house in this –they’re pajamas, after all. Just enjoy being at home.

Blue Lemon ribbed cardigan, tank, and pants available at Neiman Marcus. Long-sleeved tee also available.

by Sarah Skarda

Like most women I have an ideal routine for my day, including a skin care regime. However, the reality of being able to keep my routine is not so predictable. I juggle so much in my day with two little ones, plus the always-wonderful unexpected events that come up. It seems like there will always be something I have to compromise. Usually, the “something” is my personal care.

On that note, the one step I cannot go without is applying my daily eye cream. I may not fit in the planned pedicure, but I will not sacrifice my “Eye Doctor” by Origins at a mere $28.50 (not bad when compared to other leading brands).

The eye area is so important to keep hydrated. There are no sweat or oil glands in the eye area so it is impossible to hydrate naturally, by drinking water. Like most gals, I want to grow old gracefully and I know I do have some control to make it happen! Since eyes “tell all,” eye skin care is critical.

The skin in the eye area is as thin as an eggshell. That is why it is very important to treat this area with the utmost care and gentleness. Too much pulling on your eye will wear out the elastin and in time your skin won’t bounce back. To apply your eye cream use your ring finger in a gentle tapping motion, in a C-like shape, from the brow bone down and under the eye on the highest point of your cheek bone. Also, wearing eye cream will noticeably improve the application and the payoff of your eye-shadow.

Happiness is taking time for your thirsty eyes . . .

On a whim, I entered and won Miss Sonoma County when I was a 17 year-old senior in high school. Just like most girls that age, I was insecure with my looks and almost a little embarrassed that I actually won. As I prepared for Miss California (which I didn’t win), I was scheduled to be photographed by a fairly well-known photographer. As I went through make-up and as the photographer set-up to take my picture, I was nervous. I’m not sure what I said, but I must have alluded to the fact that I wasn’t “that pretty.” I’m sure I was looking for reassurance.

Instead of telling me what I wanted to hear, “oh you are so pretty,” he told me what I needed to hear, and it has stayed with me, and is “the best” beauty advice I have ever received. Here is what he said:

“There is always going to be somebody who is prettier than you and there is always going to be someone who is not as pretty as you. Furthermore, beauty is subjective and what is pretty to one is not to another. Instead of focusing on whether or not you are attractive by social standards, focus on the inside.”

Yes, it may sound cliché, but as an impressionable teenager I took it to heart. After all, he was a “famous photographer.” He went on to say, “if you define yourself by how you look you will never be secure. Rather, define who you are by what you believe in and what you stand for.”

“How many cares one loses when one decides not to be something but to be someone.” Coco Chanel

I recently treated myself to a beautiful pair of chocolate-brown leather boots, because my usual ballet flats just aren’t going to cut it this winter. I wear a lot of skirts and dresses, and the boots give me the option to keep wearing them into the winter. So how do I keep my legs warm on truly frosty days?

Merino wool tights, of course!

Merino wool is light-weight but warm; it is also soft and not itchy, which is important for tights. Look for wool/cotton blends, with a little bit of spandex for stretch. I like Falke’s Soft Merino Wool tights, because they are lined with cotton, which means that your legs are pampered AND warm.

Match your tights to your boots or to your skirt or dress for a long, slim look, or choose bright colored tights for a pop of color. Hand wash merino wool tights inside out in cold water and hang to dry. Wear them with your knee-high boots and your ballet flats and your Wellies — anything to break out of the cold-weather sweater-and-jeans rut.

Falke Soft Merino Wool Tights, My Tights, $65.00; available in five neutral shades.

Glowology’s The Balm is beautynewsnyc’s, beauty editor, Candice Sabatini’s choice for the perfect “hostess gift.” Here is what she had to say:

“While you’re giving thanks for the bounty, don’t forget to thank your hostess for working her fingers to the bone and for creating a fabulous feast. Even if she did only dial-for-dinner, she deserves a prezzy.

The Balm by Glowology smells as sweet as dessert and will soften her hands and feet with its blend of shea butter, sugar maple essence, orange and lemon.

Use your noodle and buy one for yourself also. It’s too delicious to want to give away!”

Available at Neiman Marcus, The Balm $26.00

Happiness is having someone cook (or order) for you . . .

Actually, these are a few of Sarah Skarda’s favorite things! Sarah is a freelance make-up artist (and mother to 2 beautiful little boys) who came up through the ranks at MAC Cosmetics and has always had wonderful suggestions in how to make even the most time-starved woman feel beautiful.

Here is what she had to say:

There are a few make-up staples that I cannot live without. I don’t have very much time but, like most gals, want to look as polished as possible. So, I have a “must have 3 list” for those who don’t have more than 5 minutes to apply make-up in the morning.

Number one! Find the “perfect bronzer” for your skin, not too orange and not too red. Red will give the skin a grayish payoff that will look dirty and the last thing you want is for someone to lick their finger and rub your cheek the way your mother used to in order to get dirt off your face! The bronzer I use for my skin tone and LOVE is Golden Bronzer by MAC. Bronzer gives that wonderful sun-kissed look but won’t make you too blushy or rosy. Apply bronzer with a large powder brush and stroke downward in small strokes towards the jaw on the cheek bone (no more of the 80’s streak line blushed look ladies). Also, apply in the T-zone and on the neck. Bronzer is something that you use to look polished, alive and “natural, not noticeable.”

