How To Pack For A Holiday

<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I bid you all a fond farewell for the next two weeks, as I leave for vacation today. In the spirit of jet-setting and sightseeing, I thought it would be a good idea to share my tips on how to pack an ideally stylish and functional suitcase for traveling abroad. What you pack obviously depends on where you will be going, the climate, activities involved and type of vacation. These are the items that I usually pack for a spring/summer holiday away.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1qSvTYavRLzYeYpc4pnche3TNgqoodZqG0ywblQvDEUsd2SSwLA39j9DJ99UwC5zzQGULH72mAumKAPAXuG03fTO-DP3uj3V9Z74qWRjlpIxfO8yiY6ShAaIflmOAkizHBc15qTWm6yd/s1600/travel+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1qSvTYavRLzYeYpc4pnche3TNgqoodZqG0ywblQvDEUsd2SSwLA39j9DJ99UwC5zzQGULH72mAumKAPAXuG03fTO-DP3uj3V9Z74qWRjlpIxfO8yiY6ShAaIflmOAkizHBc15qTWm6yd/s640/travel+1.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I start with </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">adaptable pieces in </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">neutral tones - basic t-shirts, skinny jeans and tights. Selecting fabrics that won't crease when folded is helpful for when you reach your destination. Looking back at former holiday snapshots, I realized that I have always packed a striped top, it can be repurposed in so many different ways. A shirtdress looks chic for both day and night, and travels well. It can be styled up with heels and dressed down with flat sandals. A 'little black dress' is a must if you intend on attending any formal evenings. For outerwear, I picked a classic trench, in case of rainy days, and an animal print cardigan, in case of chilly days.</span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzvQI_qyHT4k19lGs9ol9W7m4X4q-saET-6CVx78V-HSgOpjKCiV5nut6Bbnk1Lc153bom7Yr70Q2eo64iukILvWFZNyfA4Y3TWYYsXWPsJG0wA5CH3Qykn8WRmQfwaO8H9JedG1oiQ4mD/s1600/travel+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzvQI_qyHT4k19lGs9ol9W7m4X4q-saET-6CVx78V-HSgOpjKCiV5nut6Bbnk1Lc153bom7Yr70Q2eo64iukILvWFZNyfA4Y3TWYYsXWPsJG0wA5CH3Qykn8WRmQfwaO8H9JedG1oiQ4mD/s640/travel+2.jpg" width="584" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now that you have built up the basics, it's time to add some saturation. I usually pick one or two colours from my closet that work well with black, white, beiges and denim. Sticking to a similar colour scheme will also help cut down on accessories and allow for interchanging pieces. This holiday, my primary shade is coral. I picked skirts, blouses, a blazer, sweater and dresses in this shade, adding pink to spice it up, as well as hints of black, so that it will all cohesively blend into the contents of my suitcase.</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghYEfo4eTzL1S_2VpdTU2uHRtpFzFWcMGhiokmLqUML_6j40HX_Dn3nTm11imW9mGp0sX1IOlwCahBVe8QS0sXbyUWpIAXIsVKxbPUlElq7wWXRXI9xpq12nM05CxpEBNRyxRij7iVb6Ix/s1600/travel+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghYEfo4eTzL1S_2VpdTU2uHRtpFzFWcMGhiokmLqUML_6j40HX_Dn3nTm11imW9mGp0sX1IOlwCahBVe8QS0sXbyUWpIAXIsVKxbPUlElq7wWXRXI9xpq12nM05CxpEBNRyxRij7iVb6Ix/s640/travel+5.jpg" width="476" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I always find choosing the right type of shoes tricky. You never know what you will be in the mood to wear, and if there's a lot of walking and touring to be done, you have to ensure you carry a really comfy pair. Also, there may be occasions where you need to dress up and then you may require heels. I try to pick shoes and sandals that will match my travel wardrobe, dividing them into flats, trainers and heels. I don't ever take newly-bought-but-never-worn shoes with me - they may turn out to be feet assassins.</span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYxwU2yyNV-FCYlXi9zG0TSpwwF6TczLYk-Ph6cx-pz5fRNXtZtI72n1jIJTbHH0d4Kw6OVIBTntMYMFJOWdnghSyW-_W7ATwaCKcJ2R-GwfxxHXGr1rB2r6_urNUq55PxqFHoTHVWs31p/s1600/travel+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYxwU2yyNV-FCYlXi9zG0TSpwwF6TczLYk-Ph6cx-pz5fRNXtZtI72n1jIJTbHH0d4Kw6OVIBTntMYMFJOWdnghSyW-_W7ATwaCKcJ2R-GwfxxHXGr1rB2r6_urNUq55PxqFHoTHVWs31p/s640/travel+4.jpg" width="566" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The most fun part of packing...is selecting co-ordinating accessories. I love vibrantly printed scarves for jazzing up a monotone look. I use a daytime bag that's big enough to fit all my travel essentials and also carry a easily foldable black clutch, for formal dressing. I keep jewellery simple with just 4 or 5 pieces in corresponding colours and metals. One or two skinny belts will reinvent that summer dress or shirt. A UV protectant pair of sunglasses and a sun hat is a necessity for me - They serve the purpose of shielding you from the scorching sun and also hide any sleepless nights and bad hair days you may have while on holiday.</span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I hope you will find my 'How To Pack' guide useful the next time you are planning a trip. I would love to hear any packing advice you may have for me too. </span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have prepared a few posts for while I am away, which will be wi-fi dependent. I will only be able to respond to comments when I get back in two weeks time, for this I apologize. I will miss my daily visits to your blogs and hope to catch up when I return.</span></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Until Then...Have a wonderful Easter! I wish you all well and chat to you soon.</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Ciao</span></i><br /><br /><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Sam</span></i><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i><br /></i></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i><br /></i></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>*All images found via Polyvore.</i></span><br /><br /><br />

How To Pack For A Holiday

I bid you all a fond farewell for the next two weeks, as I leave for vacation today. In the spirit of jet-setting and sightseeing, I thought...

