How To Girl

How to Girl- What to buy NOW!

2011-03-28T18:28:00.000-07:00

The shoe for the season has been the wedges... And I'm rally not ready to say Goodbye to my summery wedged shoes...

These babies have been a hit in a neutral color. I have been wearing these suede wedges with cropped jeans, white pants and khaki; they look like much more expensive versions, but they are under $90 (even less if you can get my FAV from Spendless Shoes for $59.95)...

However, I know wedges will be hanging around through winter and I found the winter alternative... Check out these wedged boots, ( Only 60 bucks from Spendless) they can go with stockings, jeans and even cute little dresses and skirts...

Loving the wedges right now!
Bx

HOW TO GIRL- Stiletto in the Ghetto

2011-03-11T20:40:00.000-08:00

I'm very excited about next Friday...

I have been asked to be one of the Celebrity Hosts for the 'Stiletto in the Ghetto' event this Friday night the 18th of March...

It's hard to find anything FREE these days, but this event is FREE...

If you are looking for something fashionable and cool to do come along to this event and come say "HI"!

It would be a great way to catch up with all you BRISBAN-IGHTES...

Bx

Valentine's Day Lingerie Picks!

2011-02-06T21:58:00.000-08:00

Happy Feb...

I can't believe it's February already. It seems as though the year hasn't really started properly with the floods then a cyclone... Now I feel we can all get on with the year with NO MORE Natural Disaster's...PLEASE!

And what a better way to kick into the year with a little L.O.V.E! Valentine's Day is around the corner and my view is... Candy makes you fat. Flowers die. Only lingerie is the gift that keeps on giving for Valentine's Day.

So, whether you buy it for yourself to spice things up (go girl!) or wait for your significant other to give it to you as a gift, I've narrowed it down to 6 picks that will appeal to everyone from the girl who likes to really heat things up, to the one who likes to stay cozy in pajamas.

Photo 1- (Elle MacPherson Intimates, David Jones
Photo 2- (Lovable), Myre
Photo 3- (Pleasure State), Myre
Photo 4- Botanical Chemise (Bendon), Kmart
Photo 5- Seduce Corset, Bras 'n' Things
Photo 6- Midnight Vixen, Bras 'n' Things

ENJOY!

Bx

Jeans...

2011-01-26T19:28:00.000-08:00

I love jeans... NOW!

But for the first 27 years of my life I have been a dress and skirt kind-of-girl! In the last couple of years I have slowly bought myself a pair each year. I came into the whole 'jeans wearing thing' when Skinny Jeans were starting out... I grabbed a cheap pair as I thought I would never wear them, but over winter and travelling to colder countries I began wearing them all the time...

Looking at the temp today a scorching hot 30~ I would not even go near them or even want to touch the fabric...

BUT, now is the time to buy jeans for the coming winter because they are a hell of a lot cheaper.

At the end of last year I paid about $300 for my Bettino Lianos... I thought why not buy a good pair that will see me through. They are skinny leg jeans but that's the style I love the best.

Anyway,this season, I'm definitely on the prowl for fresh and new jeans like these jeans to the left.

After seasons of skinny jeans, flares and wide-leg trouser jeans look like a nice change of pace. One of my favorite things about flares is that they balance out the bodies of us "real" women and makes us all look great (the width at the hem balances out hips and thighs - perfect!)

Happy hunting... Bx

How To GIRL- Loving COOPER ST right now!

2010-11-21T16:31:00.000-08:00

Last week I had two days off... When I say days off I mean when I get to do my shopping, pay bills etc.

Anywho, I found myself in Myer after being drawn into the store by a blue, purple and pink looking dress.

In a daze I found myself standing in front of the mirror in the fitting room admiring the dress on my body listening to the retail chick re-confirm to me that it looked great, what an awesome price it is etc, etc!

Coming back to reality and dulling out the voice inside my head "it's only $159" I asked what brand the dress was... To my surprise COOPER ST.

I ended up putting the dress back and researching a little more about COPPER ST.

What I found was Craig Cooper. Beginning with a small stall in trendy Paddington Markets Sydney over 20 years ago, Craig Cooper developed Cooper St Clothing into the successful label it is today. The label is a strong competitor amongst the fashion stakes with a central focus on innovation through eclectic charm designed for girls and women with a heightened sense of playful eccentricity, mystery and style. Cooper St represents the high streets of London, the pulse of Soho, New York right through to the overt glamour of LA woven into a tapestry of femininity and all things diversely beautiful here in Australia.

