StyleListhttp://main.stylelist.comStyleListhttp://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://main.stylelist.com/media/feedlogo.gifStyleListhttp://main.stylelist.comen-usCopyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only.Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Bobbi Brown Pretty Powerful 2.0 Campaign: Exclusivehttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/08/03/bobbi-brown-pretty-powerful-2-campaign-exclusive/Dana Oliverhttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/08/03/bobbi-brown-pretty-powerful-2-campaign-exclusive/http://main.stylelist.com/2011/08/03/bobbi-brown-pretty-powerful-2-campaign-exclusive/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Bobbi Brown Pretty Powerful 2.0

Bobbi Brown Pretty Powerful 2.0. Courtesy of Bobbi Brown Cosmetics

Bobbi Brown is continuing her quest to make all women feel pretty powerful.

The makeup artist and cosmetics genius has launched Pretty Powerful 2.0 -- a follow-up to her debut beauty campaign that features "real women," including WNBA player Alana Beard, model Jenny Shimuzu and news anchor Mary Alice Williams. It symbolizes Brown's belief that all women possess natural beauty, and with the right tools, are empowered to a higher level of gorgeous.

"I believe that beauty comes in all ages, colors, shapes and sizes," says Brown. "It's not about looking like someone else or trying to be someone you're not. It's about figuring out what works for you."

Starting today, you can log on to bobbibrowncosmetics.com/prettypowerful and peruse a gallery of before and after photos, connect with each woman in their testimonial videos and recreate their day to night looks with pro application tips and product suggestions.

Bobbi Brown Pretty Powerful 2.0

Get the Look: Bobbi Brown Pretty Powerful 2.0. Courtesy of Bobbi Brown Cosmetics

Pretty Powerful 2.0 is also kicking off with a "Tour of America" contest where women across the country are encouraged to upload a picture of themselves for a chance to be crowned the face of their state. Those with the most votes and "likes" will advance to the top of the list. Fifty semi-finalists will receive a $100 bobbibrowncosmetics.com shopping spree and one grand prize winner will be handpicked by the makeup maven for a trip to New York City for a Bobbi Brown photo shoot as a new face in the campaign.

We're huge fans of a makeover, but Brown puts it all in perspective reminding us that loving yourself is key.

Adds Brown, "Being Pretty Powerful is much bigger than beauty it's about confidence and the path you take to achieve it."

Right on, Bobbi!

What makes you feel pretty powerful? Tell us in the comments section and click here to check out an amazing transformation.

Bobbi Brown Pretty Powerful 2.0 Campaign: Exclusive originally appeared on StyleList on Wed, 03 Aug 2011 14:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>ad campaignsBobbi Brownmakeovermakeupmakeup artistPretty PowerfulDana OliverWed, 03 Aug 2011 14:55:00 ESTExtreme Makeover: Model Wears A Year's Worth Of Makeup -- At The Same Time (VIDEO)http://main.stylelist.com/2011/06/29/extreme-makeover-model-wears-a-years-worth-of-makeup-at-the/Simone Kitchenshttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/06/29/extreme-makeover-model-wears-a-years-worth-of-makeup-at-the/http://main.stylelist.com/2011/06/29/extreme-makeover-model-wears-a-years-worth-of-makeup-at-the/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Lernert & Sander: Natural Beauty on Nowness.com.


Ever wonder what a year's worth of makeup looks like? Well, that's exactly what Dutch artist duo Lernert & Sander set out to do.

Employing seven bottles of foundation, two bottles of blush, three lip glosses, and two bottles of cream eyeshadow (which made up 228.40 ml of makeup -- the equivalent of about 8 ounces), they applied layer after layer (365, in fact) of Ellis Faas makeup to model Hannelore Knuts during the 9 hour shoot. Luckily, the directors are friends (and neighbors) with Faas, so "running out of makeup" wasn't an issue.

Head over to Nowness for a full breakdown of the shoot. And, for a makeup look that's less extreme, check out our flipbook of summer eyeshadow ideas.

Extreme Makeover: Model Wears A Year's Worth Of Makeup -- At The Same Time (VIDEO) originally appeared on StyleList on Wed, 29 Jun 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>ellis faasEllisFaashannelore knutsHanneloreKnutslernert and sanderLernertAndSandermakeup videoMakeupVideovideoSimone KitchensWed, 29 Jun 2011 12:30:00 ESTMakeover Diaries: From Unhappily Married to Free, Fit and Finehttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/04/17/makeover-diaries-from-unhappily-married-to-free-fit-and-fine/bridgit torbetthttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/04/17/makeover-diaries-from-unhappily-married-to-free-fit-and-fine/http://main.stylelist.com/2011/04/17/makeover-diaries-from-unhappily-married-to-free-fit-and-fine/#commentsFiled under: ,

In Makeover Diaries, women tell the stories of their real-life beauty transformations. When her marriage ended, Bridgit Torbett, a mother of two from New Mexico, embarked on an inside-and-out makeover to bring back the happy, energetic and attractive woman she used to be.

The writer before and after her personal makeover. Photos: Courtesy of Bridgit Torbett

I was a stay-at-home mom of a 4-year-old and a 6-month-old when my marriage ended. When I moved out of our house, I looked in the mirror and realized the young, vivacious, athletic person I'd been was gone. Now I was a depressed 225-pound woman without the energy to get off the couch. I'd been unhappy for a while, and I was seeking comfort in the kitchen. I didn't want my children growing up with this person as their mother, and I embarked on a whole-life makeover.

During my marriage, we lived in a small town outside of Albuquerque, New Mexico. I have no family nearby, so I decided to move back into the city for easy access to work, babysitters and stores. I re-entered the workforce after a two-year hiatus, and decided to finally finish up the college degree I had put on hold. I got a job working for the same college that I attended.

I was fortunate enough to be able to buy a house. The house was almost 50 years old and quite run down, but it had a huge yard that the children could play in. As I began rebuilding the house, I started rebuilding myself. I watched do-it-yourself shows and pretty much lived at Home Depot, and I managed to create a home that my children loved. Meanwhile, the harder I worked on the house, the more weight I lost! One day I noticed that my clothes were feeling loose so I stepped on that dreaded scale. To my surprise I had lost 45 pounds. I was excited and happy, and wanted to keep losing that weight.

Because I was on a very tight budget and could not afford a gym membership or any fancy diet plans, I just utilized what I had around me. Running was hard because I had two little ones, but running after them in the backyard was definitely a workout! I also found a website, Sparkpeople.com, on which I could calculate my daily caloric intake versus the calories I needed to burn to lose weight. I tracked my calories every day on the page and monitored my progress with a weekly weigh-in. In a matter of months I lost an additional 30 pounds. I was feeling healthier and lighter, and my colleagues at work began commenting how thin I looked.

Safety pins could only tack back so much fabric. It was time to face that full-length mirror in the changing rooms, so I walked into a store that I loved to window shop but had never ventured inside. The Limited has always been full of cute clothes that I would look at and say to myself, "someday." Well someday was today! I found the courage to start trying on different outfits. My weight was now down to 150 and I finally fit back into size 12 pants. I found several pants that I liked and even donned a skirt that made my legs look great. It was the first time since my early 20s that I walked out of a clothing store with a smile. I was so ecstatic that I completed the transformation with high heels. I always wanted an office job where I could wear cute shoes, and now I had one!

But I wasn't done yet. I called a local salon, Mystique, and made an appointment for a pedicure and a cut, color, and styling session for my hair. My hair had been one length to my waist with no bangs for over 20 years, and it was a dark blond hue that continued to get darker - except for my new gray hairs. I wanted to do something dramatic, so I cut my hair to mid-shoulder length and layered it, while adding blond highlights. I went for bangs for the first time since fourth grade and now wear them in a loose, wispy style. As a final touch, my toes nails were coated with a dark, shimmery purple that stood out against my old flip flops.

Before my transformation I rarely, if ever, wore any makeup. I didn't want anyone noticing me. But now that I liked myself again, I slowly started highlighting my features. Now, I begin with Cover Girl AquaSmooth foundation, in natural ivory, and add some blush to the tops of my cheeks. I line my eyes with Cover Girl's LineExact Liquid Liner, in Very Black, with LashBlast Fusion Mascara to complete the look. I like Cover Girl Wetslicks for lip gloss.

