style Archives - Pucker Mob

Cool Jackets You Can Wear All Year Round

Shopping may seem like child’s play to many. You buy what you like – how hard could it possibly be?

Shopping for summers and winters is a doddle, no doubt. However, it is shopping for the in-between seasons that leave us all at sixes and sevens.

Shopping for transitory seasons is an art that is quite tricky to master. We are here to talk about the one item that works in every season: the quintessential jacket.

Image Source

Jackets are the ultimate accessory that never disappoints. You can wear them all year round because they are super dependable and versatile. We have compiled a list of versatile jackets that you can wear all year round. Let’s get started.

1. The Varsity Jacket

Varsity jackets are youthful, versatile, and the epitome of smart casual wear. Their baggy cut flatter all shapes and sizes. While some may think they look like you just came out of high school soccer practice, varsity jackets can be easily dressed up.

The key is to play with fabric to give the jacket a more sophisticated look. Fabric can make or break a design. If you are looking for a chic varsity jacket that you can wear all year round, look into fabrics like leather, suede, or boiled wool. Not only will they be perfect for that in-between weather, but you can always get your jacket lined when the days start to get chilly.

When it comes to colors, darker tones are your best friend. While bold hues are fun, colors like black, navy, and charcoal grey are not only super versatile but also look much pricier than other hues. If your budget doesn’t permit you, here is one way to look chic.

2. The Bomber Jacket

Bomber jackets are a favorite when it comes to outerwear. Their design has stood the test of time and continues to make waves in the fashion world. Whether you wear it over a plain white tee and sneakers, or a crisp Oxford shirt, tailored pants, and loafers, a bomber jacket works with everything.

Bomber jackets are everywhere; therefore, to stand out, you need to work a little harder when it comes to styling. Look into a variety of fabrics for a fresh and modern outlook. We have all seen the leather and nylon bomber jackets – it is now time to try something different. Suede is an excellent choice, along with soft wool. When it comes to color, opt for versatile hues that you can wear all round with an array of outfits. Deep neutral tones seldom disappoint.

3. The Field Jacket

Field jackets are a classic that looks great in every season. Their vintage design is timelessly chic. Their modern renditions, however, are just as classy, if not more. They bring with them a unique look that bases itself on the original army apparel making them the perfect pick for day-to-day wear.

For the fashionable field jacket ensemble, play with a loose fit and exciting tones that you can pair an array of outfits with. While khaki is super dependable, it can get quite dull. Opt for a mossy green, a deep brown, or a pale green instead.

4. The Down Gilet

Down gilets were initially not met with much praise. What was initially a style that was characteristic of those who lived in the countryside is now one that has taken the world by storm. Down gilets are super practical and comfortable to wear. Luxury labels are now endorsing the sporty design as an essential that can be worn on their own or over or under jackets.

5. The Coach Jacket

Coach jackets are very similar to varsity jackets. They are practical, light-weight, and waterproof, making them ideal for all-year-round wear. However, it is time to take them out of the shadows and into the limelight. The new renditions of the trusty coach jacket feature accents that have now turned your average coach jacket into a streetwear essential. While the point collar and snap button front remain the same, their style is far more fashion-forward and trendy.

Stick to a plain design with simple patterns, motifs, or logos. Less is more is the mantra with coach jackets. It is best if you do not overdo them.

6. The Technical Jacket

If there was one jacket, designed for all-year-round wear, it was the technical jacket. This all-season fail-proof companion can multitask like no other. You can carry it in the chicest way over a tee or under another jacket. You can wear them when it rains or shines. It is a great option to carry it in a variety of social settings. What makes the technical jacket so user-friendly is its unpretentiousness. Its simple aesthetic is not one that you can easily hate.

Trendy technical jackets pay an ode to the classic 90s cut. They are big, boxy, and come in an array of funky colors. Simple cuts and non-conforming colors are an absolute treat because while they stick to the classic style, they carry their peculiar flavor. Pick the one that runs parallel to your style and sports your technical jacket; it all its glory.