I jumped on the website and the amount of stockists is fantastic. Looking at the list I could help but flick through the collection and what I found were pieces you could wear to every event possible. What I also liked was that the designs didn't seem limited to the thinner looking figures either. I love that you could even wear some of the garments with a wee baby bump.

Cheak out the website www.cooperst.com.au and get addicted...

Bx

P.S. Went back and bought the dress!

How To GIRL- Get your body ready for SUMMER!

2010-10-25T17:24:00.000-07:00

Trying to trim inches from that stubborn waistline is a common concern for both men and women alike. Contrary to what some people believe, there’s no magical way to target the fat around the midsection. However, there are plenty of exercises available to burn fat from your entire body, which will help lead to a smaller waist. So, your new way of thinking about losing weight should be a full body weight loss approach; you’ll have a slimmer waistline in no time.

Running/Jogging
Burning calories is the best way to get that slim waist you had in high school. Running can help you burn a substantial amount of calories each day, and that’s not all it can do. Running helps to boost your metabolism so that your body burns calories more efficiently, even while you’re sitting on the couch or sleeping. At that rate, it won’t be long before your waist size begins to shrink. Additionally, your metabolism will increase as you exercise regularly, so in all actuality the calories burned due to your daily running regimen will far exceed 400 calories per workout.

Resistance training
Simple resistance exercises are all that’s really needed to help get you that small waist you seek. This would include push-ups, crunches, squats, lunges, calf raises, shoulder presses and other basic exercises requiring minimal or no special gym equipment. The reason that resistance training is important to reaching your weight loss goals is because muscle tissue is much more efficient at burning calories than is fatty tissue. So by replacing fat with muscle, your body will essentially burn more calories naturally, which in turn leads to increased weight loss. If you have access to a fitness center or weightlifting equipment at home, that’s even better. Always use relatively light weight that you can handle doing 15 to 20 repetitions without the help of a spotter. Perform resistance exercises three times per week with a day of rest in between each workout.

Moderate Aerobic Exercise
It's recommended that adults get at least 2-1/2 hours of moderate exercise each week. Let’s be honest, most Aussies are not exercising the minimum 30 minutes per day five days a week. Simply by sticking these basic guidelines, you can burn as many as 300 or more calories per workout, or the equivalent of nearly a half pound of body fat per week for a five day per week workout regimen. Some examples of moderately intense exercise would include walking briskly, a light jog, biking, a light swim, rollerblading and other related physical activities. This type of exercise is well within most people’s fitness level, and it doesn’t take up much time each day. Consistent exercise can also help to boost your energy levels significantly, so it can even help you to be more productive throughout the day.

Yoga/Pilates
I joined a Hot Yoga studio two months ago and I feel amazing after each session! There are various aerobic workouts available to help increase your flexibility and overall wellness. Yoga and Pilates are two good examples of these types of workouts. Both of these can help to slim your waistline through a moderately intense workout regimen that can be tackled by people of most fitness levels. By finding a good aerobic workout that is fun for you, such as Yoga or Pilates, you are far more likely to stick to the program over the long term. Weight loss shouldn’t be a short term goal. Losing weight through exercising will often take four to six weeks before any significant results are achieved, so be prepared to make some long term lifestyle changes in order to reach your weight loss goals.

So keep it up!

Bx

How to Girl- Exciting News!

2010-10-03T21:12:00.000-07:00

We know her by her elegant, girly, classy, expensive designs! We all want one or two of her pieces in our wardrobes and if we could afford to buy more than one we are doing quite well...

I'm talking about COLLETTE DINNIGAN! When I first heard about this new, cheaper range called Collette by Collette Dinnigan I jumped on goggle trying to find it! (I was out and about at the time and was searching on my iphone for any info possible, saying to myself, can this be true).

Since then the secret has been slowly released and the new sneak peek is now available, right in time for Spring/Summer!

Dresses range from about $200-$300 and shorts and shirts are about $150-$200.

Finally we can boast about owning a piece of Collette Dinnigan's range and know deep down... we can afford it!

Bx

How to Girl- What to Wear to a Wedding?

2010-09-13T18:36:00.000-07:00

Wedding Guest!

Spring is here and with it comes loads of weddings... I have been to my fair share and I can tell you, it is so stressful trying to find the right thing to wear. (Thank goodness I haven't had to be a bride, it would be a hellish)! So I am very happy to stay a guest, but I have had my bad-wedding-outfit-moments...

