Lea Michele's Emmy Hair How-To, "Undone Done"

One starlette stood out amongst the rest on Sunday night at the 62nd Primetime Emmy Awards, Glee's Lea Michele. Classic perfection.  Her navy, silk Oscar de la Renta gown complimented her figure, yet the ruffles at the bottom made it a red carpet stunner. With such an elegant look complimented by over 400 carats of Lorraine Schwarts mesh jewels, I was glad to see the birthday girl left her hair down.  Everything worked. “Lea wanted her hair to look touchable and super modern, and full hair with lots of volume and a bit of roughness was perfect against her flawless gown” said her stylist Mark Townsend.

Love the look?  Follow the step-by-step straight from Townsend himself.  Since Lea is in the middle of shooting Glee, she wasn't able to experiment with color, but Townsend added custom pieces into her hair for dimension.

Starting with clean, damp hair, he used Dove Body & Lift Volumizing Mousse and blow dried with a round brush for added lift.  Then, he used a 2" curling iron to give slight bend (not actually curl the hair) from the ends to the roots and clipped each section with a barrel clip for five minutes to allow them to cool.

To achieve the undone look, Townsend took the hair out of the clips and scrunched it with Dove Daily Moisture Therapy Replenishing Mist.  To finish, he spritzed a small, natural bristle eyebrow brush with hairspray and ran it through her bangs creating a center part.

Lea also carried around hairspray with the eyebrow brush in her clutch in case she need to touch up!

The Scoop on Tattoo Removal

Do you have any tattoos?  How many do you actually still like?  I'll confess... I have more than one... and I hate one of them.  It needs to be removed as soon as possible, but at the moment, I didn't think before I inked.  Truth is – about 45 million Americans have at least one tattoo and nearly half of them regret it. According to an AskJeeves.com survey, about 50% of men find tattoos on women to be a huge turn off.  A very attractive man once told me, "Seeing a tattoo on a hot woman is like seeing a bumper sticker on a Ferrari."  Enough said.

However, getting tattoos removed isn't a walk in the park.  "Tattoo removal can take anywhere from three to twelve sessions depending on the depth and intensity of the coloring," commented Cameron K. Rokhsar, Medical Director of the New York Cosmetic, Skin and Laser Surgery Center... Sessions only take a few minutes each, but with each being a few hundred dollars, they can add up.

Prior to the lasering, patients are numbed so no pain is felt and Rokhsar explained that lasers with high concentration of colored light energy hit the color pigments that make up the tattoo in short bursts, which causes a shock wave in the skin temporarily dislodging the ink from its place. Once the color is removed from its place, the skin doesn't recognize it any longer and body removes it.

Thinking about getting a tattoo removed?  It's completely safe and worth the investment.

Hollywood's New Queen Bee: Taylor Momsen

Within the blink of an eye, Taylor Momsen has become the it girl of the moment. She practically graces every tabloid and even appears to be outshining her Gossip Girl costars- not an easy feat indeed. So why is Little J the object of the public’s fascination? Well, the actress knows how to juggle many different projects, as the lead singer for her rock band Pretty Reckless, and as the face of Madonna’s new fashion line “Material Girl” and John Galliano’s perfume debuting this fall. Taylor has also had a remarkable style evolution, from her ingénue days of playing it safe to her current dramatic look of platinum blonde hair extensions and raccoon eyes (and can’t forget that Joan Jett inspired do’ somewhere in between).

But as a girl with many talents, Taylor’s outspokenness seems to be getting the most recognition. I’m a bit torn on how I view her- recently, she said in an interview that she has no desire to be a role model. On one hand, she can really influence impressionable fans in a positive way, but... there’s no written rule that says every young celeb has to preach the same wholesome message. It’s refreshing to see someone her age not take herself too seriously. And hey, it’s a testament to her star power that she can elicit strong reactions from lovers and haters.

What do you think about Taylor’s carefree attitude? Is this pre-Madonna too hot to trot, or should she continue to push the envelope and take Hollywood by storm?