7. The Trucker Jacket

Trucker jackets are an all-season staple because they are safe and handy. When the temperature gets rough, you can wear multiple layers under them. On other days, you can sport it on its own with a pair of trusty jeans and boots.

To add an exciting dimension to the essential trucker jacket, experiment with fabric. Excellent choices to play with include wool, denim, or corduroy, as they are timeless and versatile. Darker hues look much chicer and on-trend.

8. The Biker Jacket

Biker jackets scream badass. Their edgy demeanor is striking, unapologetically bold, and hard to miss. Needless to say, when you have a leather biker jacket on, all eyes are one you. Their short and fitted cut makes them a timeless classic. You really cannot go wrong with them. Throw one over a basic outfit, and you will take your look from basic to a banger in the blink of an eye. Whether it is a crisp dress shirt and tailored trousers or a casual pair of distressed jeans and a tank top, a leather biker compliments them all.

Biker leather jackets are perfect to wear throughout the year. They are one of the most amazing staples that can be worn to an array of social settings as well. If the weather gets chilly, you can always get your leather biker jacket lined with thermal fabric for added insulation.

To give your biker leather jacket, a contemporary twist, play with bold hues, fun cuts, and interesting finishes. The world is your oyster when it comes to leather jackets. If you want something other than the classic black leather biker, perhaps you can opt for a broad-shouldered matte finish hot red biker.

9. The Suede Jacket

Suede looks and feels like a luxury. What makes it unique is that despite its unique feel, suede is one tough cookie. It has incredible longevity, and it works in all seasons. Whether it is a suede biker, bomber, or collared jacket, they look great and work even better. The best part about them is that they act as armor if you get caught in the rain. Lux, chic, durable, AND protective – is there anything to complain about? We do not think so.

A buttery soft suede jacket is super versatile. You can play with an array of colors and styles with them. The classic camel, navy, and black are your safest bet if you are looking to impress. However, you wish to opt for something more exciting and fresh, choose for unique colors like rust, burnt orange, deep brown, or maroon. With the fall season in full swing, these colors will work brilliantly well.

10. The Harrington Jacket

Harrington jackets are a menswear staple. Their timeless design is one that is dependable and versatile yet effortlessly stylish and practical. Their clean and sleek silhouette makes them ideal for wearing over a summer tee or under a warm coat. Their simplicity speaks volumes, making them ideal for all-year-round wear. If you are looking to buy a jacket that promises good wear and versatility, a Harrington jacket is worth the investment.

11. The Gamma Jacket

Graphene’s GAMMA is an all-season jacket that can be worn year-around. This is the most advanced jacket that is made with the Graphene, one of the most strongest and flexible known material. GAMMA is equipped with some cool features, including waterproofing, anti-odor, thin & lightweight and built-in heating. The built-in heating feature allows you to control your body temperature so when you feel your body heat is not enough, you can supercharge GAMMA’s Graphene layer at the push of a button. Pretty cool. If you are looking for a cool lightweight waterproof jacket, GAMMA is a good option.

Final Words

Jackets are a style essential everyone should own. They feel good, and they look even better. These suggested jackets are the perfect finishing touches to your outfit all year round. It is safe to say that every season is jacket season. Start building your four season’s wardrobe now.

About Ashley Rosa: Ashley Rosa is a freelance writer and blogger. As writing is her passion that why she loves to write articles related to the latest trends in technology and sometimes on health-tech as well. She is crazy about chocolates. You can find her at twitter: @ashrosa2.

This Jacket With A Built-In Heater Is Perfect For The Person Who’s Always Cold

We all have at least one friend who isn’t built for cold weather—the one who hibernates from November until February and is hardly seen or heard from until the temperatures start to rise again. Okay, so maybe that one friend is you and you’re desperately trying to survive the early stages of winter without freezing to death, I feel you.

In any case, the coldest months of the year are still ahead of us and you (or your friend) will need something to keep you warm enough to function without costing a fortune. Thankfully, Amazon has just the product to help you thrive in the unrelenting cold weeks ahead.

