5 Celebrity Epic Beauty Fails

New Years is a time for a fresh start, a clean slate, a time for “out with the old and in with the new”, a time to say New Year new… you get the point. Though January is a great time to renew your look, maybe even give yourself a little makeover, make sure you think before you do anything too drastic.  Yea, we know hair grows back, but sometimes being spontaneous isn’t all the rage.  Need proof?  Allow us to remind you of these celebrity beauty mishaps.

Renee's Plastic Surgery

The before and after of Renee Zellweger's plastic surgery is truly shocking - a real celebrity beauty fail. Renee seems nearly unrecognizable after her plastic surgery. We say forget the scalpel; natural is in.

Miley's Missing Brows

This year, Miley Cyrus bleached her eyebrows and though this was quite daring, it's another decision that requires lots of thought before commitment. Dark, thick eyebrows are the way to go.

Angelina's Powder Overdose

We're a huge fans of powder, but Angelina Jolie might have gone a little overboard. If you're going to use a powder, make sure it's light-weight and invisible.

Kim K. Gets Crispy

We can't say how important it is to take care of your skin and use proper sunscreen. Kim Kardashian clearly forgot this important message when she fell asleep in the sun for too long. Can you say ouch?

Britney's Buzz

Britney Spears probably didn't think too much before making this bold decision. Make sure, before shaving your head, that you can really rock it. I recommend a bold lipstick with this look to make it work best.

New Year, New Fitness Goals

I wonder how many of you have new fitness goals for the new year?  I think it's safe to say 99%.  Whether you're making the commitment to join a new fitness studio or just to be healthier in general, this post is for you.  I was inspired to write it after having dinner with my best friends, Michele and Jarrett Hahn, who own M.O.V.E NJ Fitness & Performance in Hoboken.  The day after our double date (and indulging in a few bottles of wine), I was sprinting for the first time in years.  Here are my new fitness goals (effective immediately) that I'm sure will inspire you, too.

Change it up.  It's been one year since I moved to Hoboken, which makes it one year that I've been doing Local Barre classes about five times a week.  While I dabble in trying new fitness classes all over NYC, my main workout is barre.  "In order to cause change to your body composition you must constantly change up your workout regime," stated Jarrett Hahn, trainer and the owner of M.O.V.E NJ Fitness and Performance.  "The body will only adapt to new stimulus, meaning if you keep doing the same thing, your body will remain the same. Changing up your routine every 4-6 weeks would be ideal." I'm going to begin incorporating sprints and more cardio into my routine.  What are you going to do?

Push past your comfort zone.  It seems like common knowledge, but we don't always go for the extra challenge.  If you're doing something that feels somewhat comfortable, push yourself to the next level.  For example, I used to be able to plank for 20 seconds (comfortably).  Now, I'm proud to say that I can hold a proper plank for a minute and 30 seconds and am trying to get stronger each day.

Track your movement.  I've never worn a device that tracks my steps or how much I sleep, but out of curiosity I'm starting to wear the Tom Tom Runner Cardio GPS.  The heart rate monitor will help me stay on track when sprinting and help me keep my overall fitness goals.

Make a new playlist.  Music drives my movements.  How about you?  Creating a new playlist is just as good, if not better than buying new workout gear.  I love NYC DJ and my friend, David Hamburg's, mixes on Spotify.

Forget excuses.  This is my biggest problem!  I don't like to sweat, I like to glisten, which has kept me from cardio for a while.  Also, if I have a blowout... forget about it.  If we want results, there are no excuses.

Now it's your turn to inspire me!  Share your fitness goals for the new year below. 

*This post is sponsored by Tom Tom, but all of my thoughts and actions are true.

3 Ways to Protect Your Skin this Winter

Is the heat on full blast in your home yet?  No matter where you live, winter will affect your beauty regimen in many different ways and not always for the better.  Take your skin for example.  The heat dries it out and cold weather chaps it.  (#winning)  Unless you stay ahead of the game, you could be in for a brutal beauty beating.  Here are some tips to ensure your skin beats the winter beauty blues.

1. Stay hydrated.  Yes, how you treat your body has a direct correlation on how you look on the outside.  I'm not telling you to make sure you drink eight glasses of water a day, but keep up with whatever works for you water, tea, hot chocolate.  Pick your poison.

