Archana Dhankar, Author at FashionForRoyals

Where To Wear Maxi Dresses

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Maxi dresses look so damn gorgeous! Do you not feel the same way? I just love the way they lend a flattering shape to our bodies, with the hemline gently swaying around our legs. Many women associate long dresses with formal occasions. To look stylish in maxi dresses without appearing clumsy is solely dependent on how we style it. Also some research is required for selecting the right style for your body type and height. And then with the right accessories, you can go from sleek and classy to trendy and chic in minutes. The good thing about them is that they can be accessorized in many different ways. You can accentuate your dress with a scarf or a belt or even a statement neck-piece. You can also pair it with a matching bag. Maxi dresses can be worn by all. In fact they have grown from a hot new item to wardrobe must haves for every woman. The petite ladies just need to be a little cautious while selecting the latest dress design else they might end up brushing the floor with their long dresses.

Not only in the Indian but the international fashion circuit has also favored the latest dress designs hugely. No wonder these dresses have created a sizeable impact everywhere. Celebrities are donning the dress and popularizing it in award functions, media releases, and red carpets. The longer and more flowing your dress is the more it adds to the feminine charm. Celebrities are also experimenting with various prints and bold colors. For the adventurous souls, the latest dress designs also include animal prints. However, as the thinking woman goes, we should not go by fashion trends blindly. That is to say, what looks good on a film actress may not necessarily make us look flattering. We should make sure that we do not look like a tent by wearing a maxi dress.

A popular question in mind is where to wear a maxi dress. I have seen girls wearing them at friendly gatherings. Some days ago I went to a pub where again I saw a group of young students wearing the long dresses. They sure looked hip in them. Another time when I was at the super market doing my groceries, I found this woman who was looking so cool and casual, running around with the trolley in a maxi dress. And believe me she was not looking out of place or inappropriate in the least bit! I have worn a maxi dress to a relative’s house once, where the ladies all started gushing about how comfortable I must be feeling and all.

It is a general observation that these maxi dresses are mostly to be seen in the casual gatherings, or dressy evenings. However, there is something called casual business dressing which is related to work place fashion. It includes team lunches or dinners, Friday dressing, special office events, trips and the likes of it. We can actually make the maxi dress look very smart and suitable with a little bit of ideas thought out. Maxi dresses can actually be worn at office parties and people have seen women wearing long dresses at work place. Well, definitely not the flowy flared ones, but the ones which are more fitted and have a formal air about them. But nevertheless, it goes without saying that office wear demands conservative dressing so maxi dresses do look out of place there.

Even if you dare to wear it to office, check out the latest dress designs and prints available at StalkBuyLove. Maybe you can go for the conservative cut or a classic print pattern or stripes or even a solid color for the maxi dress that you plan to wear at your work place. But be watchful of the colors you wear. For, a tangerine formal top with pants may look gorgeous and smart at office, but at the same time a tangerine maxi dress at work place! Well, that is not at all advisable. Also for the prints, make sure that they do not make you look like straight out of a rock concert! 114Three and quarter sleeves and simple necklines can add to the formal look of a dress. Another way to wear a maxi dress smartly is to throw a formal shirt over your dress and accessorize with a belt to make it look formal and decent. Team it with your formal shoes and not the casual beach style flip flops.

StalkBuyLove, your go-to shop for all fashion items, houses all the latest dress designs in their store. You can visit them and check out for yourself all the possible smart combinations that are there on offer, but of course after applying your own judgment.

Cat Eyeliner Stencils – Your Easy Guide For Eye Makeup

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Modern women of today’s era are beauty perfectionists who crave for a glamorous look that is not only timeless but effortless and time saving! Be it a 9 a.m to 5 p.m commitment or a day out with your bundle of joy, women are always on the go with very little time to focus on themselves let alone how they look. Nevertheless, beauty giants and renowned makeup artists have put down their heads together to come up with not only smarter and less time consuming makeup techniques but also certain tools that not only make application smoother but effective every time.

If you are an eye makeup junkie, you would have perfected your cat eyeliner by now with flying colors but if you are a beginner new to the world of eye makeup then cat eyeliner can be a little tricky. Cat eyeliner gives the illusion of a larger eye that not only looks elegant but gives off a chic and an appealing look. Mastering the art of cat eyeliner may seem intimidating to few but with the right tools and guidance it can be a piece of cake!

Companies like Beth Bender Beauty have come up with cat eye stencils that can work wonders for beginners. The Original Cat Eyeliner Stencil & Smoky Eye Makeup Stencils set in particular claims to create top liner, cat eyeliner, cat eye makeup and winged eyeliner! Quite a claim there! Renowned beauty magazines and websites like Seventeen magazines, Cosmopolitan and Teen Vogue have given their stamp of approval and stressed the importance of having one in your makeup stash. Sounds tempting? Let hop on the eye-liner-stencil-bandwagon and see for ourselves how we can create a glam eye look using these simple steps below.

Step 1: Using the Eye brow Kit the pigmented brow wax to define and shape the brows with an angled brush for precise lines and use the brow powder to set in the color. We want our eyebrows to be on point this season.

Step 2: After prepping your brows, apply a small amount of Eye shadow Primer to the eyelids and blend in. This will act as an eye shadow base and help prevent the transfer or creasing of eye shadow and keep it in place.

Step 3: In order to create a nude eye we will be using the Need It Nude Eye Shadow Palette. Sweep a light color all over the eyelids. Now placing the Smokey Eye side on top of the eyelid we will use an eye shadow brush to apply a layer of metallic bronze color inside the space left by the stencil. Lift up the stencil and you have the perfect lid color.

Step 4: Use a blending brush to get rid of any harsh lines.

Step 5: Using another clean shader brush add a medium brown color in the crease in C shape to create a gradient. Now add a comparatively darker shade of the same hue in the crease and extend it outwards to give the big eye illusion. Again take a clean blending brush and fuse the three shades together for a flawless and super sexy look.