There are two main things I consider when buying an outfit. Firstly, you don't want to wear something that will "show up the bride" as they say.
And secondly, the weather! In OZ, by the time you stand outside and watch the 'I do's" your dripping in sweat, the overseas weddings, well I have mistakenly dressed for Australian weather and been caught out in the afternoon/evening wearing some guys suit jacket! So uncool...

Anyway, I believe I have it figured out and I thought I might share the tips with you.

For Her:

* Informal Daytime: Short dress or suit (business attire OK for morning weddings)
* Informal Evening: Cocktail dress
* Semi-Formal Daytime: Short dress or suit
* Semi-formal Evening: Cocktail dress
* Formal Daytime: Short dress or suit. Hats and gloves optional.
* Formal Evening or Black-Tie: Long or dressy short cocktail (beading, glam accessories, wrap)
* Ultra-formal or White Tie: Long gown, extra glitz (furs, diamonds, etc.)

Do's and Don'ts for Her:

* Don't wear white because it competes with the bride. There are plenty of other colors available.
* Don't wear black or sequins during the daytime.
* Don't worry about wearing the same colors as the bridesmaids or mothers. You can't possibly coordinate with everyone in the wedding party.
* Do wear something feminine and appropriate, out of respect for your hosts. Clubwear, overtly sexy clothing (strapless, see-through, etc) doesn't belong at a wedding. If you have to ask if it's appropriate, it probably isn't.
* Don't wear opera-length gloves (to top of arm) with anything but sleeveless or strapless gowns.
* Do take off gloves to eat or drink.
* Do use good judgment if the invitation doesn't specify the formality of the event. A pastel suit or soft floral dress for daytime or a little black dress for evening (after 6 p.m.) will take you almost anywhere.

For Him:

* Informal Daytime: Dress shirt and pants, preferably a sports jacket.
* Informal Evening: Suit
* Semi-Formal Daytime: Suit
* Semi-Formal Evening: Dark suit
* Formal Daytime: Dark suit and tie
* Formal Evening: Tuxedo (if invitation states "black tie") or dark suits if women wear short dresses.
* Ultra-formal Evening or White Tie: White tie, vest and shirt.

Do's and Don'ts for Him:

* Don't try to get cute with a tuxedo. A black tux with white shirt and black bow tie is the best way to go. If "Creative Black Tie" or some sort of other vague formal description is used, then going with a tux and black shirt, no tie, might be acceptable. Also, trendier cities like Brisbane and Melbourne might be more accepting of breaking with tradition.
* Do wear a dark suit, with a tie if the wedding is after 6 PM, and doesn't say "Black Tie."
* Don't wear a tuxedo during the day time, regardless of the formality of the event.
* Again, do use good judgment if the invitation doesn't specify the formality of the event. A dark suit and conservative tie will take you just about anywhere.

Well I hope I have helped you decide on what to wear next time you are invited to a Wedding! Have FUN!!!

Bx

How To Always Have Something to Wear!

2010-08-19T21:32:00.000-07:00

Here's How:
1. Stop impulse buying. Every $10 mistake you would have picked up in the bargain bin goes to a really great fashion wardrobe.
2. In the first step of cleaning out your closet, eliminate everything that doesn't fit or that you haven't worn in a year.
3. A few weeks later, go back and get rid of all the stuff you fudged on the first time around.
4. With what's left, begin identifying a theme to your wardrobe, relying on favorite looks, colors and lifestyle pieces.
5. Decide on three colours that either match or will coordinate with what you own and buy only those three colours for apparel.
6. Establish a workable budget.
7. Make a "Most Wanted" list of all the items you need in your wardrobe. (For example: solid blazer, wool pants, white shirt)
8. Set aside an hour of time each week to shop -- online or off -- to buy the items you put on your "Most Wanted" list.
9. Avoid trendy items.
10. Buy fashionable, but timeless clothing that will span two to three seasons -- like wool crepe or matte jersey.
11. Purchase only clothes that work with something that you already own.
12. Pass on anything that doesn't fit -- no matter how great a buy.
13. Try to add only one or two well-thought out items per month.
14. Add punchy colour and trendiness with accessories, shoes and handbags.
Tips:
1. Ignore that advice about buying "the best" of everything. Regardless of how well-made a garment is, moths, coffee spills and kids take their toll. Never choose between a mortgage payment and a cashmere sweater.
2. Try to plan your wardrobe around three neutral colors like black, white, khaki, navy or brown.
3. Buy more solids than prints - you won't get tired of them as quickly.

How to Girl- How to win back the attention from your partner that Mac has stolen.

