Summer Styles in the South of France

The 2011 Cannes Film Festival brought a select bevy of starlets to the South of France and the white hot styles hitting the red carpet this year were anything but boring. Bound to be all the rage this summer, lighter shades in organic fabrics are not only keeping the ladies cool, but the gents as well. We saw everything from floor length formals to fun and flirty to sophisticated and elegant a la' Rachel McAdams in a lovely white dress from Maxime Simoens Couture and subtly stylish peep toe pumps by Salvatore Ferragamo. Her Midnight in Paris co-star, Owen Wilson, charmed the crowds in a casual white suit by Calvin Klein. Similar styles can be achieved quite easily, and purchased for considerably less at one of my favorite places to shop H&M. So this summer, whether partying it up on a white hot summer night or a spending a day on the town under the beautiful summer sun, keep it classic, clean and cool in the light bright shade of white.

DIY Makeover: Six Steps to Shock and Awe

Every girl deserves to feel like a princess, but sometimes the privilege of a personal entourage of  isn't available to the everyday girl. So when the opportunity of a do it yourself makeover presented itself I decided to take part. Instead of expensive stylists and designer wardrobe pieces the DIY makeover consists entirely of resourcing what you have and what is readily available to you. To make myself over in a matter of moments and with minimal expense, I followed these simple steps:





1. Begin by generously applying a healing treatment to the face and neck. If you suffer from dry skin moisturize using creams you already have. If you tend to suffer from blemishes treat them effectively with spot treatment products.

2. While the beauty treatments are healing apply a semi-permanent hair color such as Clairol Natural Instincts. Remain within two shades of your current hair color and apply the product according to directions. 

3. Paint your nails while your color is processing, being careful  not exceed the recommended processing time.

4. Rinse and condition hair then apply a shine serum before blow drying and styling. Choose a look that flatters the shape of your face, and style in way which you normally wouldn't. For example if you tend to wear your hair up often, then by all means let it down, or if your tresses usually fall where they may then style them into a sophisticated updo.

5. Makeup should be used to emphasize your natural beauty. You want to look enhanced and brilliant without looking completely foreign to your friends. Use the shades you are used to using, but apply them differently. The internet is a magnificent source for professional techniques in cosmetic application. Check out the how to videos on YouTube and fashion magazine websites.

6. When it comes to wardrobe the under garments are just as important as the outer ones. In this respect Victoria's Secret has a wonderful array of well fitting bras to hoist up what other bras tend to smash down. A properly fitting bra can make all the difference in the lift, posture, and stride of us women. As can a well defined pair of stilettos, preferably in beige which will be an asset to any girls closet. Accessorize a figure flattering dress with a classic clutch, and some detailed jewelry pieces. Finally add a spritz of designer fragrance. Choose something different than your usual signature scent.

You may just find that the reactions you receive are absolutely incredible!