Read more »

The Savvy Girl's Guide to Spring Cleaning

<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's that time of year again - a dreaded thought for some of us and a seasonal cleansing ritual for others. Spring signifies the start of something new, a time for planting new seeds of style, for cleaning out old habits...and wardrobes. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is my guide to surviving the closet crusade they call 'Spring Cleaning'. I share with you some of the ideas that have worked for me in the past and a few clever ones I sourced from magazines around the web.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><u>1. Start Sorting</u></span></b><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj9dY9hWcAPycKsh8wprxP6Fa1aHb3rHTkneNsjd_TyGAiFpgrP7xKKVWViKo82FODtRd5VaAwYyfDTd1Pv0VVcQjL4Zwqxrp_ZqGSWSCt9GXCM5gfEpSOYPB0wJD6XD5IGYbVtk-DDTHW/s1600/closet1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj9dY9hWcAPycKsh8wprxP6Fa1aHb3rHTkneNsjd_TyGAiFpgrP7xKKVWViKo82FODtRd5VaAwYyfDTd1Pv0VVcQjL4Zwqxrp_ZqGSWSCt9GXCM5gfEpSOYPB0wJD6XD5IGYbVtk-DDTHW/s1600/closet1.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">* You will probably need to set an entire day or weekend aside to sort out your closet. The easiest way to begin is to clear out <i>everything</i>. Remove all your clothes off their hangers, sweaters off their shelves and accessories from their drawers.</span><br /><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>* Divide your clothes into three piles :</b></span></div><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">  The 'Things I Treasure' Pile</span></div><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">  The 'Things to Toss Out' Pile, and</span></div><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">  The Undecided Pile</span></div><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">* The <b style="color: #444444;">'Things I Treasure' </b>Pile will usually consist of your much-loved closet pieces and everyday essentials. Hold on to items of clothing that you get great wear out of and that always look graceful on you... with the odd party dress or gravity-defying pair of heels thrown in, which you will insist is far too pretty to give away.</span></div><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">* The <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><b>'Things to Toss Out'</b></span> Pile should include items of clothing that don't fit well nor flatter you, that are ripped or faded, & things that you haven't worn in over a year. Also consider adding ultra trendy pieces you know will only make a comeback when Lindsay Lohan does. Donate these pieces to charity, content knowing your clothes are going to a better cause.</span></div><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">* Now, the tricky part...<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">How to <i>decide</i> on the 'Undecided Pile'</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">.</span> </span></div><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">- The best trick in the book is to hang or fold these undetermined pieces of clothing inside out. As the months go by, you will have an idea of what you haven't worn & probably never will.</span></div><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">- Be reasonable with your decisions. If you can't think of any place or occasion that you could wear the garment or shoes, it probably means you should bid it farewell.</span></div><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">- Another good idea is to have a clothes swap party with your friends, bargaining with only the undecided pieces of clothing. That way, if you ever decide you want the clothes returned to your closet...all you have to do is swap it back.</span></div><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><u>2. Re-Packing</u></b></span></div><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYPhQsA-VTKntphF2BeC1tUlJCz0PKj9nH_WZy_2EBsSUcsVW6GTUxp5hUT0x2rRX9sq4V2bIg3iQ0fTr92kbMqPNy3aTXZ8dgond3gz4N0p-yj_7XzodQ1jNyr0CikIgCWPgBcgTMbKir/s1600/closet5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYPhQsA-VTKntphF2BeC1tUlJCz0PKj9nH_WZy_2EBsSUcsVW6GTUxp5hUT0x2rRX9sq4V2bIg3iQ0fTr92kbMqPNy3aTXZ8dgond3gz4N0p-yj_7XzodQ1jNyr0CikIgCWPgBcgTMbKir/s640/closet5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">* Now that you have made some space in your closet for the new season's trends, it's time to store away your winter wear and repack.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">* Before re-packing your wardrobe, line the shelves with scented drawer liners or organza bags filled with cinnamon sticks and dried flower petals.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">* Separate clothing pieces by type - long pants, cropped pants, shorts, skirts, blazers, work shirts, weekend t-shirts, work & party dresses. A</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">rrange them accordingly in your wardrobe.</span></div><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">* An easy way to identify your clothes is to arrange and hang them by colour. Not to mention it looks quite appealing too.</span></div><br /><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><u>3. De-Cluttering Ideas</u></b></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV39R1APsU0rPgadYtca-jhEyei7UOueU4Trel5g2Otl2KIpgiqqDQLlgAKxM1EGYZV7xHDNCLH-0dCgOFJjicSAslwO3QMlqdOX1zcKLzXncM6Fbree0xMKgGU20rdhg4xRE4rbiURfCj/s1600/closet2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV39R1APsU0rPgadYtca-jhEyei7UOueU4Trel5g2Otl2KIpgiqqDQLlgAKxM1EGYZV7xHDNCLH-0dCgOFJjicSAslwO3QMlqdOX1zcKLzXncM6Fbree0xMKgGU20rdhg4xRE4rbiURfCj/s640/closet2.jpg" width="640" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Image credits</span></i></a></div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;"><br /></span></b></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">1.