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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

Giveaway: Gorgeous Italian Leather Patrica Nash Crossbody Bags

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Post by April Daniels Hussar.

Patricia Nash leather bags giveawayIt's the holiday season! The time of year for feeling festive, spending time with the special people in your life, and spreading good cheer.  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 movie, 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!

Patricia Nash leather bags giveaway

Check out yesterday's giveaway! OPI Starlight Collection Nail Polishes

Today, we're giving away two Patricia Nash "Stipes Sling" Bags (which each retail for $129 on patricianashdesigns.com). Made with beautiful Italian leather, and featuring hand-stitching and exquisite embossing, these super-chic bags will carry everything you need in style.

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 thing your best friend, sister, or mom ALWAYS has in her bag?

The "Giveaway: Gorgeous Italian Leather Patrica Nash Crossbody Bags" starts on December 16, 2015, at 12:00 p.m. (ET) and ends at 11:59 p.m. (ET) on December 23, 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 24, 2015, to receive two Italian Leather Patrica Nash Crossbody Bags.

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

How to Get the Perfect Holiday Hairstyle: The Infinity Braid Updo (PHOTOS)

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Post by Michele Zipp.

infinity braid updoBraids are the perfect style for the holidays, but it's easy to feel like like your braiding game isn't Princess Leia–strong enough to master certain styles. One look that's much easier than it appears: this infinity braid! You can take your basic braiding skills and create this beautiful braided bun look.

Here's how.

Roxie Jane Hunt of Latest-Hairstyles.com said that if you don't have medium to long hair, some extensions can help you get this look. Perfect! It's so pretty and certainly seems complicated to achieve, but these simple steps with helpful photos will help you master the look. 

You will need: 3 small elastics, bobby pins, hairspray (optional).

1. Section your hair into threes -- two small side sections and one large section down the middle. French braid one of the side sections. 

infinity braid

More from The Stir: What You Need to Know About the Whimsical Fluid Hair Painting Trend (PHOTOS)

2. Create a basic three-strand braid on the remaining side section and larger middle section. Secure all braids with a small elastic. 

braid how to

3. Starting with your center braid, wrap it loosely into a bun. 

step by step braid

4. Use bobby pins around the bun to secure it in place. 

braid tutorial

More from The Stir: How to Get the Perfect Party Hairstyle: The Stacked Topsy Tail Braid (PHOTOS)

5.Take the French braided section and wrap it under and around the middle bun. Pin into place. 

braid

6. Finally, take the remaining smaller side braid and wrap it over and around your middle bun. Pin that braid into place and spray the entire look with a hairspray of your choice.

braiding hair

Stunning!

side braid

This look isn't just for holiday parties, of course. It's great for every day to keep your hair away from your face -- and protect it from those inevitable knots that those with long hair get when wearing bulky sweaters and coats. Plus, imagine the pretty mermaid waves you'll have once you take the braids out. Gorgeous!

 

Image courtesy Roxie Jane Hunt for Latest-Hairstyles.com

15 Holiday Lingerie Sets Gone Hilariously Wild (PHOTOS)

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Post by Laura Elizabeth Hernandez.

Many of us wouldn't associate holiday time with sexy time, what with all the turkey and Christmas cookies we're busy scarfing down. But then again, the deadly combination of eggnog and mistletoe has been known to lead to dirty deeds. For such occasions, there is holiday-themed lingerie, in all its tinseled, candy-cane thonged, fishnetted, unintentionally funny, naughty-Claus glory.

Here are 15 over-the-top lingerie sets putting the X in Xmas and a laugh in your belly.

 

Image via Amazon 

What to Wear on New Year's Eve (PHOTOS)

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Post by Elaine Yu.

what to wear new year's eve

Before we start thinking about our resolutions for 2016 and all the things we want to update for the new year, we have one last party to attend -- New Year’s Eve! It’s the single most fun night of the year, so let’s get your outfit ready and ring in 2016 with some serious style.

New Year's Eve is the night to bring out your glamour. Don’t be shy! I’ve selected two similar long black sequined gowns -- one budget friendly and one splurge worthy -- paired with metallic shoes for our final celebration of 2015. My favorite part of these outfits are the handbags: one says “PARTY" and the other one’s shaped like a champagne bottle, making your outfit extra festive! Since the dresses are embellished with sequins, our jewelry is kept understated with a pair of simple stud earrings. Since we know there will be lots of photos taken, let’s remember the all-important photo booth props to add extra fun to our selfies.