Number two! Get your favorite mascara. Use a black mascara to thicken your lash-line and to define your lashes . . . personally I never use any other color. My favorite mascara ranges from the typical $8 mascara from the local drugstore to my trusty Lancome Definicil Mascara. ALWAYS replace your mascara every 10 weeks, if you use it daily. Not only can you get an infection, but it dries out and becomes flakey and clumps your lashes together. Having a new mascara makes your application process easier and FASTER! Apply an even layer on your lashes and try to separate the lashes by using very small back and forth movements. If you get mascara on your skin while applying it, let the mascara dry completely, then flake it off with your fingernail. NEVER try to get mascara off when it is wet.

Number three! Find a great gloss that you are comfortable with, both in color and shine. Some of my girlfriends hate gloss because their hair sticks to it or they just don’t like the thicker texture and look. In that case, find a tinted lip moisturizer to substitute for gloss. The reason I say a gloss is a “must have” is because it is one thing you can re-apply without the use of a mirror, there are many colors to choose from, and it dresses up a natural and virtually makeup-less look. I LOVE the juicy tubes by Lancome or Lip Glass by MAC. Try a reddish hue for the holidays and your friends will think you took forever to get ready! Apply directly on or use your fingertip to smear it on. Usually brands will sell wonderful sets for the holidays at reduced prices.

Now is the time to “buy and try” for your new years, “new look” resolution.

All recommended products available at Nordstrom.

Glowology, according to The Daily Obsession, offers the perfect gift for “The Yummy Mummy” on your list. The Daily Obsession covers fashion, beauty, shopping and lifestyle, and has a wonderful holiday gift guide. Our Simply Divine gift-set was included as a must-have along with our Essential Care Kit for the little ones in your life. Here is what they had to say:

holiday gift-guide 07: yummy mummy

Even the yummiest of moms may not look so divine after a sleepless night waiting up with her child for Santa. Gift her with the Simply Divine set ($45) from Noodle & Boo’s glowology line. She can re-charge by lathering up with the Heavenly Honey Wash, a rich cloud of milk and honey meant to refresh and relax. Afterward, she’ll turn to the Lovely Body Lotion to hydrate and smooth skin (not to mention, will leave her smelling SO good). And since we know that these mommies just adore their children…add the Essential Care Kit ($15) so that her kid can join in on the fun, too. The result is baby soft skin - for both mother and child!

Noodle & Boo products available at Neiman Marcus.

Glowology’s Simply Divine makes the “top 12″ list on the STYLELIST. Here is what they had to say:

Bath Beautiful

Need the perfect present for a girlfriend, neighbor, or co-worker? This indulgent Glowology gift set, featuring body wash and lotion made from milk and honey, is formulated for even the most sensitive skin. Simply Divine Gift Set, $45, www.noodleandboo.com.

To view The Stylelist’s complete list of BEST: Last-Minute Holiday Gifts, click here.

Short days, long to-do lists, and cold, snowy weather can make the holidays more of a slog than a celebration. Often all of the planning and shopping and doing for others can leave a girl desperate for a long nap. This holiday season, pamper yourself with a little bit of practical luxury. Wrap up in a cozy cashmere shawl; it’s the next best thing to spending all day in bed.

A cashmere wrap is incredibly versatile; wear it over your LBD for cocktails and dinner, or with jeans and a turtleneck for Saturday errands. Cashmere is soft and warm and light-weight; it is easy to pack in your carry-on bag for that last-minute flight home or to toss in your work tote for long days at the office. Choose a wrap in a neutral color if your wardrobe tends to be bright; opt for a beautiful pattern if you wear mostly solids. A brightly colored wrap will pop against your simple black dress or over a basic white shirt.

Look for streamlined styles without any details, or for beautiful embellished wraps with cables or fringe or beading. But limit yourself to ONE embellishment, and remember that fringe and beads are more appropriate for evening than for day. The most versatile option is a wrap like the one pictured here; the beautiful color and simple line make this a timeless and versatile choice.

Care for your cashmere or pashimina wrap in the same way you care for your cashmere sweaters: hand wash in cold water and baby shampoo, roll in a towel to absorb excess water, and dry flat.

Cashmere sweater-knit wrap, Nordstrom, $148.00; available in five colors.

Senior writer for Celebrity Baby Blog and Mommies With Style, Nancy Johnson Horn was 30 weeks pregnant when she requested Glowology products to review. She was a perfect candidate to review our line as they are developed to be 100% safe for pregnant and nursing moms.

Here’s what she had to say, “Heading into my 30th week of pregnancy, my ankles are getting more swollen every minute. And my feet are getting so dry! What can I do to fix this?

Well, Noodle & Boo, very well known for taking care of the sensitive skin for the playground set (also a celeb fave for their kids) recently started a line for expecting mamas