How to Get Victoria Beckham's Sexy Arms

Besides the fact that Victoria Beckham looks like a stick figure, she also has a lot of muscle definition and according to her trainer, Ronald Jean of The Sports Club/LA, Miss Beckham works really hard to keep her form.  I was exhausted just thinking about everything he puts her though. Warning – You may need an energy drink after you hear this... Besides keeping a tight diet of eating small portions, avoiding high fat and sugary foods, Beckham participates in different types of cardio routines combined with an intense variety of weight training to tone her arms.  "You need to vary your cardio exercise and duration so your body doesn't adapt to it," Jean remarked.

Instead of just hitting the treadmill for endless miles, she rotates between kickboxing (which is a great cardio exercise that combines resistance training) and plyometrics (jumping rope then throwing around a medicine ball repeatedly).  And as if that's not enough – overhead triceps, bicep curls, triceps kickbacks and pushdowns are a must with a resistance band or dumbbell.  Beckham normally does three to four sets of 15-20 reps each.

I guess when you're married to one of the hottest men in the world the pressure's on!  Never mind the red carpet.  Damn – and she used to be a puffy Spice Girl!  (NOTE: I definitely think Miss Beckham is way to thin, but we can all use some definition in our arms)!

Bathe in Booze

Get a buzz in the tub... well, almost.  I'm not talking about sipping a glass of wine or champagne while taking a relaxing bubble bath.  Who has time for that anyway?  I'm talking about lathering up with Zirh Cocktail Bars, $15 ea. There's a drink for everyone's tastebuds including screwdrivers, Long Island iced teas, cucumber martini, hurricanes and sake bombs.  The screwdriver is as simple as the drink and smells uplifting like fresh oranges, but the Long Island iced tea is definitely a sweet treat.  The vodka, gin, rum, tequilla and tripple sec were replaced with a combination of citrus (hello sour mix) and caffeine.  However it's scented like caramel, mimicking that splash of coke.

Bathing in booze is like the pregame before the pregame.  No?  I mean personally I wouldn't want my skin smelling like a LIT, but it's a pretty cool concept.  What's your favorite cocktail?

In Today's World Being Beautiful is Everything

Welcome to 2010, a decade where it seems like looks are everything.  When it comes to getting hired and climbing the corporate ladder truth is – your resume will only get you so far. According to a Newsweek study, more and more hiring managers are seeking attractiveness and confidence over well qualified, unattractive candidates.  Living in a culture consumed by image, being an average candidate for the position with good looks wins almost every time – and no, it doesn't depend on the industry.

In general, attractive men make about 5% more than unattractive men holding the same position, attractive women, 4% more.  According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons 13% of women and 10% of men said they'd have plastic surgery if it helped them in the office.

Sad but true, it takes more than your smarts to get ahead.  What do you think?  Have you ever experienced discrimination based on looks?

Help Him Pamper At-Home... You'll Reap the Benefits

Everyone knows that men like to be pampered – as a matter of fact, they make up about 1/3 of the spa goer population. According to the 2010 Day Spa Goer Report, even though men may still be the minority of day spa clients, when they do pay a visit, they spend more and are more loyal to a facility. Special salons or shall I say – barber shops – are popping up in major cities like New York, Los Angeles and Miami that cater to their manly needs and go way beyond the hair cut. The Sloane Square Barbers & Shoppe in Miami Beach, FL offers a la carte services that include luxury haircuts, beard trims, hot lather shaves, mini facials, nail grooming (for hands and feet) and shape ups.  However, for the more dedicated men, they have memberships where a monthly fee is paid for unlimited services.  Why don't spas offer that for women?  Can you imagine unlimited facials and pedis?

I spoke with Todd Goldenfarb, the Founder of Sloane Square Barbers & Shoppe to find out how guys can give themselves a pampering, barber shop shave at home. Ladies,... print this one out for the men in your life!  If he follows the directions you'll thank me later – no more scratchiness during a make out sesh!