2. Moisturize as soon as you get out of the shower.  Applying moisturizer to damp skin locks it in.  I'm currently using Curel Rough Skin Rescue Smoothing Lotion.  It makes my skin feel instantly soft, and is ideal for even the driest, flaky skin (my feet are bad!).

3. Plug in a humidifier.  It'll pull more moisturizer into the air and help prevent your skin from drying out.  I sleep with one on nightly.

*This post is sponsored by Curél, but all of my thoughts and actions are true.

Behind the Look: Ammon Carver

Welcome to “Behind the Look” – a new feature that showcases the talent behind the looks we love – the real celebrities in my eyes.  

In his downtime, NYC hairstylist, Ammon Carver, coifs stars like Kate Beckinsale, Molly Sims, Amanda Seyfried, Kirsten Dunst and Leighton Meester, but his most recent project has taken his career to the next level.  He just opened his own salon, with a twist – it's part photography studio.  Pretty cool, huh?  And his five must haves are essential enough for us all to take note of.

Describe the most exciting project you’ve worked on lately.

Aside from opening the Ammon Carver Studio, I am currently working on a project that involves providing a day of beauty to women in shelters for abuse. We will put together a team of hairstylists and done our time to make sure these women feel their most beautiful.

What’s your beauty philosophy?

Beauty begins within…if you want to look your best, it begins with being selective about what ingredients (food, and products) that you put in and on your body

What are the top five must-haves in your kit and why? 

Mason Pearson cushion bush….gives the best polish possible.

Fine tooth tail comb….perfect for backcoming and detailing.

Working hairspray, my go-to is Keratin Healing Oil Lustrous Finishing Spray…..buildable hold without any mattifying or flaking.

Hair bungee ties….ponytail and bun perfection.

Duckbill sectioning clips….keeping my work organized is the only way to create certain hairstyles….need to be able to cleanly separate the hair without leaving marks.

Have you discovered any new products lately that you find impressive?

Lately I love the aerosol Texture Sprays…Dry Texture Spray from L'ANZA is seriously amazing because it not only gives sexy, second-day texture, but it acts like a dry shampoo as well.

 Spill your best beauty advice.

Eat well, get good exercise…you would be surprised how good fitness and nutrition can affect your overall hair/skin/nails beauty.

What’s the one tip or trick that you think all women should know?

I think all women with long hair should learn how to do at least a simple braid.  Braids are  a trend that cycles in and out more than any other.  They are a great way to secure annoying bangs, they serve perfectly for when your hair is under a hood during the winter, or when you want a fresh look at the beach…..learn how to braid your hair. You will open a ton of style options by doing so. Short haired women should learn to play with hair accessories to mix up their look.

What Beauty Editors Are Giving this Season

There has to be at least one person on your holiday gift list that you'll be buying a beauty gift set for!  Good luck stepping into a Sephora.  You're going to want everything!  Since my beauty writer friends and I have seen them all, I called on the troops to dish on what beauty gifts they're gifting this season to help you cut through the clutter.  Here are some of the hottest ones out there this season all under $50.

I'll be gifting the Urban Decay Black Magic 24/7 Glide-On Double-Ended Eye Pencil Set to a few people this year. It comes with four double sided liners in all wearable shades.  I think it makes a great gift, not only because I love Urban Decay liners, but also because people tend to purchase black or brown liner for themselves and this encourages them to play.  – yours truly Aromatherapy Associates Bath Jewels - This London-based brand makes the BEST bath oils, and every time I use mine, I feel like all of my cares drift away. The blends smell wonderful, and you need only a few drops to create a wonderful escape, so these little bottles will last a while. This is an especially good gift for people who are always taking care of others—it pretty much forces them to slow down and pamper themselves for once. - Annie Tomlin, TheGlowHow.com

I love the Benefit 3 Scoops O's Sexy, which boasts three tinted lip balms in their stunning, wearable shades for a sheer, pretty look. Benefit does festive packaging right; any gal would love to be on the receiving end of this set. - Amber Katz, Rouge18.com

Boscia Tsubaki Secrets is a pretty fabulous gift for just about anyone. I'm a personal believer in one, cleansing oil and two, a konjac sponge- it's the beauty item you never knew you'd love. - Jamie Stone, HonestlyJamie