As my appearance changed, I started working on my inside. I wanted to be carefree again, so I started counseling once a week. It helped me set my anger aside. I began to laugh more, and so did my children. The house seemed brighter; I began to walk a bit taller. I again became the happy person my friends enjoyed being around.

I got several compliments from girlfriends and coworkers, but I think the defining moment came when someone asked me out on a date. It gave me that final boost of confidence. I'm so proud of how far I've come in these two years. I remain active and have joined an adult soccer league. I've even ventured into the realm of dating with surprisingly positive results.

If a wall has a hole in it, you can't just paint over it. You need to fix the hole first. And that's exactly how I did my makeover.

Got a makeover story you'd like to share? Visit Seed.com to find out how you can contribute.

Makeover Diaries: From Unhappily Married to Free, Fit and Fine originally appeared on StyleList on Sun, 17 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>bangsbeautyCoverGirldatingdivorcefitnessgray hairmakeover diariesMakeoverDiariesmakeoversmakeupthe limitedweight lossbridgit torbettSun, 17 Apr 2011 10:00:00 ESTMakeover Diaries: How I Lost Weight and Gained Back My Self-Esteemhttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/04/10/makeover-diaries-how-i-lost-weight-and-gained-back-my-self-esteem/Eve Pricehttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/04/10/makeover-diaries-how-i-lost-weight-and-gained-back-my-self-esteem/http://main.stylelist.com/2011/04/10/makeover-diaries-how-i-lost-weight-and-gained-back-my-self-esteem/#commentsFiled under: ,

In Makeover Diaries, women tell the stories of their real-life beauty transformations. Eve Price, 58, of Alabama, lost 50 pounds... and gained back her self-esteem!

The author, before and after losing 50 pounds, Courtesy photos.

I used to be pretty. I used to be skinny. A hysterectomy, menopause, heart condition, and several steroid treatments for COPD later, I was fat, and I was miserable.

I hated myself, literally. I was fortunate to be married to a man who kept telling me that I was beautiful, but unless you feel that beauty inside yourself, it does not compute. I worked from home at a desk job, so the more miserable I became about my appearance, the easier it was to sit and eat and to get fatter. It was a vicious cycle.

For most of my life I was a thin and confident woman. At age 56, I was not only overweight, but I was also aging rapidly. The medical conditions multiplied as my weight gain accelerated. My final weight, before the makeover, was 268 pounds. I had, by that time, developed high blood pressure, high cholesterol, aching knees, breathing problems and a "fatty" liver. Something had to be done.

I considered my options. Losing weight on my own was not working. My weight fluctuated up and down, depending on how depressed I was on any given day. It truly was not something I could do without some help. I opted for the Lap-Band.

Surgery seemed drastic, but with laparoscopic surgery, the scars are tiny, and the recovery is faster. The Lap-Band is placed at the top of the stomach, creating a little "pouch" that cannot hold very much food. The band can be "refilled" easily through a small port beneath the skin, if it gets too loose. It was the right decision for me.

Eventually the weight began to fall off my body. I remember the day I realized all of my clothes were too big for me. For the past 10 years, I'd shopped at thrift stores because I felt there was "no need to buy nice clothes to put on my fat body." This time, I ventured out into one of my favorite dress stores, Peebles. The first shirt that I purchased that day was two sizes smaller than usual, and the thrill of that simple fact spurred me on. With each size I dropped, I was more eager to shop.

Within a few months of the surgery, I walked a little prouder, I smiled more, and I liked being around people again. However, the real test was yet to come. Would I allow my photo to be taken? I did, and I was happy to see a thinner version of myself staring back.

It encouraged me so much that the next step was a beauty makeover at a Merle Norman studio. I'd stopped wearing makeup when I started gaining weight, though it had always been something I'd enjoyed. Now my makeup is rather natural. I wear a shimmery eyeshadow, made by L.A. colors, called Radient. For mascara, I use Revlon's Lash Fantasy. I also wear Maybelline's Instant Age Rewind Cream Foundation, in porcelain ivory. Finally, I add a little color to my lips via Cover Girl's Almost Nude. If we are going out, I'll wear a darker shade of lipstick.

I got a sporty new haircut, with stylish layers. I also treated myself to an all-day spa adventure with a facial and a massage and lots of pampering. Why do we feel we are not worthy of those little pleasures when we are overweight?

That night my husband and I went out for our 12th anniversary. I stopped by his job after the makeover, and was pleased to hear his co-workers say, "Rodger, there is a beautiful lady up here to see you," and "WOW! That cannot be the same lady I met before." Some thought that I looked younger.

So far I've lost 50 pounds. I have a long way to go. The difference now is that I see success in sight. My health issues are all nearly gone and I take only one medication now instead of seven. The most significant change is the fact that I feel better about myself as a woman, and as a person. The "new me" has adjusted a mental attitude that sorely needed a makeover, too.

Got a makeover story you'd like to share? Vist Seed.com to find out how you can contribute.

Makeover Diaries: How I Lost Weight and Gained Back My Self-Esteem originally appeared on StyleList on Sun, 10 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>depressiondiethigh blood pressuremakeovermerle normanobesityoverweightpeeblesshort hairthrillersweight lossEve PriceSun, 10 Apr 2011 12:00:00 ESTMakeover Diaries: How a Grown-Up Style Made Me Look Youngerhttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/03/27/makeover-diaries-how-a-grown-up-style-made-me-look-younger/Bobbi Lederhttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/03/27/makeover-diaries-how-a-grown-up-style-made-me-look-younger/http://main.stylelist.com/2011/03/27/makeover-diaries-how-a-grown-up-style-made-me-look-younger/#commentsFiled under: ,

In Makeover Diaries, women tell the stories of their real-life beauty transformations. This week, Bobbi Leder, a 40-year-old "cocker" mom (to her English cocker spaniel) and freelance writer from Houston, Texas, realized that a more mature look could make her look younger.

Makeover Diaries Grown-Up Style

The author, before and after. Courtesy photos.

As I've grown older, I've tried to hold onto my youth -- wearing my hair longer than I did in high school and dressing in t-shirts. But once I turned 40, I realized that if I didn't do something soon, my husband would nominate me for the TV show What Not To Wear. Instead of making me look younger, my long hair made me look older. The t-shirts were frumpy and shapeless. Even my makeup was dated. I wore lipstick, eye shadow, and bronzer that were all way past their sell-by date.

I started with a trip to CVS to buy new makeup. At first I tried an anti-aging under eye concealer by L'Oreal but it just made my skin dry (which made me look older) so I switched to Physician's Formula. That turned out to be perfect for my sensitive skin. Maybelline Lash Blast mascara worked brilliantly, giving my straight lashes volume and definition. I added nail polish to my routine, making my hands look more feminine and less childlike.

I also bought some Avon makeup from a friend. Avon's Glazewear lip gloss was perfect because it had the right combination of color, shine, and moisture without making me look dated or trampy. I played up my best feature, my eyes, by using Avon's Big Color Eye Pencil in two colors: celadon and eggplant. They were softer than my usual black or brown eyeliner and yet they still brought out the slight hazel I had in my brown eyes.

Next came my wardrobe. I wore T-shirts most of the time: they were comfortable but probably made me look frumpy rather than chic and sophisticated. I do not possess the female shopping gene so I took the least painful route by avoiding the mall and went straight to T.J. Maxx. I picked up a few flattering pieces to suit my body type and saw that without T-shirts I could actually show off my shape.

The biggest change came by accident. I went to one of the best salons in Houston, The Upper Hand. The hairdresser and I agreed on a style she called the "lob" -- a long-angled bob. It sounded great, until the hairdresser accidentally cut off several more inches than we agreed upon. She snipped my hair while my head was down, I looked up and saw what was left and was mortified. "Where's my hair?" I asked. I knew it was on the floor but I thought that if I said it out loud my hair would magically return. She apologized over and over again and did not charge me for the haircut but I was traumatized. My hair was gone and I was devastated.

I was nervous about my husband's reaction, but he actually loved it! His constant compliments forced me to finally look in the mirror and play with my new hairstyle. It was youthful, cute, playful, and sassy, suiting my personality.

Now, when I look in the mirror and think I look chic, sophisticated, and grown up - something I've been avoiding for years. Maybe 40 is the new 30 after all.

Got a makeover story you'd like to share? Visit Seed.com to find out how you can contribute.