2010-08-02T00:39:00.000-07:00

Okay, So unless you were sleeping under a rock for the past week there was serious hype about the new iPhone 4. Since Mac have released their products, relationships are in crisis.

Admittedly I myself have been swooped up in the "i" invasion. Here I am writing on my iMac Computer, have my iPhone sitting close by and jogged this morning listen to my iPod. I even thought rather than getting a laptop i would get myself the iPad when travelling.
So some may say that I have joined the Mac-PAC. But let me tell you there is a different type of PAC that has been completely caught up in the world of everything "i".

Now, if you have one of these types of people you know or worse, like me, live with them, what I am about to tell you will be no surprise.

This Whacked-Mac-PAC manage to have an iPod, iPad and iPhone in a 2 inch reach of themselves at any given time. While sitting at the table having breakfast, lunch or dinner there is an iPad to read. In the car there is an iPod to listen too and the iPhone that can ring at anytime sits waiting for it's turn. Even a trip to the LOO can be more exciting with an iPad or iPhone while doing a POO..!

As the sunsets and the lights go off there is the last glimmer of light from the iPhone being checked before it rests on the side table for the night.

As the sunrises for a new day the iPhone is quickly grabbed and picked up and shines it's light once more. As the daily news is being read the first bird chirps and here the day begins.

Now, if you have witnessed or are witnessing this type of freak Mac person then here's what to do.

Pick up the iPhone, take a beautiful picture of yourself. Save it to the wallpaper and screen saver. This way you will always know that you will be the first and last thing to be seen at the end and beginning of each day. This way, you know you will be held, played with and touched!
Bx

How Old is Too Old for Over-the-Knee Boots?

2010-08-02T00:37:00.000-07:00

I have a dilemma . I am 29 years old and still have the urge to go out and buy all these clothes that I wonder if i am too old to wear.

I fear I maybe one of those older ladies in there sixties wearing way too shorter skirts and drying my hair a light shade of purple or blue.

Much to my boyfriend's dismay, I am on the look out for a pair of over-the-knee boots. Now when I mentioned this his face changed to a pale white colour and a pained look glazed over his eyes. (This is a look I often get). He reminded me about when we first met, I wore a pair of DEEP RED, FUR, SPICE GIRL knee high boots! He said maybe I shouldn't be wearing those types of things anymore.

But I reminded him that the fact he still remembers the exact shoes I wore 10 years ago must of made an impact. What he forgets is that those shoes also got him up across the nightclub dance floor to ask for my name and had him dancing with me to Robbie Williams song "ROCK DJ" till the wee hours of the morning! Now those boots (I believe) is one of the reasons why he is here today.

Anyway, I assured him the over-the-knee boots wouldn't be red. Probably black.

I guess my question is what is the age you can still wear boots? I used to think pirates are the only ones who should ever wear over the knee boots. Oh, and Julia Roberts in pretty woman. Then I thought it's how you wear them. If the rest of your outfit says, I am trying to look 20 then you would look ridiculous. But if you pair them with something more age appropriate I think it could be OK!

I think bottom line.... Wear whatever you want and wear and wear it with confidence!

Bx

How to Girl- Quick TIP!

2010-08-02T00:25:00.000-07:00

Trend Alert- Contrasting Prints!
I am loving the fabulous contrasting prints coming through - work them back with simple accessories and voila, you’ve got an instant killer outfit!
Bx

Spring/Summer Fashion Trends 2010/11

2010-07-12T23:16:00.000-07:00

I am thinking ahead here, but I really got excited when I had a sneak peak at what's to come this year for the 2010/11 Spring Summer fashion. Here it is...

Denim Dressing
Runway: Designers rework denim into rompers, dresses and shoes for spring. The edgiest looks feature head-to-toe denim: previously a fashion don't.
Reality: Head-to-toe denim may work on trendy fashionistas as a fad, but in reality the denim-everything trend is one we all love. From denim tunics worn with leggings to great denim shoes (Tory Burch has a pair you'll die for), touches of denim worn in new ways -- as jackets, dresses, shorts and shirts -- instead of just jeans looks fresh for spring. Mix denim with white, brights and neutrals. Denim is a natural for big bold pieces of nature-inspired jewellery like wood or turquoise.

Military Influence
Runway: Army jackets, sharp-cut military jackets and olive green were all over the runway for Spring 2010.
Reality: Here's a trend that works for so many women, and it's as easy to buy into as adding a pair of soft utility pants or khaki camp shirt into your wardrobe. The key to keeping military looks feminine is to choose fitted shirts and jackets: it gives it more of a boy-meets-girl look than a sloppy army surplus look. Although camo is around, it's really the khakis and olives that look freshest. I happen to be a huge fan of olive, but if it's not a colour you can wear keep it on the bottom or just go with khaki.

