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20 Nature Tattoos That Are Simply Magical (PHOTOS)

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Post by Michele Zipp.

nature tattoo on backSome of the most beautiful tattoos are of nature -- trees, leaves, wildflowers, mountains -- and there are very creative ways to create a tattoo around the great outdoors.

From gorgeous black and gray work to bright colors, these nature tattoos are simply stunning. There are nature scenes, watercolor style, and a lot of perfect lines. Here's a collection of some of the best. Check out these 20 nature-inspired tattoos.

 

Image via therubygore/Instagram


Achieve Day-to-Night Holiday Party Style in Minutes (VIDEO)

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Post by Liz Alterman.

day to night holiday styleWondering how to transition your look from day to evening without a lot of effort this hectic holiday season? A series of simple changes will transform your ensemble from functional to phenomenal! 

Red lipstick adds the perfect pop of color while eye shadow applied in just the right places will make those baby blues sparkle! Watch how quickly and easily this transformation occurs! 

See this video on The Stir by CafeMom.

More from The Stir: Kids Answer the Questions About Santa You're Afraid to Ask (VIDEO)

Wow, it seems so effortless, which is just what you need during the whirlwind of the holiday season! So next time an invitation pops up in your inbox, don't panic! Just refer to this tutorial and get your glam on in no time!   

 

Image via cafemomstudios/YouTube

Mary-Kate Olsen's Wedding Band Is More Surprising Than Massive Engagement Ring

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Post by Michele Zipp.

mary-kate olsenMary-Kate Olsen's engagement ring from Olivier Sarkozy is a massive vintage Cartier with diamonds and sapphires. It's major. But we didn't know the looks of her wedding band until now. It's quite surprising.

MK's wedding band is just that -- a gold band. Quite the departure from the bling Sarkozy scored for her at a Sotheby's auction. That ring is a vintage 1953 4-carat diamond, European-cut -- it's also boasts 16 calibré-cut sapphires and 1.5 carats of diamonds around that big gem. It cost $81,250.

More from The Stir: Mary-Kate Olsen's Weird, Gigantic Engagement Ring Is Perfect for Her (PHOTO)

But whatever. Money like that isn't a big deal to a big money man like Sarkozy. Still, a simple wedding band is a bit unexpected. Unexpected isn't exactly an Olsen thing.

I think we can guess that the only thing Mary-Kate Olsen loves more than her twin sister Ashley and more than her husband Olivier Sarkozy is her bad habit. And in tune with that there were reportedly "bowls of cigarettes" at her wedding and everyone puffed away through the night. Yuck. But this simple wedding band news is a breath of fresh air. (Yeah, I said it.) And it does go with the Olsen's signature style. She isn't exactly a bold and busy print kind of person when it comes to fashion. Both Mary-Kate and Ashley stick to black, variants of cream and grey, and did I mention black? Always in style.

More from The Stir: Mary-Kate Olsen Marries Boyfriend Olivier Sarkozy in 'Intimate' Ceremony at Home

So it makes sense that her wedding band be exactly that -- something always in style, sometimes timeless, traditional yet on trend. MK was spotted wearing only that simple wedding band the other day ... while she was photographed outside -- you guessed it -- smoking a cigarette.

 

Image via Splash News

Giveaway: The Body Shop 24 Happy Days Advent Calendar

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Post by April Daniels Hussar.

'Tis the season ... for celebrating, for giving, and for making new memories with the special people in your lives. We want to share the joy of this time of year with YOU -- our fabulous readers -- so we're excited to announce The Stir's 12 Days of Giveaways!

And in a stroke of perfect timing, the new Tina Fey and Amy Poehler movie, Sisters, is opening this month, and we could not be more excited. We absolutely love those smart, funny women -- and we love that they're such good friends! So, we're considering this giveaway a sort of "12 days of sisters" celebration. Because we love the moms, best friends, women, and all the sisters in our lives -- and know you do too -- we wanted to give you the opportunity to win something for you and the special "Tina" or "Amy" in your life.