Makeover Diaries: How a Grown-Up Style Made Me Look Younger originally appeared on StyleList on Sun, 27 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>agingbeautyclothesfitnessgymhairhairstylelong hairmake-upmakeoverMakeover DiariesMakeoverDiariessalonshoppingwomanBobbi LederSun, 27 Mar 2011 14:00:00 ESTMakeover Diaries: Aging Gracefully With a Little Helphttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/03/13/makeover-diaries-aging-gracefully-with-a-little-help/Dawn Kiehl Bealshttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/03/13/makeover-diaries-aging-gracefully-with-a-little-help/http://main.stylelist.com/2011/03/13/makeover-diaries-aging-gracefully-with-a-little-help/#commentsFiled under: ,

Makeover Diaries tells the stories of women's real-life beauty transformations. Dawn Kiehl Beals, a customer service rep in southwest Pennsylvania, decided it was time to stop living with wrinkles, dry skin and yellow teeth -- and to take decisive action against the signs of aging.

The author, before and after. Courtesy Photos

It all started with a picture.

Sure, I'd caught glimpses of that poor woman in the mirror, with sagging jowls and yellow teeth. But one day, my husband snapped a photo of me. When I saw it, I could no longer deny that I needed a makeover -- fast!

I was 50, and tired of looking tired. I didn't want to compete with the 20-somethings, but it was important for me be comfortable in my own skin. And I no longer liked my skin.

Braving the mirror, I did a thorough assessment. The list was longer than I wanted, but doable.
Teeth yellow and dull from years of coffee and antibiotics. Deep lines around my mouth. Depressions under my eyes. Eyelashes short and thin. Skin dry and lifeless. Hair too dark for skin tone.

I tackled the easiest thing first and consulted my hair stylist. She agreed it was time to go a few shades lighter. Instead of dark brown, she colored my hair a lighter brown with red highlights. The new look perked up my skin tone but was still not enough. It was time to invest in some really good skin care. After discussing the pros and cons with a skin care consultant, I switched to Become skin care and never looked back. Within a week I could see a dramatic difference and by using the enzyme mask, firming gel, hydration serum and moisturizer my dry, lifeless skin is gone.

I was pleased with the results so far but still not 100 percent happy. My yellow teeth had been a source of embarrassment to me for years, so I decided they were next. After a few weeks of Crest Whitestrips, I knew I had a long way to go. Bleaching trays left me with sore gums and only semi-white teeth. Although it would be much more expensive and demand continual upkeep, I decided that porcelain bonding was the answer for me. Not only did I get the white teeth I wanted, my dentist was also able to reshape my front teeth into a much more aesthetically pleasing look. I was ready to move onto my next challenge - facial lines.

After meeting with my doctor, I discovered the benefits of Radiesse. The injections lasted up to a year and each shot builds upon the previous ones. The first injections I received were for the deep lines around and below the outer corners of my mouth. Because the doctor has to "massage" the product to ensure even distribution, I had dark purple bruising for a few days. However, within two weeks I could see amazing results. While Radiesse isn't a magic wand that takes all of the lines away, it does fill them in so that they are softer and less noticeable. A few weeks later I went back in for another set of injections along the top of my cheekbones to fill in the depressions under my eyes. This time there was no bruising and the effects were almost immediate. My transformation was almost complete. To add the crowning touch, I invested in Latisse, a product that encourages lash growth. By the end of the second month, my lashes were long, thick and dark.

I did this makeover for myself but I have received many, many compliments. The nicest ones are when I hear "I don't know what you did, but you look terrific"! The effect of my makeover has been exactly what I wanted, subtle yet profound. Was it expensive? Yes! Was it worth it? Absolutely, every penny of it! I'm now comfortable in my own skin again and that's the best return on the investment possible.

Got a makeover story you'd like to share? Visit Seed.com to find out how you can contribute.

Makeover Diaries: Aging Gracefully With a Little Help originally appeared on StyleList on Sun, 13 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>aginganti-agingdark hairdry skineyelashesfacial lineslatisseMakeover DiariesMakeoverDiariesmakeoversolder womenover 50sRadiessesagging skinyellow teethDawn Kiehl BealsSun, 13 Mar 2011 14:00:00 ESTMakeover Diaries: Staying True to Myself and Looking Great, Too!http://main.stylelist.com/2011/02/27/makeover-diaries-staying-true-to-myself-and-looking-great-too/Dorina Kalatyhttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/02/27/makeover-diaries-staying-true-to-myself-and-looking-great-too/http://main.stylelist.com/2011/02/27/makeover-diaries-staying-true-to-myself-and-looking-great-too/#commentsFiled under: ,

In Makeover Diaries, women tell the stories of their real-life beauty transformations. Dorina Kalaty, a stay-at-home mom from Long Island, figured out that she could polish her look for big results while still staying true to herself.

The writer, before and after. Courtesy Photos

I'm a stay-at-home mother of three in Great Neck, Long Island -- an affluent town where women can be very focused on their looks. Unlike most of my neighbors, however, appearance has never been one of my top priorities. Raising my kids and managing my household takes up the majority of my time, money and energy. Although I put little effort into my looks, I have always been content with myself the way I am.

But recently, a weekend getaway to Miami Beach with five of my girlfriends -- five of the most gorgeous, well-dressed, put-together women I knew -- left me feeling insecure and unattractive. One night, as we were all getting ready to go out, one of the girls told me very bluntly that I had way too many gray hairs and needed to color ASAP. I was mortified!! That same night one of my friends did my makeup and blow-dried my hair straight. I looked in the mirror and could barely recognize myself. I looked amazing. I decided that I could remain true to myself and still look great! It was time to learn how to fix myself up.

As soon as I got back to New York, I called a local salon and made an appointment to color my hair for the first time ever. The colorist agreed with my friend that it was time, and she used a semi-permanent dye to match my natural dark-brown hair color. I loved the finished product because my hair looked shinier, my grays were covered and I was set for at least another two months.

Next I went on a makeup shopping trip with my friend to Sephora. For my eyes I bought cake eyeliner from M.A.C. in black, dark purple and dark gray. Cake eyeliner is so easy to use even for a beginner like me. You have to buy a special angled brush, dip it into the eyeliner and gently apply it to your lash line. It doesn't even show when you mess up and you can easily achieve that smoky eye look. I also bought liquid eyeliner but gave up using it after the first try because you need to have a very steady hand and when you mess up you have to start from scratch. I bought a light pink lipstick from M.A.C. from their limited Lady Gaga collection as well as lip gloss to go over it. I bought tinted moisturizer (which feels like a light foundation) from Laura Mercier in Almond with a foundation primer from the same company to go under it. I love these products because they don't feel heavy, yet give you an even, smooth look. I also got a bronzing gel from Laura Mercier as well as bronzing powder to give me a natural sun-kissed look.

At first I aimed to have my hair blown out weekly at the salon, but this just took too much time and money. I realized that I just have to work with my curly hair rather than fight it. I went to CVS and bought a Conair curling iron to go over my curls and Moroccanoil blowout cream to tame my curls and control the frizz. I definitely don't have enough eye-hand coordination to use the curling iron and gave up before I burnt all my hair off. I highly recommend the Moroccanoil cream for curly hair because it gave my curls definition without making them too stiff.

As far as fashion and clothes go, I learned a long time ago that I can't keep up with my fashionista friends, yet I can't give up altogether. So I bought a couple of quality, staple pieces that I can repeat often without it being too noticeable. Midweek I am still in sneakers and gym clothes and for the weekends I invested in two pairs of J Brand jeans/pants and a few nice tops to alternate with. I refused to take my friends advice when it came to buying $900 Louboutin 5-inch heels -- what's the point of spending so much on something I can't walk in? I bought the more affordable, practical alternative, Stuart Weitzman.

Now I think that I probably look like a more polished version of myself. While no one seems to notice any of the specific changes, I've received many compliments on my overall appearance. All these beauty techniques are part of a learning process and I have to do what feels comfortable and works for me. Throughout this whole makeover process I have realized that in order to live in peace and enjoy life I have to love and accept myself for who I am, cherish my own values, accept my strengths as well as my weaknesses. If from there I want to make changes, they have to be for me and only me.

Got a makeover story you'd like to share? Visit Seed.com to find out how you can contribute.