Happy Holidays! If you choose to get some of your shopping done with our recommendations just know we may earn a small affiliate commission off each purchase. Thanks!

Some of us struggle more with cold weather than others.

https://giphy.com/gifs/filmeditor-christmas-movies-vacation-3o6wrutEJahVlDv09W

If we choose to leave the house at all, there’s lots of layering involved.

https://giphy.com/gifs/filmeditor-christmas-movies-a-story-xUySTQ6Ed5CVlxNgQ0

And even then, we still freeze.

https://giphy.com/gifs/ron-viral-swanson-tLrqmVoFJV4mQ

Fortunately, this year Amazon is selling a miracle jacket that has a built-in heater to keep us warm all season long.

https://giphy.com/gifs/friends-excited-31lPv5L3aIvTi

This Ororo slim fit heated jacket comes with a chargeable battery pack, detachable hood, and is lined with warm fleece to ensure you don’t lose any excess body heat.

Plus, it has three major heating zones and stays warm up to eight hours at a time.

Not to mention it’s water-resistant and super lightweight, making puffy uncomfortable layers a thing of the past.

Check out the specs HERE.

Amazon shoppers are absolutely raving about the product.

“I love this ladies slim jacket. I’m 5’3, 130lbs and a small fits great. It’s true to size so not sure why some folks think it runs small. I like the pockets as they’re big enough to put my hands in. Detachable hood is super convenient. The heating element works amazing. I’ve found out when it’s on high it really does get quite warm so I typically have it on medium. This jacket isn’t bulky at all yet completely windproof, which I tested downtown Chicago right next to Lake Michigan. I don’t think the battery is too heavy at all. It actually doesn’t bother me one bit. So very happy I purchased this.” – JH

“The packaging is incredible lol. They have a very fancy bag inside the very fancy box that comes in the regular Amazon box. The jacket was folded very nicely with directions directly on top. The battery is actually way smaller than I was expecting. It warms up very fast which is great. And it has a one-button interface which keeps things simple. You cannot tell there are heating units inside even when you run your hands down the inside of the back to feel for them. Not only are the heating elements warming, the jacket itself is well insulated but not bulky. The fabric has a matte feel and will be easy to keep clean.” – ABeck

“I purchased this for my wife because she is always cold. She loves it. The battery pack isn’t big and bulky and inturn the run time isn’t super long as a result but still respectable. I like the ability to charge phones/ect. from the usb port on the battery pack. It’s light, water repellent and it has a hood. The hood was a big deal for me because if your cold or it’s rainy who wouldn’t want a hood right? The kids love turning her coat on for her because it has the light up mode indicator on the outside of the coat. This is noticeable if your running the high mode with red indicator, because she frequently gets asked “Is that a heated coat?”. Overall the coat is excellent and I would recommend this to anyone looking for a heated casual dress coat. If you work outside for a living I’d point you more towards the Milwaukee heated coat or something similar.” – Tom Anderson

You can snag your very own heated jacket (or one for your very cold friend) on Amazon for $149.99 and stay toasty all winter long.

https://giphy.com/gifs/season-4-the-simpsons-4×3-xT5LMBauOi9MgA50L6

These 3 Genius Tools Are Proven To Help Tame Frizzy Hair

Having a voluptuous head of hair is both a gift and a curse. Some days the volume of our locks is luscious and wonderful while other days it resembles something more akin to an electrocuted cotton ball. We’ve all been there. Fortunately, there are a handful of genius hair products out there that are proven to help us fight in the war against frizz. These are just three we’ve found most effective. You’re welcome.

*Full disclosure: We may receive some portion of the sales made on this list. We’re using the money to stock up on allergy medication for the fall.

Most of us have had our fair share of bad hair days.

https://giphy.com/gifs/willandgrace-episode-5-nbc-3o7aD7SAjBsfgxfPAA

You know, just the days ending in “Y”.

