After my recent haircut debacle, perhaps I should take Ashley’s advice. Thanks for contributing, Ash!
I’m a huge fan of bangs – heavy, wispy, long, short, side-swept, straight across. You name it, I like it. But (and this is a big BUT), I find fringe incredibly high maintenance. If your stylist cuts too short, you look ridiculous. If she doesn’t trim enough, you need to return for a touch-up after a week. And the whole styling process takes time to master. So, here’s some advice based on years of trial and error.
Embrace dry shampoo! I use it when I don’t have the time to wash my hair, but I need to cut the oil from my bangs.  Try Oscar Blandi’s Pronto Dry Shampoo ($11).  The small tip works great to deposit product exactly where you want it.
 Pronto Dry Shampoo
With freshly washed hair, use a light styling product.  Let them air dry almost fully before using the blow dryer – the shape will hold longer.  Finally, practice makes perfect. You will need to experiment before you find the process that works best for you. Dry bangs using just your fingers or a round brush. Remember, bobby pins can save any disaster. 🙂
As for trimming maintenance, less is more. It’s a lot easier to go back for a touch-up than it is to speed up the growth process.
*Ashley
Recently, I’ve been completely enamored with red lips. They ooze glamour, sex appeal, and mystery.  A woman who wears red lipstick conveys power and control. In other words, red lips symbolize everything I want.  Until now, I’ve been too intimidated to wear it, but with the new year and a new me, I decided to take the plunge.Â
Since I’ve never owned a red lipstick, I did some research and decided to try the most highly recommended products. I went slightly nutso at Sephora and bought the selection below – only a sampling of what’s to come!Â
(In case you are wondering, this is what obsession looks like.)
It will be a long process, but I’m committed to finding the perfect red lip or at least falling in love with a few. So, be on the lookout for more hot stuff because red lips (and me by association) are ready to bring it. 🙂
*Ashley
I love celebrating, and the holiday season is the most celebrated time of the year. Last weekend alone, I went to 4 parties! To ensure that my make-up lasts throughout the night (and next morning), I use primer. It creates a more even surface for application, prevents creasing and provides longer lasting coverage.
Last New Year’s Eve, I applied Urban Decay’s Eyeshadow Primer Potion ($17) before painting on a smoky eye. Not only did my eyeshadow last through hours of dancing and sweating, it looked exactly the same at the end of the night as the beginning. I promoted it from cool product to beauty staple.
I like Laura Mercier’s Oil-Free Foundation Primer ($30) for my face. It goes on smooth, extends the staying power of my foundation and doesn’t clog my pores. For normal skin, nothing beats Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer ($36). It always wins beauty awards, and you’ll find it in most make-up artists’ bags.
Primer should go on AFTER moisturizer and BEFORE color. Remember to let each product dry before moving on to the next step. Now go have fun and don’t worry about your make-up. You’re in prime condition! 😉
*Ashley