Step 6: Now using an eyeliner Pencil in Coffee Brown we will line our upper and lower waterlines. This step adds definition to your lashes.

Step 7: Now place the “Cat Eyeliner” side of the stencil on top of the eye. This gives you the space which needs to be filled in order to create the perfect cat eye. Using the Liquid Eyeliner Pen fill in the space with the product and make sure not to go outside the area of the stencil.

Step 8: Take the other stencil and place the “Bottom line” side just below the lower waterline and fill in the space with the eyeliner. Lift it up and join the lower eyeliner with the wing for a synchronized look. Use a kohl pencil if you like matte cat flicks and layer it on top of the liquid eyeliner patterns drawn with the help of the stencils.

Step 9: Take a lighter shade from the eye shadow palette and apply in the inner corners of the eyes and on top of the brow bones. This step will brighten up your whole look.

Step 10: Use 2-3 coats of 3 in 1 Mascara on your upper and lower lashes for a false lash effect. A pair of false lashes can also be used if you want excessive drama to your look. This is an optional step and can be skipped if you are going for a lesser dramatic look.

Step 11: Use a makeup setting spray to lock in the look and you are good to go.

Useful Tips:

These stencils have proved to be a life-saver for most of us but with the help of some useful tip we can extend the use of these stencils and get professional results every time!

Tip A: Avoid using kohl pencils to fill in the gap for the cat eyeliner. Kohl pencils have creamier textures and they might add layers of products around the circumference of the stencil. This will not only waste the product but also make the application of the liner comparatively difficult. Liquid or gel eyeliners are perfect to work with such stencils.

Tip B: The closer you place the stencil to your lower lash line the thinner eyeliner pattern you can draw.

Tip C: Your eyeliner stencils are made of high quality plastic hence in order to extend their use washes them after every use. Take a flannel dipped in Luke warm water and clean the sides of the stencils properly. If the product doesn’t come off then dip a cotton ball in eye makeup remover and clean the stencils. Always store your stencils in a clean dry environment.

The How, What & Why of Jumpsuits

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We’re continually engaged in discussions relating to jumpsuits for women. Now, the popularity of jumpsuits online is no misnomer. Do you really think all women in India suffer from image and societal perception related anxieties? Well some of them clearly do but that’s got more to do with grounding and age than anything else. Swashbuckling Jumpsuits for women have sometimes been unfortunate scapegoats of non-progressive and jaded thinking on part of Sanskari fashion experts and neighbourhood aunties alike.

They have been tagged as suitable for only European or foreign (read phoren) women who are anyway exempted from tag lines like an Indian girl’s shame is her pride and so on which have been used to define us Indian women over the years. Enough of our rant however; let’s come back to jumpsuits online which were once quite vilified even by fashion mavens in the country but have lasted long enough to be taken as a serious fashion trend. More and more women are now waking up to the wonders of this amazing outfit. The jumpsuit can be worn elegantly by every woman without ever stepping into crude/vulgar territory and is a versatile garment when it comes to its suitability for multiple occasions and purposes including wearing to the office.

We have already embraced jumpsuits for women with open arms and you should too! Let your fashion and social anxieties take a backseat and experience the sheer magic of this outfit for yourself. The jumpsuit popped up at the beginning of the 20th century and surprisingly was a one-piece, unisex and utilitarian garment. The term itself (you see we’re voracious fashion readers:D) appeared first while describing the uniforms worn by pilots and parachutists in the Second World War. In fact, jumpsuits were worn by Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong to the moon in 1968 (see how rich a history these now-predominantly female outfits have) and became popular fashion outfits linked with Space Age motifs and themes. They were majorly sported by rock icons like David Bowie and even the great Elvis Presley himself.

While remaining quite popular throughout the 1980s, they went out of circulation for more than a decade in mainstream culture before the revival in the 2007-08 period as a popular garment for women across the globe. Jumpsuits for women steadily became integral parts of summer and spring collections and are now on their way towards earning a spot in the Fashion Hall of Fame (how we wish there really was one such organization!).

Contemporary jumpsuits for women come in varied styles ranging from casual to semi-casual and even formal and there are fits tailored to suit every body type. They can be fun, attractive, intriguing and simply functional at the same time. Yet, there are a few dos and don’ts that may come in handy for you in this regard.

Firstly, you should check for a neckline that flatters your torso magnificently. Since jumpsuits are often based on a head-to-toe structure, finding the proper size and style can be a tough ask though there are innumerable styles to pick from. While selecting the right style for your body, always opt flattering necklines since they create a focus point while also framing your upper torso and face (see it’s as scientific as it gets ). They also affect the look of your shoulders andbust and often create illusions of curves for petite and thinner women (one more reason to emphasize strongly on the neckline!).

Cowl necks and turtleneck styles can elongate shorter bodies while turtlenecks are also good for those who wish to offset their bigger face or neck. Boat-necks or crew necks will widen the impression of the shoulders and bust, making them good choices for petite and smaller women.

However, large busted and bigger women should avoid these necklines if possible. There are several nice open necklines including the scoop neck, sweetheart neckline and V-neck which can elongate the torso and show off your tantalizing collarbone (okay, we’re reading too many romance-horror novels these days :P).

There also has to be a balance between the top and bottom. You should always look to cinch your natural waist if you are really slim while a heavier waist entails that you go for jumpsuits which have lower waistlines falling around the hips or so. Empire waists also work in these cases. Volume is one issue and flared bottoms will work fabulously in case the top area is fitted or vice versa. However, do not opt for too much volume since this does not flatter any body type.

Always opt for the suitable drape of the fabric depending on the purpose, i.e. formal, casual and professional occasions. Always opt for materials like nylon, soft cottons, jersey knits and likewise. Refrain from choosing heavier silk or cotton materials unless you are looking for something suitable for formal and fancy occasions. Visit StalkBuyLove.com for a wide selection of jumpsuits for women and come back soon to get more such tips and tricks from our end.