</span></b>  If your wardrobe space has ran out, why not purchase cute stand-alone drawer sets to store any extras. Not only do they jazz up your room, but they are ideal for storing socks, tights, shoes, hats or undergarments.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">2.</span></b> The shoe wheel is a great space-saving way to pack your heels and keep them in shape. </span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">3.</span></b> When storing your winter knits and thicker sweaters, have them vacuum-packed in plastic bags so they take up less space. Deposit the bags on your top-most shelves or under the bed for next winter.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">4.</span></b> Try to keep your hangers identical and toss out bulky wooden ones for a sleeker set like these Huggable Hangers, which have a velvet covering that prevent clothes from falling off.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp4_lRokX92Pxd96zjsGGD6hiBFHnSXBrhn2Wdcqqb1h9piHCZ-PL1NtcFoEHjr5flG3IZ5w6sslE3BtTzQz-EfWy_eDX4EIs_wdcxZIXwwdlxcoPjZyvWUMR1wwLnXWd6QJ6FadWA6QuI/s400/closet7.jpg" width="400" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A functional and visually delightful way of storing those winter coats and boots are by packing them away in vintage suitcases. They look charming as part of your room decor and they serve a valuable storage purpose too. </span></div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><u>4. Organizing Accessories</u></span></b><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhjbk_jIvgciVXKG4AQ9qaLWZYMKQD-SB3S_XHrQA3l_M8d5N23cSFMBOYvAk8IL4r9RNBie8K-sxQO3z7G4IuUHaDFl8w5yku7ra_7edV-ZYnGe75LEYjhTfwXvz_X3naMUp1UZaf3TTA/s1600/closet4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhjbk_jIvgciVXKG4AQ9qaLWZYMKQD-SB3S_XHrQA3l_M8d5N23cSFMBOYvAk8IL4r9RNBie8K-sxQO3z7G4IuUHaDFl8w5yku7ra_7edV-ZYnGe75LEYjhTfwXvz_X3naMUp1UZaf3TTA/s640/closet4.jpg" width="640" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"></span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/">1/2/</a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/">3</a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/">/4</a><a href="http://www.bhg.com/">/5</a></span></div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">1.</span></b> Keep your precious pieces of jewellery in pretty little teacups and saucers or fancy bowls.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">2.</span></b> Buy or make shelf dividers to redistribute your space. Storing handbags this way will make them easy to find and keep them neat and upright.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">3.</span></b> Etsy and Amazon have a world of attractive jewellery organizers to choose from that also assist in keeping necklaces and bracelets from tangling.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">4.</span></b> Store your scarves and belts on silver towel hangers that you will be able to find at a low cost in any hardware store.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">5.</span></b> Another brilliant idea is to cut and use old PVC pipes to line your drawers and roll scarves, ties or tights into them for easy access.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><u>5. Tips & Tricks</u></span></b><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiILO8tCcrZKq70y7WGi7KSJANalX7WISKMjbfqPhBHqugNqUl2CaqKVXHslQpdk-hG3d0GIHX16R0oc0tkWlVO66ogs8jhgBq8lEk4fOH56m1lDBcOHnHyB5MdBsxv4egToroa2ZgHH7D7/s1600/closet3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiILO8tCcrZKq70y7WGi7KSJANalX7WISKMjbfqPhBHqugNqUl2CaqKVXHslQpdk-hG3d0GIHX16R0oc0tkWlVO66ogs8jhgBq8lEk4fOH56m1lDBcOHnHyB5MdBsxv4egToroa2ZgHH7D7/s640/closet3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">* If you like keeping your shoes in their original boxes, take a Polaroid of each pair and stick it to the front of the box for easy recognition.</span><br /><br /><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">* If you have an open shelf for your shoes, a smart idea is to place them one foot facing forwards and one backwards, this way you will be able to see the height of the heel.</span></div><br /><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">* Store a few of your favourite colourful scarves in a glass vase or bowl on your dresser, it will look fantastic and be simpler to grab as you pop out the door.</span></div><br /><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">* I store my earrings in clear plastic tackle boxes so the pairs don't get lost.</span></div><br /><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">* The beginning of Spring is the ideal time to have the soles of your stilettos and summer sandals repaired and have the heels replaced if need be.</span></div><br /><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">* If you have a miniature sized closet, purchase extra railings and shelving and have them set up alongside an empty wall in your room. Then hang up a curtain to drape and hide them away, while also adding some decorative drama to your boudoir. (As seen above).</span></div><br /><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji2Z_E5ibPFPexUGtmt1jt0uPYWJWvQJ5VPvGC2licPUGofWEpE7A9AJqrPSzjHYu9RUKV0XeYZs4d8FbySUiZ9uyurZki2xCeycFs1qslvvVpf3bxXK2nQahEqCmD44gpru9UrLQGElD9/s1600/closet6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji2Z_E5ibPFPexUGtmt1jt0uPYWJWvQJ5VPvGC2licPUGofWEpE7A9AJqrPSzjHYu9RUKV0XeYZs4d8FbySUiZ9uyurZki2xCeycFs1qslvvVpf3bxXK2nQahEqCmD44gpru9UrLQGElD9/s640/closet6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For me the creative inspiration behind cleaning out and organizing my closet is to arrange my clothes and accessories as though they were displayed in a boutique. That way, wouldn't it be more fun to 'shop' your own closet everyday?</span></div><br /><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>I hope some of these ideas will help you as you clean out your closet this Spring. </b></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>I would love to hear some of your own Spring Cleaning tips.</b></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /></div><br />