Sometimes we just wake up to a frizzy mess and other times the weather makes our hair grow like Monica’s.

https://giphy.com/gifs/depict-humidity-bbwJaAzogpjfq

Curse you sticky air!

And while we know there’s no true way to prevent a bad hair day (because let’s be honest, our hair a mind of its own), we have discovered three vital products that’ll keep your voluptuous mane as intact as possible.

https://giphy.com/gifs/sephora-makeup-tutorial-hair-beachy-waves-l2SqeZZRvyDfyW86Y

Thank god.

First, this BaBylissPRO Ceramix Xtreme Dryer that’s proven to help control frizz and increase hair strength.

Promising Review: “I love this blow dryer, it’s not to harsh on my hair causing breakage or damage. It dries in half the time of my old blow dryer. I can just dry it with a round brush and walk out the door without straightening or curling it’s fantastic.” – Allison

Get it on Amazon

Second, this Bumble and bumble Bb. Curl Pre Style/Re-Style Primer that’s proven to fight off the effects of humidity.

Promising Review: “Helps define and soften my fine wavy hair. Especially helps fight the awful D.C. humidity which no other product has done.” – StephR91

Get it from Sephora for $28.00

Third, this Instant De-Frizzer from Living Proof that will calm your straying locks on-the-go.

Promising Review: “This product is nothing short of amazing! I personally find that it works best when I BRUSH it through my hair after spraying it on, followed by finger-combing to give my mane a slightly tousled look. Yes, after being outside in the humidity for a period of time, those frizzies do start popping up again (let’s be realistic!)… However, all I need do is run the brush through my hair again to re-activate the product and it’s “smooth” sailing once again; re-applying is not necessary! I am LIVING PROOF that this is a revolutionary product. Ha Ha. I’ve since put off my salon keratin treatment again while I try more products from this game-changing line…watch for more reviews. Thank you, Living Proof!!!” – JillinWPB

Get it from Sephora for $29.00

Now that you’ve got all of the tools you need, get out there and work it.

https://giphy.com/gifs/awesomenesstv-betch-xUPGcMwmEqwr43HMty

Original DIY Christmas Gift Ideas

Gift giving is the most stressful part of Christmas. Not only is it financially stressful, but also it’s also just regular-stressful. You don’t want to spend a lot (or you can’t spend a lot), but there isn’t much that works into your $10 per person budget that isn’t, well, total crap.

So, what’s the solution? You’re a little too old to paint a watercolor picture for your parents, unless of course you’re a good artist.

Luckily, DIY has taken over and become crazy-popular. In fact, even people whose budget is more like $500, will comb through Etsy pages to find something homemade and awesome, because something awesome and homemade just beats a JC Penny sweater. Simple as that.

Etsy is great, but can get pricey. So, here are some ideas for DIY gifts you can make for your friends and family yourself!

DIY Wood Block Frame

I saw this on a great site called shanty-2-chic.com. It’s the perfect gift for anyone in your life – family, friends, teachers, and neighbors– quite unique and quite easy to make. All you need to do is go to your local hardware store and have someone there use a 2×6 board. They can cut the board into blocks – whichever sizes you want. Then, all you need to do is pick up some wood stain, rub it on with an old t-shirt, wrap the block in twine and add a picture.

Candy Cane Body Scrub

Love this one. I had a friend who made it for me. If you go to a boutique or whole foods, you will spend a fortune on only a few ounces. But, you can make it on your own very inexpensively. This is a great gift to pamper the women in your life.

There are many recipes you can find by searching online. Here’s a great one for the holidays, though, taken from freutcake.com.

Ingredients:

2 cups granulated sugar, sea salt, or sugar in the raw.
*Use whichever exfoliant base you like best! For this recipe I used white granulated sugar to maintain the white and red candy cane colors.
1/3-1/2 cup almond or coconut oil.
*Again, use whichever oil you like best and add more or less until you reach a consistency you like. I used almond for a milder scent.
Peppermint essential oil- about 6 drops
Two candy canes broken into pieces

Other optional ingredients:
1/2 teaspoon vitamin E oil- good for healing skin
1 teaspoon cocoa or Shea butter- for added moisture”

All you do is break the candy canes into small pieces and melt them on the stovetop in ¼ a cup of water. You should get a red, melted peppermint syrup.