I happen to extra super duper love this herbal tea from David's Tea, because it tastes like drinking a homemade caramel cake, smells even better, and magically has no calories. I'm giving it to all the gals in my family this year, and even though it comes in a chic stainless tin it's super affordable. - Bryce Gruber, LuxurySpot

I'm all about giving this season is a glamsquad gift card. I mean, seriously -- for $50 (10% off if you join their mailing list - and i mean, duh, obviously anyone would) - a stylist will come to your home or office (or anywhere you want, really) and give you a runway-ready blowout. I've had them come as early as 7 am, as late as 10 pm, and they are always amazing - that's useful for everything from job interview to booty call, which I think makes it the best gift of all. – Aly Walansky, ALittleAlyTude

I'm bringing every host a Givenchy's Les Mini Prismes this season. The packaging looks like those vintage steamer trunks that people used to bring on the Orient Express. Each drawer looks impossibly dainty but houses every makeup essential you need, from shimmery blush to saturated shadows to tools and a mirror. It's $39 at Sephora. Not bad, considering that a Givenchy Antigona bag will run you about $3,000. - Polly Blitzer, BeautyBlitz

I am obsessed with these mini Sugar Lip Treatments from Fresh! Not only do they keep lips hydrated (a must for the winter!), but they also leave just the amount of color and can be used under or over lipsticks. They also smell delicious and who wouldn't want yummy smelling lips for the holiday season?! - Andrea Arterbery, TheArtofBerry

I love spreading the gospel of lipstick, so this year I'll be giving the Lipstick Queen Discovery Set at Space NK, $48, which includes my all time favorite lipstick Medieval. It's the best translucent red in the world, and it looks good on every skintone. Plus, you get a classic nude and sheer, shimmery pink. So basically a lipstick for every occasion. One Lipstick Queen lipstick on its own is about $22, making this trio a really good deal. - Courtney Dunlop, youlookgreatingreen

Philosophy's Sparkly Time of Year - It's Philosophy- so obviously obsessed. Lip glosses are always fun to give because there's no such thing as having too many. While they may be stocking-sized products, it allows you to try out so many of their different delicious scents. It may give them a new favorite one!  – Emily Rekstis, BeautySweetSpot contributor

When it comes to beauty gifts, I love giving people gift sets from brands I adore so they can discover it for themselves too. Ole Henriksen is up there on my list of must haves, and this Unwrap Your Radiance set has my can't-live-without Truth Serum in it. – Sheyma Azam, BeautyandtheFeastBlog

Alexis Bittar for Sephora Liquid Gold Compact - This compact is a little sculpture you can keep in your purse. The size and shape make it easy to find in your bag. Also, it's  24-karat gold-plated, which is kind of ridiculous and amazing in a Wolf of Wall Street way. – Liesa Goins, freelance beauty editor

In the freezing winter with dry heat pumping through the vents, it’s important to hydrate your skin as much as possible. Kiehl’s Crème de Corps is so nourishing, and 100% of the proceeds from their limited edition holiday versions support Feeding America—that’s a win-win in my book. I love cute Normal Rockwell packaging this year, and the convenience of a pump. I think this jumbo bottle would put a smile on anyone’s face. – Joanna Douglas, Yahoo! Beauty

Runway to Reality: Fall Beauty Trends on NBC

When I go backstage during NY Fashion Week I'm always seeking out looks and trends that we can actually wear.  From retro blow outs and metallic smokey eyes to sophisticated burgundy manicures and diffused berry lips, I gave the scoop to New York Live's Jacque Reid.  Check out the segment after the jump.

Interview: Michael B. Jordan

You guys may know him from Friday Night Lights or The Wire, but I became familiar with Michael B. Jordan, because of his explosive Twitter account.  As AXE's latest muse, I had the chance to chat with the actor about his partnership,  his biggest temptations and of course, what type of scents he likes on women.  Check out what he has to say.

What made you want to partner with AXE?

This particular campaign was interesting to me. According to an AXE survey, 75 percent of guys and 60 percent of girls don’t know what tempts each other. I could relate to this topic and wanted to help be part of the solution in a cool, creative way. Not only does this allow me to help solve answers in the modern world of dating, but AXE is allowing me to step behind the cameras and direct some of the content.

Besides AXE, do you have a favorite fragrance, a cologne?

I like fragrances that are fresh and sophisticated – like the citrus and cedarwood combination in Gold Temptation.

Does your fragrance choice change with the character you're playing? 