The Savvy Girl's Guide to Spring Cleaning

It's that time of year again - a dreaded thought for some of us and a seasonal cleansing ritual for others. Spring signifies the start o...

Read more »

The Savvy Girl's Guide To A Fishtail Braid

<span id="goog_1835172765"></span><span id="goog_1835172766"></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The hottest hairstyle for this summer is the fishtail braid, as seen on numerous stars, runways and magazines. The fishtail braid is a more complex take on the regular braid that we all wore to mask those school day hair blues. It may seem daunting to try out at first, but according to blogger Akanksha Chawla from <a href="http://fictitious-fashion.blogspot.com/">Fictitious Fashion</a>, it's as easy as pie. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After seeing Akanksha wear a fishtail braid on her blog, I asked her to do a guest post on how to recreate the look. She's written a step-by-step guide, along with corresponding photographs - which makes this hairstyle easy enough for anyone to achieve.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b>How to Create a Fishtail Braid</b></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifrvgMbFcOT0IBKzGetDb_4NwJ-ll7DIez35Xp3FOe0Jy_0Dd6KtRuN7alznFr0cx8TXCRQar5aC9lboend6J1UiVsFJjH5seOfxAs0UGbyMUDDHoYj1lATMYl0bS2fPFVbFxXsJZ1NqMr/s1600/fishtail+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifrvgMbFcOT0IBKzGetDb_4NwJ-ll7DIez35Xp3FOe0Jy_0Dd6KtRuN7alznFr0cx8TXCRQar5aC9lboend6J1UiVsFJjH5seOfxAs0UGbyMUDDHoYj1lATMYl0bS2fPFVbFxXsJZ1NqMr/s640/fishtail+.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>In the Words of Akanksha:</b></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A Warm Welcome to Everyone. I wanted to share my favourite hairstyle, the fishtail braid.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /><b>Step 1.</b> If you’re doing it yourself then I’d suggest making a side braid or one at the back. Tie up all of your hair to the side with the help of any rubber band.<br /><br /><br /><br /><b>Step 2.</b> Divide your hair into two sections. Hold each piece separately. <br /><br /><br /><br /><b>Step 3.</b> This step is very important - Take a <u>thin bunch</u> of hair (see picture) from the end of one of the divided sections. <br /><br /><br /><br /><b>Step 4. </b>Take the thin bunch over to the other half of the hair, making a cross. Hold it tightly. <br /><br /><br /><br /><b>Step 5.</b> Now, take a thin bunch of hair from the <u>second</u> half of your hair.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Step 6.</b> Take this second thin bunch over to the first half of hair, making a cross.  (This is the equivalent of pulling smaller strands from outside the larger sections, and drawing them into the center).<br /><br /><br /><br /><b>Step 7.</b> You should get your first Fishtail.<br /><br /><br /><br /><b>Step 8.</b> Repeat steps 3-6 until you get to the the end of your hair. Secure with a  hairband.<br /><br /><br /><br /><b><u>Akanksha's Tips:</u></b></span><br /><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">*You could spray gel onto your hair for a solid and sophisticated look.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">*My hair is a little silky and cut in layers so you would see tiny hair hopping around. Not to worry, long hair wouldn't have an issue.<br /><br />*Remember to make this hairstyle your own by adding beads, colourful rubber bands, tic-tacs, etc.<br /><br /><br /><br />Feel free to ask her any questions on <a href="http://fictitious-fashion.blogspot.com/">http://fictitious-fashion.blogspot.com/</a> <br /><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Special thanks to the very sweet Akanksha for sharing this tutorial and tips with us.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Celeb Inspired Looks</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b><br /><br /></b></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now that you have learnt to do the simple side swept fishtail braid, you can move on to more intricate braided styles, as shown off by these celebrities.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkP3qdeena0gAJDb4875igFI7tp4s6oAGArTRPCg7VIuAnJr-kPoe0y2_k7kMwHPPOxFNOXLU_3pVU7Nec8Ri2-DOKGeUZPGwWRFxZ_rdyBgV84RJ3sr3TmK0EqhPtpX255TlK2GhToBsZ/s1600/Blog2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkP3qdeena0gAJDb4875igFI7tp4s6oAGArTRPCg7VIuAnJr-kPoe0y2_k7kMwHPPOxFNOXLU_3pVU7Nec8Ri2-DOKGeUZPGwWRFxZ_rdyBgV84RJ3sr3TmK0EqhPtpX255TlK2GhToBsZ/s640/Blog2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Top Row</b></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Kim Kardashian</i> lets a few strands hang loose from her braid and wears a side-swept fringe.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Wear a blunt fringe and tie a ribbon around your elastic hairband like <i>Bella Thorne</i>.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Hilary Duff</i> used thin strips of black leather to style her fishtail braid.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Ashley Tisdale</i> added some volume to her look by teasing the front of her hair.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Center-part your hair, make two separate French braids then pin them up like <i>Sarah Michelle Gellar.</i></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Bottom Row</b></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Blake Lively's</i> version of an unkempt fishtail braid. She added a pretty gold hair brooch.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Amanda Bynes</i> used her smaller braid as an Alice band, with the rest of her hair loose.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Nicole Richie</i> plaited her hair in two sections from the roots.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Try a high ponytail braid like <i>Diane Kruger</i>.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Mary Kate Olsen</i> combines tousled waves with her fishtail braid.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I hope that this post will inspire you to create your own fishtail braid.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Happy Styling from Akanksha & I!</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div></div></div>

The Savvy Girl's Guide To A Fishtail Braid

The hottest hairstyle for this summer is the fishtail braid, as seen on numerous stars, runways and magazines. The fishtail braid is a more ...

Read more »