Leggings
Runway: To shake up the basic black leggings that everyone has co-opted as a no-brainer look, designers took to crazy prints and fresh fabrics.
Reality: No need to go with wild ripped-up leggings or eye-popping prints to get a fresh take on leggings for spring. Contemporary manufacturers in particular have you covered: new acid-wash/tie-dye looks, khaki neutrals, cute zip-ankle details and especially denim leggings (JEGGINGS) will add to your legging wardrobe.

Jumpsuits
Runway: From dramatic wide-legged pantsuits to more utilitarian-type cuts, one-piece pants dressing was a significant runway trend.
Reality: It may be starting to hit the mainstream, but the jumpsuit is not the easiest trend to pull off. Many of the styles feature a slim-top silhouette paired with a really wide leg: a horrible combo for bottom-heavy women. Watch the leg width and you'll be fine: strapless looks are one of my favorites (I can't wait for a warm weather party to wear one!) and I even like the jumpsuits that feature a shorter, slimmer leg.

Coral
Runway: Soft oranges, especially coral, heated up the neutrals on the runway.
Reality: Pick a shade of orange that works with your skin: anything from coral to peach works on most women. This hue mixes beautifully with the softer neutrals like khaki and white; it also looks lovely with metallics like gold and silver and all the blues.

Shorts
Runway: Bermudas, leather shorts, bloomers, Daisy Dukes, walking shorts: designers re-imagined this summertime favorite in every way possible for spring.
Reality: My favorite edgy look for spring is definitely the leather short, but it's not for everyone. The city suit (short suit) is definitely another great look and a younger alternative to a traditional skirt suit. For most of us, a walking short or even a slim longer short that hits around the knee is a fun way to try out the look.

Statement Shoes
Runway: Eye-popping heights and elaborate details made their way down the runway on the feet of models around the world. The most dramatic styles were cage shoes, wedges and ankle boots.
Reality: Statement shoes have been one of the most significant trends going for seasons. Even pant lengths are being made to show off great shoes (cropped slim pants are my favorite way to show off amazing shoes.) Cage shoes are an update on the gladiator: they feature a cage-like effect made with straps and can either be casual or dress, high-heel or flat. Wedges -- a warm-weather favorite -- are updated with wooden heels and every fabric and detail available. Booties and ankle boots are still a very strong look and work well with leggings and shorter skirts.

Shirt-dresses
Runway: From softer draped shirt-dresses to sharply cut military styles, the shirt-dress was the silhouette for spring.
Reality: A favorite of working gals everywhere, the shirt-dress is one of my go-to silhouettes because it just looks so great on. A knee-length or shorter is the best look on most women, and a straighter skirt with a blouse top balances out curves.

Fringed Bags
Runway: Fringe and tassels add interest to handbags this season.
Reality: Here's a simple trend that is easy to incorporate into your wardrobe. Fringed bags add a western/boho feel to just about anything, but look especially great with denim.

Well time to start saving for all these must have's!

Bx

Top 8 Fashion Apps- Get Style on Your iPhone!

2010-07-12T23:14:00.000-07:00

From the latest runway shows to what to wear for the weather, we've selected the best fashion apps for your iPhone.

1. ShopStyle Mobile
Bring together 300 retail stores and this app is what you get. Compare prices of clothes for men, women, kids, or even compare prices of furniture. I love the convenience of being able to shop by price, size, even color; definitely my favorite fashion app!
2. Style.com
View the latest and top runway shows from around the world. The big downside is that the videos won’t be “optimal” unless you are connected to wi-fi. I could never get the video to play at all. The slideshow photos, however, are brilliant and well worth the download. You can even click through to see the review for each designer. Free.
3. Trendstop Trendtracker
Find out the next trend before it’s even out there with help from predictions of people in the top of the fashion industry. A great place to see crazy “trends” like oversized fabric chains or see-through bombers, that will probably never make it into your local department store. Free.
4. Target
Browse through Target products, find out what aisle products are on, or even scan barcodes for more product info while shopping in the store. If you want to buy anything with your iPhone, you'll have to click through the website at Target.com. Free.
5. Stylecaster
This app not only tells you what the weather is outside but also what to wear for the weather too so you’ll never make another weather related fashion mistake again. Sort of a pain to have to register after you’ve downloaded it. The day I tried it, it was 97 and they gave me a “Daily Look” of layered denim jacket and floor-length skirt which was definitely NOT appropriate for scorching heat (although two of the other looks were.) Free.
6. TouchCloset
It’s a virtual view of your very own closet so you can plan outfits no matter where you are. Of all the apps, this one is potentially the most useful for me when it comes to remembering what I already own and coordinating new purchases; the downside is that it is very time consuming to photograph and categorize everything you own. $1.19
7. Sartorialist
The iPhone app of the famous website downloads well-dressed people from all over the world for you to flip through for fashion inspiration. You can save the pics to camera roll or share on Facebook. Free.
8. Love It or Lose It
Lets you send pictures of clothes to friends or the Love It or Lose it community before you purchase so you’ll always be able to get a second opinion before you wear. Also great for armchair fashionistas who want to give their opinion on other users' clothes. $1.19.