8 Ways to Grow Hair Faster

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We all love long and healthy hair. Don’t we, and here is all will need to know to make sure you get the hairs you desire and also combat hair fall. If you are facing the same issue, then here are simple remedies that will solve your problem. Adopt these easy practices in your daily routine and get remarkable results:

Trim : Are you missing your haircut appointments in anticipation that your hair will grow? This is incorrect. Frequent trims will make your hair grow faster because trimming chops off the dead hair and eliminates split ends. Get rid of split ends as they are one of the major causes of hair breakage.
Brush before Bed: Brush your hair before you go to sleep at night. This is a vital trick for hair regrowth. Comb your hair well with a boar bristle brush around the scalp. This will help to evenly spread the natural oil on the hair and keep it moisturized throughout the night.
Wash with Care: Manage the delicate tresses with care while washing. It is advisable to comb them before a wash. Do not wash them daily. Shampoo them two or three times a week and use conditioner, too. Never use very hot water for washing your hair and always rinse it with cold water. Do not wrap wet hair in a towel. Dry them softly. Finally, comb them once dried.
Oil and Massage: One of the best home remedies for hair regrowth is to oil your scalp and keep it healthy. Castor oil is rich in vitamin E and omega-9 fatty acids, which are essential to boost hair growth. Mix castor oil with coconut, lavender, almond, or rosemary oil and warm it to get the best results. Massage the scalp thoroughly and wash it after leaving the oil for around 45 minutes.
Flip the Hair: Flip all the hair in front and face towards the ground. Stay there for a couple of minutes. Follow this every day. It will enhance the circulation and promote faster hair.
Change the Pillowcase: Do you see a lot of hair on your pillow in the morning? Changing the pillowcase is a good hair fall treatment. Use a satin or a silk pillowcase. It avoids tangles and friction, and thus reduces breakage.
Do Not Over-style: Styling and heating tools damage the hair strands and restrict hair growth. Reduce the frequency of usage. Do not set the heating tool at a high temperature. If you are using a blow-dryer, then ensure that you coat your hair with a protective styler.

Now you know how to increase hair growth naturally. Follow these steps every day and fulfil your dream of having long and healthy hair. Find more hair care tips at www.rewardme.in

Hair Smoothening Treatment – How to do it right

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Maintaining and managing frizzy hair can be infuriating. Hair smoothening treatments can help people who struggle with this hair type.

Our hair is made up of amino acids, which are basically the building blocks of proteins. Keratins are the main protein in hair and they contain long sequences of amino acids. These typically form a helical structure and coil around each other. Cysteine is one such amino acid that helps form these connections with other coils. The more connections or interactions, the more tightly coiled the hair becomes, giving you curly hair.

Hair smoothing or smoothening is a process in which different types of solutions may be applied to the hair, breaking down those natural bonds of cysteines. Once these natural bonds are broken, the hair is then artificially set and given its structure with a flat iron.

Hair smoothening is often confused with hair straightening. While both treatments give you smooth and manageable hair, straightening leaves hair poker-straight while smoothening gives it a more natural appearance. Chemicals used in smoothening hair make them tangle-free, and any effects of straightening will only be temporary. It is ideal for people who have naturally straight or slightly wavy hair that is problematic because of frizziness.

Hair Smoothening at a Salon

The entire process lasts for about an hour and includes the following stepshair

Before your stylist applies the chemical rebonding agent, he/she will wash, condition, and then blow-dry your hair.
The rebonding agent, which is usually in the form of a cream, will then be applied evenly on the hair. This will be left on for close to half an hour.
The solution will then be washed off and your hair will be straightened with a ceramic hair straightener. This will not only help to straighten the hair, but also increase the effectiveness of the treatment.
After this, another cream will be applied across the hair and left on for close to twenty
The hair will then be washed and blow-dried to give you the final touches.

Useful Tips

A smoothening treatment rebonds your hair. For best results, keep in mind the following tips for three days after your treatment:

Do not tie your hair or tuck it behind the ears as these could leave a long-lasting curved
Avoid washing or wetting your hair
Let your hair remain as straight as possible while you sleep

If you would like to try out the procedure, make it a point to visit a reputed salon, where they use only high-quality products. Likewise, if you wish to experiment with hair smoothing at home, only buy products from the best brands and make sure to adhere strictly to instructions. A good hair smoothening product can certainly work wonders for your hair.

Find more hair care tips at www.rewardme.in

7 stunning looks for Valentine’s Day

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Love needs no special day for celebration! Agreed! But one can’t deny that there’s something special about Feb 14. There is nip in the air, a whiff of fresh breeze greets you and a romantic aroma fills your senses. Blame it on the month of February – the onset of spring – or the decorative stores and streets denoting the V-day, love is in every nook and cranny.
For ladies, the entire Valentine week is important. They get roses, gifts as well as proposals. So, how can you let that special day go without making a lasting impression on your man? Whether it’s your first V-day date or celebration of your love, looking drop-dead gorgeous is a must.

We have compiled seven stunning looks for you. Featuring here are four day-time looks and three looks for evening dates.
Floral magic!
No need to be an exhibitionist for this! Sometimes, a flowy maxi can do the trick. Pick a floral print maxi dress in a sunny shade and rule his heart. You can pair the look with boots and a designer bag. This look is perfect for day time or movie outing.

Flirty in pleats!
Pleats are in! Pick this flirty halter-neck dress by the brand Next, available at Jabong.com. You need not accessorize it much as the dress is simply fabulous. However, don’t forget to complete the look with a sassy pair of golden shoes or stilettoes.

Desi chic!
He loves you in ethnic attire, isn’t he! But wearing a suit for a date is a big no no. You can do one thing, wear something quasi-ethnic. We are showing here a maxi dress in a look of anarkali. Isn’t this fab! You can style the look with funky jewellery.

Play it smart!
Any guy loves the sight of a smart lady. Pick a shirt-shift dress like this and get his attention. Laced with side pockets, this silhouette looks flattering. Go for a smart pair of pumps and you are set to rock.