Next, in large bowl, mix the sugar, oil, peppermint essential oil, and if you want, add the optional ingredients – cocoa butter and vitamin E oil.

Then, separate the scrub into 2 equal parts and add the cooled peppermint syrup to one of the bowls.

Mix syrup until it is pink and has the consistency of wet sand.

That’s that. Spoon the pink and white scrub in layers into a pretty jar and voila. The scrub has a shelf life of about a month– longer if you refrigerate it.

DIY Domino Set

This is great for the game-lover in your life. All you need for this great gift are 28 smooth, flat stones and a white paint pen so you can draw lines and dots. Simply draw a line across the center of each stone. Then, on either side of the line, mark two sets of dots in every combination from 0 to 6.

Monogrammed Sharpie Mug

If you don’t have much of an artistic flair, a Sharpie and a stencil can assist you in creating a beautiful monogrammed mug. Here is a good design to try from listotic.com.

Homemade Men’s Shaving Cream

This is a recipe I found at couponsandfreebiesmom.com.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup coconut oil

1/2 cup shea butter

1/4 cup almond oil

2 vitamin e capsules or 2 tsp. of oil

1 1/2 Tbsp. baking soda

10-15 drops essential oil of choice”

The site suggests trying the following scents: sandalwood, peppermint and rosemary, eucalyptus, bay rum, and wild orange and clove.

To make, put Shea butter and coconut oil in a microwave safe dish and heat until melted. Stir in almond oil and essential oils. Then, put mixture into the refrigerator until it’s almost solid. Next, take out of the refrigerator, add baking soda, and whip it until light and fluffy. Transfer to an airtight container and you’re set.

There are countless other ideas you can find on Pinterest. Have you had any DIY gift success of your own? Share with us in the comments section below.

5 Fashion Essentials For This Fall

From the color changing of the leaves to the blissful caffeinated holiday favorites such as a Pumpkin Spice Latte, there is nothing quite as special as the season of Fall.

Unsurprisingly, the hues of nature are not the only promise of Autumn’s lovely kiss. In fact there are many changing trends throughout the seasons especially in regards to fashion. However, there’s nothing to worry about, and if you follow these simple points, you can be sure to have a memorable, exciting, and stylish season.

1. Sweater Weather

No matter where you live, one of the most beautiful aspects of Fall is the chilly temperature that comes with it. For a comfortable, cute appearance, sweaters can go a long way. A simple over sized sweater paired with some basic leggings both compliment your natural lower body physique while the heavy stitching of a sweater keeps you looking bold and maintains your natural body heat through the colder environment.

Tip: Don’t be afraid of ugly sweaters, either. Sometimes the patterns and intricate designs can be so ugly, it’s cute.

2. Scarves

A vast majority of outfits can be perfected by adding a simple touch of neck fabric. There are so many designs, lengths, and types of scarves that it’s almost impossible NOT to find the perfect match. Simply tie or wrap the scarf around your neck and let it dangle slightly beneath your collarbones for a dramatic effect that makes a statement.

Tip: Experiment with your lengths and methods of tying. Find what looks best for you, and stick with what makes you look best!

3. Beanies

Nothing completes a seasonal outfit more than a tightly knit beanie. They are a wonderful accessory that both keeps your head warm during the harsh cold and also adds character to your hair and outfit. Also, beanies are a wonderful accessory to highlight your facial structure. This is especially important if you wish to accent or highlight the appearance of your face by dramatizing your cheekbones and jaw line.

Tip: Don’t wear a beanie that makes your head feel tight. It’s hard to look cute when you’re dealing with a headache!