Every day from now until Christmas, we're going to offer TWO amazing prizes ... one for you, and one for you to give to the "sister" in your life, whether that's your best friend, your mom, your daughter, or -- yes -- your actual sister!

To kick things off, we've got two of these super fun, packed-with-goodies 24 Happy Days Advent Calendars from The Body Shop. Each "day" contains a Body Shop treat: items from its bestselling bath and body care, sparking fragrances, and glam beauty products. The total value of each calendar is $161.50 -- so you know it's well-stocked! Such a fun way to start off the new year!

Note: Our Amy and Tina dolls are NOT included in this giveaway. (We need them to keep us company in the office!)

To be entered in this giveaway, just tell us:

What's one of your funniest memories of the sister in your life?

The "Giveaway: The Body Shop 24 Happy Days Advent Calendar" starts on December 14, 2015, at 11:00 a.m. (ET) and ends at 11:59 p.m. (ET) on December 21, 2015 (the "Sweepstakes Period").

Enter by replying to this post with an appropriate comment* during the Sweepstakes Period. Limit one entry per day during the Sweepstakes Period. One (1) winner will be selected in a random drawing of all eligible entries on or around December 22, 2015, to receive two The Body Shop 24 Happy Days Advent Calendars.

Only entries from CafeMom members are eligible to win. Sign up for CafeMom here.

No Purchase Necessary. Open to US residents 18 years and older. Void where prohibited. Click here for the rest of the Official Rules.

*Your response may be included in an upcoming CafeMom feature.

 

Image via Anne Meadows, thebodyshop-usa.com

14 Crush-Worthy Styles in Velvet (PHOTOS)

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Post by Michele Zipp.

velvet styleThe 'it' look of the moment is all about velvet. It's plush and luxe and so very festive -- plus, the fabric will keep you warm and cozy. From sexy velvet dresses to even velvet underthings -- this collection of velvety goodies will have you dying to indulge.

Some of these items are pure velvet and exude a magical feel, even slightly witchy. Others are burnout or crushed velvet with the most darling of details. Velvet is instant elegance with a dash of mystery -- take a look at these 14 gorgeous velvet looks.

 

Images (clockwise from left) via freepeople.com; asos.com; urbanoutfitters.com; asos.com; anthropologie.com; freepeople.com

12 Pretty Beauty Products in 2016 Pantone Colors Rose Quartz and Serenity (PHOTOS)

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Post by April Daniels Hussar.

Pantone 2016 beauty

The Pantone Institute revealed their color picks for 2016, and they are gorgeous! The lovely shades, Rose Quartz and Serenity, are totally made for beauty products, and we've got 12 of the best ones right here.

Both shades are super easy to wear and universally flattering -- anyone with any skin tone or hair color can pull off some combination of the lovely products here. What a pretty way to start the new year!

 

Image via sephora.com; janeiredale.com; qvc.com; target.com

Women Claim Popular Beauty Product Triggers Hair Loss: What You Need to Know

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Post by Stephanie Booth.

female hair lossImagine a shampoo that not only promises to be sulfate-free, but also assures it can take the place of your daily conditioner, deep conditioner, and detangler. Sweet, right? Now let's say you splurge and buy a bottle, take it home, and use it -- and your hair starts falling out.

That's what 200 women are claiming about WEN hair products -- and they've joined together in a class action lawsuit against the beauty line.

Haven't heard of WEN? It's the brainchild of celebrity stylist Chaz Dean, known for tending to the magnificent manes of stars like Brooke Shields and Alyssa Milano. Apparently, WEN products have a cult following. And reportedly pulled in a cool $100 million last year alone.

But, apparently, some women are saying the product line is responsible for severe damage to their hair. We're not exaggerating when we say "severe." According to the lawsuit -- which includes 200 women from 40 states -- WEN products caused visible bald spots, scalp irritation, rashes, and hair breakage.

Writers at The Daily Beast got ahold of the actual legal docs and say that lawyers for the women allege that tens of thousands more women could be affected.