Makeover Diaries: Staying True to Myself and Looking Great, Too! originally appeared on StyleList on Sun, 27 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>cake eyelinerChristian Louboutincurly hairgray hairhealthy beautiful youmac cosmeticsMakeover DiariesMakeoverDiariesmakeoversDorina KalatySun, 27 Feb 2011 12:00:00 ESTBeauty News: Gaga's Blood-Infused Fragrance, Guerlain's New "Rouge Automatique" Lip Line, Taylor Swift's Geisha Makeoverhttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/02/25/beauty-news-gagas-blood-infused-fragrance-guerlains-new-rou/Jennifer Appenrodthttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/02/25/beauty-news-gagas-blood-infused-fragrance-guerlains-new-rou/http://main.stylelist.com/2011/02/25/beauty-news-gagas-blood-infused-fragrance-guerlains-new-rou/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Breaking beauty news from around the web...

Lady Gaga Donates Her Blood...To Her Fragrance
The pop superstar revealed that her fragrance "smells like an expensive hooker." She added that that the formula actually contains her own blood: "...you just get the after feeling of sex from the semen and then the blood is sort of primal, and it was taken out of my own blood sample so it's like you get a sense of having me on your own skin." - Via Bella Sugar Australia

Estée Lauder Adds 2 New Lip Lines And Lacquer Line To "Pure Color" Brand
The beauty meca is adding two reformulated lipstick lines: the Pure Color Long Lasting Lipstick, which is 25, intensely pigmented, full-coverage shades, and Pure Color Crystal Lipstick, 10 sheer-to-medium-coverage shades. They will also launch 16 shades of Pure Color Nail Lacquer in March. - Via WWD

Taylor Swift's Geisha Beauty Day And Hair Cuts
The country singer posted a video of her time touring in Asia. Among the highlights were her getting beautified as a Geisha (red lips, white face, and all!) and giving her friends "free" haircuts. - Via Bella Sugar Australia

Lanvin Launches "La Plume" Fragrance
The fashion house will release a new eau that based on the notion of weightlessness this month. The limited-edition fragrance called "Jeanne Lanvin La Plume" (French for "feather"), is an olfactory tribute to the house's founder and is said to be a "fruity cocktail with a touch of rose petal". - Via Hintmag

Supermodels Get Funky In Latest cK One's Ad
The brand's latest fragrance campaign features supermodels, such as Lara Stone, dancing around to songs like "Push It." Directed by Steven Meisel, the black-and-white video brings back the '90s grunge, which is fitting since that was the heyday of the scent. - Via The Fashion Spot

Anne Hathaway's Grease-Inspired Beauty Look
The actress sported a big, curly 'do, smoky eyes, and bright orange lips in her latest Grease-inspired Oscar promo with actor James Franco. As for James, the actor rocked rockabilly quiff that would have made Danny Zuko proud. - Via The Dead Bolt

Guerlain To Release "Rouge Automatique"
The French beauty brand will release a 25-shade lip color line in April. The texture is shiny, long-lasting, and when the formula touches the lips, it becomes liquid due to the brand's new proprietary Crystal Pigment technology. - Via WWD

Beauty News: Gaga's Blood-Infused Fragrance, Guerlain's New "Rouge Automatique" Lip Line, Taylor Swift's Geisha Makeover originally appeared on StyleList on Fri, 25 Feb 2011 07:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>Beauty NewsBeautyNewsJennifer AppenrodtFri, 25 Feb 2011 07:34:00 ESTStyleList Mobile Makeover Bus: Fall 2011 Fashion Weekhttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/02/18/stylelist-mobile-makeover-bus-fall-2011-fashion-week/Jolie Novakhttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/02/18/stylelist-mobile-makeover-bus-fall-2011-fashion-week/http://main.stylelist.com/2011/02/18/stylelist-mobile-makeover-bus-fall-2011-fashion-week/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Take a peek inside StyleList's Mobile Makeover Van, which helped real women get glam at New York Fashion Week Fall 2011. In this video, Rogelia Reyna from Bobbi Brown cosmetics gives Dress for Success client Cynthia Acevedo a quick and classic makeup look that can easily go from cubicle to cocktail-hour.

StyleList Mobile Makeover Bus: Fall 2011 Fashion Week originally appeared on StyleList on Fri, 18 Feb 2011 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>beautybobbi brownBobbi Brown CosmeticsBobbiBrownBobbiBrownCosmeticsdress for successDressForSuccessfashion weekfashion week 2011 fallfashion week fall 2011 videosFashionWeekFashionWeek2011FallFashionWeekFall2011Videosmakeovermakeoversmakeup artistMakeupArtistMobile Makeover VanMobileMakeoverVanRogelia ReynaRogeliaReynavideoJolie NovakFri, 18 Feb 2011 15:50:00 ESTFall 2011 Fashion Week: Real Women at Our Mobile Makeover Vanhttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/02/13/fall-2011-fashion-week-real-women-at-our-mobile-makeover-van/Julia Dinardohttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/02/13/fall-2011-fashion-week-real-women-at-our-mobile-makeover-van/http://main.stylelist.com/2011/02/13/fall-2011-fashion-week-real-women-at-our-mobile-makeover-van/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mackenzie Mobile Makeover

Mackenzie, after her makeover at the StyleList Mobile Makeover Van. Photo by Rebecca McAlpin for AOL

Real women are taking a break from New York Fashion Week and enjoying a free makeup application or brow treatment at the Mobile Makeover Van. As sponsors of this beauty treat, AOL StyleList caught up with 11 lovely women who stopped by Saturday -- and were great sports about sharing their beauty regimens (and their ages!) and taking before-and-after photos. As these interviews show, all left smiling and rejuvenated after a little pampering.

You, too, can get in on the action. Through Monday, Feb. 14 (Valentine's Day!), we're parked at Columbus Avenue and West 65th Street and open from noon to 6 p.m. Climb aboard for four of-the-moment eye makeup looks -- The Smoky Eye, Bronze Goddess, The Blues or Classic Pinup Girl -- and to nosh on Eleni's Cookies, take a load off in the lounge, and get some AOL freebies such as emery boards and mints. See you there!

Fall 2011 Fashion Week: Mobile Makeover Van

Fall 2011 Fashion Week: Real Women at Our Mobile Makeover Van originally appeared on StyleList on Sun, 13 Feb 2011 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>Fashion Week 2011 Fallfashion week 2011 fall hairstyles beautyfashion week 2011 mobile makeovermakeoverMobile Makeover VanJulia DinardoSun, 13 Feb 2011 15:40:00 ESTMakeover Diaries: A Slimmer, Smoother and Sexier New Mehttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/02/13/makeover-diaries-a-slimmer-smoother-and-sexier-new-me/Jael Gardinerhttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/02/13/makeover-diaries-a-slimmer-smoother-and-sexier-new-me/http://main.stylelist.com/2011/02/13/makeover-diaries-a-slimmer-smoother-and-sexier-new-me/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In Makeover Diaries, women tell the stories of their real-life beauty transformations. When Jael Gardiner, a college student from Michigan, started losing weight and taking the time to look her best, it not only changed her appearance -- it changed her life.

Author Before After

The author, before and after.

Being the fat girl is never fun. In fact, it's humiliating. Try being an 18-year-old college student who can only shop at Lane Bryant. I was the girl who wore sweatpants from Target, neglected my hair and never bothered with makeup. At 210 pounds, mirrors made me cringe.

I decided to make myself over the day I realized my size 18 pants were too snug and my mother's size 20 sweats were just right. I was horrified. I forced myself to look at the acne covering my face, my listless hair, and the rolls that hung in the most unflattering places.

How did I do it? I limited my calories and took up jogging. It took me eight months to lose 60 pounds. I can shop wherever I want now. Once I hit my goal of 150, I saved up some money and went wild. I bought jeans from Wet Seal -- skinny jeans, in fact. I bought a cute pair of suede boots, a V-neck top and a sparkly necklace. For the first time in my life I was a size 9.

Once I had the outfit, I moved on to my hair. I bought some nice shampoo, conditioner and a straightener. Before, my hair was randomly curly, with bumps that always made me look like I just woke up. The new straightener and some vitamin E serum made it pretty and shiny. I got some jeweled bobby pins and arranged them in my hair. I didn't just feel pretty -- I felt like a princess!