New Year’s Eve, Budget Friendly

If you’re in the mood for a sexy outfit to wear on New Year’s Eve, I’ve got the perfect dress for you. This long sequined dress from H&M has a low-cut back and a high slit in the front. The gold platform strappy sandals by Adrianna Papell and handbag by ALDO go perfectly with the outfit. Since the dress is already embellished, the Daisy Cluster Stud earrings are a simple addition. Finally, let’s add some Happy New Year tiaras to wear for all those photo opportunities.

what to wear new year's eve

Shown above (clockwise from top left): Long Sequined Dress ($79.99, hm.com); Daisy Cluster Studs ($4.90, forever21.com); Happy New Year Bright Tiaras ($9.99 for 24, orientaltrading.com); ALDO Caponago Handbag in White ($50, zappos.com) Adrianna Papell Aiden Sandals in Platino Foil Sleek ($99, zappos.com).

New Year’s Eve, Splurge Worthy

This ASOS dress says sexy all around! It has a racer-cut style, an open back with criss-cross detail, and a slit in the back. The rose gold sandals by Badgley Mischka are just sparkly enough and complement the dress. Make sure you take a look at the Champagne Bottle Clutch by Kate Spade; you’re going to fall in love with it. It is one of the cutest bags I’ve seen and it’s perfect for this occasion. What other accessories will you need? Just these stud earrings in rose gold by Bauble Bar. Photo booth pictures are extra fun with some props, so be sure to check out my selection from Amazon.

what to wear new year's eve

Shown above (clockwise from top left): ASOS Petrol Iridescent Low Back Midi Dress ($170.19, asos.com); Badgley Mischka Signify Metallic High Heel Sandals in Rose Gold ($195, bloomingdales.com); Photo Booth Props ($19.99, amazon.com); Kate Spade New York Champagne Bottle Clutch ($378, shopbop.com); Ice Disc Studs ($24, baublebar.com).

I hope you have a fun, safe, and memorable New Year’s! Happy 2016.

 

Images (clockwise from top left) via forever21.com; asos.com; zappos.com; bloomingdales.com; orientaltrading.com

Giveaway: CHI Escape Cordless Curling Iron

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Post by Sheri Reed.

chi cordless ironMerry holiday season! We're celebrating this wonderful season of giving with YOU -- our lovely readers -- with The Stir's 12 Days of Giveaways! Check out what we're giving away today!

In celebration of the upcoming premiere of Tina Fey and Amy Poehler's new movie, Sisters, we're considering this giveaway a sisterly 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 CHI Escape Cordless Curling Irons (which each retail for $109.98 on farouk.com). This is a battery-operated cordless iron with a 1" barrel, making it compact and portable! Perfect for rolling out some curl action after the gym or before an after-work cocktail party. Car and wall charger included. And of course, this iron features CHI Ceramic technology, which provides even heat distribution, locking in moisture and creating smooth curls and waves. 

chi cordless curling iron

Check out yesterday's giveaway! Giveaway: Gorgeous Italian Leather Patrica Nash Crossbody Bags

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 answer this question in the comments:

What's the one quality your best friend or sister has that you wish you could steal?

The "Giveaway: CHI Escape Cordless Curling Iron" starts on December 17, 2015, at 12:00 p.m. (ET) and ends at 11:59 p.m. (ET) on December 24, 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 26, 2015, to receive two CHI Escape Cordless Curling Irons.

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

17 Embarrassing '80s Fashion Trends That Probably Shouldn't Come Back (PHOTOS)

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Post by Laura Anastasia.

Ah, the 1980s. The decade that gave us The Breakfast Club, Miami Vice, and A-ha's "Take on Me." Not everything that came out of the '80s ended up a classic, however. In fact, we can think of more than a few fashion trends from the neon-filled decade that we hope never resurface. Yes, headbands worn over mullets, we're talking about you. 

The '80s offered bold, brightly colored fashions that didn't all withstand the test of time. Here's a look at some of those oh-so-fashionable trends you will probably never want to rock again. 