4. Leggings

They will be your best friend in the colder weather because it’s an article of clothing that matches with just about anything. Leggings also offer support and comfort for running errands or just for lounging around. Furthermore, leggings also compliment your figure because they’re tight fitting and adjustable, offering you the perfect balance of comfortable and cute.

5. Boots

A final article of clothing that makes your outfit are boots. Whether they’re fuzzy, tight fitting, have heels, or have designs, boots are the perfect finishing touch for any outfit for the occasion. It adds a sultry touch of cute flare while also providing support and comfort throughout the day, no matter what you’re doing.

Just remember these simple tips and you will have all of your fall fashion needs ready whether you’re headed for a cute coffee date, going to school, or just trying to get through the day!

40 Best Sales on the 40 Dopest Brands

It’s easy to miss what’s right in front of us, sometimes it’s your dream dress that has finally gone on sale.

Today is your lucky day. I am your fairy fashion friend and I have created a list with links for the 40 best sales on the dopest brands. Hurry! All of these stores have awesome sales all year round, but some of the major 70 Percent off Sales won’t last forever! Don’t let your dream dress look like a pumpkin on some other girl.

40 Genius Ways to Wear Your Favorite Denim Shirt

Deemed a classic for its neutral hue and luxurious softness, the chambray denim shirt can be worn with just about anything. Here are some suggestions to pair it with…

Leopard print ballet flats and a black skirt.
A navy blue cardigan and pearls.
A little black dress, with the shirt tied around your waist.
A lace camisole peeking out.
A Breton shirt and a red belt.
A huge scarf wrapped around you, with your hair tucked into the collar.
White jeans and navy blue Converse.
Buttoned to the top with a sea foam green necklace at the collar.
Sleeves rolled up and scores of bracelets dangling from both wrists.
Untucked with skinny black pants and stiletto heels.
Under a black leather jacket and paired with a demure skirt.
Leggings and boots.
Peeking out under a sweatshirt with jeans and red heels.
Dressed all in black, tie the sleeves around your shoulders.
A trench coat with the sleeves rolled up on both.
Navy polka dotted skirt and tons of pearls.
Long black midi skirt, tucked at the waist with a green belt.
Over a black tank dress with the shirttails tied into a knot.
A black tunic with leggings and lots of long silver necklaces.
Boyfriend jeans rolled up and high leather booties.
A black maxi skirt with gladiator sandals and lots of gold bracelets.
A short mini skirt with patterned tights and riding boots.
A red sweater, black trousers and a leopard print bag.
Panama hat and denim shorts.
White eyelet dress with the shirt left opened.
Gray flannel skirt, buttoned to the neck with a statement brooch at the top.
A black blazer with a red skirt.
Black silk pajama bottoms and ballet flats.
A military jacket and leggings.
Black velvet skirt and smoking slippers.
Belted with an oversize belt and a skirt.
Rain boots with a corduroy skirt.
A floral knee length skirt and black heels.
Over a sequined tank.
Under a cashmere sweater and pearls.
A striped scarf and polka dotted cigarette pants.
Under a striped dress.
Black culottes, patent leather stilettoes and lots of beaded necklaces.
Navy blazer and white shorts.
Plaid skirt and boots.

What's On Your Face? The Truth Behind Make Up

You wouldn’t think twice about ingesting harmful ingredients found in household cleaning products, automotive supplies and even embalming solution. However, those same ingredients are present in beauty products you keep in your medicine cabinet or purse.

Your body absorbs chemicals via cosmetics and skin care products in a few ways. One is when those items are applied to your skin, a porous surface. The toxins can seep through the pores and into your system. You also take in toxins by swallowing them after applying products on your hands and lips. Powders and sprays are inhaled also.

Many toxins used for cosmetic manufacturing have cancer-causing properties affecting different parts of the body, including the reproductive, respiratory and neurological systems. Such chemicals can also cause hormonal imbalance, and skin and eye irritation.

With the exception of color additives, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not have to policy the beauty products on the market nor do they conduct product recalls (the FDA does collaborate with companies to ensure successful recalls). Instead, the FDA leaves it up to the health and beauty industries to regulate the contents of their merchandise.