Time to tackle my skin. With an Acne Free kit, my skin dramatically improved improved in a little over a week. Now I was ready to give makeup a try. I bought Maybelline mousse foundation and I love it. It hides all of the little imperfections on my face and goes on smooth without making the acne worse. It was very breathable and looked great even on my vampire-pale skin. I picked out some cheap dollar eyeliner and volumizing mascara from Revlon. Just that made my eyes pop and it was very simple and pretty. To finish it off I bought some Revlon pink blush and it brought some color to my pale face.

At the end, I looked great. Some of my professors at school no longer even recognized me. My friends' mouths gaped open at my new look. I've had people almost start crying when they saw me. It was a long, hard journey, but now I'm not just beautiful, I'm healthy. I will always be proud of everything I have accomplished and promise to never neglect myself again.

Got a makeover story you'd like to share? Visit Seed.com to find out how you can contribute.

Makeover Diaries: A Slimmer, Smoother and Sexier New Me originally appeared on StyleList on Sun, 13 Feb 2011 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>acnefoundationlistless hairmakeoverMakeover DiariesMakeoverDiariesmakeuppale skinstraightenerweight lossWetSealJael GardinerSun, 13 Feb 2011 06:00:00 EST'Bridalplasty' Winner Allyson Donovan on Her Plastic Surgery, Dream Wedding Makeoverhttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/02/02/bridalplasty-allyson-donovan/Beth Cooney Fitzpatrickhttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/02/02/bridalplasty-allyson-donovan/http://main.stylelist.com/2011/02/02/bridalplasty-allyson-donovan/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

"Bridalplasty" winner Allyson Donovan with her husband, John. Photo: Courtesy E!

Allyson Donovan, the 32-year-old victor of the E! network's controversial series "Bridalplasty," may be the only winner of a reality-television competition to celebrate by getting cut.

Yet Donovan, an unemployed graphic designer and mother of 3-year-old Mason, did exactly that, having plastic surgery on her arms, chin, jowls and flanks (she calls them "woman handles") and a breast lift before walking down the aisle to greet longtime love John for a dream wedding paid for by the production.

For Donovan, who beat nine competitors -- including conniving runner-up Janessa Wainwright -- her post-surgical suffering was nothing compared with the celebrity-style wedding the show bankrolled. She was also treated to a total smile makeover. "It was well worth it!" she tells us.

For her big day, Donovan married at a stunning California coastal estate, outfitted in a Avant Mariée Katarina by Winnie Couture strapless gown, Chinese Laundry stilettos and custom wedding bands by Jason of Beverly Hills. Her face was heavily veiled until she reached the altar for her big reveal.

StyleList checked in with the Crestwood, Ill., native, who suffers from type 1 (or juvenile) diabetes, about her big day and new look.

Here's some of our chat:

StyleList: Your husband, John, loved you enough to propose. Why did you feel you had to change?
Allyson Donovan: When I first met John, I was in the best shape of my life. I was finally down to a size 6 and happier than ever. I had pretty much been overweight my entire life and finally lost all my weight. Together, we had our miracle son, Mason, but with that came the dreaded postpregnancy flubber-blubber belly and weight gain. So now I had the insecurities of my body along with the insecurities of my teeth. I think it stems back to my childhood and being overweight.

StyleList: So why compete?
A.D.: I just wanted what a lot of women that are in their 30s that have had children want: to lose the baby weight, get rid of the belly pouch, erase wrinkles and have boobs that don't sag down to your belly button. And I was given the chance to compete for it for free. Come on! Does anyone know how much veneers cost?


StyleList: Which procedure was most worth it?
A.D.: My new smile, which was the most difficult. I had to make numerous trips to Dr. (Sherri) Worth to get a mouthful of veneers, bad molars pulled, old crowns replaced, old bonding removed and implants. John loves when I smile and now when I smile, it literally lights up the room. Another is my breast lift. I had always been insecure about my breasts. I just wanted them to look like breasts and not pancakes that I could roll up in my bra. I had the right size. I just needed the right shape.

StyleList: You had more than a dozen surgical procedures on your competition wish list, but decided not to have all of them. Why did you change your mind?
A.D.: Realistically, I am a type 1 diabetic, so having all those surgeries would be a big risk to take. So I decided to try and lose weight with the help of a personal trainer, countless hours in the gym, boot camps and weight-loss meal plans. The producers of "Bridalplasty" and E! were more than supportive of my decision and replaced half my wish list with all the options I needed for healthy weight loss. I decided I no longer needed skin resurfacing or a brow lift because the amazing Revaléskin facial products we received on the show worked wonders!

"Bridalplasty" winner Allyson Donovan. Photo: Courtesy E!

StyleList: Were you nervous seeing your fiancé and family at the altar after living in seclusion for months while you had your makeover?
A.D.: Nervous? I was nervous about not falling on my rear end walking down the aisle blind in those 2-foot stiletto heels I decided to wear. I was anxious for my fiancé to see that I did not get all this crazy facial plastic surgery, even though I assured him that was not what I wanted, but he was nervous having read things on the Internet... To my surprise, he had lost a ton of weight and did a transformation himself. I remember hearing cheers and clapping, but I was in shock seeing him; he looked so clean, healthy and fit. I'm surprised I did not faint.

Speaking of drastic reality makeovers, read about how Heidi Montag feels about all that plastic surgery she had in 2010.

And for more on "Bridalplasty" read our interview with Donovan's fellow contestant, former "The Biggest Loser" competitor Alexandra White.

'Bridalplasty' Winner Allyson Donovan on Her Plastic Surgery, Dream Wedding Makeover originally appeared on StyleList on Wed, 02 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>Allyson Donovanbeautiful smilesbreast liftBridalplastycosmetic surgeryEE Entertainment Televisionplastic surgeryreality TVreality TV starsteethweddingsBeth Cooney FitzpatrickWed, 02 Feb 2011 15:00:00 ESTMakeover Diaries: How Botox Saved My Facehttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/01/30/makeover-diaries-how-botox-saved-my-face/Roey Eberthttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/01/30/makeover-diaries-how-botox-saved-my-face/http://main.stylelist.com/2011/01/30/makeover-diaries-how-botox-saved-my-face/#commentsFiled under: ,

In Makeover Diaries, women tell the stories of their real-life beauty transformations. A bout of Bell's Palsy made Roey Ebert's eyes uneven. She thought they would be that way forever, until she discovered Botox -- and reclaimed her self-esteem.

woman before and after botox

The author, before and after her Botox treatment. Photo Courtesy of Roey Ebert

I remember it as clearly as if it were yesterday. I got out of the shower, looked in the mirror, and realized my whole left side of my face was paralyzed. My lip drooped dramatically downward and my eye just stared. My tongue hung awkwardly out of the side of my mouth and drool ran down my cheek. I was horrified and terrified at the same time. I was 18 and the senior prom was days away. My mom took one look at me and knew what was wrong.

"Bell's Palsy," she said.

I had always been told I had gorgeous eyes. Now I couldn't even stand to look at them. The palsy made them crooked and droopy. I could not eat. It turned me into a shy, quiet girl -- something I'd never been before.

Even after I regained full use of my face, my eyes were never the same. The left was definitely smaller than the right. Yet, life carried on. Twenty years and five kids later, I had no time to fixate on how I looked. Bell's Palsy was a thing of my past, and I never had to worry about it again. Or so I thought.

When I was pregnant with my sixth child in 2009, my left eye started twitching. It got worse and worse, and when I went to see my family doctor I learned I had contracted Bell's Palsy a second time. I had to hold my cheek to keep it still. Then an opthalmologist recommended I see an ocular plastic surgeon for Botox.

What? Botox? I didn't understand. Apparently, Botox was developed to help stroke victims and people with palsy. It helps calm the contractions of the nerves. On my first visit, he said I was the ideal candidate. Not only could it help the twitching, he said, the Botox would open up my eye and make the eye more even with the right one. I couldn't believe it. There was actually something that would help me. I recieved the most minor of doses all around my left eye. Within three days, my eye had opened up and the twitching had subsided. I couldn't stop looking at myself.

For 20 years it had been my dream to have my eyes back to normal and these injections made it possible. I felt like I had gotten a part of my life back. I could finally stop thinking about my face. I'd gone blonde for a while to keep the focus off my eyes, but now I went back to my natural dark hair. I try to accent my eyes instead of hiding them, using a black liner on the top and a dark brown on the inner lids. I dress in solid colors, like navy blue and emerald green, to play up my blue-green eyes. I used to dress mainly in black, with sunglasses from early morning to past dusk.