 

 

Image via Yann Arthus-Bertrand/Corbis


Giveaway: Sephora Collection Swag

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Post by Maressa Brown.

sephora swagHappy holidays! We're celebrating this joyful season of giving with YOU -- our fabulous readers -- with The Stir's 12 Days of Giveaways! And have we got a treat for you today!

In celebration of the upcoming premiere of Tina Fey and Amy Poehler's new movie, Sisters, we're considering this giveaway a sisterly 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 bundles of swag from Sephora featuring the limited-edition Formula X Bottle Service Set (which retails for $36.50 and includes 10 mini nail polishes in bestselling bold and neutral colors), limited-edition SEPHORA COLLECTION Color Around the World: 4 Eye & Face Palettes (retails for $28), limited-edition SEPHORA COLLECTION KAREN WALKER Amber Craft: Mirror Compact (retails for $48), SEPHORA COLLECTION Ultra Shine Lip Gels in Pretty Princess and Good Fairy (retail for $14 each), and a limited-edition SEPHORA COLLECTION Holiday Phrase Makeup Bag with beautiful rose gold details (retails for $11). 

Uh, whoa, right? We KNOW!

tina and amy with sephora swag giveaway

Check out yesterday's giveaway! Giveaway: CHI Escape Cordless Curling Iron

tina and amy with sephora swag giveaway 3 

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 answer this question in the comments:

What's the "guilty pleasure" -- from grabbing a pint of rocky road to cruising the aisles of Sephora -- that you and your sister or BFF both do when you're stressed out?

The "Giveaway: Sephora Collection Swag" starts on December 18, 2015, at 12:00 p.m. (ET) and ends at 11:59 p.m. (ET) on December 25, 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 27, 2015, to receive two Sephora Collection Swag bundles.

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.


Images via Anne Meadows

How to Know If Your Beauty Products Could Cause Hair Loss

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Post by Stephanie Booth.

hair coming out in chunks on a combRemember we told you how 200 women have filed a class action lawsuit against the WEN hair care line, saying that using the products caused severe (and, honestly, pretty heartbreaking) hair loss? Well, the case just got a lot more serious, and whether you use the WEN line or not, you should still be cautious.

For starters, the allegations against WEN seem far more serious than initial reports show. Yes, only 200 women are part of the lawsuit. ("Only.")

But the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a nonprofit committed to protecting human health and the environment, is investigating the claims. And according to the court documents they've seen, 17,000 women have filed complaints with Guthy-Renker, the marketing firm behind the supposedly all-natural shampoo/conditioner. (As well as the skin care juggernaut ProActiv.)

17,000!

And these women didn't just call and say, "Hey, I don't really like this shampoo." They allegedly each took the time to fill out a lengthy 25-question survey, detailing their horrific experiences.

But here's the (even more) disturbing part. Under current federal regulations, Guthy-Renker didn't have to alert the Food and Drug Administration to these complaints. (And didn't.)

In fact, the law that regulates hair care products is so woefully outdated (as in mostly unchanged since 1938), NO personal care product is required to be tested before it hits the shelves and you use it on your hair.

Are we the only ones who find that frightening?

We have no idea what chemicals -- and potential toxins or allergens -- we're lathering into our hair every day. Or what havoc it could wreak.

More from The Stir: 5 Chemical-Free Beauty Brands You Should Own Instead of Those Toxic Ones

So what the heck's in WEN products that's causing such widespread hair loss? "At this time, we don't know," says Johanna Congleton, MSPH, PhD, a senior scientists with EWG. "What's more troubling is the FDA doesn't know."

You may be thinking, "Whew! I don't use WEN -- dodged that bullet." But, well, maybe not.

Some hair care products could STILL be a bad choice for your health.

"Some of the ingredients -- particularly fragrance components -- used in shampoos and personal care products are potent sensitizers, meaning they can cause allergies in otherwise healthy people," Congleton says. "These reactions can be severe."

The FDA doesn't require companies to disclose what chemicals are in their fragrance mix, so if you see the words "fragrance" on the back of a bottle, proceed with caution.

Dark, permanent hair dyes and chemical hair straighteners should also be on your "do not buy" list. Both are chock-full of dangerous chemicals, some of which have been linked to cancer.

So what is safe to use on your hair? You can check out EWG's SkinDeep cosmetic database, which rates products according to safety. Or maybe now's the time to start playing it super-safe and thinking about simply making your own shampoo.