Make Your Own Lace Necklace

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>The Savvy Girls Guide </b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #999999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>To Making Your Own Necklace</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #999999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am one of the least crafty people you can find, so when I wanted to do a DIY accessory post, I knew I had to get the expertise and advice of the creative and kind Nadia van der Mescht from <a href="http://www.lovecupcakecouture.co.za/">Cupcake Couture</a>. Nadia is a South African based arts and crafts designer, specializing in exclusive wedding accessories, exquisite vintage-inspired corsages and stationery. She creates one of a kind pieces according to your personal taste and wedding day theme. Here Nadia shows us how easy it is to make a beautiful and trendy lace necklace. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #999999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b><i><br /><br /></i></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b>Step 1 & 2</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7rXSn8opXLnRelEbEUtG49W0issAoeLEBU4SM23S83BltOhAkl-Vj-kFRXv8BLpMHvb6TJA-7gVQbFega1YjEwx2GLdsi9ea3EaIAscp9MzP29ghlApn2r0wrIK-zkyNHmnKGvyKl6PSO/s1600/Steps-1-%2526-2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7rXSn8opXLnRelEbEUtG49W0issAoeLEBU4SM23S83BltOhAkl-Vj-kFRXv8BLpMHvb6TJA-7gVQbFega1YjEwx2GLdsi9ea3EaIAscp9MzP29ghlApn2r0wrIK-zkyNHmnKGvyKl6PSO/s640/Steps-1-%2526-2.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i style="font-style: italic; line-height: 20px;"><u style="line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 19px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Step 1:</span></b></span></u></i></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Gather what you will need:</span></span></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A piece of lace – you can find some at a haberdashery or even search for a vintage piece in your grannies sewing box.</span></span></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Pliers</span></span></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A small, sharp pair of scissors</span></span></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Small jump rings:  available from most craft or bead shops</span></span></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Chain: </span></span></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Lobster clasp</span></span></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i style="font-style: italic; line-height: 20px;"><u style="line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 19px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Step 2</span></b></span></u></i></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Put the jump rings onto the ends of the chain using the pliers.</span></span></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 19px;"><br /><br /></span></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Step 3 & 4</span></b></span></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="clear: left; color: #0000ee; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhNOOfYc43jErMaDPcsb1c2xeqDRzq5eCAp7j_nBm5BIK-OB1dEEK1StMKDXA_PmBjIfaBNVbO0CVsVgsmnL_TjaasG9gVYVHH7XjdwjCiIdHQ4ZR7ARj4LtATOysPJz4mI9NbwTuxbBEm/s640/Steps-3-%2526-4.png" width="640" /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20px;"><i style="font-style: italic; line-height: 20px;"><u style="line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 19px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Step 3</span></b></span></u></i></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Make a small hole in the lace.  Make it slightly away from the edge so that the jump ring doesn’t rip through.</span></span></span></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><br /></span></span></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i style="font-style: italic; line-height: 20px;"><u style="line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 19px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Step 4</span></b></span></u></i></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Thread the jump ring with the chain attached through the lace.  Do the same on both sides.</span></span></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i><u><br /><br /></u></i></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b>Step 4 & 5</b></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIN7wG3c5mExa2pS5qS1MbUOH5KEZOwagdWcIwA6jBNDTHHMIOp-Xhzdpx8UtFthlYOnTXn8zXdC7qfKI4EZKH9h3tzVKWXPRKqwXOi3VctkShthybIhq9jFlkjPUM6d4Rdl8D4jNlAVWI/s1600/Steps-5-%2526-6.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIN7wG3c5mExa2pS5qS1MbUOH5KEZOwagdWcIwA6jBNDTHHMIOp-Xhzdpx8UtFthlYOnTXn8zXdC7qfKI4EZKH9h3tzVKWXPRKqwXOi3VctkShthybIhq9jFlkjPUM6d4Rdl8D4jNlAVWI/s640/Steps-5-%2526-6.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="color: #2a2a2a; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-style: italic; line-height: 20px;"><u style="line-height: 20px;"><span style="color: #5f5f5f; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 19px;"><b>Step 5</b></span></u></i></div></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="color: #2a2a2a; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #5f5f5f; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 19px;">Pull the chain to a peak at the centre this will allow you to find the middle easily.  Bend open a link and add the lobster clasp and jump ring.</span></div></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="color: #2a2a2a; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="color: #2a2a2a; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-style: italic; line-height: 20px;"><u style="line-height: 20px;"><span style="color: #5f5f5f; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 19px;"><b>Step 6:</b></span></u></i></div></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="color: #2a2a2a; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #5f5f5f; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 19px;">This shows how it should look once done.</span></div></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="color: #2a2a2a; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"><br /><br /></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><b>And Voila!</b></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #2a2a2a; font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0hxSDPgX34QCGlzvTIkDusWK2FES6OWZ330zxR3a6mrn775KPrhqpxMePM5AWje-ztdvRa1JFOyib73PQSmW6aigtZbOU6HBbJpOd37juQbeXTc3O6tkKx690f3UpnudW9UROKQcj6xc6/s1600/All-Done.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0hxSDPgX34QCGlzvTIkDusWK2FES6OWZ330zxR3a6mrn775KPrhqpxMePM5AWje-ztdvRa1JFOyib73PQSmW6aigtZbOU6HBbJpOd37juQbeXTc3O6tkKx690f3UpnudW9UROKQcj6xc6/s640/All-Done.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">All done! An easy DIY with a pretty result</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /><br /><br />Special thanks to Nadia for her lending her time and skills to this guest post. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I hope it will inspire you to create your own unique neckpiece.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div>

Make Your Own Lace Necklace

The Savvy Girls Guide  To Making Your Own Necklace I am one of the least crafty people you can find, so when I wanted to do a DIY accessory ...

Read more »