I do a lot of preparation to get into my characters. I think there’s a strong correlation between fragrance and how it makes you feel. Pairing a fragrance with a specific character is one way to help get into character.

Is there a particular scent that you like on a woman?

I like floral, sweet scents that are subtle – and keep you coming back for more. Like how AXE Gold Temptation has notes of chocolate with citrus and spice.

You host AXE's #TemptationTuesday on Twitter. What are your biggest temptations?

It’s been fun hearing about what guys and girls find tempting – you’d be surprised.  There’s always something you just can’t resist. Staying healthy is huge for me, but if bacon’s an option, I’m adding it. And if I walk past sneakers, I’m walking out with them.

Insta-Glam: Models to Follow During NYFW

New York Fashion Week is literally the most important time of the year.  I don't care what anyone says, there is nothing more incredible then watching the Internet practically break, because of all of the footage surfacing from the most elite runway shows around the world. We've rounded up the 8 hottest models who's instagram handles you should follow for insider access that will have you feeling like you're in the big tent sitting next to Anna Wintour herself throughout all of NYFW.

Karlie Kloss, Instagram: @karliekloss

A definite fan fav, Karlie is known for her awesome personality and wacky photos. Follow her as she undoubtedly kills it on the runways for some of the biggest designers in the world.

Cocoa Rocha, Instagram: @CocoRocha

Coco's lustworthy Insta is riddled with photos designed to incite the most serious case of Wanderlust by showing the beauty in her surroundings (even if her surroundings are next to a camel or something equally as ridiculous). Her insider photos of NYFW are guaranteed to be visually stunning, like peeking behind the scenes of a Vogue cover shoot.

Cara Delevigne, Instagram: @caradelevigne

A mix between high fashion shots and personal insider photos, Cara will definitely be reporting on NYFW with a high-brow twist...and of course, a side of bacon.

Joan Smalls, Instagram: @joansmalls

Joan Smalls is sure to slay this year at NYFW. Her incredible cheekbones make her Instagram totally gorg, follow her for high fashion shots with a pinch of her offbeat humor sprinkled in.

Miranda Kerr, Instagram @mirandakerr

This VS Angel is looking to break the mold by joining the ranks of the NYFW runways. Keep an eye out for her infectious smile and unmistakable behind-the-scenes selfie guaranteed to have you feeling like you're part of the action.

Jourdan Dunn, Instagram @officialJDunn

Known for being best pals with fellow runway queen Cara Delevigne, these two often cameo on each other's Insta's while party-hopping. Keep an eye out for her taking the runway by storm with the occasional shot of her adorable son mixed in!

Gigi Hadid, Instagram @GigiHadid

The daughter of Real Housewife of Beverly Hills star Yolanda, this up-and-comer is sure to appear a few times at NYFW. Having walked last season, Gigi is sure to stun with her striking features and high-fashion Insta shots.

 Georgia May Jagger, Instagram @GeorgiaMayJagger

No stranger to the catwalk, Georgia walked the London Olympics runway without breaking a sweat. She's sure to make an appearance this season but only her Insta will give us the insider shots we really want...along with the occasional adorable animal cameo of course!

5 Favorite Beauty Buys

This summer has been all about easy and effortless beauty, and I've been loving products that simplify my routine without sacrifice. From the launch of the first BB/CC cream brush (yes, you read that right) for creating a flawless face to a new Chloe scent to accompany late summer nights, these five favorite beauty buys will transition easily from season to season.

LUSH Charity Pot, $22.95 at Lush

It’s no secret that Lush cares about both the environment and their customers. 100% of the proceeds from the sales of Charity Pot, an incredibly luxurious hand and body lotion goes to support grassroots organizations that matter in the world (like environmental conservation, animal welfare, and human rights). The lotion itself is made with Fair Trade organic cocoa butter that leaves hands feeling incredible. I kid you not, no lotion moisturizes or absorbs into the skin so quickly without leaving behind a greasy residue. Insider tip: Collect and return five Lush products pots at a store for a free goody!

MUA BB or CC Cream Brush, $18 at CVS

Have you ever used a brush for your BB or CC cream? If not, you need to ASAP. This brush soaks up any extra product so you don’t cake on a little too much during the hot summer months. The brush head is domed perfectly so it blends cream flawlessly into the skin for super light coverage without leaving brush hairs behind.