 

 

Image via PANORAMe/Shutterstock

Alyssa Milano Gets Bold New Pixie Haircut (PHOTOS)

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Post by Michele Zipp.

alyssa milanoA 43-year-old mom of two cut her hair really short and that mom happens to be Alyssa Milano who debuted her pixie cut with some sassy pics on Instagram. It's an incredibly adorable look and quite daring since her hair before the chop was very long.

Alyssa has gone this short before but it was way back in early 2000s.

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Short hair don't care.

A photo posted by Alyssa Milano (@milano_alyssa) on

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My glam squad, but most importantly, my sweet friends. I love you @scottpatric and @linhhair.

A photo posted by Alyssa Milano (@milano_alyssa) on

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More from The Stir: 17 Celebrities Who Were Bold Enough to Chop Off Their Hair (PHOTOS)

It's clear she can do just about anything with her locks and it works for her. I love how tousled it is and the color is so warm and pretty -- looks like a little bit of caramel in there. Dare I say it's a little Victoria Beckham, who is always fabulous and gorgeous. 

Let's also take a moment to remember Alyssa's motto that she shared earlier this year. She said, "I just try to be kind to myself" when talking about losing pregnancy weight. And I think that's a motto she still lives by and we should all heed. Be kind to yourself, everyone. And also, take time for yourself. Get that haircut you've been wanting, splurge on a spa day or a pedicure, make time to read that book in your favorite spot, compliment yourself when you look in the mirror, take good care of yourself. 

More from The Stir: Alyssa Milano's Breastfeeding-as-Wonder-Woman Pic Is the Kind of Support All Moms Need (PHOTO)

That inner beauty shines right through Alyssa, a woman who has already shown her superhero status with that gorgeous photo of herself breastfeeding while dressed as Wonder Woman. All mothers are superheroes. And all mothers deserve to be kind to themselves. And to each other.

The new 'do is lovely, Alyssa, just like you.

 

Image via Johns PKI/Splash News

12 Sparkly, Must-Have New Year's Eve Accessories (PHOTOS)

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Post by Michele Zipp.

sparkly New Year's Eve accessoriesEveryone loves a good accessory -- but on New Year's Eve, you want those extras to be a little more glittery and shiny. And in that spirit, here is a collection of some sparkly must-haves.

Let's say you've decided to wear that little black dress, but you need something exciting to add to it. It's here. Maybe you just want a statement necklace full of shine. It's here, too. From head to toe, there is something in this collection just for you.

 

Images (clockwise from top left) via lulus.com; hm.com; pixiemarket.com; localeclectic.com; modcloth.com 

Giveaway: Kiehl's Healthy Skin Essentials Every Night Set

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Post by Sheri Reed.

Kiehl'sHappy holidays! We're celebrating this merry season of giving with YOU -- our lovely readers -- with The Stir's 12 Days of Giveaways! Check out what we're giving away today!

In celebration of Tina Fey and Amy Poehler's new movie, Sisters, we're considering this giveaway a sisterly 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 Kiehl's Healthy Skin Essentials Every Night - Limited Edition Costello & Tagliapietra Sets (which each retail for $76 on kiehls.com). Each set contains: Midnight Recovery Concentrate (1.0 oz), Midnight Recovery Eye (0.5 oz), Powerful Strength Line Reducing Concentrate (.17oz), Powerful Wrinkle Reducing Cream (.24 oz) in an exclusive canvas Kiehl’s travel bag.

Kiehl's

Check out yesterday's giveaway! Giveaway: Ultra Cozy Coyuchi Organic Chenille Throws

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 answer this question in the comments:

What's the one type of beauty product you can't live without?

The "Giveaway: Kiehl's Healthy Skin Essentials Every Night Set" starts on December 21, 2015, at 12:00 p.m. (ET) and ends at 11:59 p.m. (ET) on December 28, 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 28, 2015, to receive two Kiehl's Healthy Skin Essentials Every Night 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

15 Gorgeous New Year's Eve Dresses Under $150 (PHOTOS)

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Post by Michele Zipp.

New Year's Eve is the perfect time to dress up -- to go all out and dare to wear an unforgettable dress. Whether you love sparkling sequins or gorgeous prints, body-hugging gowns or free-flowing dresses, there's a dress to ring in 2016 here for you.