The Savvy Girls Guide To Purple Shaded Eyes

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg6VPryQCXIUY4PKyYEx7sXfKloGb-eyBkHqMFfSCd5zDyTVIYnIBn5n1NDv-L9o7fdY_ZrWs0mUvsZ7Gu6gzJUgONwxE7F_yHG70eXw9Wb42BobCcjYdl33-nZj7tchez5B_i_M16ysXP/s1600/purple1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWQ1fE8ONIpTgX2ZzyrAk7DB1BSHKUvDAFpBUEZoVTB_qx1qIJg7a3tQUvSPEjZXGTjHO_VyY7jMehtrDKLEeKzJfDuWPzWe7PL1IA3zuVcgFSTeBsASo1-jXPi_7leDAvnNUFhVDBNaY7/s1600/purple1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWQ1fE8ONIpTgX2ZzyrAk7DB1BSHKUvDAFpBUEZoVTB_qx1qIJg7a3tQUvSPEjZXGTjHO_VyY7jMehtrDKLEeKzJfDuWPzWe7PL1IA3zuVcgFSTeBsASo1-jXPi_7leDAvnNUFhVDBNaY7/s400/purple1.jpg" width="326" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I noticed the gorgeous Katerina Graham wearing bright purple eyeshadow at the <i>Teen Choice Awards</i> earlier this month. It's a very bold look, definitely not one for shrinking violets. But Kat carried it off beautifully. The striking violet colour complimented her green eyes. She wisely kept the rest of her make-up very subtle, with dusky rose blush and nude lips.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Recreating this look can be quite tricky; you don't want people to stare at you and wonder if you've done your makeup in the dark. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><br /></span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Choose a matt eye shadow for daywear and a shimmery one for night time. Try a pale lavender to start, if you like the effect, you can experiment with darker shades like plum or mauve. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here are some tips on how to keep it classy and pull it off as well as Kat.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Get The Look</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1. Use an eye primer or concealer to hide any dark circles under the eyes & brighten up lids.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2. Sweep a light lilac shade over your entire lid, stopping just under the brow bone.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3. Layer with a darker shade of purple, starting at the outer corner of your eye, blending inwards to the middle.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4. Add a shimmer or highlighter to the inner corners of your eyelid. Gold or silver works well. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5. For more definition, line eyes with a dark grey or black eye pencil.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6. To get Kat's complete look, use a purple eye pencil or the same shade of purple eye shadow to line your bottom eyelids. Alternatively, you can use a silver-grey liner. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">7. Finish off with a good coating of black mascara. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">8. Keep the rest of your make-up toned down with lightly blushed cheeks and clear lipgloss.</span></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Nice To Try</span></span></b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ6g54Xrqn1nQL2TwWOSLEXIuN-scuQXvK6Xs5d-kuXfj7NnCvr8q4pLulzpqXnhn7DeKJ04TA_4xEjtlMMjICjt-TrWSyTO1WoKGkuL0XzwSa-70J_lDuDQk65LdbMv47H5q6ak0TBSAC/s1600/purple+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ6g54Xrqn1nQL2TwWOSLEXIuN-scuQXvK6Xs5d-kuXfj7NnCvr8q4pLulzpqXnhn7DeKJ04TA_4xEjtlMMjICjt-TrWSyTO1WoKGkuL0XzwSa-70J_lDuDQk65LdbMv47H5q6ak0TBSAC/s640/purple+5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /><br /></b></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">Top Row</span></b></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Kanebo</span></b></i> Eyeshadow palette ES04. Four blendable shades including a shimmery aubergine and soft pink highlighter.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Stila</span></b></i> eyeshadow duo in Orchid. Two complementary shades of purple.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Yves Saint Laurent</span></b></i> Ombres 5 Lumiéres in Lilac Sky. Five harmonious colours in brighter and lighter highly pigmented purple shades.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">Middle Row</span></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Make Up Forever</span></b></i> eyeshadow in Deep Plum. A matt texture with a satin finish and a hint of shimmer.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Maybelline</span></i></b> Expertwear eyeshadow quad in Amethyst Smokes. A crease proof quad that instructs you where to place each colour.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">The Body Shop</span></i></b> Baked to Last eyeshadow in Amethyst. An iridescent indigo eyeshadow duo.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">Last Row </span></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Dior</span></i></b> 5 Colour Eyeshadow in Petal Shine. Pastel shades for a more subtle look.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Clinique</span></i></b> Colour Surge eyeshadow quad in Plum Seduction. Pretty purple powder shadows that can be used separately or all together.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Lancomé</span></i></b> Colour Design 5 Shadow & Liner Palette in Mauve Cherie. Long wearing shades to create a seamless, smokey look.</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">These eyeshadow palettes are available in department stores like <i>Edgars</i> or <i>Stuttafords</i>, and at <i>Sephora,</i> <i>SAKS</i> and <i>Harrods</i> overseas.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span><br /><br /><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Celebrity Inspired Looks</span></span></b><br /><br /><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">These looks show that purple shaded eyes suit all skin tones, hair and eye colours. Notice that the rest of their make up is left soft and natural, with a dash of pale pink lip gloss.</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnOMaY9FSpMI-ZVkLbrMLPRv7yOgrxZd9GbFybDkyFyLvB5CO1F3SLwGU3YqlWEUQQU13k_j4iCQLN_J1YuWaFDACBB2gvSDpGKV7-441VwUdPWpoDZbU2mVgQX-Vi2nchYny9UUUF2KCn/s1600/purple3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnOMaY9FSpMI-ZVkLbrMLPRv7yOgrxZd9GbFybDkyFyLvB5CO1F3SLwGU3YqlWEUQQU13k_j4iCQLN_J1YuWaFDACBB2gvSDpGKV7-441VwUdPWpoDZbU2mVgQX-Vi2nchYny9UUUF2KCn/s640/purple3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">Top Row</span></b></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><b>Rachel McAdams'</b></span></i> orchid shaded eyelids work wonderfully with her blonde hair and blue-green eyes.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Redhead</span></span><b> Emma Stone</b></span></i> wears a shimmery lilac highlighter that extends up unto her eyebrows.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Keri Hilson's</span></b> hazel eyes are brightened by a vivid violet colour.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Scarlett Johansson</span></i></b> combined pink and purple to create a pretty and eye catching look.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><br /><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"></span></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">Bottom Row</span></b></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Emily Browning</span></i></b> wears a smokey aubergine look that accentuates her green eyes.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><b><i>Katy Perry,</i></b></span> who is always one for the bold and unusual, mixed bright violet and lime.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Model <b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Frida Gustavsson</span></i></b> shows off dramatic purple smeared eyes at <i>Jason Wu's </i>Spring 2011 fashion show.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Eva Longoria</span></i></b> bats her false lashes under a richly pigmented violet shade.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is not a look for everyday, but instead for an occasion where you would really like to stand out. It's also projects a youthful, playful image. I have yet to find the courage to wear it out in society. What are your thoughts on this beauty trend? </span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span>

The Savvy Girls Guide To Purple Shaded Eyes

I noticed the gorgeous Katerina Graham wearing bright purple eyeshadow at the Teen Choice Awards earlier this month. It's a very bold l...