Shimmer your way to his heart
For girls who want to get hooked on V-day, this is the look they should go for. Screaming attention, this little black dress can work wonders for you. Accessorize it with red heels, and red lipstick. You can wear a leather jacket with it if there is cold outside.

Suit it up!
If you don’t want to wear something revealing then jumpsuit is the safe bet. You can work your mojo in a jumpsuit, and flaunt your curves. You can pair the look with a smart envelope clutch, long earrings, pumps and a pair of goggles.

Drama is on!
Bring a sense of drama to the nightclub you are visiting on V-day. Go for a red embellished gown in lace, and be the cynosure of all eyes, including your man.

Top 10 Valentines Day Gift Ideas

Valentine’s Day is around the corner and there’s probably a special someone who you’re hoping to make happy this Feb. But finding the perfect gift is always tricky business. You have to find something that is special and in some way reflects your love. It needs to have a personal touch. If you’re out of ideas over what to get your partner, here are some ideas for Valentine’s gifts:

1. Pillow/Cushion with Custom Message

What’s more adorable than personalized pillows or cushions with a custom message? Think of something unique to your relationship – a quote, a photo- and get it printed on a pillow cover. It’s thoughtful and “cool” at the same time.

2. Personalised Wine Bottle

Romance and wine is a classic combo. So if you and your partner love your drinks, getting them a personalized wine bottle would be great. Have a cute or sweet message stamped on the label and the bottle will treasured beyond the last drop of wine

3. Personalized Cards

Greeting cards can be cherished for keeps. A beautiful card with a lovely write-up always touches the heart. If you’re good at art and craft, you could make a card from scratch. If that’s not your cup of tea, you can order a custom card from an online website or custom-printing store.

4. Personalized Custom Mugs

As long as you’re thinking of customization, mugs may be a good option too. Couples’ cups are super cutesy and great if you don’t want to spend a lot. Be creative in choosing complimentary messages – you can find some great ideas on the internet.

5. Scented Candles

For those who want to set a romantic mood and send some, well, raunchy signals their partner’s way, scented candles are the way to go. You could perhaps even decorate your love nest with the beforehand and see where that gets you.

6. Chocolates

If you’re someone who likes to keep it simple and classy, chocolates will be perfect. Buy your partner’s favourite ones or pick up some gourmet delights if they’re not too choosey. But hey, if they’re not very fond of chocolates and/or on a diet, go in for something else.

7. Roses

To some people, especially the quintessential romantic souls, nothing signifies love better than a bunch of beautiful, fresh roses. Go in for a spectacular bouquet with flowers in colours that’ll appeal to your partner.

8. Ring – for the Big Q

If you’re about to pop the Big Q this Valentine’s Day, the obvious choice is a ring. But make sure the ring is absolutely magnificent; after all, how many times does one get proposed to on V-Day? Make the moment perfect with a gorgeous ring.

9. Jewellery

Even if it’s not yet time to be whipping out rings, jewellery is a safe option if you’re looking for good gifts for women. Find something delicate and pretty, and your effort will surely be appreciated.

10. Perfume

Fragrances are a great gifting option for both men and women. They last long and are a constant reminder of the sweet gesture of Valentine’s Day celebration. If someone’s wearing the perfume you bought them, you’ll be on their mind at all times! Win-win!

Keep us posted on what you bought for your valentine!

L’Oreal White Perfect Magic White Double Brightening Eye Cream Review

Hi All!

Today I’m reviewing this under-eye cream I’ve been using for over a month now. It’s the Double Brightening Eye Cream from L’Oreal’s White Perfect Magic White range.

I’ll begin by stating why I chose this product. Firstly, of course, I have dark circles. It’s a combination of genetics and not enough sleep that has caused these shadows under my eyes. I’ve had them for years and use Concealer on special nights when I’m going out. But I am constantly on the lookout for more permanent solutions and thus keep trying various products. The second reason is that L’Oreal is a trusted brand that has quite a reputation when it comes to skin products. So, when this came out, I thought, let’s give this a shot too!

It comes in a shiny, blue and white tube with a long, narrow nozzle. The packaging is suitable for extracting small quantities of the product and carrying around when travelling too. Though there’s just 15 gm of cream per pack, one needs just a dot-sized amount for both eyes, so it has lasted me long enough.

As to the application experience and effectiveness of this eye cream, here’s how it worked on me: The cream is a light yellow colour with a smooth, creamy texture. It feels very light on the skin and takes just about a minute to get absorbed. On application, it brightens up the eye area, without leaving any white-ish hue behind. The fragrance is mild and inoffensive, so that works perfectly too

Now coming to the question of reducing dark circles; like most eye creams, this L’Oreal product does not produce results overnight. Or even over two, three, four nights. Not over a week of regular application either. But, given my stubborn dark circles, I knew I had to persevere. After about a month of using it regularly, twice a day – once in the morning, once overnight – I think my dark circles have reduced. The skin under my eyes is not just lighter but softer as well. But if I don’t get enough sleep, my eyes are puffy and shadowed the next day again. That’s okay though. On the whole, this L’Oreal White Perfect Magic White Double Brightening Eye Cream has definitely reduced my dark circles, which makes me oh-so-happy!

I must mention that I have used several eye creams and home remedies in the past but this has been the most effective. Even though my dark circles are not completely gone, they are lighter for sure, and that is progress! Maybe if I continue to use it for a few more months, they will improve further.

So, here’s my final take on L’Oreal White Perfect Magic White Double Brightening Eye Cream.

Pros:

Nice packaging which prevents wastage.
Little quantity required to cover both under-eye regions and eyelids even.
Leaves no white residue and absorbs quickly.
Instantly brightens eye area and softens it too.
Has reduced my dark circles with a month of application.

Cons:

Quantity is slightly less for the price (but since it is effective, I don’t mind too much).