See by Chloe, $78 for 1.7 oz at Nordstrom

This perfume completely embodies the New York woman in a single whiff. Notes of vanilla and musk combined with floral jasmine create an urban-chic scent that captures the strong personality that rules the concrete jungle. The luxe bottle is made of faceted glass, perfect for every Chloe woman.

Pantene Dry Shampoo, $4.99 at Target

Nothing saves a blowout during the heat and humidity of summer quite like dry shampoo. If you’re like me (and can’t blow out your own hair to save your life) then getting that salon perfect look to last for days is a must. This dry shampoo from Pantene works wonders on strands, soaking up oils without leaving your hair feeling crunchy or dirty or like you really should just bite the bullet and wash your hair already. Bonus, it also smells fantastic and doesn’t leave any white residue behind.

L’OReal TXT It Tousle Waves Spray, $4.99 at Ulta

Another day, another great sea-salt spray. This one definitely comes in at one of the lowest price points and is readily available at your local Ulta. Spray on damp hair for a perfectly tousled look without a crunchy residue left behind, and it also works double-time as a great detangler for curly locks.

Everything You Need to Know About Hair Extensions

As you saw at the Emmys (did you even recognize Breaking Bad's Anna Gunn let's just say she went a little over board), hair extensions can do wonders.  For me, they add fullness to my hair, which is essential for on camera work.  When I wrote about Kelly Ripa's extensions, you all went nuts, because those were done right! Well, now, NYC's master extension artist (my girl), JanMarie Arteca, gave me the scoop on everything you need to know about bonded hair extensions.  You know, in case you're interested in making a commitment.

The Bond...

Great Lengths uses a Keratin bond that is molded to the hair strand. Keratin is a protein that your hair naturally has so that is doesn't cause damage or irritation when applied. The machines used to apply the extensions can be adjusted so there is no heat damage done to the hair either. There should be just enough heat applied to make the keratin bond pliable to the hair.

The Damage or Lack There Of...

When attached properly there will be no damage to your hair. I find that any damaged caused by extensions usually happens in the application stage (not being done properly) or in the maintenance and removal stage.

Bonded extensions can be damaging if they are not maintained properly. The recommended time on these extensions is usually 3-4months. Some clients will keep them in longer than that. The risk in doing so is matting of the hair (think dreadlocks), which can cause problems in the removal of the extension sometime involving hair loss or breakage. Brushing the extensions with a boar and nylon bristle brush will help prevent that. Sleeping with your hair in a loose bun or braid will also help prevent matting.

The Extension Artist...

If you are interested in extensions do some research. Find a salon that is certified in the extensions that you want to have. Go for a consultation, feel the hair, see the machine and get to know your extension artist. Most stylist also have a portfolio of their work, ask to see it! Make sure you like what you see. Lastly, ask for referrals. It's the best way to find someone to do your hair.

The Protection Factor...

Some clients have fine, brittle hair (think hair that just snaps at the touch) or work in fields where their hair is constantly being worked on with heat tools (models/actresses/fashion) applying extensions can help protect your hair from over exposure to heat tools that can cause damage to the hair. When applied they can actually protect your natural hair from being over processed since all the styling work is being done on extension hair leading to less damaged hair.

The Use...

Think outside of the box with extensions. They don't have to be used for just achieving Kim Kardashianesqe volumes of hair. A few bonds can help to enhance a bob or can be used to fill-in a fine hairline. Pastel color is also a major hair trend right now, if you aren't sure you want to commit to the color change ask your stylist about applying a few lilac strands to your look. Having fun with color without the risk of damaging or staining your hair with certain products. Men are also getting into extensions (Steven Tyler) adding a few strand to thinning hair can make all the difference guys!

Jan-Marie Arteca works at the Jeff Chastain Parlor in NYC.  Email her at [email protected] to schedule an extension consultation.

Barre3: Three Steps to A Leaner Bod

I woke up 24 hours after taking my first barre class, and my legs were sorer then they’ve ever been... and I played college soccer. Why try barre you may ask?  I had the privilege of trying out a Barre3 class before it opened to the public for BeautySweetSpot (no, Jeannine didn't make me) at their new Manhattan flagship studio in the West Village, taught by the Founder, Sadie Lincoln.  Wouldn't you?  