Here is a start! Let me know if you know of any cool apps!

Bx

Tips from SJP!

2010-06-01T15:59:00.001-07:00

WHY! Stay in Brisbane and get all the fashion ideas from the Sex and The City 2 movie when I could go and be there myself.

I'm off to New York City on Friday to get all the Goss from SJP SATC2!

And not to mention taking you with on the NYC Journey too.

Stay tuned and I'll keep you up to date...

Bx

Behind the Scenes with Brooke!

2010-05-30T21:50:00.000-07:00

On a location Shoot at Morten Island.

Shooting for the upcoming Brisbane Marketing Campaign.

Scuba Diving, Jet Skiing, Quad Biking, Sailing, Swimming in Lagoon's, Sand Boarding, playing Beach Volleyball, Camping, Hiking and Dining!

What an awesome job that was!

How to, Pick a Hair Cut that Flatters Your Face Shape - It's all about the BANG!

2010-05-30T21:49:00.001-07:00

You want to change your hair style, but aren't sure what would look best? Should you keep it long or cut it short?

Will cutting your shoulder length hair make it wavy, curly or frizzy? Are extensions an option?

Was your mum right when she said you had a square face and should never wear bangs?

Okay, if you have just thought... What is Brooke talking about "BANGS"! It is the word to describe a fringe.

Face shape is crucial in getting the most flattering hair cut. Celebrity clients spend thousands of dollars on the best stylists at the best salons, but you don't have to.

The easiest way to find your face shape is to pull any "bangs" off your forehead into a clip, take a lipstick or a magic marker and outline your face in the mirror. Draw what you see, not what you think, and you may be surprised. Step back and consider the shape on the mirror as only a geometric design.

Why not try a BANG? Consider the following rules of thumb when selecting bangs.

Oval face shapes - the oval face shape is considered to be a face shape that can wear any type of style or hair. This includes bangs which can be worn in just about any style. Of course bangs for oval face shapes should be chosen with an eye for hair type, texture, length and condition.

Round face shapes - the most flattering bang styles tends to be built upon long softly layered or feathered bangs (if your hair texture, type and condition support feathering) which gently hug the cheeks areas to minimize round cheeks. When skillfully constructed, bangs can add beautiful contour to round fact shaped features. Great bands can instantly chisel into the cheekbones and help them pop.

Long face shapes - blunt brow hugging bangs that softly drape over the forehead will help to give the impression of a more oval-shaped face. The oval look can be strengthened by opting for long or graduated layers that softly caress the sides of the face.

Square face shapes - consider side-swept bangs that gently curve or taper inwards towards the jaw to soften pronounced square facial lines. When well cut, side swept bangs can also help soften all the angles of the face.

Heart face shapes - depending on the ultimate goal, bangs can be selected to either minimize the general wideness of the heart shaped face or help to balance the generally prominent chin. A side swept feathered or textured bang style can also be another great option.

A heart shaped face can also usually carry off full bangs cut straight across the face. Long or short, full bangs can look really great for a heart shape.

Triangular face shapes - wider bangs that are feathered, wispy or textured can help to balance the face and create more of an oval shape.

I hope this helps those looking for a new exciting do! I will stop BANGING on about it!

Bx

Personal Development Workshop's for School Students!

2010-05-30T21:45:00.000-07:00

Do you know someone with a Tween or Teen?

Maybe you have a Tween or Teen? Now if you have no idea what I am talking about then let me explain. Tween's are kids aged between 10-13 years of age. And Teens are kids aged between 14-18 years of age.

I have designed a workshop helping these kids understand this crucial, confusing and confronting age. How to cope with it and understand it so that not only them but their parents can have a less stressful and painful experience.

If you know people who could benefit from this fantastic workshop, then get them on here reading this!