I go back every 4 months for injections. Sometimes people in the waiting room snicker when they hear me say I am here for Botox injections. But I don't care. Ironically, Botox has helped me have a life where what I look like is not the first thought for my day.

Got a makeover story you'd like to share? Visit Seed.com to find out how you can contribute.

Makeover Diaries: How Botox Saved My Face originally appeared on StyleList on Sun, 30 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>Bells Palsyblonde hairblue eyesBotoxbrunette hairMakeover DiariesMakeoverdiariesRoeyebertRoey EbertSun, 30 Jan 2011 12:00:00 ESTPost Your Face: I Want to Fix My Unaligned Facehttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/01/24/post-your-face-i-want-to-fix-my-unaligned-face/Sabrina Newmanhttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/01/24/post-your-face-i-want-to-fix-my-unaligned-face/http://main.stylelist.com/2011/01/24/post-your-face-i-want-to-fix-my-unaligned-face/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In our monthly Post Your Face column, Dr. Robert Freund answers readers' cosmetic surgery questions, and shows them how they'd look if they underwent the enhancement. To post your own face, visit postyourface.com.

Plastic Surgery Before and After

The patient before and after the suggested cosmetic surgery procedures. Photos courtesy of Dr. Robert M. Freund

The Patient's Question: I like the way I look in profile and 3/4 view, but when I look straight on, it is apparent that my face is unaligned. I was told by an oral surgeon that I could undergo a procedure that would realign my jaw, but I would have to get braces again. I feel like my jaw is unaligned and as a result my face tried to compensate by pulling to a side (the left), which resulted in my jaw line being more rounded on the right side of my face and to sort of hit lower on my face, and less pronounced on the left side of my face. My chin and my nose seem to sort of pull to the left side of my face as well, giving me a deviated septum look that occurred naturally. I also feel like my chin is too long when viewed from the front. And I am also a little annoyed with the small bump in my nose, the fact that the bridge of my nose sort of curves to the left. Also I feel like my upper lip is almost non-existent, and that I would like it to match up to my lower lip.

Dr. Freund's Answer: I agree with your concerns regarding the chin. From the photos, it is apparent that your chin is long and pointed to the left. These distortions can be the result of:

1. An irregular bite. Teeth that don't come together properly.

2. Irregular bone growth of the jaw, whereby bone grows in an asymmetric fashion.

3. Problems of the TemperoMandibular Joint (TMJ)- this is the hinge joint that allows the jaw to open and close.

4. Asymmetrical soft tissue of the face. Overlying the bones is fat, muscle and skin. There are several problems that result in a growth of excess tissue or a loss of tissue - in each case the asymmetry would look similar to yours.

Quite often, the problem can be the result of several of these problems occurring at once. In any case, after a thorough exam by a plastic surgeon trained in orthognathic surgery, most treatments involve a combination of dental work (including braces), as well as, surgery to correct the jaw asymmetry and excessive length of your jaw. For any doctor taking on a case like yours, there should be a team of doctors that work in concert. Most teams will have an orthodontist and a plastic surgeon working together. Don't jump to have this surgery unless you research your physicians and be certain that this is the type of procedure that they perform routinely.

I have altered your photo through computer animation to demonstrate the kind of improvement you could expect from such a surgery. In the after photo, I only manipulated the lower jaw and chin. It is quite apparent that such a change creates a beautiful balance to the rest of your face.

Although your problem is specific and unique, for any other facial concerns regarding skin care or plastic surgery, please refer to my new book, "A More Beautiful You - Reverse Aging through Skincare, Plastic Surgery and Lifestyle Solutions."

Respectfully submitted,

Robert M. Freund, MD, FACS.

The health or medical information in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions.

Read about common cosmetic surgery and procedures on AOL Health.

Also check out 10 signs plastic surgery isn't for you.

Post Your Face: I Want to Fix My Unaligned Face originally appeared on StyleList on Mon, 24 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>Asymmetrical facecosmetic surgeryCosmeticSurgeryDr. Robert Freundjaw asymmetryjaw lineJawLineplastic surgeryPlasticSurgerypost your facePostYourFaceRobert FreundSabrina NewmanMon, 24 Jan 2011 15:00:00 ESTMakeover Diaries: Fabulous at Fiftyhttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/01/16/makeover-diaries-fabulous-at-fifty/Leslie J. Wyatthttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/01/16/makeover-diaries-fabulous-at-fifty/http://main.stylelist.com/2011/01/16/makeover-diaries-fabulous-at-fifty/#commentsFiled under: ,


In Makeover Diaries, women tell the stories of their real-life beauty transformations. This week, Leslie Wyatt, a freelance writer and mom of six from rural Missouri, decided that turning 50 was the perfect excuse to update a long-neglected style.

50-year-old woman

The author, before and after. Photos: Courtesy of Leslie Wyatt

There I was, happily married, and frankly, not trying to keep up with contemporary fashions. I was just too busy to care, philosophically opposed to trying to look like everyone else, and my rural Missouri community was itself years behind in the fashion world. I drifted along with my closet full of jumpers, long skirts, and nondescript pants, not exactly happy with my look, but more focused on my to-do list.

But as gray hairs began to appear and my kids grew up, I would look at myself in the mirror and sigh. I didn't like what I saw. Didn't like it much at all. Then I turned 50, and realized it was time to do something. I wanted - I needed - a different style. I wanted to look like myself, only better.

First, the hair. Being an "I-am-who-I-am" type of person, I just couldn't see dyeing the gray. But with a little web research on my hair type - natural curl with a tendency to frizz - and a few pictures, I headed to Fantasy Cuts of Clinton, Missouri, for a shorter, layered cut. This freed up some curl, and stopped my hair from lying like a board down the back of my head. I walked out feeling well on my way to a new look.

Next, I reclaimed makeup. During the back-to-nature 80's, I'd tossed my Mary Kay and never glanced back. But I was ready to try again. I didn't want to disguise who I was, but I my lips were pale, my eyes seemed like they'd retreated and my nose looked pink. So I visited Bare Escentuals in the Country Club Plaza in Kansas City, and returned home armed with BareMinerals brand "Fairly Light" foundation powder, a container of "Warmth" for a bit of color on my cheekbones, and a set of brushes to apply them. Finances being on the tight side, I opted for "Blushed Wines" ColorStay eyeshadow from Revlon, "Rose Velvet" Super Lustrous Creme Lipstick, again from Revlon, and HelthyVolume black-brown mascara from Neutrogena, all found at my local Wal-Mart.

At last, it was time to target my wardrobe, and I have to credit my husband with the idea that launched me. "Hey," he said casually. "I'll bet those shorter skirts with leggings would look cute on you." I hadn't exposed my knees under a skirt since high school! But the idea took root, and before long, I was back in Wal-Mart gathering cropped skirts in denim, twill, and corduroy; tanks for layering; and tights both cropped and long. They would form the beginnings of my new look.

The result? An updated style to which I've added my own flair. It reflects how good I feel about myself and my life: I've got a lot yet to live, kids still to keep up with, and an active writing career to follow. For better or worse, some people relate to me differently now, treating me with more respect, though I definitely enjoy hearing my 25-year-old daughter say, "I hope I look as good as you do when I'm 50!" And most of all, I love looking in the mirror and being able to smile at what I see.

Got a makeover story you'd like to share? Visit Seed.com to find out how you can contribute.

Watch the video below for expert styling tips on how to dress for your age and body type!

Makeover Diaries: Fabulous at Fifty originally appeared on StyleList on Sun, 16 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>contemporaryfashionscurly hairCurlyHaircurrenttrendsfeelingfabulousatfiftygray hairGrayHairlong hairLongHairmakeovershort skirtsShortSkirtsturningfiftyupdatedlookupdateyourlookLeslie J. WyattSun, 16 Jan 2011 12:00:00 ESTMakeover Diaries: See You Later, Plain Jane!http://main.stylelist.com/2011/01/02/makeover-diaries-see-you-later-plain-jane/Estefania Cervantes Avileshttp://main.stylelist.com/2011/01/02/makeover-diaries-see-you-later-plain-jane/http://main.stylelist.com/2011/01/02/makeover-diaries-see-you-later-plain-jane/#commentsFiled under: ,

Makeover Diaries tells the story of women's real-life beauty transformations. Estefania Cervantes Aviles, a college student from Reno, Nev., learned how to stop dressing like the shy, insecure person she no longer wanted to be!