As I walked in to the pristine second floor village studio, I was pretty intimidated, but my anxious feelings were quickly put at ease thanks to the incredibly friendly (and fit!) staff.  Unlike other barre classes I've heard about, Barre3 consists of a three-step formula. Step one is based on position holds that work your muscles and adjust your alignment. Step two involves controlled, one-inch movements which helps increase core strength and warm up the body and step three is a cardio blast with large dynamic movements. You repeat this method throughout the hour-long workout.

We started in the middle of the floor with some simple standing positions, than moved to the bar for standing planks and squats, and eventually moved onto the floor for extra core and glute workouts.  And a great workout it was.  Each circuit easily allowed for multiple different modifications based on your body’s ability. You know how there are those times in a workout class you don’t modify to prove that you’re in just as great of shape as everyone else? It wasn’t like that here. You felt comfortable enough to achieve the best workout according to what you're able to do.  And Sadie continuously stressed that, making you more relaxed and focused on what you should be strengthening.

For instance, I have a bad ankle, so for some of the toe rises, I stayed flat-footed and focused on how to strengthen my thighs in my modified position. And I can promise you my thighs did not miss out. Another thing I loved about it was that during certain circuits, it didn’t even feel like you were working out. It seemed like you were just holding a pose, maybe even stretching. However, my body today says otherwise.

Barre3 is a great way to get in shape with an encouraging atmosphere that seemingly delivers results quickly. Your body may hate you the week after, but you will love your body in just a few more.

Barre3 opened just this week and is located at 63 W. 8th St. NYC.  Don't live in NYC?  No worries.  They have online workouts that are just as good if you're determined.

At-Home Peel: Kinara Spa Red Carpet Facial Kit

The VMA's and Emmys are coming up, which means we'll have tons to talk about in the world of celebrity beauty very shortly.  I can hardly believe that in just one week, I'll be on the Emmys red carpet with E! on behalf of Dove and you better believe I've been prepping.  I got word that celebs like Lizzy Capalan from "Masters of Sex" have been visiting Kinara Spa's coveted facialist, Olga Lorencin, for her Red Carpet Facial. Me?  They hooked me up with their latest, the Red Carpet Facial Kit and to put it simply, it works.

Since I've been traveling and working so much lately with no down time, I didn't have time to get into the spa itself for what my skin really needed to get that red carpet glow, but I promise you, this three-step peel is result driven.  I've been using a few times a week for about two weeks now and it's safe to say I'm somewhat addicted.  Thankfully, it's safe to use daily.

The Red Carpet Facial Kit comes with three solutions, each being a step, along with a small bowl and brush.  From the website:

1. Peel: Turn over skin cells to reveal refined, brighter and hydrated skin with Lactic and Malic Acids.
2. Neutralize: Revitalize dull, tired skin with a deep cleansing effervescent sensation via Argeninge and Sodium Bicarbonate.
3. Mask: Hydrate, sooth, plump and oxygenate with Lysate extract, Pikea Robusta and Mineral Complex.

On my skin, the first step, the peel, doesn't even tingle, but when I brush on the neutralizer, it begins to just a bit.  Depending on your skin type and how dry it is, the first two steps may be a bit irritating, but only until you rinse it off.  It's worth every second.  The mask is nothing but soothing.  My pores appear tighter and smaller immediately and skin is left plump and glowing.

The Kinara Spa Red Carpet Facial Kit can be found at shop.kinaraspa.com for $145.

My 1st E! Commercial for Dove

Have you been watching E! lately?  Well, whether you've been Keeping Up with the Kardashians or not, I scored a copy of the commercial that's been airing all week starring Alicia Quarles and yours truly.  We have something huge planned for Emmys night with Dove, so make sure you tune into E!'s red carpet coverage.  PS: A new commercial airs this week so tune in!  For more...

How to Wear A High Ponytail

What do A-listers like Iggy Azelia, Katy Perry, J. Lo and Rihanna have in common?  They've all been spotted rocking a fashion forward high ponytail this summer like it's no one's business.  The edgy look is a perfect way to keep long hair off of your neck in the summertime. NYC Stylist, Jan-Marie Arteca, gave me tips on how to pull it off.

"This look is perfect for anyone who has long hair and likes wearing it off of their face," explained Arteca.  Of course, personally, I could never get away with wearing my hair up that high, but kudos to you if you can.  I do love it!  "This ponytail is all about smoothness and placement."