While they are all different, these dresses are all show-stoppers, head-turners, the kind of dress you'll feel incredible in. And they are all at prices that won't break the bank -- everything is under $150 ... some under $40. All breathtakingly gorgeous.

 

Images (clockwise from left) via lulus.com; forever21.com; freepeople.com; pixiemarket.com; asos.com; urbandoutfitters.com; lulus.com; charlotterusse.com

Stunning Bridal Ads Feature a Size-14 Model -- About Time! (PHOTOS)

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Post by Stephanie Booth.

david's bridal spring ad campaignIt's almost the start of wedding season! (Isn't it always?) As we're still knocking back eggnog and wrapping presents, it's kind of hard to care. But, one company's figured out a way to grab our attention, whether we're tying the knot in six months or not. David's Bridal's new ad campaign features a plus-sized model.

A gorgeous, curvy woman in a wedding dress shouldn't be surprising news. But it is! For all the body positivity in the world today, many designers still like their models unrealistically tall and toothpick thin.

Not David's Bridal. For the 2016 spring ad campaign, some brilliant peeps decided to showcase a model who's the same size as their average customer.

That would not be 00. Or 2. Or 4. Or 6. Or even 10. It's 14.

The lucky "bride" in the shots is Mercy Watson, a beautiful Australian model, who recently shared her thoughts on the campaign on her Facebook page:

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Had an amazing time with @davidsbridal Shooting their Spring 2016 campaign in London Town. I'm so proud to be working...

Posted by Mercy Watson on Thursday, December 17, 2015
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And she's not the only one excited about the campaign. Twitter's awash with enthusiasm. Check out the reaction on social media:

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Oooh. Yes! More of this please in 2016! Lovely to see average size women acknowledged https://t.co/RiKtihGhWM bravo @davidsbridal

— Nu Bride (@Nu_Bride) December 16, 2015
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Kudos to @davidsbridal London for using plus size Aussie model Mercy Watson in their ad campaign: https://t.co/ANjOyOuAOE

— Save Your Sole (@saveyoursole) December 21, 2015
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.@DavidsBridal cast an "average" sized bride for their latest ad campaign, and the photos are stunning: https://t.co/mQq9nIjyoX

— Glamour (@glamourmag) December 18, 2015
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More from The Stir: New Plus-Sized Lingerie Campaign Isn't Really Body Positive

Check out more of the glorious pics.

david's bridal spring ad campaign

 

david's bridal spring ad campaign

 

david's bridal spring ad campaign

 

david's bridal spring ad campaign 

Sniff. Just like weddings, ad campaigns like this one always make us cry -- with joy.

 

Images courtesy of David's Bridal


14 Celebs Who Went Gray on Purpose and Look Amazing (PHOTOS)

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Post by Margeaux Baulch Klein.

Gray hair isn't just for grannies anymore. While older women have long covered up their grays, young Hollywood starlets are embracing the color, making it cool to have a silver or gunmetal tint to your locks.

Click through for a peek at 14 celebrities who make gray hair look glamorous. Which is your favorite?

 

Image via LAN/Corbis

11 Best Face Creams to Keep Your Skin Happy All Winter Long (PHOTOS)

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Post by Caroline Olney.

Faces are always the hardest to keep happy in terms of hydrated skin that's not shiny or oily or acne-y. In the winter the challenge becomes even greater as skin gets drier and lotions get heavier, but that doesn't mean there's not a perfect solution out there waiting for your skin. 

Everybody's face needs something different, so we picked out our favorite face creams from all across the board, sharing all the reasons to love 'em.

 

Images via lancome-usa.comulta.comusa.paiskincare.comkiehls.combarneys.comusa.loccitane.com

17 Embarrassing Fashion and Style Trends From The '90s (PHOTOS)

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Post by Laura Anastasia.

We loved the '90s -- well, almost all of the '90s. The decade had plenty of hits fashion-wise, but also more than its fair share of misses. After all, the '90s gave us Kris Kross' backwards jeans and mini backpack purses. They seemed cool at the time, so we felt totally awesome in our '90s gear, but looking back -- yikes!

 

Here's a peek at the most embarrassing trends to rule the runways, middle schools, and everywhere in between more than two decades ago.  

 

Image via Ethan Miller/Corbis

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

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