Read more »

The Savvy Girls Guide to Side Swept Waves

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Side Swept Waves</span></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was browsing for a formal hairstyle for this weekend, and the one that appealed to me the most was side swept waves. This 1940's Veronica Lake hairstyle exudes vintage glamour and elegance. It will work for medium to long hair and suits all face shapes. If you want to show off a pretty pair of earrings, this side styled look is a great option. It's young, yet formal but not too fussy. Just Perfect. These are my favourite side swept looks.</span></div><div style="text-align: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNfZjK0Cg_UAK_POne3mIG8lZjOqxu95AH9-maQuAU529rnPmXpFXyF1AIPvO5LkzpNT900Nyv2qyjsFgmQTTMxi5cD7HRTZaw8Z0xUR7PIjGFajrp4elgPqw9Sn1v-Y6azkgRGmgq5BU/s1600/side+swept+hair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNfZjK0Cg_UAK_POne3mIG8lZjOqxu95AH9-maQuAU529rnPmXpFXyF1AIPvO5LkzpNT900Nyv2qyjsFgmQTTMxi5cD7HRTZaw8Z0xUR7PIjGFajrp4elgPqw9Sn1v-Y6azkgRGmgq5BU/s640/side+swept+hair.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><b>Top Row</b></span></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Julianne Hough wears her long blonde locks to the side.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Camilla Belle styled her glossy dark tresses with picture perfect make-up.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Amy Adams channels old Hollywood glamour with her side swept red hair.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><br /><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"></span></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Bottom Row</span></b></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Lea Michele wears this hairstyle beautifully with more defined curls.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ashley Greene added some volume to her look.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Taylor Swift wore an asymmetrical fringe with her cascading waves.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"></span></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">How to get Side Swept Waves<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><br /><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"></span></span></span></span></b></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1. Shampoo and condition your hair as normal.</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2. Use a protective styling product that won't weight your hair down.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3. Dry hair roughly with a hairdryer, until almost dry.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4. Use a fine tooth comb to create a deep side parting, whichever side works best for you. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5. Separate your hair into small sections.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6. Using a wide-barreled curing tong, curl each section. Start with the top layer of your hair and work your way to the middle and bottom layers.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">7. Wrap hair diagonally around the tong, starting about 5 centimeters from the root.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">8. Once you've curled each piece, keep it wound up and pin it gently to your head with a small clip. By allowing it to cool this way, it will set better.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">9. Once you've completed curling all your hair, you can remove all the clips and loosen the waves with your fingertips.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">10. Spritz with hairspray and you're all glamed up and ready to go!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div>

The Savvy Girls Guide to Side Swept Waves

Side Swept Waves I was browsing for a formal hairstyle for this weekend, and the one that appealed to me the most was side swept waves. This...

Read more »

The Savvy Girls Guide to a Smokey Eye

<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">How to create the Perfect Smokey Eye<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The smokey eye is a timeless and glamourous look, seen on runways, models, celebrities, in magazines...and now on you. If you've always loved this smouldering makeup look, but didn't know how to achieve it, this guideline is especially for you. My friend Shakira is a talented Johannesburg-trained, Cape Town-based makeup artist. She shares her steps on how to create the perfect smokey eye.</span></span></span></span></b></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"></span></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTyUs-6rpYyscGpM_fXHEAFkEKFUSE3IZBaaNwX1zsfEksB4r04yJWuCR-6mnOT6tX68NEHNzxND7_k8yeVWsGV0FwjUGItsoeC9C_1u5zVj6ILvs2s-QmxshadR5arMcu2Ashx92cCMQ/s1600/smokey+eye.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTyUs-6rpYyscGpM_fXHEAFkEKFUSE3IZBaaNwX1zsfEksB4r04yJWuCR-6mnOT6tX68NEHNzxND7_k8yeVWsGV0FwjUGItsoeC9C_1u5zVj6ILvs2s-QmxshadR5arMcu2Ashx92cCMQ/s640/smokey+eye.jpg" width="462" /></a></div><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Step 1:</b> Choosing a base that will keep eyeshadow flawless is very important. Apply foundation around your entire eye area. Then apply concealer one shade lighter than your skin tone. The ideal consistency for this is a cream concealer. Set with loose powder - which will also help catch all the shadow that falls underneath your eyes. Alternatively, you can use an eye primer - MAC 'paint' is a great one.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><br /><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><br /><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Step 2:</b> Starting with the eye shadow - choose a highlighter in either a matte finish for the day or shimmery finish for a night time look. A white, cream or pearl coloured highlighter is ideal. Wipe the highlighter over the entire eyelid, up to the brow bone.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><br /><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"></span></span></span></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Step 3:</b> Use a darker colour and line your eyes with an eyeshadow brush. You're not restricted to just black, you can choose any dark colour you like - blue, purple, green, brown or grey (as pictured above). Use the same colour to line the bottom part of your eyelids, just under the lash line. Then use a cotton bud to softly smudge the top and bottom of your eye line.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><br /><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><br /><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Step 4: </b>You will need an even darker colour shadow to create a full smokey effect (such as the black one pictured above). Softly pat the eye shadow with a brush over your eyelids, making sure to stop before the crease. </span></span></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Step 5:</b> Remember that the key to a perfect smokey eye is to blend. Take a flat shadow brush and blend. You don't want to see any definite lines.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><br /><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><br /><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Step 6:</b> Take your shadow brush and dip it into the darker coloured shadow. Close your eyes, put the brush tip into the crease, then open your eyes (with brush still in place) and sweep it from half way to the end of the crease.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><br /><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><br /><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Step 7:</b> Use the highlighter again, and brush on to the brow bone, following the eye brow shape.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><br /><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><br /><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Step 8:</b> You can now choose to be more dramatic by taking a black liquid liner and lining your top lashes. For extra 'Oh la la' use an eye pencil to line the bottom eye lid. You can stick to black or a dark colour you prefer. Make sure you wipe away any excess powder that's underneath your eyes.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><br /><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><br /><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Step 9: </b>Mascara, Mascara and Mascara...layers of it. You can use a lash curler to curl your lashes upwards first, for that Va va voom appeal. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><br /><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><br /><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Step 10:</b> With a brow brush, comb your brows neatly into place. You can even colour them in with black or dark brown shadow. Set with brow gel.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><br /><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Remember to keep lips natural. When applying strong makeup, keep the focus on either lips <i>or </i>eyes - never both.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Here are some celebrity smokey eye looks to inspire you. As you can see, this style of eye makeup suits any hair colour, eye colour and skin tone.</span></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf60vqjycTy_bRVxgf3erKMHBDrIAiVupG8CdNbDrfC_MFePBShvwyo3tZVnMl4EZl3ZP_1GzDJgMO_CW7Z118kJ_3RYaDwvi3W1q77z8cHKemqX2OoYcvoz8C0nUDyoqKsMQSXMSkttM/s1600/celeb+smokey+eye.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf60vqjycTy_bRVxgf3erKMHBDrIAiVupG8CdNbDrfC_MFePBShvwyo3tZVnMl4EZl3ZP_1GzDJgMO_CW7Z118kJ_3RYaDwvi3W1q77z8cHKemqX2OoYcvoz8C0nUDyoqKsMQSXMSkttM/s640/celeb+smokey+eye.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>From the Top: </b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Keira Knightly</span></i> lined her bottom lash line with pencil and used a dark brown eye shadow. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Dianna Argo</span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">n</span></i> bats her eyelids under smokey eye shadow. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Jennifer Lopez</span></i> used a charcoal and steel eye shadow blend, which works superbly with her dark lined eyes. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Camilla Belle</span></i> used a soft brown shadow underneath her bottom lashes. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Mila Kunis</span></i> wears a sultry smokey eye better than most, darkly rimmed with black eye pencil.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Taylor Swift</span></i> uses dramatic black liner and silver highlighter to bring out her blue eyes. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Kim Kardashian</span></i> amps up the volume with curly fake lashes. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Notice how all these smokey stars kept the rest of their makeup simple with pale rosy blusher and nude glossy lips.</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: auto;"><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Try out these 10 easy-to-follow steps to crease your own irresistible smokey eye. Good Luck!</span></div></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div>