Exactly what is going on and why these poor women lost their hair is a mystery, though. Attorneys for the plaintiffs have allegedly sent samples of WEN to a lab to be tested. (We hope not on animals!) But no results are back yet.

More from The Stir: Risks of Using Dry Shampoo Will Make You Want to Wash Your Hair

Until then, the lawsuit is somewhat vague, alleging that WEN products contain "a caustic ingredient that causes a chemical reaction and damages hair and follicles." Plus "numerous harsh chemicals and known human allergens."

The plaintiffs' lead counsel has her theories. In a TV interview, she explained, "It's like using lotion to wash your hair ... Instead of removing the product ... it just becomes impacted in your hair follicle."

Which sounds gross. But harmful enough to cause such extreme hair damage?

Delphine J. Lee, MD, PhD, FAAD, director of the Dermatological Center for Skin Health at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, California, is skeptical. "I'm not aware of this product or any over-the-counter product that causes hair loss," she told The Stir. "There are many causes of hair loss, such as infections, autoimmune diseases, stress, medications, and genetic diseases."

WEN's parent company, Guthy-Renker, has entered into mediation with the women who filed the lawsuit. (In other words, they're trying to "work out their differences" without going to court.) Does that connote guilt on their part, though? Or just concern that they're being misjudged?

We don't know. But if you are experiencing any hair loss -- whether you're a WEN user or not -- "see a board-certified dermatologist so you can find out what's going on," advises Dr. Lee.

 

Image via iStock.com/travenian

Giveaway: OPI Starlight Collection Nail Polishes

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Post by Maressa Brown.

tina and amy with starlight collection'Tis the season ... for feeling festive, spending time with the special people in your life, and sharing the love. We want to experience the joy of this time of year with YOU -- our lovely readers -- so we're excited to celebrate with The Stir's 12 Days of Giveaways!

And to celebrate the premiere of Tina Fey and Amy Poehler's new flick Sisters, we're considering this giveaway a sort of "12 days of sisters" celebration -- offering you the opportunity to win TWO amazing prizes ... one for you, and one for you to give to the "sister" in your life, whether that's your best friend, your mom, your daughter, or -- yes -- your actual sister!

Today, we're giving away two sets of The Starlight Collection by OPI, a new collection of 18 limited-edition nail lacquers and GelColors (which each retail for $9.50 on Ulta.com). The luxe kit serves as an entire wardrobe -- or "constellation," if you will -- of sparkly, shimmery, glittery fun for your tips and toes!

Note: Our Amy and Tina dolls are NOT included in this giveaway. (We need them to keep us company in the office!)

tina and amy with starlight collection OPI

To be entered in this giveaway, just tell us:

What's the one thing you want your mom to know that you've never told her?

The "Giveaway: OPI Starlight Collection Nail Polishes" starts on December 15, 2015, at 12:00 p.m. (ET) and ends at 11:59 p.m. (ET) on December 22, 2015 (the "Sweepstakes Period").

Enter by replying to this post with an appropriate comment* during the Sweepstakes Period. Limit one entry per day during the Sweepstakes Period. One (1) winner will be selected in a random drawing of all eligible entries on or around December 23, 2015, to receive two OPI Starlight Collection Nail Polish sets.

Only entries from CafeMom members are eligible to win. Sign up for CafeMom here.

No Purchase Necessary. Open to US residents 18 years and older. Void where prohibited. Click here for the rest of the Official Rules.

*Your response may be included in an upcoming CafeMom feature.


Image via Anne Meadows, OPI.com


17 Hair Products and Accessories From the '80s You Couldn't Live Without (PHOTOS)

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Post by Laura Anastasia.

The recipe for great '80s hair? A crimping iron, a giant wrap hair bow, such as the one seen here on Madonna, and about eight gallons of hairspray — no, wait, better make that nine gallons. Back in the day, we liked our hair to be big, bold, and static, especially our gravity-defying bangs.