Star Rating: 3.75

Price: Rs. 799

5 Exercises to Get a Perfectly Toned Stomach

Having a fit and well-toned body is certainly everyone’s dream. While it may not endow you with Herculean strength, having a toned tummy raises overall fitness levels and helps boost your confidence. Also, check out more health & fitness tips at www.rewardme.in.

This said, acquiring a healthy body is no easy task. You need to eat healthy and include stomach exercises in your regular fitness regime to get that perfectly sculpted belly. Here are 5 tummy exercises to help you get the flat stomach you desire!

Exercise One – Sit-Ups

Sit-Ups are perhaps the most popular among the flat-tummy exercises. These exercises target and strengthen the muscles in your abdomen as well as the lower back, pelvis and hips.

Steps:

Lie flat on the ground and position your hands behind your head.
Bend your knees, while keeping your feet flat against the ground.
Now lift your head and shoulders off the ground, while keeping your lower body posture intact.
Hold this position for about 3 seconds before returning to the initial posture

Repeat the steps about 10 times in a routine. Gradually increase the repetitions to 20, as you get used to the exercise.

Exercise Two – Planks

Planks strengthen the inner core muscles, as you need to maintain balance in a particular posture for a considerable length of time.

Steps:

Lie facing the ground and bend your hands so that both forearms touch the ground.
Lift your body such that your weight is balanced on our forearms and toes, while your body remains parallel to the ground.
Inhale deep breaths, while holding the position for at least 30 seconds before slowly returning to original posture.

Exercise Three – Leg Lifting

Leg lifts focus on the muscles in your lower abdomen, allowing you to stretch and tone them.

Steps:

Lie on the ground with your hands and legs flat against the surface.
Slowly lift your legs, while keeping your knees bent so that your calves remain parallel to the ground.
Now straighten out your knees so that your legs and feet point to the ceiling.
Keeping your back flat, slowly bring both your legs to the floor.

Exercise Four – V-Ups

Also known as V Sit-Ups, this exercise not only tones your abdomen, but also strengthens other crucial body muscles around your back and legs.

Steps:

Lie flat on the ground in a relaxed posture.
Slowly raise your head and shoulders, as well as both legs simultaneously, forming a V with your body. Ensure that your legs are straight.
Hold the posture for about 5 seconds before returning to original position.

Exercise Five – Bridges

Bridges help shape the muscles in your upper abdomen, back, hips and thighs, making them slender and agile.

Steps:

Rest your body on the ground so that your hands stretch straight by your sides and bend your knees, while keeping your feet flat against the surface.
Now, applying pressure with your heels, raise your hips off the ground without bending your back.
Take a deep breath and return to the initial posture.

Get started right away, as in addition to eating healthy, you need to exercise to reduce tummy fat!

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3 Effective Dry Skin Remedies for Winter

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After the scorching post-monsoon heat of October, winter is truly a pleasant respite. Unfortunately, the cold weather also brings some rather unwelcome conditions with it, one of which is dry skin. The drop in humidity levels at this time of the year can leave your skin dehydrated and devoid of essential oils.

The skin on your face, hands and legs is most exposed to the elements, and it also happens to be most sensitive. This makes it more susceptible to dehydration and dryness. Dry skin care in winter is obviously of the utmost importance, not just your face, but for your entire body. Check out expert skin care tips at www.rewardme.in. Although, the markets are flooded dry skin care products, most of these contain harsh chemicals that can produce mild to severe side-effects. On the other hand, organic or home-made skin care products are not only safer, but also more affordable.

Here are a few simple, yet effective home remedies for dry skin to protect your skin this winter.
1. Olive Oil & Sugar Scrub
Dryness is often accompanied by dead skin cells that form a rough layer over the skin. So not only do you need to moisturise your skin, you also need to get rid of the dead cells. An olive oil and sugar scrub is a great solution to both problems. While the olive oil returns moisture, scrubbing the sugar particles cleanses the skin and improves blood circulation.
Add about 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil to half a cup of granulated white sugar, and mix the solution well. Apply it to the affected skin and give it a minute’s time to settle. After this, use cold water to rinse it off, with firm but gentle motions.

2. Oatmeal Honey Mask
Oatmeal is not just a nourishing breakfast, but it is also great for your skin, when used as a topical application. Drying of the skin causes roughening of the skin and the appearance of scaly patches. Combine oatmeal and honey for a homemade exfoliating mask for your skin.
Grind about 2-3 tablespoons of oats to form a fine but slightly coarse powder. Add a tablespoon of hot water and mix well; leave it to cool down. Add a tablespoon of pure honey and mix thoroughly until completely blended. Apply the mixture evenly on your skin and leave it on for about 15-20 minutes before rinsing it off.

3. Aloe Vera Gel
The healing properties of aloe vera are well researched and it helps treat a variety of skin conditions. Aloe Vera gel is a great dry skin care solution as it moisturises the skin and also soothes it. Simply slice a fresh piece of aloe leaf and extract the gel. Massage it on your skin and wash it after half an hour.
These handy tips for dry skin treatment are certainly helpful, but as they say, prevention is better than cure. A simple daily measure like applying moisturiser after bathing is a great way of ensuring dry skin care in winter. So, use these remedies, and don’t let your skin suffer this winter.

5 Hairstyles for Wavy Hair

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Wavy hair looks suits women of all ages and face shapes. Not only does it have a texture of its own, the curls add body and volume to the hair. Besides, many hairstyles look good only on wavy hair. Learn how to do your own hair like a professional with these hairstyling ideas at www.rewardme.in. If you do not have naturally wavy hair and wish to create waves in your tresses, there is a simple and natural method to get this look.

Begin by simply wetting your hair slightly and brushing it thoroughly. Divide the hair into two sections. Tightly twist each of the section and coil them into side buns securing each with a hair grip. Tie a turban with a soft towel or old tee shirt, and let the hair dry naturally over night. This is how you curl hair without a curling iron. The next morning when you open the buns, you will get amazing beachy waves.