  1. Use a hot towel or steam to warm the face to soften the hairs around the beard and open the pores
  2. Use a glycolic cleanser to rid any dead skin cells and lift hairs
  3. Apply shaving cream with a shave brush to lift hairs – this will ensure a closer shave
  4. Shave with the grain – short strokes on the cheeks, beard, chin and lip and longer strokes for the neck
  5. Rinse the blade throughout the process for a more effective shave
  6. Post shave, splash face with cool water to close the pores
  7. Use an after shave to prevent irritation

Study: Women Change Hair 104 Times During Lifetime

Boredom and breakups are two of the most popular reasons women change their hairstyles. Thinking back, I've definitely had my fair share experimenting with cuts and colors.  From blonde, to chunky red highlights and as of late a brunette I forever change my hair color due to boredom – and I think I finally found that my natural color (deepened a little of course) suits me best! According to a survey by hairdresser Andrew Collinge, a woman will change her hairstyle 104 different times throughout her life, with most of the changes happening between the ages of 13 and 65.

"Women have always used their hair as a way of altering their appearance as it often has the greatest impact visually," Collinge said.  "Hopefully, with the help and advice of their hairdresser they are making these smaller changes to a style which already suits them --hence reaching almost 100 styles."

Changing your hairstyle is probably the safest and easiest adjustment to make to your physical appearance.  Check out Victoria Beckham's hairstyle timeline above.  When trying to re-invent yourself for any reason... what are your other options?  Piercings? Tattoos? A wardrobe upgrade?  If you have a hairdresser you can trust, chances are they know what suits your face shape and complexion best and can always make tweaks to refresh your look – leading up to over 100 styles in a lifetime!

Why do you normally change your hair style or color?

Estee Lauder Introduces New Pure Color Lipgloss

What if there was a lip gloss that had the strong pigment of a lipstick, and the smooth application and luster of a gloss?  Estee Lauder’s new Pure Color Gloss has just that. I've always been a fan of Pure Gloss, which provides long-lasting color and hydration (minus the stickiness)! The new collection has a spectrum of 34 hues in shine, shimmer, or sparkle finishes so you can choose your desired look for any occasion.  It also features six colors created by Tom Pecheux, Estee Lauder’s Creative Makeup Director and beauty guru to the fashion world. As someone who has worked with countless celebrities, Pecheux’s custom colors are stylish and playful—and still classy reflecting the brand etiquette of Estee Lauder..

The new gloss is available at nationwide Estee Lauder counters and online for $18.

Exclusive Interview with Paris Hilton

Allow me to tease you with a new fragrance not on the market yet, Tease by Paris Hilton, Paris's 10th fragrance.  With top notes of Hollywood glamour, middle notes of Marilyn Monroe and bottom notes of shamelessly flirting, the scent dedicates itself to iconic blondes, Miss Hilton's key inspiration. Holding true notes of fuji apple, white peach nectar and bergamot layered by jasmine and tuberose on top of amber and woods, the sent is fresh and perfect for summertime.

Paris Hilton, the heiress herself gave BeautySweetSpot the 411 on her girl crush, latest splurges and of course, her guilty pleasures.

Why did you decide to tap into the fragrance industry?

I think having the right fragrance can leave such a lasting impression on people and I wanted to be a part of that. Smelling great can make you feel more sexy and confident and I want my fans to always feel great about themselves.

Explain your girl crush on Marilyn Monroe.

Marilyn Monroe has always been such an inspiration to me. She is beautiful and such an icon.

What are your absolute favorite beauty products?

I love Kate Sommerville products and use them on a regular basis.

What was your most recent splurge?

I just got back from Egypt and was in France right before that, so I did a little shopping while there.

What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?

I am constantly in meetings, working and traveling so my biggest guilty pleasure is relaxing when I have some free time. I’ll lay in bed and catch up on TV or go to the spa or just get dinner with some of my friends, something low key.

God Bless the World Cup

Soccer fan or not there are plenty of reasons to watch the world cup.  I used to think baseball had the best looking athletes (well, the NY Yankees anyway), until I discovered where all of the underwear models came from.  You don't see Derek Jeter or A-Rod in Armani Exchange boxer briefs do you?  Some men are just meant to be draped across billboards in their underwear, and those men play soccer.  Let the games begin! One of my fave sites, Style.com pulled together their World Cup Dream Team with some of these model hotties plus more and I couldn't be more thankful. From Calvin Klein model Fredrik Ljungberg to my personal favorite, D&G's Italian stallions, they're all there.