 

We spent so much time achieving our looks that '80s hair products and accessories are like our long-lost best friends. Sure, we haven't hung out with them in a while, but, man, do we share some totally awesome memories. Ready to revisit the best hair products and accessories your Caboodle had to offer? 

 

Image © Sunset Boulevard/Corbis

10 Fun and Festive Holiday Dresses for $100 or Less (PHOTOS)

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Post by Liz Alterman.

Holiday dresses for $100 or lessIf your inbox and mailbox are overflowing with invitations to holiday parties, you're probably freaking out about what to wear -- and how to put together the perfect ensemble without breaking the bank. We found 10 hot dresses, each priced at $100 or less, that will make you feel gorgeous and will leave you with enough cash to complete your holiday shopping. 

From the little black dress to those lovely seasonal reds and greens, you may find yourself adding a few extra frocks to your wish list! 

 

Images via macys.comhm.com, nordstrom.com, dressbarn.com, gap.com, urbanoutfitters.com

The 2015 Holiday Gift Guide: 14 Chic Picks for the Style Maven (PHOTOS)

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Post by Maressa Brown.

fashionista gift guideIf you have a lovely lady on your gift list who's perpetually pulled-together and effortlessly sophisticated, you know the struggle of finding them the perfect, on-trend gift is all too real. That's why we've scouted high and low for some of the most stylish options on racks and in apps. 

Here, 14 fashionable, covetable picks -- from stocking stuffers to oh-so-merry splurges -- for even the most style-savvy recipients. 

 

Images via rocksbox.com; nordstrom.com; macys.com; botkier.com; target.com; ringly.com

Everything You Need to Know to Get Glam Purple Hair (PHOTOS)

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Post by Kelly Bryant.

woman with purple hairIf you've ever even remotely considered dyeing your hair a bold, on-trend hue like purple, there's no better time to take the plunge than right now. With so many embracing the bright color trend, you'll be in good company with vibrant, violet locks.

Here, just a few of the glam ways to rock the color.

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#purplehair #purplehairdontcare #mommytime #metime #bitchplease #cheekie #ghost #bleach #neverboring #dirtythirty

A photo posted by Kimber Sheehan (@kimberlina.mae) on

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Dying my hair this color soon! Thanks @_iamenergy for helping with picking it. So many typles of purple but i LOVE this so much! #newimage #purplehair #heavenly

A photo posted by �Heavenly� (@__kandra) on

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If you're the DIY sort who wants to tackle this beauty project at home, there are definitely some things you should know before you crack open that color kit.

More from The Stir: Everything You Need to Know to Get Gorgeous Glitter Roots (PHOTOS)

Abbie Thompson, an Ion Color Brilliance Educator with Sally Beauty Supply, offers up some tips for nailing the perfect hue in the comfort of your own home (or anywhere, for that matter).

1. Lighten Up

First you have to consider whether or not you're willing to pre-lighten, which might be helpful if you have particularly dark hair. "Although it may not be a necessary step, it is most likely needed to have the ability to closest match the swatch's intensity," says Thompson. If you decided to go this route, try the Ion Color Brilliance Creme Lightener ($7.99, sallybeauty.com) or Wella Color Charm Powder Lightener Packet ($3.79, sallybeauty.com).

2. Prep School

Aside from lightening, you'll want to take into account the porosity of your hair (meaning its ability to absorb the color). To determine the porosity of your strands, feel it. If the texture is straw-like and rough, it could be overly porous and not the the healthiest time to lay color over it. You also want to keep a close eye on the processing time to ensure great color.

3. Purple Passion

There's a wide range of shades available in the purple family, so you have to choose the one that speaks most to you. Thompson loves Vidal Sassoon Pro Series Hair Color 3vr in Deep Velvet Violet ($10.49, amazon.com), Pravana ChromaSilk Vivids in Violet ($11.88, amazon.com), and Ion Color Brilliance Semi-Permanent Brights in Purple ($5.49, sallybeauty.com).