Starting with damp hair, use a mousse like Oribe Grandiose Hair Plumping Mousse for added volume and blow dry with a round brush.  This type of ponytail can be worn pin straight or curled, but prep is essential in order for it to look done.

If you'd like to keep it straight, lock in shine with a flat iron before pulling it up. Otherwise, use a 1 1/2" curling iron and curl your hair.  Finally, pull it up and secure it over the oxibidal bone.  In order to hide your elastic, take a piece of hair from underneath and wrap it around securing it with a bobby pin.  As a finishing touch, add a light-weight shine serum to the top keep frizz at bay.

Wearing a high pony tail is a fashion statement.  Wear it well.

Charlotte Tilbury Launches Makeup Collection

NY Fashion Week doesn't feel complete unless I interview Charlotte Tilbury. Each season, I always look forward to seeing her and sharing in her enthusiasm for whatever look she's creating at the time.  For the past few months, I've been covering her new makeup collection that's only been available in London, but starting in September, it'll be available in the states and I couldn't be more excited (and you should be, too)!  BeautySweetSpot's Emily Rekstis attended the launch event and got the scoop!

Tilbury tuned into the NYC editor launch event via Skype from her home in London to talk about her latest venture.  Explaining that she created a "wardrobe of makeup looks" based on her past and modern day icons like Mia Farrow, Kate Moss and Penelope Cruz, you can shop each look making it easy to purchase products online.  As you can see from this post, I was overjoyed when she actually created her Penelope look on Penelope Cruz.

Here are some of Tilbury's absolute favorites from her new line:

Magic Cream: Tilbury cannot do a shoot without this special formula.  She's been using it for years and finally bottled it for everyone to use.

Wonderglow: “I like to call it my Giselle in a jar.” Now you can have that beautiful, Brazilian skin. This, is an instant pick-me-up.

Supermodel Body: This will make you look slimmer by creating the illusion of a Victoria's Secret angel's body through contouring and sculpting.  It's confidence in a tube.

Feline Flick: The easiest way to apply Tilbury's signature eye. “My sister can do it using this. I knew if she could, I succeeded.”

Luxury Palette: The order of application is all in the palette making it easy to apply.  Top left to right: prime then enhance. Bottom left to right: enhance then smoke.

Charlotte Tilbury's products will be available in September at CharlotteTilbury.com, Bergdorf Goodman and Nordstrom.

Kate Bosworth's Braided Updo How To

How stunning is Kate Bosworth's braided updo? I love the way she looks with her hair pulled off of her face. Good news is, her chic, braided style is super simple to achieve as it only takes three braids and a few bobby pins. Her stylist, Bridget Brager, gave me the step-by-step to creating her "intricate and romantic" updo.

Spray a volumizing spray like Phytovolume Actif Volumizing Spray from roots to ends, then blow dry your hair using your hands concentrating on lifting it away from the scalp to create texture.

Create a "disheveled deep part" and starting at the crown, along the part, braid forward so the braid falls toward your forehead concealing your hair line.

Start your second and third braids at your temples, braiding back on each side.

Use Kevin Murphy Easy Ride or a light weight pomade to tame fly aways and add a bit of shine, then loosen the braids with your fingers to make them appear more romantic.

Weave the braids together in the back and pin them low to give a halo effect and there you have yourself Kate Bosworth's braided updo.

Neon Eye Shadow: Tips from A Makeup Artist

I'm not sure if you noticed, but neon eye shadow is having a moment.  I first noticed backstage during Spring 2014 fashion shows.  Don't shy away, because everyone can pull it off, it's all about how you wear it.  To avoid looking like a clown, I spoke with Celebrity Makeup Artist, Jamie Greenberg, to find out the do's and don'ts of wearing neon on your lids.

According to Greenberg, the most cautious way to embrace the trend is to use the neon shadows as an accent.  "Try applying them as a liner, creating a pop of color around the eye."  This is one look even I can get behind.  Of course while there are no rules, there are guidelines.  Choose your look and stick with it.  Whether it be a tight line or slightly blurred out, keep it clean.

When it comes to choosing a neon shadow shade that suits you, Greenberg says that neon blue is the most universally flattering.  It goes with all skin tones, hair and eye colors. My favorite is the mark Neon Gaze Eye Shadow in Neon Gaze.  I don't believe on spending a lot on trendy items, but this solo shadow is only $10.