Some of the hairstyles that you may try with this kind of hair are as follows:

Messy bun

The correct texture required for a messy bun is achieved when you have curly hair. You do not have to put in a lot of efforts to get the perfect look. The messy bun is a great party hair do. It has been a favorite among women of all ages since many years.

Fishtail braid

The look of a fishtail braid is enhanced when you have frizzy or wavy hair. The imperfection of some strands left loose make it look ultra-chic. You may make a puff from the front to get a youthful and romantic look. It is one of the trendiest hairstyles to opt for.

Ponytail

A high ponytail is the most sophisticated look to adopt with wavy hair. The magnificent flow of the waves adds an extra charm. You may try this hairstyle for a formal event or for a dinner party. Apart from this, you may also make a side ponytail and let the soft curls gently flow along the shoulder.

Braided bun

The combination of braids and a bun looks good if you have curly hair. It is a stylish look to flaunt. It is also comfortable especially for women who love updos. The braids cover the bun like a crown. The braids from both the sides finally end into a low bun. As an alternative, you may also make the braids appear as a headband.

Loose waves

Leaving your hair loose is the most stunning wavy hairstyle. Simply run your fingers gently through your waved tresses and let them fall in soft curls. You may also work a shine serum through it for added bounce and shine. You can accessorize with a hairband or tuck a flower on your nape for a fun casual look.

Do try this natural method of hair curling without heat. This method of waving your hair is safe and leaves your hair undamaged; unlike styling products or heat tools whose long term use may damage your hair.

3 Types of Perfect Bridal Bun Hairstyles

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A bun is probably the simplest and most elegant hairstyle to wear on your wedding day. Not only does a bun keep your hair tidy, it also gives you ample opportunity to flaunt a low cut back, chandelier earrings or beautiful necklace to full effect.

There are several kinds of buns you can experiment with before deciding which one to sport on your big day. Here are a few of the trendiest buns of the season and how to style them:

1.Traditional bun

An Indian bride is an epitome of the deep-rooted traditions and culture of her country. A traditional bun is the all time favorite of brides all over. Comb your hair well and secure it in a ponytail. Divide it into two sections and wind them over each other to create a bun. Secure it well with bobby pins and spritz well with a medium hold hairspray. You can opt to add hair bun accessories such as a hairnet, hair jewelry, flowers or a coiled floral garland to finish the look.

2. Messy loose bun

A loose and messy bun will give you a chic laid-back look. The messy version is a good hair bun for short hair. Pull your hair into a loose ponytail. Divide the hair into two sections and back-comb them to get volume and texture. Now start wrapping the hair in opposite directions and secure the sections about an inch from the bottom of the strands. The loose frayed ends around will add to the messy effect. You can also pull a few strands to frame your face.

3. Spanish bun

If you have long and thick hair, then undoubtedly a Spanish bun should be your choice. This hairdo looks best on round faces. It is a sophisticated and quirky looking hair bun style. To get a Spanish bun, make a deep side parting and make a ponytail by looping a rubber band three times around your hair. However, on the last loop do not pull the hair all the way through. Let a small part remain looped at your nape and wrap the remaining end around the rubber band concealing it completely. Secure it with a bobby pin. You can add flowers at the nape for an authentic Spanish look.

These buns are some of the most chic hair buns for Indian weddings. You may opt for any of these stylish buns for your wedding or reception. You can always dress the bun up or down by adding accessories or removing them.

Learn more DIY Hairstyles at www.rewardme.in

5 Types of Bridal Braids

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Braids are the perfect way to complement Indian attire for bridal functions. Not only are they beautiful and sophisticated, they are also low maintenance and allow you to enjoy your big day hands free without trying to manage your tresses all the time.

Some of the braided bridal hairstyles are:

1. Side braid

The one-sided look is stunningly attained with the side braids. If your dress is worked on a single side or along the neck, then this hairstyle will ensure that it is easily flaunted. To get a side braid, you first need to make a side parting. Take a section of your hair and begin by making a regular braid. Extend it till the end of the ear. After this, take the hair from the opposite side and pull them horizontally in the front. Continue doing this till all the hair is braided. Finally, tie the hair with a rubber band from the bottom and add flowers at different levels.

2. Crown braid

A crown braid looks like a braided crown set on your head; very lady-like and old world. There are many different ways to create one; among the easiest is the two-braid method. Divide your hair into two sections along a really deep side parting. Start braiding hair from close to your forehead (above your left ear) from the smaller parting. Keep including one-inch sections of hair from the larger parting as you move towards your right ear. Continue till you reach below where you started. Complete the braid and secure with a rubber band. Pull this last braided section over your head once more and tuck the end into the braid, secure it with a bobby pin. Spritz some holding spray and your ‘do is ready. You can also tuck in small flower buds or seed pearls along the braid for a fresh, princess-like look

3. Braided bun

The braided bun is the most fuss-free hairstyle to carry on your wedding day. Amongst the various versions of the braided bun, this is perhaps the simplest. Divide your hair into two sections. Create 4-6 tiny plaits on each side of the partition. Take the rest of your hair and make a bun using hair grips. Finally, take the hair braids and fix them into the bun with bobby pins.

4. Fishtail braid

A fishtail braid complements Indian attire perfectly. Begin a fishtail braid by gathering your hair at the nape of your neck. Divide it in two sections; keep taking smaller sections from each of these two strands and cross them over the opposite section until you reach the bottom. Secure with a clear rubber band and your neat and elegant fishtail braid is ready.

5. Waterfall braid

This style of braiding allows you to leave your hair loose while keeping flyaway strands of hair off your face. It is a perfect look, simple to create and easy to maintain. To begin with, start making a normal braid with three strands from your hairline just above your ear. Begin adding strands as you encircle your head. Keep braiding until you reach near the opposite end. Finish the braid and pin it up diagonally or horizontally.

These styles add a twist to traditional Indian braid hairstyles creating a touch of the ethereal and unusual to your hairdo.