According to the Breast Cancer Fund, the beauty industry includes “thousands” of synthetic chemical in their products. The following ingredients are only a few of them:

Talc:

Talc is a natural mineral composed of oxygen, silicon, magnesium and hydrogen. Many cosmetics like blush contain this ingredient. Talc comes in two forms: with asbestos and asbestos-free. When breathed in, asbestos can cause cancer in and around the lungs. The American Cancer Society advises the necessity of determining between both types. Although asbestos-filled talc is no longer present in contemporary products, it’s still not clear whether asbestos-free talc is just as hazardous.

Phthalates:

Found in hair care products, color cosmetics, body washes and nail polishes and treatments, phthalates are a group of endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Often identified as “fragrance” on labels’ ingredient listings, phthalates come in an assortment of forms like dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and diethyl phthalate (DEP). Phthalates contaminate areas of the body like the reproductive system and disrupt the endocrine.

Parabens:

Parabens is one of the most commonly used preservatives in cosmetics. Parabens exist in multiple forms and are usually used together with other variants of preservatives to cut down on bacterial growth in products, according to the FDA.

Sodium lauryl/laureth sulfate:

Any bubbling beauty product is certain to have sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) in it. The ingredient may go by other names on the ingredients list like sodium dodecyl sulfate, sulfuric acid, monododecyl ester, sodium salt, sodium salt sulfuric acid, sodium dodecyl sulfate, aquarex me or aquarex methyl. Although relatively low in hazardous effects according to the cosmetics database Environmental Working Group’s (EWG’s) Skin Deep, SLS still yields skin and eye irritation. If ingested, the ingredient can cause vomiting, nausea and diarrhea.

Petroleum and Mineral Oil:

Found in many gasoline and oil products, petroleum is a fundamental ingredient in moisturizers, skin cleansers and foundations. Petroleum and mineral oils, both fossil fuel derivatives, clog pores and could lead to acne.

Formaldehyde:

Used in the preservation of biological specimen and corpses, this ingredient has been linked to diseases like lung cancer and leukemia. Formaldehyde can be found in hair care products and nail care products.

-Revamping Your Make Up Regimen-

Though toxic cosmetics are prevalent in many homes and purses, there’s no rush to throw out everything. It’s best for you to ease your way into a greener beauty routine. You’re not obligated to replace every beauty product with a natural counterpart. Understandably, natural products are more expensive than their mainstream competitors. If you’re happier with a mainstream product, then by all means, keep it. It’s about weighing options and seeing what you’re satisfied with.

However fast or slow you revamp your beauty routine, there are a few things to keep in mind overhauling your beauty routine. One pretty good rule of thumb for identifying a toxic ingredient is if a listed name is unpronounceable, it may not be good. Speaking of names, also remember that “green” vocabulary like “natural,” “organic,” and “herbal,” on product labels mean nothing. Those products still have toxins in them.

You can find brands of safer makeup alternatives like BiteBeauty (which aims to manufacture safe-to-eat lipstick), Josie Maran (which uses food-grade ingredients) and Lavanila (a maker of fragrance-free fragrances). Alternative skin and body care manufacturers include Suki (using only plant-based ingredients), Indigo Wild (a safe and effective line that includes their best-selling, goat milk-based soap Zum Soap) and Trillium Organics (an organic manufacturer that is experienced in skin ailment treatments).

Several health-conscious blogs and websites like that of the Breast Cancer Fund are helpful resources to assist in your research of cosmetic health. Cosmetic databases like The Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep and SafeCosmetics.org can detect what chemicals are in your favorite cosmetics. The David Suzuki Foundation has published a slew of articles about identifying toxins in cosmetics.

Transitioning from Summer to Fall: Quick Fall 2014 Beauty Trends

There’s something about the beauty of fall that I think carries over into the beauty of fashion and make up like no other season. Fall clothing has a depth and texture to it that summer clothes don’t, and shouldn’t have. Make up is richer, deeper and darker, much like an autumn evening.