However, if you just can't wait to embrace your inner 80's self and feel bold enough to experiment with multiple shades, try Urban Decay's Electric Pressed Pigment Palette, $49 for the whole thing and embrace the intensity of the pink, orange and yellow.

Repetto Eau de Toilette

Whether you're a former ballerina, still practice or just love following those en pointe on Instagram, you'll appreciate for the new Repetto Eau de Toilette. So much so, that yes, you'll want to own it.  As I was reading through the press materials for the pointe shoe company's first fragrance, I realized how carefully crafted it actually was and fell in love before I even smelled it.  I blame it on my former days with the satin ribbon tied around my ankles.  Yes, I once wore Repetto's famous pointe shoes and tutus myself – back in the day.

Even though rose and orange are the strength of the fragrance, what stood out to me most was powder, which is the base.  It dries down with vanilla pod, and amber wood, creating an interesting feminine combination.  Refreshing and light, it's something a sophisticated, graceful woman would wear.  "A musky powdered rose, real quintessence of feminity," perfumer Olivier Polge explains. The way he captured rose makes it wearable for everyone but your grandmother, which is unique.

I don't normally review the packaging on of beauty products, because it's what's inside that really counts, but let's just say I have a weakness for this fragrance. Blame it on my former ballerina days, but I get it's careful construction and again, appreciate it.  If you dance or danced, you will too.  The edging of the bottle is powder pink, the same shade of a Repetto pointe shoe and has a satin ribbon around it's neck, which needs no explanation.  What's really interesting though, is the way the bottle is carved, "as if it's in perpetual motion like a choreographed body."  Beautiful.

You can find Repetto Eau de Toilette at Sephora for $55.

Cooling Beauty Products for Summer

In between my trips to Italy and Aruba I came home to countless packages containing new beauty launches and was excited to find anything labeled "cooling" as Aruba gets brutally hot.  Let's just say that half of the product I packed were my daily essentials and the other half was considered "work" – you know, cooling beauty products, the ones I planned on putting to the test in dead heat.  (I had to pay because my suitcase was overweight!  Tax write off?)  Out of all of the ones I brought, two are standouts. 

Jergens Soothing Aloe Refreshing Moisturizer

Slathered in SPF 45 daily, of course I've been taking in the sunshine and when it comes time to shower and get ready for the nighttime, this lotion has been a treat.  I obsessively moisturize as soon as I get out of the shower and my parched skin soaks in the extra relief from the aloe.  Even though I'm not sunburned, I have color and my body is hot. The cooling, soothing essence of the aloe acts like a treatment to my skin.

L'Occitane Ice Gel for Legs & Feet

When I opened this cooling beauty product from L'Occitane I was surprised, because every time I tried something similar it was normally from a sporty company.  This one seemed luxe.  Each morning here I did sprints before hitting the beach and since I'm not used to running, (a total barre babe), boy was I sore!  Especially my calves, so putting this one to the test was also a natural fit.  It has a rollerball application, which was great for a minor massage and invigorates my muscles, while cooling and relieving them.  I'm kind of obsessed.  And I don't see why you can't use it elsewhere.

3 Elements to A Good Facial

When Jeannine sent me for my first facial with celebrity facialist Cecilia Wong, my skin was so soft I had to restrain myself from continuously petting it. Yes, petting it.  I controlled myself of course, but my fresh skin was proof she would be the perfect expert to guide us through the key elements that every facial should contain. 

3 Key Elements of a Facial

When going for a facial, the first thing your facialist should do is look closely at your skin and create a facial customized to your skin type. Wong explains that your facialist should ask you certain questions to customize products accordingly. “Having a facial tailored to you and your skin needs will help you achieve the very best results,” explains Wong.

Another key step to every facial – extractions— the removing and softening of clogged pores and blackheads. “This benefits all skin types, especially those with oily or acne prone skin,” Wong explains. “Extractions will help to refine pores and prevent enlarging, while also allowing the products you use to be absorbed quicker and more effectively into the skin.”

Exfoliation is another crucial step. Why is this key for all skin type? “Those with dry skin will see a decrease in dead skin cells and flakiness,” explains Wong, “And those with oily or acne prone skin will benefit from the balance in oil production and prevention of future breakouts.”

Cecilia Wong can be found at Cecilia Wong Skincare in NYC and offers many different types of facials.