4. Go Time

You have your color kit, and you're ready to go, but Thompson has some advice to keep in mind. "Like all contemporary colors, the pre-lightened or natural level of the hair will directly impact the end result," she says. "We recommend lightening to a level 7 for Ion Brights Purple. At a level 7, there is a very strong gold tone remaining in the hair. If the hair is too dark, the finished result may not depict the swatch. If the hair is too light, the purple base may just act as a violet toner and cancel out any yellow in the hair, leaving an end result of brown. We highly recommend performing a test strand to ensure the hair is properly prepped for desired results!"

5. Rinse Cycle

When your processing time is up, Thompson recommends rinsing your hair in cool or cold water until it runs absolutely clear. Resist the urge to shampoo. Instead, use an after-color treatment that will help seal the cuticle, like Ion Color Brilliance After Color Treatment ($4.99, sallybeauty.com) or Pureology Zerosulfate Neutralizing Color Sealer ($6.45, amazon.com).

 

 

Image via rapideye/iStock.com

12 Gorgeous Winter White Pieces for Your Wardrobe (PHOTOS)

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Post by Michele Zipp.

winter whites styleThere is something so chic and yet cozy about a winter white. Whether the color is on plush sweaters, lace dresses, or in a chunky knit, winter white is a must in your wardrobe -- and we have some incredible selections.

While the color black will always be a wardrobe favorite, winter white is right up there with it. It's neutral and so on point -- we have no idea how that no-white-after-Labor-Day nonsense got started. When it comes to white in the winter, we love to break the rules. Here are some of our favorite winter white pieces.


Images (clockwise from top left) via freepeople.com; urbanoutfitters.com; shoptiques.com; forever21.com; anthropologie.com; modcloth.com; 

12 Wintry Blue Nail Polishes We're More Than a Little Obsessed With (PHOTOS)

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Post by Michele Zipp.

blue nail polishSomething blue -- that's what you'll want on your nails this season once you see this gorgeous selection of blue polishes. With these colors, we can redefine what it means to have the winter blues.

From velvety matte to a galaxy sparkle, these blues are really happiness painted on your nails. Some have an icy feel while others are more lush and warm, but all these blues will make your must-have manicure list.

 

Image via © iStock.com/baiajaku

11 Chic and Cozy Winter Coats You Can Actually Afford (PHOTOS)

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Post by April Daniels Hussar.

winter coats

There are many things not to love about winter, but one great thing about the cold season is ... cute winter clothes! If you're like me and really need to upgrade your warm -- but boring -- coat, check out these stylish and affordable picks.

Whether you're a faux fur kind of girl, want something more classic and timeless, or feel like trying the super cute new drapey / boxy trend, we've got something for you. The hard part will be choosing just one ... maybe one for you and one for Santa's list!

 

Images via forever21.com, zara.com, us.asos.com, hm.com, aeropostale.com


My Monthly Brazilian Wax Isn't for My Husband

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Post by Tanvier Peart.

woman bathrobe relaxing

People spend their money on things that make them happy. I happen to enjoy shedding a few coins on a treatment that brings great discomfort: waxing. Yes, I'm a mom of two. No, it's not a mandatory requirement for my marriage. I just happen to like them.

Have you ever tried one before?

I know it sounds crazy to talk about someone's "vagine," but here we are. Who knew something as personal as south of the border maintenance would be a topic for discussion. I didn't think it was that controversial, but maybe I'm wrong?

Since I'm being honest about my own "lady box," I figured it's important to set the record straight. I get a Brazilian bikini wax, that doesn't take everything off. Now one time, at band camp (haha, kidding), I was talking too much with a waxer, who was filling in for my regular gal. I didn't notice I was, erm ... a little bald until I got home.

More from The Stir: The Brazilian Bikini Wax -- Would You Dare?

Now that we're officially acquainted with each other (my blood type is O negative, by the way), let's keep chatting.

