Wednesday, September 28, 2005

How to feel and look like a princess


Louisa May Alcott once wrote of appearance: "It is the little details that make up the pleasing whole." Believe it or not, people will notice if you've taken time on your look. Listen up---many celebrity stylists won't give you these tips.






1. Tweeze your eyebrows. This may sound rudimentary, but you'd be surprised how many people don't do this. It's OK if guys don't tweeze, unless they're gay or metrosexual and then...they probably don't need this website. Really, ladies, this is for you. A good corner salon will effectively wax your brows for about $8. You can get it done professionally once, and then maintain the brows at home on your own. Just make sure you invest in a good set of tweezers. Look for the kinds with a thick, blunt end, that enable you to grip the hairs easily. We like Revlon's tweezers, about $7 and worth every penny. Check Miribella for some good ideas on how to get started.




2. Get your hair done Again, this may seem basic to some of you. We're not talking about $300 highlights, but we at Las F strongly advocate a good wash and cut every now and again. Find a stylist you trust. A good rule of thumb: If you don't want to end up looking like the person who cuts your hair, then just don't go to them. So if Gothic isn't your thing, it'd be wise to steer clear of that very pleasant girl with black and green hair who promises to make you look like a star. A star of what? The Addams Family?

3. Style your hair on your own. Every day. Don't just fall into the whole lazy wash-and-wear faux pas. In the immortal words of Dolly Parton: "It takes EFFORT to look [good]!" Be prepared to make that effort. Wash you hair in the morning as it is easier to style when it's freshly washed. Brush it carefully. There are hundreds of clever things you can do with your hair. If you're blessed with natural curls, use a styling serum and a diffuser to emphasize them. If you want more full curls, then go for hot rollers. Just do something that makes you feel pretty and confident. It's worth the effort.




4. Paint the barn. You heard it from us first: every woman has her own unique and special beauty. Makeup, when applied correctly, can capitalize on what is already there. A good foundation will protect your face and decrease the negative toll that wind, rain, snow, sun, and grime all take on your skin. Get something with sunscreen for an added bonus. And don't forget color. A little eyeshadow, blush, and lipstick will do wonders for your face, and perk up your look.



5. Take good care of yourself. Treat yourself to an in-home spa night. First, rid your skin of impurities-We at Las F love Queen Helene's Mint Mask, $3 at most drugstores. Then, treat your feet. We love Tutti Dolci, a luxurious line of lotions and scrubs available through Bath and Body Works.