For more DIY hairstyles & tutorials visit www.rewardme.in

Get them Killer Cheekbones – Try These 5 Facial Exercises

Ever looked into a magazine and wondered where you were when God was doling out those high cheekbones to all the models? Ah, well, you’re not alone. Most of us would be ecstatic to have such wonderful facial structure that looks effortlessly chic.

But if we aren’t naturally gifted with them killer cheekbones, it’s time to take things into our own hands. And yes, there are ways and means other than surgery to achieve this too. All it takes is a little bit of effort and some major facial aerobics.

Here are five facial exercises that will help define your cheekbones – give them a try, some of them are actually fun!

O-X Face

Start by making a small ‘O’ with your lips. Now stretch them wide as far as possible, as when you do to say ‘X’. Alternate between ‘O’s and ‘X’s for about 10 repetitions, making sure you stretch and contract your muscles intensely with each move. Say the letters ‘O’ and ‘X’ out loud to add rhythm to the movements.

Balloon Face

Inhale and puff up your cheeks, much the way balloons get filled with air. Alternate the air concentration, shifting it from one side of your face to the other. Exhale through your mouth till the very end of your breath. Repeat continuously for as long as you want. If you run out of breath, stop, regularize your breathing and resume the exercise if you want.

Fish Face

This is a popular and very effective one. Suck your cheeks in (as far as they will go) with your lips tightly closed and hold the position for 6 – 8 seconds. You will feel the skin over your cheekbones stretching if you do it right. Repeat the movement 3 – 4 times and by the end, you will feel like your face has just had an intense workout!

Mouthwash Face

Suck in some air into your mouth – roughly equally the amount of mouthwash you use. Move your mouth in the same motion as you would while rinsing with mouthwash. Make the movement as fast as you possibly can. Continue for 1 minute, then rest and repeat. If you want, you could do this with actual mouthwash when you brush twice daily.

Clown Face

Smile as wide as you can and shut your eyes. Place your hands right beneath your cheekbones and push your cheeks upwards. Your facial structure will temporarily resemble that of a clown. Hold the position for 15 seconds and then relax. Repeat 10 – 15 times in one go.

If you do even a couple of these exercises every day, you are sure to see some results in a couple of weeks. Do them right before you sleep or just after waking up so you have a routine. Maybe you could even do them while watching TV, listening to music or sitting in the loo. The point is, find the time, do the exercises and you’re one step closer to a more sculpted face with enviable cheekbones.

3 Simple Side-Swept Hairstyles for Brides

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Your wedding attire is ready. You have bought your jewelry, chosen accessories, picked up the right make-up, and now all that remains is deciding on a beautiful hairstyle that will complete your look on your big day.

A side hairstyle is a great option and can be tweaked to complement a vintage, traditional or modern look depending on your choice of outfit. Such a style can suit women with long and medium length hair. A side-swept hairstyle ensures the front and back of your dress remain in full view. It also frames your face without overwhelming it.

Some of the best sideways hairstyles trending as bridal coiffures these days are as follows:

1. Bun

A messy side bun looks pretty when you paired with a vintage gown. You also get a chance to flaunt your dazzling chandelier earrings. A side bun ensures that your hair stays off your nape and doesn’t get entangled with jewelry or the embellishments on your dress.

To make a messy side bun, gather all your hair on one side and secure it in a ponytail. Divide your hair into sections and comb them in a reverse direction. This is known as back-combing, and it adds volume as well as increases hold. Pin up each section upwards to complete the bun. If you sport a fringe or bangs you can twist them once and pin them for a classy 60s look, or leave them be for a fun flirty look to complement the bun.

2. Braids

Braids give a sophisticated yet unfussy look to a bridal get up. Braids well with western bridal wear such as gowns and dresses as well as with traditional Indian outfits such as sarees and lehengas. You could opt for loose or taut braids, and achieve the desired length of fullness by using extensions.

For a perfect side braid, part your hair sideways. Start with a regular French or fishtail braid from the broader side of your parting. After braiding it up to the ear-level start bringing over sections of hair from the farthest side to where you are braiding your hair. Secure the ends with a transparent rubber band. Accessorize the braids with flowers or seed pearl accents to complete your look.

3. Loose waves

Long hair left loose with a little bit of texture in the form of waves is a great way to get a dreamy princess-like look. Gowns, floor length dresses and even Indian wear such as backless dresses are perfectly complimented by this kind of hairstyle.

For perfect loose waves, work a mild hold gel through your hair. Curl two-inch sections around your curling iron and hold for 20 seconds. Continue until all your hair is curled, mist with a holding product. At the very end arrange all the hair over one shoulder and mist with a holding product.

These side-swept hairstyles are stylish, easy to achieve, and low maintenance. Try one of these and enjoy your big day feeling and looking on top of the world.

For more quick and easy hairstyles visit www.rewardme.in

Review: L’Oreal Paris Color Riche Moist Matte Lipstick Flaming Kiss

Hello Ladies!

Today I am about to review one of my favourite lipsticks by L’Oreal. It’s a beautiful red shade that I personally think no one can go wrong with. It’s the Flaming Kiss shade from the L’Oreal Paris Color Riche Moist Matte Lipstick collection.

According to the L’Oreal Paris team, this range of lipsticks contains “pure pigments” which deliver intense colour for 6 hours. Jojoba oil nourishes the lips and keeps them hydrated. In my opinion, the lipstick lives up to these claims, leaving me a very satisfied L’Oreal fan.

Now, coming to the product itself, this is my experience with Flaming Kiss.

Shade: A deep red which is distinct from both blood red shades and maroon, this will suit all – be it light, medium or dark complexion. I have a wheatish skin tone and the shade brightens up my face in no time. I love it because on days that I don’t feel like putting in any effort, I simply slap on this lipstick and don’t have to worry about my blah-outfit and lack of makeup anymore; I look better instantly!