To me, I think personal grooming (nothing too crazy) is important. It's been close to a decade since I started my waxing journey, and I can't imagine ever doing anything else -- except maybe sugaring, and laser hair removal (I really love my new waxer, so I feel I can't leave her). Sure, I had an experience similar to The 40 Year Old Virgin when I first started, but I've since learned the importance of thoroughly trimming.

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Plus, things tend to work like clockwork the more you get waxed.

Oddly enough, I started waxing simply out of curiosity. Living in Baltimore, I wasn't exactly a beach bunny, where I had to worry about my tan and bikini line -- but did know a few ladies who did it on the regular.

I hated shaving, I hated those pesky razor bumps, and thus, welcomed the sticky alternative. I was sold on the fact that I didn't have to do any vaginal grooming for 4 to 6 weeks.

That in itself deserves a hand-clap of praise.

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Sure, it's a little odd when you first meet your waxing professional. It's hard to transition from, "How's your day going?" to, "Please don't judge my labia," but you'll survive! Actually, I became pretty close with one of my estheticians before I left the east coast. Not only did we take pole fitness classes together (is that weird? It's actually great exercise, but we can talk about that another day), but she did my entire wedding party's makeup on my special day. See, you never know the connections you'll make in life (saved me money too).

When I first met my husband (well, not the first time), he thought I actually waxed for him, hahaha. So cute, but sorry, the answer is no. Don't get me wrong, I love him -- and try (we both do) to keep things spicy in our relationship, but waxing is a personal thing I do for myself ... and if he happens to enjoy the fruits of my hair removal, that's great.

Eight years (almost four married) and two little boys later, some girlfriends of mine still scratch their heads at why I continue. I think, if you have funds in your monthly budget (diapers are no joke), it might be worth making a priority. After all, you don't want to go back to razor days if you're used to waxing. Trust me. I've also tried to save money with those diy wax kits. Let's just say I'm not savvy in that department. Plus, my new esthetician happens to be a fellow mom with her own waxing business. My cooch is literally helping her live her dreams (I'm all about the entrepreneurial endeavors).

More from The Stir: Make Your Own Wax...For Hair Removal

As far as time goes, most sessions only take 15, maybe 20 minutes, so it's not like you can't carry on with your day. Aside from finding someone to watch your kiddo, a wax session can still be manageable in a mom's life.

"Isn't that selfish to spend that much money on your vagina, now that you're a mom?" one of my friends asked me. My response is, why not? You do so for your hair and nails, and those don't personally benefit your child. Is waxing really that different?

In fact, I don't see anything wrong with moms wanting to steal a few minutes for themselves each month to enjoy something that doesn't involve their kid -- wine included.

It doesn't make you selfish at all.

Waxing, however, can make you feel like Beyoncé. Now, I don't know if she uses honey from her "Bey hive" (silly joke, sorry) to wax -- but girl, I feel like a million bucks after my monthly appointment.

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...Then I remind myself I need to drive home, and come back to reality.

In the grand scheme of things, $50 a month (thank goodness for Oklahoma prices, y'all!) isn't any different from what you would pay to get your toes painted, or hair done weekly or bi-weekly at the salon. In some cases, you might find it's actually cheaper -- even though it won't be on display for the world to see.

And it can last for over a month? Child ... that can save you awkward run-ins with your kid, should he or she happen to bum-rush the bathroom, while you're trying to shave your vagina.

If you want to wax, power to ya. If you don't, power to ya. All I can tell you, is that this mama is a waxer, and unashamed.

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Image via Blend Images/shutterstock

15 Fabulous and Essential Winter Sweaters (PHOTOS)

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Post by Michele Zipp.

winter sweaters

Nothing beats a cozy yet stylish sweater when the temperatures start dropping. And this collection has all your essentials to keep you warm -- from cropped to oversized and colorful to the softest hues.

These 15 must-have sweaters will turn your basic jeans and boots combo into a super stylish look, and they will also dress up leggings and allow you to wear your favorite short sleeve outfits with added warmth all through the season. You'll love the textures, open knit, fringe, and asymmetrical hem features of these must-have sweaters.