The Savvy Girls Guide to a Smokey Eye

How to create the Perfect Smokey Eye The smokey eye is a timeless and glamourous look, seen on runways, models, celebrities, in magazines......

Read more »

The Savvy Girl's Guide To Cutting A Fringe

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLcs-XAFZJOAl2WeJ3U5jDSOlsQjAJLJfjx8TTdtEm_atbC_3g0-VI1StsfLb8oVc2LoNDDq2hUWHQOIBsgs-tFaTINp44Wgm8g_cHlwsexQY6eONwjoZQgK8rBZjKT7Pgma-StNX98uY/s1600/fringe+cut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLcs-XAFZJOAl2WeJ3U5jDSOlsQjAJLJfjx8TTdtEm_atbC_3g0-VI1StsfLb8oVc2LoNDDq2hUWHQOIBsgs-tFaTINp44Wgm8g_cHlwsexQY6eONwjoZQgK8rBZjKT7Pgma-StNX98uY/s320/fringe+cut.jpg" width="225" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Late one evening this week, I realized that my fringe had grown too long and was annoyingly getting in my eyes all the time. I needed a trim. Any sane person would have waited for the next morning to call their hairstylist and make an appointment for this. Not me. I couldn't wait that long. The 'bee in a bonnet' in me wanted it cut right then. So, I wet my hair, and stared apprehensively into a badly lit mirror with a pair of scissors; which I am sure was <i>not</i> appropriate for cutting hair. I hesitated for a few minutes, thinking, "Should I, shouldn't I?" My impulsive nature got the better of me and...Snip! Uh oh - I <i>really</i> shouldn't have.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After the first cut, I found out that the scissors was so blunt, it couldn't even cut paper. But by then I had already chopped off the right half my once-wonderful hair. I had no choice but to finish off the dreadful mess I so stupidly started. When I was done trimming my entire fringe, I didn't have to dry it to see that it was far too short. Like sticking-out-in-the-middle-of-my-forehead-like-a-cockatoo short. And crooked. As I said before 'Any sane person would've went to a hairdresser....'</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So for next time, <i>if</i> there is a next time, I asked an expert about the 'proper' method of cutting your own fringe. Ideally, it should be done by a professional, but if you are courageous (or crazy) enough to undertake such a mission, here are a few simple steps to guide you.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">How to cut your own fringe</span></span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><br /><br /></b></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWPWT5L5rkRsiijfkYvBRR2Di6UolVaH8Lj-8-tnMdXyKK1jGjQy7WMdA1N0vIO0IZpxot0zoPjKxAaDao1zV5iBBjPbF2id2RZk38OCvG6U3HgZ0G0zqi-5Wg0V2z89U3ZqX69SAwrPs/s1600/cut+fringe+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWPWT5L5rkRsiijfkYvBRR2Di6UolVaH8Lj-8-tnMdXyKK1jGjQy7WMdA1N0vIO0IZpxot0zoPjKxAaDao1zV5iBBjPbF2id2RZk38OCvG6U3HgZ0G0zqi-5Wg0V2z89U3ZqX69SAwrPs/s1600/cut+fringe+.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><br /><br /></span></span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">You will need:</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A sharp scissors made especially for cutting hair</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A styling comb</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A brightly lit mirror</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A steady hand</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Some nerve</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">Step One:</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Always start with dry, straightened hair. It's easy to overestimate the length of wet hair as it stretches when it's weighed down.</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">Step Two:</span></b> Use the comb to separate the rest of your hair from the section you want to trim. Pick a point on top of your head where you would like your fringe to start. The further back you go, the heavier the fringe. Section off a wedge shape of hair, using the ends of your eyebrows as a guide. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">Step Three:</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;"> </span>It is still not too late to back out.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">Step Four: </span></span>P<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ull your hair down and hold it taut with your middle and index fingers. Hold your scissors with the ends pointing up, perpendicular to the line of your fringe.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">Step Five:</span> </b>Cut!<b> </b>Slowly and only a small bit at a time, from one side to the other. You can always go back and trim more off later if necessary.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">Step Six:</span></b> Flaunt your new fringe!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With this guide, you will now be able to cut your own fringe. Either successfully or not. If not, just remember that your hair will grow back. Until then, arm yourself with lots of hair clips, alice bands and industrial strength hair gel to keep the short spikes at bay. Unfortunately, you cant stick your hair back, as you might end up looking like that scary girl from <i>The Grudge.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Note to Self:</span></i> I will not cut my own fringe again. Or at least until this disaster grows out.</span></div>

The Savvy Girl's Guide To Cutting A Fringe

Late one evening this week, I realized that my fringe had grown too long and was annoyingly getting in my eyes all the time. I needed a trim...

Read more »