De-Cutter and Organise your Space.

2010-05-30T21:44:00.000-07:00

It's not easy to relax in a crowded room; space is often at a premium. Here are some tips for generating a peaceful feeling in your home/office/bedroom wherever you may dwell.

One mistake many people make is in thinking that cleaning doesn't count unless it's thorough and completely organized.

There's a lot to be said for hiding mess until you have time to deal with it: there's no reason to punish yourself by living in clutter until you can clean it all up!

It's surprising how much more open a room can look when the horizontal surfaces are cleared off, even temporarily.

One solution to cluttered side tables and desks is to place baskets under each table, and sweep the clutter into the basket once a day.

On the weekend, sort through the basket, discard magazines and junk, and put books back in shelves.

When Monday rolls around, start over!

It's that easy, and you will feel so much better for it! TRUST ME.

Keeping Yourself Safe with Basic Self Defense

2010-05-30T21:41:00.000-07:00

Paying attention to your personal safety is so important in this day and age. More than ever, meeting people online is fast becoming more and more popular.

It's crucial to have more in your purse than lipstick to help you fight back if you're attacked by a stranger. Just the other day I heard of case where the girl being attacked was protecting the purse itself more than herself. If your purse is clutched to you rather than dangling from a strap, you'll be less likely to have someone try to take it from you.

If someone does either grab or demand your purse, give it to them. It's not worth risking yourself for whatever's in there! If your purse is large or heavy, you may be able to belt someone with it if you need to, but if you hit someone with your purse, don't be a sissy about it pack a wallop that will hopefully knock the guy down and preferably out.

Staying Safe on an "Alone" Date or First Date.

Dating safety is not a joke and everyone can benefit from reading these easy to follow safety procedures, to ensure your well being on or off a date.

1. Use the buddy system. There is safety in numbers. Group dates are less tense not to mention extremely safe.
2. Don't accept blind dates.
3. Never get in a car with someone you don't know. Always "meet" somewhere on the 1st date. It’s less romantic but much safer.
4. Never let a first time date know where you live. Again it sort of puts a damper on the romance but it could save you from stalkings and other unpleasantness.
5. Stay away from secluded beaches and other private "date" spots until you feel comfortable with them. Even if you're in a group, secluded areas are not recommended.

Another way to protect yourself is to learn self defence.Try www.brisbanemartialarts.com.au they have loads of fun classes and you could even get a bunch of girls together and have a great time.

Bikini Hair Removal Requires Special Attention

2010-05-30T21:38:00.000-07:00

The bikini area is composed of the coarsest hair on the body and the most sensitive skin, so fashion insists that it be placed on public view, and it must be utterly smooth.

Some lucky souls are either so blond or so tough-skinned that keeping the bikini-line hair-free isn't a big deal, but most women have a terrible time.

Shaving, the most commonly used hair-removal method, is quick, but often creates a new problem in the form of razor burn or bumps.

Waxing lasts longer because it yanks the hair out from the root, but it's very painful, and unless you do a highly professional job of it, you'll end up with skin irritation.

Ingrown hairs are a problem with both methods, contributing to skin irritation.

So what do we do? The best advice i have been given from beauticians is to find what your skin likes. Some skin will react to shaving and some to hair removal creams and some to waxing.

Try all of them giving each 4 weeks and see what works best for you.

Bathing Suit and Swimwear Tips- Buy in Winter!

2010-05-30T21:36:00.000-07:00

Every year, it happens. Bathing suit weather arrives, and with it, comes the time when you think...Oh i need some new togs. Well winter is when sales on suits are at there best.

The better news is, the variety has never been greater. The bad news? Suits are still made of Lycra, aren't they?

Buying a swimsuit has a lot to do with beauty because it's more about perceptions than it is actual good looks.
The fact is, with the right attitude, nearly any woman's swim suit will look good to men, provided there's a woman in it.

Other women are much pickier about what suit looks good on what body, and the worst critic of all is that chick in the mirror. I have a few beauty tips about bathing suits and bikinis, which I will pass onto you in the hopes that they will inspire confidence.

If you have a petite figure, like Miranda Kerr size 6 to 8- a small bust and bottom go for patterns, florals, strips and try to avoid black, a bikini and full suit will look good.

For that hour glass figure, think Elle MacPherson size 10-12. I say go for light, plain colours, like white, orange, yellow, pink, blue and green. Try to stay away from patterns, Except (here's what i do), if you have a small bust and bigger bottom wear a patterned bikini top and a plain colour on the bottom. This way it makes your bust look bigger and draws attention away from your bum. And vice-versa with a big bust and small bottom.