Boyfriend a soccer fan?  Kick back and watch the games with him.  He won't know you're watching for the wrong reasons.

My Journey Through Scent Created "Come Hither"

Last night I attended a very intimate event at The Perfume Studio in NYC, where I created my own fragrance.  Held by Sue Phillips, President of Scenterprises, I sat around a table with six other guests, sipped red wine, listened to soft jazz and enjoyed a three hour experience of the senses. I've always been intrigued by perfume and have always thought about one day creating my own.  This experience was special as I learned the intricate details behind the making of each note, the rules of top, middle and base notes and artistry of blending to meet one's personality.  Being that I am a victim of horrific migraines I was nervous when 18 different notes sat before me.  Yet, as Phillips explained each one and I closed my eyes and inhaled each one took me to another place.  From the rolling hills of Ireland to the spice markets of Morocco, I was on a journey.  However, because of the quality of the fragrances not even the slightest headache occured.

Three hours later I came up with my favorite combination of top, middle and bottom notes and created what I named "Come Hither."  It's very much a BeautySweetSpot fragrance, a Jeannine Morris fragrance to be exact.  The journey was about finding something I loved, and being the only person in the world who coveted that scent.

I used a combination of a heady floral, woody, balsamic and amber.  The result: sex in a bottle.  It's definitely going to be my date night fragrance.  Hey, if it turns me on, it has to do something for him right?  Throughout the journey I learned that amber is actually ambergris, which is made from the vomit of a sperm whale... who knew something so revolting could smell so seductive?

The journey of scent is powerful and certainly cannot be done in a New York minute.  It was amazing to take the time out, relax and appreciate the quality of each note.  The Perfume Studio is located in Midtown East in NYC and offers one on one mixing sessions as well as parties.

Who Are You in Sex and the City 2

How excited are you? Sex and the City 2 has arrived!  Tonight, I get to take my best friend to a private, advanced screening of the film thanks to Sarah Jessica Parker's new fragrance SJP NYC. Like many of you I've been a SATC fan since Carrie used to talk to the camera (ew) and when the first movie came out, my friends and I brought a bottle of wine and Magnolia cupcakes into the theater to celebrate. Sex and the City nailed it by creating their characters.  In every group of BFF's there's always an innocent princess, seductress, hopeless romantic and sarcastic downer.  So which one are you?  I've always been the Carrie in my groups.  However, I have a different theory about formula of the characters...

I think there's a little bit of Carrie, Charlotte, Samantha and yes, even Miranda in all of us.  The characters have such strong, distinct roles and each of them represent different sides of a woman. Some of us may show one more than the other, but our true BFF's know each and every side, which is why the show is such a hit.

So who do you best identify with?  Any Samantha's out there?  Rarrr!

FEED Bags Launch at Lord & Taylor

Last week I attended a launch event at Lord & Taylor for new totes they just started carrying called the "Feed" bag.   Lauren Bush was there as she's the CEO behind the Feed Projects, which is where the inspiration and creation behind the bags came from. It's the first bag I've ever seen that donates to charity and is actually fashionable!  What a relief.

The Feed Projects partnered with UNICEF to help provide the children of Guatemala support for their nutrition program.  When you purchase a Feed 1 pouch, the Feed Projects will donate $3.50 to the funds, which provides one child enough nutrients for a year, and when you purchase a Feed 3 tote, they donate $10.50 to the funds, providing three children enough nutrients for a year.

The nutrients provided are added to the children's food daily and make a tremendous difference in their lifestyles.  You can help make a difference at Lord & Taylor or by purchasing the totes online.  They're super cute as a summer beach bag!  The Feed 1 pouch is only $19 and the Feed 3 tote is $39.

Check out exclusive photos from the launch party here.

Take Action to Prevent Skin Cancer

May is Skin Cancer Awareness month so it is my duty as a journalist to bring a few important messages to your attention.  First and foremost it alarms me to know that 50% of Americans still don't use sunscreen when one if five people will develop skin cancer during the course of a lifetime. If you are one of those people or know someone who is, take the time this month to get educated or educate someone and help save a life.  For about six years I lived in a tanning bed daily and basked in the sun slathered in nothing but oil.  My first journalism job in the beauty department at Cosmopolitan magazine may have saved my life.  I know it seems like a stretch, but my boss (and the whole staff) forbid me to tan.  We had to practice what we preached at Cosmo... safe sun.  Five years later, I don't walk out the door without an SPF of 30 on my face (even in the rain) and haven't stepped foot in a tanning bed.  Embracing my new self (pale) and learning to practice safe sun, I am now very thankful for that experience because who knows what could have happened.

This week, I had my first full body skin check by a dermatologist.  Getting braver with the years, I'm ready to face good or bad news and take action.  You should too.  One person dies of melanoma every hour and it can be prevented if caught early enough. With regular skin checks this doesn't have to happen.

La Roche-Posay recently launched SOSsaveourskin.com so you can join the cause.  For each person that joins the cause, a donation is made to the Women's Dermatologic Society and Skin Cancer Foundation to help educate people on sun protection.  You can also find out information on sun safety and locate a derm near you to get your skin checked.  Do yourself a favor, be responsible about your skin.

Get A Smooth Shave Down There

Whether you're ready or not Memorial Day weekend is a month away and for many of us, we'll be hitting the beach!  What's more embarrassing than having shaving bumps and irritation around your bikini line?  I got the scoop from King of Shaves Master Barber, Diane Wood, on how to get the smoothest shave where it counts the most.  Check it out: Is there anything a woman should do to prep before shaving her bikini area?

Exfoliate! Right before you shave, use a washcloth with a moisturizing body wash to gently scrub your skin using circular motions. This removes dead skin and ensures that you'll get a closer shave.

Also, I suggest to use an electric clipper (before getting into the shower) to remove most of the hair’s length if it is longer than 1/8 of an inch.  If you skip this step, you’ll have a lot of trouble trying to remove the hair later on with a shaving razor alone.

Should she shave in the beginning or end of the shower and why? The best time to shave is after being in the shower or bath for at least 5 minutes. Wet hair is easier to cut, and the warm water and steam soften the hair and open the pores which will makes shaving easier.

When applying shaving cream is there a proper technique? Apply shaving gel in a circular motion. This technique will pack the hair follicle with gel, raising hairs upward and allowing you to get the closest shave possible.

What's your favorite shaving product?

I prefer shaving gels like Queen of… Ooh la la! over traditional creams since low foam gels are made with higher quality ingredients and they allow for greater visibility when shaving.   It is important to avoid using products that contain soap and alcohol! Both soap and alcohol are very drying on the skin (especially when coupled with shaving) and can lead to razor irritation and ingrown hairs.

How many days in between shaving the bikini area should a woman wait to ensure a smooth, bump free shave? The key to a bump free shave is shaving correctly (and has less to do with how long you wait in between shaves).  Some women have more sensitive skin than others; however, using the right shaving technique should minimize any irritation.  If you notice an area with skin irritation or ingrown hairs and you must shave, do not shave over the area more than once.  Running a blade over the skin will just aggravate the area and lead to pain and irritation.

What is the appropriate way to shave the bikini area? Always shave the bikini area with the grain and never against it! The biggest mistake women make when it comes to shaving this area is definitely shaving against the grain of hair growth! Shaving against the grain leads to ingrown hairs* and shaving irritation.  Women should always follow the direction of hair growth while shaving. If the hair grows downward, shave downwards and NEVER upwards! If you want a closer shave after shaving with the grain, try shaving across the grain to achieve a supper smooth shave.

Right after shaving, are there any products you recommend to keep the area smooth and irritation free? After shaving, always splash the skin with cold water to soothe the skin and close your pores.  Try not to expose skin to anything irritating right after shaving (sea water, perfumed lotion etc.). Wait for pores to close (about an hour if possible) to reduce the risk of irritation, and then always add an oil-free moisturizer to calm and revitalize your skin.

Sex and the City 2 Blow Out Party

You know you can't wait for tickets to go on sale so you can see it opening weekend (if not opening night) with your BFF's and celebrate over Cosmos and gossip.  Well if you live in NYC or DC, here's an extra special way you can embrace your inner Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte, or hey, there's gotta be some Miranda's out there right? Ted Gibson (the celeb stylist who did my platinum seamless extensions) is throwing Sex and the City 2 Blow Out Parties at both his NYC and DC salons from May 14th to May 29th.  For groups of girls of 4 or more he's offering 15% off blowouts and champagne all around.

Don't wait!  Grab your besties and book your appointment today.

Lululemon, The Best Workout Gear for Your Bod

Lately, I've had a new urge to start running outside.  Even though I go to the gym everyday, I've never taken my workout outdoors, but with the nicer weather quickly approaching I decided it's time.  With that, it was also time to get some new, cute workout gear because you never know who you may run into (pun intended). My friend introduced me to Lululemon, yoga inspired athletic gear, and the rest is history.  I bought a few staples, but have to admit, I've never looked better in work out clothes and felt more confident in the gym or running by the East river.  The leggings give me the butt I never though I had.  They also have a tiny pocket on the top to slip cash or a credit card in so you can grab food or a water after your run.  Genius.

The whole collection is pretty pricey, but if you're passionate about working out in or outdoors and are looking for gear  that'll really compliment your shape it's worth the splurge on the basics.  I'm dying for some of the more fun, brightly colored shorts and shells, but maybe next time.

What gives you confidence during a workout?

Treat Your Pout to More Kisses

Did you know the lips are one of the most sensitive areas of your body?  Because your lips are an extension of your inner mouth, they don't produce their own oil like your skin. Therefore, you need to exfoliate and moisturize to keep them luscious. Here are some tips on how to get a pair of soft, healthy pink lips just begging to be kissed:

Exfoliate

Your skin lips are is the thinnest on your whole body so they tend to flake and peel.  Exfoliate at least once a week with a lip exfoliator.  They tend to be gentle.  Try Lush Lip Scrub in Bubble Gum, $8.95.  It's made with vegan flavored sugar that you can simply lick off when you're done. Trust me, you'll want to, it tastes that good!

Moisturize

You should never leave your lips bare.  Like you moisturize your face in the am and pm, you should do the same for your lips.  During the day use a lip balm with an SPF of 15 or higher. Sun damage on your lips can lead to burnt, peeling lips, thinner lips and yes, even skin cancer. Try Blistex Massage Lip Balm SPF 15, $2.99.  For night, try Sally Hansen Overnight Lip Recovery, $10.49, is loaded with antioxidants and keeps moisture in your pout while you sleep so you wake up with a perfectly plump, supple smile.

Paint or Plump

Post treatment, every girl needs a little color to her pucker.  If you just like gloss sans the plump, check out Rimmel Royal Gloss, $3.99 (my favorite color is Twinkle Pink).  However, if you're looking for a bit of a volume go big or go home with Maybelline Volume XL Seduction Lip Plumper, $7.09.

The Man Manipulation

It's funny how when you "fall in love" the man of your dreams can have a sense of control over your mind making the powerful woman you once were into a complete stranger to yourself.

I recently read an article in the New York Post about Mr. Ballerina, Mario Lopez and his obsession with fitness.  He admitted to being so into of his own physical condition that he morphed his girlfriend, Courtney Mazza, into what he condsidered to be perfect as well.  Now, Courtney has breast implants and works with a personal trainer everyday.

Talk about mind and body manipulation!  The sad part is that it's not just a fitness addicted want-to-be star like Mario Lopez who has the ability to do this to a woman.  It's all men and it's happening to lots of women.  One of my friends ex boyfriends told her he never wanted her in flats, and she listened, for a minute. Until she made him her ex.  Who do these men think they are?  Another was told she was the heaviest girl he ever dated (weighing in at 110 lbs.).  Two months later, she was 92 lbs.

Ladies, be aware or the man manipulation.  What do you think of Mario Lopez morphing his girlfriend?