Photos Courtesy of Estefania Cervantes Aviles

When you're insecure, it's hard not to let it show.

I dressed for a long time to fit in, not to stand out. But when I was in college, I finally decided to stop being ashamed of how I looked, and scared of what people would think. I wanted my style to reflect my fun and outgoing personality, not the shy, teased girl I was in high school.

I started out by replacing my plain T-shirts with exciting tops with bright colors, crazy patterns, cute slogans, zippers. I exchanged my wide-legged, hide-everything jeans for skinny jeans, and not plain ones, either: I now have red, white, black, gray, bleached, and ripped skinnies. I stopped wearing Converse and started strutting my stuff in boots, platforms and wedge heels.

Then I began to play around with my hair. Before, it was long and plain. Now I cut it every month and dye parts of it. For make-up, I always use Avon since my mom sells it. My favorite product is the waterproof Glimmerstick Eyeliner in Blackest Black. It doesn't smudge and lasts pretty long!

Jewelry and accessories are a big part of my new look - my snake and Eiffel Tower rings, my floppy hat and paper fedora and many scarves make a statement. It's a refreshing change from tiny studded earrings and hemp bracelets.

I shop all over: Forever 21, Charlotte Russe, Wet Seal, JC Penney, Sears, TJ Maxx, and thrift stores. I look to Betsey Johnson, Lady Gaga, and Harajuku girls for inspiration. I may not dress as extravagantly as they do, but I try to incorporate their colorful, funky style into my own. I also study magazines and everyday people too! Even my own three-year-old baby cousin is part of my style inspiration.

No more plain Jane! Now I'm a fashionable, cute, fun, and colorful "hippie/rocker" girl with wavy hair past the shoulders with some bangs. I also like to play around with my heritage; I can look Asian, Mexican, Spanish, Indian, Native American. Finally, I feel comfortable in my own skin.

Got a makeover story you'd like to share? Visit Seed.com to find out how you can contribute.

Makeover Diaries: See You Later, Plain Jane! originally appeared on StyleList on Sun, 02 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>avonbetsey johnsonBetseyJohnsondyed hairDyedHairlady gagaLadyGagamakeoverMakeover DiariesMakeoverDiariesmakeoversskinny jeansSkinnyJeanswavy hairWavyHairEstefania Cervantes AvilesSun, 02 Jan 2011 10:00:00 ESTMacy's Million Dollar Makeover With Clinton Kelly: 'A Truly Life-Changing Experience'http://main.stylelist.com/2010/12/28/macys-million-dollar-makeover-clinton-kelly/Lisa Marshhttp://main.stylelist.com/2010/12/28/macys-million-dollar-makeover-clinton-kelly/http://main.stylelist.com/2010/12/28/macys-million-dollar-makeover-clinton-kelly/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Clinton Kelly

Clinton Kelly is teaming up with Macy's for a $1 milllion makeover. Marc Stamas, Getty Images

Resolving to change your life in 2011? Macy's can help.

The national department store is launching its "Macy's Million Dollar Makeover with Clinton Kelly," today, with the top winner receiving the prize of a lifetime -- a makeover that will include $1 million worth of products, services, cash and experiences.

"Macy's Million Dollar Makeover is my typical makeover on steroids," Clinton Kelly, style expert for Macy's and co-host of TLC's "What Not to Wear" said in a release. "The winner will get a truly life-changing experience. From fashion to finance to fitness, one lucky person will undergo a complete life transformation."

Macy's is accepting picture or video entries through the month of January. Entrants must "like" Macy's at www.facebook.com/macys to access the contest application. Eight contestants will be selected in early February for a makeover session with Kelly. Afterwards, each contestant's personal story will be filmed and will two will air each week on Facebook, where people can vote for their favorite until April. Those with the most votes will go on to the semi-finals, and ultimately the finals.

For eight lucky people, this will be the easiest way to keep a New Year's resolution ever.

Macy's Million Dollar Makeover With Clinton Kelly: 'A Truly Life-Changing Experience' originally appeared on StyleList on Tue, 28 Dec 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>clinton kellyclinton kelly what not to weargiveawaysmacysmakeovernew years resolutionswhat not to wearLisa MarshTue, 28 Dec 2010 09:00:00 ESTMakeover Diaries: The Making of a 'Casual Bombshell'http://main.stylelist.com/2010/12/19/makeover-diaries-the-making-of-a-casual-bombshell/Kayla Caganhttp://main.stylelist.com/2010/12/19/makeover-diaries-the-making-of-a-casual-bombshell/http://main.stylelist.com/2010/12/19/makeover-diaries-the-making-of-a-casual-bombshell/#commentsFiled under: ,

In Makeover Diaries, women tell the stories of their real-life beauty transformations. This week, Kayla Cagan, a playwright based in L.A., realized she was unhappy with her muddled, day-to-day look and invented the Casual Bombshell, a new style all her own.

From generic gal to Casual Bombshell. Photos: Courtesy of Kayla Cagan

I moved to California three years ago. And as I packed my clothes to move across the country, I realized I wasn't happy with my wardrobe. I always bought whatever was on sale, without intention or editorial sense. My hair didn't do "cool things", so I never tried new cuts. And my makeup? Freebies from department store counters.

I wanted to be sexy. I wanted to be modern. I wanted to be fresh. I also wanted to be covered. I wanted to be chic. I wanted to look arty and smart. With the move, it seemed like the perfect time to take a chance on myself and my style.

I started slow. I watched a lot of "What Not to Wear" and "Project Runway" for ideas and inspiration. I read Vogue, as I had for years, but now I really paid attention to the photos, and not just the articles. I followed Lucky Magazine, just to see what they were recommending that was on trend. And then Lucky Magazine came out with it's first book, "The Lucky Shopping Manual: Building and Improving Your Wardrobe Piece by Piece," (and I swear this isn't as advertisement), but it gave me a guide to investing in some wardrobe basics. And I kept it bedside for a couple of years, consulting it whenever I was having a dressing crisis. And then the next Lucky Magazine book came out, "The Lucky Guide to Mastering Any Style: How to Wear Iconic Looks and Make them Your Own."

That's when I had my style wake-up call. I mixed a few iconic images together and came up with a look to call my own: Casual Bombshell. Casual was a nod to L.A., Bombshell was a nod to the old-fashioned sexiness I was aiming for. And to make this look happen, I started from the head down.

I started having my hair colored at the Aveda School in Los Angeles. Schools are a safe place to experiment with streaks and shades and see what works best for you without spending a ton of dough. The secret to my tress success is found there, and I will remain a loyal customer.

I gave my face a mini-makeover as well. I used to only wear basic browns and beiges, and Chapstick with a little gloss. I wanted to look natural, but I actually looked flat and washed-out.
I began purchasing makeup with a higher pigment and mineral content, like Urban Decay eyeliners and Benefit lip stains. I play with shades that add more definition, which usually means more saturated, bolder colors. Smashbox and Urban Decay purple and violet eyeliners are worn in the afternoon, not just evening. I darken my eyebrows with Anastasia's caramel eyebrow wand brush. And if I'm going light on the eyes, I definitely do a rich lip -- anything in the pure red or purple-red family. The bombshell look does require "putting your face on," but I have it down to five minutes for a casual cover, and ten minutes for a formal face.

Shopping, which has now become a challenge to find discount items that really fit into my design scheme, has also become more fun. I look for the bombshell staples -- fitted Capri pants or dark denim, fitted dresses (anything fitted around the waist is aces!), and tops that accentuate my curvy assets. With shoes, I have a ton of choices, from sexy flats to vampy thick heels. This Casual Bombshell saves tennis shoes for the gym only!

Then the compliments started coming. People started noticing that I had changed, and suddenly I was being told I had great style and looked trimmer- an unexpected plus! One of my friends said, "You're doing that '50s thing so well," and another friend said, "You always looks so put together."

And the truth is, I do feel more put together now. I feel like the best presentation of me that I can give, not just to the world, but to myself. And I can't wait to see how my style keeps evolving. It's a great feeling to wake up everyday and know that in a world full of chaos, at least my wardrobe is a world of peaceful pieces. By defining my sense of self, I have defined my style. It was as simple as putting on one shoe after the other.