Here are some quick tips to get you ready for that season we call Fall.

Lipstick:

Change out your summer color for one that is one shade darker and one level less “shiny.” For example, if you wear a pink lip-gloss, drop down to a rose-colored lip stain. You want a bit less shine and a bit more color. Go and experiment in one of the new make up shops that are popping up in the malls. Ulta, for one, is fantastic for letting you try on a new face for a reasonable price. www.ulta.com

Eye Shadow:

It took me years before I finally bought a good eye shadow brush. I have to tell you, it makes all the difference in shading. You don’t want to necessarily go darker, but rather a little deeper. Because there is less sunlight and it gets darker early, we look washed out if our eyes are not defined. Be careful you don’t use too much. A heavy hand just makes you look tired. You just want to look smoky and mysterious. A good rule of thumb is to take another eye brush after you’ve applied it and blot with a gentle dotting motion to blend. Use dark brown or black mascara on the upper lids only to create a doe eye. Swoon.

Clothing:

This year, everything is about the tweed. It’s rich and textured and when it’s paired with a killer pair of earrings or a statement necklace it looks elegant and chic. Try deep colors like burgundy, gray and navy blue. These colors look good on most people and they don’t have the harsh contrast that black sometimes creates against our skin. It’s more a subtle deepening and a lush palette, much like fall itself.

Accessories:

Menswear is really hot again this season. (Really, is it ever out?) Clean simple lines paired with brogues or oxford shoes look fresh this season. Pair a navy dress with deep textured tights and choose a big old pair of manly shoes. Scarves, as always continue to be a main stay staple in fashion. Find the biggest, chunkiest scarf you own. Add a deep pair of glasses and you’ve just created your own smoke show. (That means you’re hot.)

T-Shirt DIYs That Are Absolutely Perfect All Year Round

All you need is a T-shirt or a cool tank top and some cutting to make these beautiful pieces, talk about saving money!

There are several ways to make t-shirts at home, ranging from beginner-friendly methods to more involved techniques. Here’s a breakdown of some popular options:

Low-Tech Methods:

Fabric Paint: This is a classic and fun approach, ideal for creating unique designs or letting kids unleash their creativity. Simply apply fabric paint directly to the t-shirt using brushes, stencils, or stamps.
Fabric Markers: Similar to fabric paint, markers offer a more controlled application for lettering, drawing, or coloring pre-drawn stencils.

Iron-On Transfers:

Printable Iron-On Transfer Paper: This method allows you to design your artwork on your computer and then print it onto special transfer paper. Once ironed onto the t-shirt, the design adheres permanently.
Pre-Made Iron-On Designs: Heat-activated transfers featuring logos, characters, or patterns are widely available and offer a quick and easy way to customize a t-shirt.

Heat Press Techniques:

Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV): Using a cutting machine and heat press, you can create intricate designs from heat transfer vinyl and apply them to the t-shirt with heat and pressure.
Sublimation: This method involves printing designs onto special transfer paper and then using a heat press to transfer the design onto a polyester t-shirt. It produces vibrant, full-color prints.

More Involved Techniques:

Screen Printing: This traditional method involves creating a stencil and using a squeegee to push ink through the stencil onto the t-shirt. It offers high-quality results but requires a dedicated workspace and equipment.

Direct-to-Film Printing: This innovative method uses the Prestige L2 DTF printer to print designs directly onto a special film, which is then transferred to the t-shirt using heat. It provides vibrant, durable prints without the need for screens or extensive setup.

Choosing the Right Method:

The best method for you depends on your desired outcome, budget, and comfort level. Here’s a quick guide:

For beginners: Try fabric paint, markers, iron-on transfers (pre-made or printable).
For more intricate designs: Consider heat transfer vinyl or sublimation (with a heat press).
For high-quality results: Screen printing is the way to go, but requires investment in equipment and workspace.

No matter which method you choose, remember to research the specific materials and techniques involved to ensure successful and mess-free t-shirt creation!