For a curver figure like Kate Winslet size 12-14. Go with bold colours that are rich in colour, like red, purple, black, dark blue and dark green. Stay away from light colours and patterns.A full suit and bikini will look very glam.

Remember, always try before you buy and if you feel good in it and comfortable then you will look confident and fabulous.

Apply Sunless Tanning Lotion and Avoid Skin Cancer Risks Share

2010-05-30T21:35:00.000-07:00

There is something to be said for a golden, Queensland-style tan, but spending hours tanning under the blazing solar disk is more of a skin-cancer risk than it is a fine tanning option.

You could go all out and spend loads of dollars getting a spray-on tan from a salon every week, but you risk being broke within a month.

For a few measly bucks, you can hide those pasty legs with tanning creams. Neutrogena's Instant Bronzer is my fav. It's a soft foam that provides instant colour. And Olay and Dove do a great light tan which you can get from any local store like Coles or Woolworths.

Tanning lotions and creams are basically a way of dying your skin a lovely, summertime hue without exposing yourself to harmful radiation. Tanning in its most primitive form is the same thing: UV rays interact with the melanin in your skin, turning it brown and dying you from the inside out.

With a store-bought tan and bronzer, you can start out golden, and any incidental colour you happen to pick up in the course of your summer is just gravy.

Apply Make-up Naturally!

2010-05-30T21:33:00.000-07:00

You can tell the decade in which a movie was made by the eye make-up of the stars. In the forties, it was either glamorous or understated, depending on the scene (evening and dressy or daytime and subtle) and the character (bad women wore lots of eye shadow, day and night).

Eyelashes... It seems boys always get the natural, long, thick, awesome looking eyelashes. (Like my son)!

Eyebrows were mostly plucked out and painted or drawn on slightly higher, although some stars, like Angelina Jolie, got away with slender, perfectly-shaped natural brows.

If you look at Marlin Monroe you can see that she wore lots of makeup. Eye shadow was light if she used it at all (in 1960 she wore lots of bright blue shadow), but Max Factor laid on the mascara, and her brows were made up with pencil or paint, usually in a curved fashion that accessorized her persona.

Today natural is the best way to go. You can go and get your eyebrows shaped but remember that keeping with the natural curves and structure of your face will always suit you best!

Benifits of Drinking Water

2010-05-30T21:31:00.000-07:00

We all want smooth, soft, unblemished skin.
But sometimes it seems like great skin is either something you're born
with or something you'll never achieve.

These days, the medical industry has
created skin care treatments that are halfway between plastic surgery and
serious cosmetics.

You can have your skin sanded, chemically peeled, zapped with lasers, frozen or injected with Botox. You can spend thousands of dollars in a pretty short period of time to achieve results that may or may not be what you hoped for.

But one of the most wonderful skin care treatments is easily available to
everyone, has side benefits that affects not just your rosy glow but your whole body, and
is utterly painless to use.

It's called water, and you drink it.

Tall Women!

2010-05-30T21:26:00.000-07:00

Tall women come in two types: models, and the rest of us. Although in the Western world, men and women have been growing taller and taller over the generations, women over 5ft8"are considered tall when it comes to clothing manufacturers, who apparently measure their profits in the extra inch or two it would take to make tall women (or plus size women) comfortable in their clothes.

Tall women also run the risk of becoming terrifically shy, since they tend to shoot up like bamboo while the nastiest little boys in year 8 and 9 are still all mouth and no brains. At school I was a MONSTER! By year 11 I was coming in at a huge 6 ft. That was hard. My boyfriend is only 5 ft 10"... He, he! I always say, it's not my fault being tall it's his problem being too short!

Being tall makes it nearly impossible for girls to disappear, which lets them in
for a lot of teasing and mental torture. The lucky girls use their height to
establish an athletic career, and can pound short, nasty boys into the turf, but the rest of us just suffer through it and hope to extract our revenge in
University.

There is no way to look less tall. Let's just get that out of the way right now. Slouching, if anything, makes women look taller and un-confident! Tall is sexy!

So'stand tall' girl friend!

What is the HOW TO GIRL?

2010-05-30T21:22:00.000-07:00

This is where you will find all the information you need in Health, Fitness, Fashion, Beauty and Nutrition. Goss on the industry, tips on how to break into the world of Film and TV. Not to mention the behind scenes on photo shoots and television shows with Model and Television Presenter Brooke Lowther. Push the "Like" button to get all the info delivered right to you.