Got a makeover story you'd like to share? Visit Seed.com to find out how you can contribute.

Makeover Diaries: The Making of a 'Casual Bombshell' originally appeared on StyleList on Sun, 19 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>50s stylebenefitcasual bombshellCasualBombshellfitted dressesLucky MagazinemakeoverMakeover DiariesMakeoverDiariesmakeoversmakeupshoppingstyle makeoversUrban DecayKayla CaganSun, 19 Dec 2010 10:00:00 ESTPost Your Face: My Face and Neck Sag and Draghttp://main.stylelist.com/2010/12/14/post-your-face-my-face-and-neck-sag-and-drag/Dana Oliverhttp://main.stylelist.com/2010/12/14/post-your-face-my-face-and-neck-sag-and-drag/http://main.stylelist.com/2010/12/14/post-your-face-my-face-and-neck-sag-and-drag/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In our monthly Post Your Face column, Dr. Robert Freund answers readers' cosmetic surgery questions, and shows them how they'd look if they underwent the enhancement. To post your own face, visit postyourface.com.

The Patient's Question: My neck drags my face down and those big muscles really stick out when I use my face. I'm Irish and have been taking medications for over 20 years for a kidney transplant (yes, Prednisone!). The sags and bags, lines and crevices -- I'd love to still have some wrinkles but not look so down and grouchy all the time. My lips are a great shape in good proportion -- if they weren't so thin, and that long upper lip! My hands are in similar shape, between the sunken areas and thin, bruised (permanent marks) skin they look like old witch hands.

The patient before and after the suggested cosmetic surgery procedure. Photos courtesy of Dr. Robert M. Freund

Dr. Freund's Answer: You have outlined many issues that affect the aging of your skin over time. Let's start by discussing your heritage. You describe yourself as coming from Irish descent. In general terms, northern Europeans commonly present with thin, fair skin that is more prone to sun damage and early evidence of aging. Your light hair color and blue eyes just reinforce these concerns.

Prednisone is a drug used to fight rejection of your kidney transplant. Although important to your daily health, this drug has the side effect of thinning out your skin. So, combined with your heritage, you are at higher risk to have prematurely aged, thin skin.

To combat the strong forces that accelerate your aging process, I suggest you start with some good, healthy living, including:

Daily Sunblock. Regardless of the season, sunblock should be used before you leave the house in the morning. On days when you spend a lot of time outside, sunblock should be applied frequently. Zinc oxide sunblocks are the best type of blocks and EltaMD is a favorite of mine.

Antioxidants. These are topical remedies and oral supplements that fight the free radicals that accelerate the aging process and increase your chances of getting skin cancer. Topical antioxidants include Vitamin C, Revale and Prevage. Oral supplements include fish oil, CoQ10, alpha-Lipoic Acid and Resveratrol. But if you are an all-natural person, a diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables (bright orange, reds, and purples) will serve the same purpose.

Retin-A. This is a topical form of Vitamin A that will slow the loss of elasticity and collagen. It will also help to thicken your skin. To get the best effect, see your dermatologist for a prescription and a quick primer on how to administer it properly.

Another issue you mention is the loss of volume in your face. Restoration of the volume is best performed with fat transfer. This is when fat is taken from another part of the body and moved to your face. The Viafill system is a great disposable system (less risk of infection) to perform a volume transfer on the face. Sculptra is a synthetic way to achieve volumetric fill. However, this material creates localized inflammation to create the volume.

I prefer the fat transfer option. Fat can be injected into your temples, cheeks, around the eyes, nasolabial folds, lips and hands to give you a rejuvenated result. Another bonus of fat transfer are the stem cells that come along for the ride. These cells may help to rejuvenate the skin.

Finally, from a surgical perspective you have a lot going on. For people like you, I always start with the daily and weekly treatments to prepare your skin for any surgical treatment. Treatments that may help include Fraxel Laser to help improve the texture of your skin and a facelift to remove all the excess tissue of the cheek, jawline and neck.

If you would like more information on these procedures, please read my new book "A More Beautiful You - Reverse Aging Through Skin Care, Plastic Surgery and Lifestyle Solutions."

Respectfully submitted,

Robert M. Freund, MD, FACS

The health or medical information in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions.

Read about common cosmetic surgery and procedures on AOL Health.

And click here for 10 reasons cosmetic surgery may not be right for you.

Post Your Face: My Face and Neck Sag and Drag originally appeared on StyleList on Tue, 14 Dec 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>antiagingcosmetic surgeryDr. Robert Freundfaceliftfat transferFraxel Laserplastic surgeryPost Your FacePostYourFaceRobert Freundsagging skinSculptrathin skinViafillDana OliverTue, 14 Dec 2010 15:00:00 ESTMakeover Diaries: A Beach Babe Turned Soccer Momhttp://main.stylelist.com/2010/12/05/makeover-diaries-a-beach-babe-turned-soccer-mom/Kathy Deringerhttp://main.stylelist.com/2010/12/05/makeover-diaries-a-beach-babe-turned-soccer-mom/http://main.stylelist.com/2010/12/05/makeover-diaries-a-beach-babe-turned-soccer-mom/#commentsFiled under: ,


In Makeover Diaries, women tell the stories of their real-life beauty transformations. This week, Kathy Deringer, a former NFL cheerleader turned health-care professional and mom, toned down her "beach babe" style for a classier, more comfortable look.

Images courtesy of Kathy Deringer

Within weeks of giving birth to my first child, I was back in my hip-hugger jeans and form-fitting tops. I lived in South Florida, where beautiful women and revealing clothes were the norm, so my style made perfect sense to me. Part of me still longed to be the NFL cheerleader I once was and to hold onto every ounce of youth that I could.

But when my son was a year old, I moved to South Carolina. It was quite a culture shock. I found myself surrounded by Southern belles who shopped at clothing stores I wouldn't be caught dead in. I was over 40, but men in their 20s and early 30s were typically attracted to me. Flattering, but this wasn't the person I wanted to be anymore. Demi Moore can do it in Hollywood, but this was the lowcountry of South Carolina. Plus, the looks I received from some other women, especially those accompanied by their husbands, were scarier than a Stephen King novel.

Four years into my Carolina living, I decided it was time for a change. I didn't want to be that sexy and slinky woman anymore. So one night, I stood over the bathroom sink and proceeded to chop seven inches off of my hair. The first snip was terrifying, but I kept reminding myself that this was for the best. I knew that it would not only change the type of men I attracted, but also the overall image I projected. I was now a corporate employee and a mom, and I wanted to look the part.

My next step was to go through my closet and aggressively weed out the clothing I'd bought in juniors' stores and outfits that just didn't say "respectable." I wanted to walk onto the soccer field with my four-year-old son and feel like a regular soccer mom, not a 20-something wannabe. I stuck with clothes from stores like Ann Taylor and Banana Republic that were still figure flattering, yet subtly so. I found myself looking for more timeless and classic styles and added a few staples that could be mixed and matched with other pieces.

I stopped using heavy-looking liquid eyeliners and dark lipsticks. Now, I use over-the-counter makeup purchased in Wal-Mart or Walgreens; brands like Rimmel, Prestige, and CoverGirl. I stick with basic subtle colors and mainly use shades of browns and beiges. I used to spend a lot of time in salons, but I find I can do just as well myself. I now do my own haircuts and hair color with L'oreal Excellence. That way I don't spend a lot of money or time. Plus, I am trying to keep things in my life simple and low maintenance.

Most people, especially my women friends, appreciated and complimented the change. Others asked, "Why did you cut your hair? It was so beautiful!" All I could tell them was, "It was time." It feels good to fit into the crowd, and to not be the woman who gathered cold stares. Now, if people stare, it's usually a look of appreciation and admiration!

Got a makeover story you'd like to share? Visit Seed.com to find out how you can contribute.

Makeover Diaries: A Beach Babe Turned Soccer Mom originally appeared on StyleList on Sun, 05 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>ann taylorAnnTaylorbanana republicBananaRepublicbeach styleBeachStylecheerleadersclassic styleClassicStylecovergirllorealnatural beautyNaturalBeautyover 40Over40short hairShortHairKathy DeringerSun, 05 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST