The Summer “It” Accessory: An Everything-Proof iPod Speaker Case

imageHanging out by the beach/lake/pool sans tune-age is no fun, but neither is accidentally drowning your hapless iPod. Sure, there are protective iPod cases, and there are hardly waterproof portable speaker systems, but going with just one or the other is bound to leave your tunes either safely covered but too quiet to liven up a pool party, or a disaster waiting to happen once the splashes start up. Instead, pack this clever water-/spill-/shatter-proof “Ego Ice” iPod Sound Case which also floats! This handy contraption fits the iPod Classic, iPod Photo, iPod Video & all iPod Nanos. Grab one for yourself in preparation for summer at Otterbox.com. For more fashionably techie finds, make sure to click on over to Fashiontribes!

Expert Tips To Get ‘Bang’ For Your Buck!

imageThin and wispy, bold and blunt, long and side-swept– bangs are totally back and this must-have hairstyle is such an easy way to update your look. The one drawback with this style is that bangs grow out super fast and in these tough economic times, making regular salon visits isn’t exactly wallet-friendly. Fortunately, you can maintain this look without breaking the bank. Celebrity stylist and Nexxus Creative Director Kevin Mancuso says, “I think it is always best to leave the cutting up to the professionals. However, if a women is dead-set on cutting her own bangs, there are definitely a few simple steps she can take to create and maintain brilliant fringe.” To keep your bangs looking salon-perfect longer without frequent appointments, Kevin has shared some amazing easy-to-follow, low-maintenance styling tips.

Tips to Create the Look:
-Wet hair tends to shrink as it dries, so you should only trim your bangs when hair is completely dry.
– Use the fine-toothed end of a styling comb to separate the front section of hair that you want to trim and pull it to a point in the center of your face. Use a jaw clip to hold excess hair aside.
– Twist the gathered hair several times (3-4 times). The twisting will offer more forgiving results and help to hide imperfections.
– Holding scissors at an angle, “point trim” tips until you have reached the desired length. To prevent over trimming, only cut a small amount of length off at a time.

Bask At The Beach Or Play By The Pool With Stylehive’s Stylescopes

imageEven though you always feel lucky when the sun’s shining and the sky is nearly cloudless, the beautiful sunny weather you’re enjoying is no coincidence! The stars have aligned in favor of keeping the sun out of hiding and for you to savor a day outdoors, and the least you could do to show your gratitude is to listen to the stars’ stellar advice! Whether you’re long overdue for a serious break or just can’t resist squeezing in a perfect-weather beach day no matter how packed your schedule is, it’s vital to lounge in style. Tauruses can cover up with a Marc Jacobs bandeau dress that’s so cute, you might not even want to reveal your suit! On the other hand, Capricorns can fully enjoy the gorgeous weather and scenery with a retro-chic Juicy Couture floppy hat that’ll help keep the blazing sun out of your face and eyes. Before you head out to enjoy that beach volleyball court or blow-up floating lounge chair, check the slideshow to see what kind of beachy goodies your sign should be toting along!

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Tie On A Bright Trench Coat For Spring!

imageThe sun’s finally starting to poke through, but many of us still need a little somethin’ somethin’ to shield us from some of spring’s brisk temps. We’ve spent a winter in the trenches through the depths of the cold, but some of us couldn’t make a step out into spring without our favorite outerwear accessory. You’ll spring for trench coats in these colors to adorn your wardrobe. The best part about these jackets isn’t their stylish buttons, their many pockets or their ability to create the perfect feminine silhouette with their narrow waisted tie and flared bottom– these babies will make your stems look a mile high underneath their reverse-funnel frames. While they come in the bright colors that scream spring, many stores have moved them over to prices we just can’t pass up, so button up, ladies– don’t let your spring ensembles shiver and show a little trench-love!

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Five Fake-Its To Have You Feeling Good For Summer!

imageSpring is in full swing, summer’s heating up, and that’s all well and good, except the body you told yourself you’d have by now isn’t there. I like to think there are two options in terms of where to go from here. Option one: make excuses. I hate it when cheesecake breaks into my apartment and takes up residence in my refrigerator too. Option two: fake it. This happens to be my personal favorite. Here are a couple of my ways to do just that:

1. Fake a tan. You’ll look more toned and may even convince people you just returned from a fabulous vacation, which will make them want to be you.

2. Fake a workout. Take the stairs, park far away, lug your groceries up a hill, or take the dog/kid/husband for a walk. Just don’t end up at Ben & Jerry’s.

3. Fake a smile. You’re your own worst critic, so smile, and you can only look better (unless you have spinach in your teeth).

4. Fake a figure. Yes, I mean SPANX. Sure, they’re a pain to squeeze into, but so was that dress.

5. Fake a really naughty snack. Cheetos 100-Calorie packs are baked, not fried, but the thrill of being caught orange-handed is still there.

Go to awomansworld.com to meet my friends, watch fun websiodes, and learn more about new guiltless pleasures from Baked Lays, Smartfoods, and Flat Earth. Stay tuned for more!

Mirror, Mirror, On The Wall…

imageLet’s be honest — we all kind of love checking ourselves out. Whether we’re sneaking a peek in the reflection of a street-side window, or openly (well, privately, really) gussying up to dance and sing in front of an imagined-audience-of-many, mirrors play an important part in our lives. Hell, I’m not sure many of us could go a day without seeing a mirror at some point. The best mirrors, however, are ones that are beautiful on their own, without the help of our lovely selves standing in front of them. And the best of mirror-makers are those that consider themselves artists, creating wonderful masterpieces that sometimes seem better fit in a gallery than, say, above your bathroom sink. Turn your home into a gallery that bills your face as the main attraction with the interesting accents that these artists have designed to make these mirrors of our pretty faces. Check out this slideshow to take a peek at some of the coolest mirrors out there!

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Anna Wintour, Coco Rocha, Or Iman: Who Stole The Show At The American Ballet Theater Spring Gala?

imageAny type of award show or gala or red carpet event is exciting. The flashbulbs and the paparazzi, the celebrities and of course, the main event itself! But, we all know the most appealing and fun part of these functions: Who is wearing what? The American Ballet Theater held its 69th Annual Spring Gala on May, 18th and dozens of celebrities and famous names and faces came out in their most elegant floor-sweeping gowns to help celebrate the event. Held at the Metropolitan Opera House, a steady stream of celebrities and beauties sashayed past photographers and showed off their beautiful gowns. Anna Wintour showed her fashion roots in an ankle-length gown with origami pleating details and an elegant mottled pattern that showed off her impressive figure. Coco Rocha stunned in a bright, ocean blue, off-the-shoulder ruffled number that contrasted beautifully with her fiery hair and porcelain skin. Iman showed who was top model in an eye-catching, one-shouldered ball gown in peridot green, playing up her skin’s gorgeous tone. Which style-savvy fashionista do you think stole the spotlight? Take our poll and tell us your opinion! Photo credit: PR Photos
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Make A Statement With A Bib Necklace For Spring!

imageThe last time bibs were this cool I was still in a high chair drinking from a sippy cup. But times have changed and this spring, the fashion world has taken on a decidedly grown-up accessory trend: the bib necklace. The statement necklace has gotten a little bit bolder and was a key piece of jewelry in this season’s shows, showing up at Vera Wang, Chanel, Marni and Burberry. From itty bitty bibs to full-blown breastplates, there are tons to choose from. Pick a worldly looking beaded collar like Erickson Beamon’s “Ring of Stars” choker for a well-traveled ethnic look. For vintage lovers there is the “Big Clermont” necklace by Thea Grant that resembles old jeweled broaches, and if you’re on a budget try the “Spring Flora” necklace from Forever 21. Looking for something less 1901 and more like 2021? For a futuristic feel, pick large candy colored plastic beads like Malene Berger’s multicolor necklace or a geometric breastplate from Missoni. Whatever you choose, just be sure to keep the neckline of your top is simple or bare…you don’t want anything taking away from your signature piece for the season. Click on the slideshow to see some of my favorite picks!

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Runway To Real Life: Ultra-Femme Spring Florals

imageThis month, a little floral accent is just the thing to spruce up your wardrobe during this economic downpour of gloom and doom. Whether you’re wearing a casual day dress or a more dramatic evening gown, make sure to keep the accessories to a minimum when sporting a floral print. Marc Jacobs, Badgley Mischka, DVF, and Missoni are just a few designers who redefined flower power and incorporated beautiful floral prints into their spring ’09 ready-to-wear collections. The questions is: are you ready to rock these ultra feminine prints and sexy summer hues? Before you decide, check out a few of our favorite floral frocks and you be the judge on whether this trend is here to stay!

From our friends at WhatsWear.

Headbands Make Hair Happy!

imageI have low maintenance hair. This does not mean that my hair is amazing without me having to do too much to it. It means I don’t do too much to it and just cross my fingers that it’ll look decent for the day. I really admire people who get up an hour early to do their hair. They always look great. Personally, I’d rather sleep. The headband has been my friend throughout the years. I may not have time for the straightener, but a cute and practical headband always helps pull my look together and add a fun flair to my ensemble for the day. And it literally takes mere seconds! Headbands dropped off the radar for quite a few years and weren’t seen except in the hair of devout headband lovers such as myself. Now, they’re back with a vengeance! Headbands adorned with silk flowers or elegant crystals are popping back up everywhere! I’ve seen them have double and even triple straps and are showing up in funky, fun colors and gorgeous metallics! Add a sophisticated edge to your outfit or make a fashion statement! Easy to dress up with or dress down, headbands are practical, easy and now cuter than ever. Never really been the headband type of girl? Are you a little unsure about how to wear it? There are so many designs and variations to choose from, so check out some designs in the slideshow and find one that’s right for you!

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