 

Images (clockwise from top left) via hm.com; bananarepublic.com; hm.com; anthropologie.com; freepeople.com; anthropologie.com; leilashams.com

5 Do's and Don'ts of Keeping Your Nails Looking On-Point

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Post by Lauren Brown.

getting a red manicureOur nails can be our calling card. There's just something about sporting well-manicured, freshly-polished nails that help us feel our very best. But are you taking care of your nails as well as you should be?

From basic, everyday activities to manicure habits we never think twice about, you may be shocked at the ordinary things that are doing some real damage to your nails.

Joshua Zeichner, MD, Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, shared five things you need to stop doing immediately if you want your nails to always be on-point.

1. DON'T: Cut your cuticles too much. "Cuticles protect the base of the nails, where the nail is made," Dr. Zeichner notes. "Cutting away cuticles expsose that area to potential infectious organisms." 

DO:Push them back -- always!

More from The Stir: 8 Beautiful, Natural Nail Polishes Without the Worst Chemicals

2. DON'T: Clean out the underside of your nail too abrasively. "Trauma can lead to separation of the nail from the finger," Dr. Zeichner says. "This allows yeast to grow under the nail, preventing the nail from reattaching. This is known as onycholysis."

DO:Be careful about cleaning, especially while using an instrument that can separate the nail from the nail bed.

3. DON'T: Bite hangnails. Never use your teeth -- no matter how tempted you are to get rid of that sucker in a pinch.

DO: "Cut it with a sterilized cuticle scissor, and apply an antibiotic ointment like bacitracin," Dr. Zeichner explains. "Infections of the cuticle and soft tissue around it is known as a paronychia and can lead to permanent nail deformity."

More from The Stir: 12 Wintry Blue Nail Polishes We're More Than a Little Obsessed With (PHOTOS)

4. DON'T: Overexpose your nails to water. "Whether it is from household cleaning, handwashing, or doing the dishes -- excess exposure to water can dry out not only your skin but also your nails," Dr. Zeichner says. "Dry nails are brittle, easily breakable, and can peel at the tips."

DO:Protect your hands. Use gloves when you are doing the dishes, and always moisturize both hands and nails after you feel they've spent a bit too much time under water.

5. DON'T: Get artificial nails. "The glue from fake nails can causes damage to the nails themselves," Dr. Zeichner shares. "While they can provide a protective barrier to the nail when they're on, when they're taken off it causes damage to your nails themselves."

DO: Own your own tips. Take care of your nails and get them manicured regularly if you desire a well-groomed look.

 

Image via sirastock/iStock.com

The 2015 Holiday Gift Guide: 12 Glam Picks for the Beauty Junkie (PHOTOS)

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Post by Maressa Brown.


We all know and love those beauty junkies in our lives. The ones who would gleefully wait in line overnight outside of Sephora for the new Urban Decay Naked palette. The ones who would never be caught without their HG (that's holy grail for the uninitiated) lipstick.

Clearly, these glamazons have some very pretty wishes this holiday season. And that's why we've rounded up 12 of the most coveted options out there for the recipient who believes there's no such thing as too many beauty products in her shimmery arsenal.

 

Images via Kerastase; Sephora; Beauty Counter; Urban Decay; Walmart

11 Best Body Lotions to Keep Winter From Wrecking Your Skin (PHOTOS)

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Post by Caroline Olney.

best body lotions for winter 2015When we're talking about snowflakes and glowy lights, we love winter. It's the best. But when December hits and we remember the way icy winds desecrate our skin, we start thinking twice. It's a good thing, then, that there are so many fantastic body lotions ready to sweep in and save our struggling relationship with winter, because we really want the two of us to get along.

There are SO many lotions floating around that it gets tricky to pick out the good from the greasy. To help, we picked out our favorite lotions from across price points. We promise they'll all save you from sporting scorched desert-like skin this season.

 

Images via skinceuticals.com; kiehls.com; nyrorganic.com; lushusa.com; josiemarancosmetics.com; jason-personalcare.com

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