Texture and Moisturization: This lipstick has a soft texture which glides on easily without tugging. It has a very light feel; I don’t realize I have anything on at all. Even with regard to the moisturization, Flaming Kiss is absolutely perfect. I don’t need to use lip balm under it since the lipstick itself keeps my lips soft and supple.

Pigmentation: The colour is intense by itself and for people who like to keep it subtle, one swipe will be enough. I usually do use two swipes on both the upper and lower lip, but that is to lock in the colour (I use translucent powder after first swipe and then reapply).

Staying Power: The lipstick sets on my lips in about 10-15 minutes. After that, it does not transfer onto my hands or anything light that touches my lips. If I do not eat, it usually remains the same intense shade for 4-5 hours easily. If I eat after application, my lips do lose colour but they are not completely washed out – it still seems like I have a light lip tint on.

The Verdict

This is a great lipstick for those who like their lips to pop and do not want the hassle of reapplication and touch-ups. The best part is, it actually nourishes my lips so that after application, they have better texture than before! The only thing is, L’Oreal Flaming Kiss does not come cheap. But I don’t mind investing a little more in shades that I use often, so it works for me. In short, I really love this lipstick and use it frequently, with casual, formal and (often) party outfits.

So if you want some colour in your life and on your lips, and a luscious red at that, L’Oreal Paris Color Riche Moist Matte Lipstick Flaming Kiss will be perfect for you!

Review: F.A.C.E.S. Magneteyes Kajal

Hi, all you divas out there! If you’re like me, Kajal is a very important (and often, the only) component of your makeup routine. You know too what a dash of slick, black kohl can do for the appearance, with almost no effort at all!

Today, there are just so many options available for kajal-users; there are supreme ranges where a single stick can perform multiple functions; there are some budget options which promise daily wearablilty and decent quality; and some which are just basic black kajal pigments. Today I am going to review F.A.C.E.S. Canada’s Magneteyes Kajal which is pitted against Maybelline’s Colossal Kajal, Lakme’s Eyeconic, L’Oreal’s Magique and Lotus’ Colorkick Kajal.

F.A.C.E.S. Canada is still not a very popular brand in India, but judging by this product and a couple of others I own, there is no valid reason for this! Magneteyes is simply amazing, and in my opinion, better than several of the competing products of this segment.

Coming, to the product itself, here’s how I feel about it:

Packaging: Magneteyes comes in a bright red, twist-up packaging that is striking and convenient to carry. Given the outer colour, it never gets lost on my dresser and the twist-up mechanism works well too.
Texture: It is a soft, creamy kajal, which though easily applied, is not so velvety as to break with pressure. It glides well, both on the upper and lower lash line, and there is no tugging. A good tip is to use it on the lower lash before and then the upper, for then, application is even smoother.
Pigmentation: In my experience, the pigmentation is great. With one swipe itself, I get a good, dark definition, and with two swipes, a lovely intense colour. To that extent, I find it much better than L’Oreal Magique and Lakme Eyeconic.
Staying power: It remains on the upper lash line for 5 hours minimum without smudging. If I touch my eyes a lot, some colour may come off the inner portion of the upper lash, but otherwise, it remains intact. On the lower lash line, it retains intensity for 3-4 hours after which, it begins to fade a little bit. Smudging, however, is minimal and the effect much better than Lakme Eyeconic and Maybelline Colossal too.
Removal: It is easy to wipe off this kajal with a proper makeup remover. However, if I simply wash it with water, it tends to settle between my lower lashes, which takes another two washes to complete go. This is probably the only negative thing I have to say about this product.

The Verdict

All in all, I really like F.A.C.E.S. Canada’s Magneteyes Kajal. Not only is it easy to apply, smudge-proof and with good staying power, it is far superior to several similar products in my opinion. Best part is, it is affordable for the sizable amount of 0.35 gm that it comes in. If I were ever to repeat kajals, I would definitely consider buying this again!

Chic & Easy Hair Trends for Hot Summer Nights

Summer is the best possible time to stay out long and enjoy beautiful nights. Days are scorching hot, but the nights get us some relief. When preparing for a joyful night out with friends or significant other, you should know that your hair might get in your way and ruin your mood – especially if it sticks to your neck making you feel twice as hot. Luckily, there are cute and easy hairstyles which will make you look good and feel even better wearing them.
Stylish bob

Stylish, sexy, versatile, and classy – only bob hair can make you look like that. Long faces look fuller and wider with chin-length bobs, round faces look slimmer with slightly longer bob or an inverted bob, while angular faces should opt for the one parted on the side.

Choose the style you like best and wear it with pride – you will be attractive and gorgeous. Just make sure you wear it straight (or curly), you don’t want to look messy but classy.
Intricate braids

Crown of braids will make you look like a princess and take the hair off your back – literally. You only need simple braiding skills, some hairspray and bobby pins, and a bit of patience. Make two low pigtails and secure them with elastics, then pull up one and secure it an inch back from your hairline and repeat it on the other one as well. Spray it with hairspray to make sure you don’t get strands of hair in your eyes.

Gorgeous ponytails

If you don’t have the patience or the time to braid your hair and pin it up, you can always tie a ponytail and keep the hair up without too much effort. If you have bangs, you can always pin them to the side or make them look bigger with some hairspray. This will also add some style to this, usually unpolished look. You can also curl the ends of the ponytail and make it more classy.

Fierce pixie

Pixie cut is back and girls all over the world choose to wear it not just because it looks amazing, but because it is handy and practical at the same time. You don’t need a lot of time to get ready and wash your hair, and even less time to blow-dry it. You are ready for hot summer night in no time; just make sure your hair is on the spot and not flying all over the place. Use hair gels or finishing sprays – Theorie hair has amazing hair spray without mineral or paraffin oil for those who have keratin treated hair.

No matter if your hair is coloured, short, long, keratin-treated, curly, or straight; finding the perfect hairstyle is always a big deal. Hair trends change, but if you find a look you like in particular, there is nothing to stop you from wearing it for as long as you’d like.