Plus size women fashion tips: Choosing a flattering clubbing outfit

For me, it is less about the outfit, and much more about great hair, make-up, and accessories. Yes, I am plus-sized, but I am beautiful, and you can be too!

Start with the basic rules for plus-sized girls (and while we’re at it-let’s ditch the “plus-size” moniker and just call ourselves voluptuous.) Avoid horizontal stripes or large prints. These only add inches and pounds. If your arms are slightly on the large side, avoid sleeveless or tube top styles. Avoid short skirts that expose bulging thighs. If your calves are shapely, wear sexy heels.

We’ve heard it for years, but a quality pair of jeans can really be great going-out gear. Make sure they don’t gap in the back or expose your underwear. The thong-flashing out of low-rise jeans was never really in style or attractive, and believe me, it won’t look good on us, either.

As for a top, there are many options. Cowl necks are elegant, classy, and sexy. A wrap top can make good use of cleavage without screaming “take me home now!” Empire waist tops are also very flattering. Nine West has a great woman’s line with just as much style as those skinny-girl tops.

To really look your best when going out, spend time on your hair and make-up. Whatever you do during the day, kick it up a couple of notches. If you wear one or two shades of eyeshadow, try three or four at night. Avoid sparkles or glitter-this definitely smacks of “where’s my street corner?” What is acceptable is shimmery eyeshadow. Try creme eyeshadow on the browbone, in a highlighting color like gold or beige. Clinique has a great creme eyeshadow, that when applied to the entire lid, enhances color tone and acts as a primer. Believe me, if you’re having a good time, you want make-up that can stand up to the heat. Take time to curl your eyelashes and put two coats of mascara on. Eyes communicate to people more than words can, so spend time making them look their best. If you’re not sure what is best for your eye shape or color, go to a make-up counter at your local mall. A consultation is free, and you don’t have to buy the products they use, unless you absolutely can’t live without the new colors they’ve introduced.

Paint your nails. It doesn’t matter if they’re real or fake. Paint them. File them. You’d be surprised the little things that guys notice. All of my boyfriends have always complimented me on my nails. Men want to see that you take care of the little things. Wear bold accessories. Wear multiple silver bangles, or a great necklace. Don’t wear everything at once-you’ll look like a Christmas tree.

Wear great shoes. Make sure they are sexy AND comfortable. They don’t have to be tennis-shoe comfortable, but if they hurt so much you’re limping half way through the night, get rid of them. Once again, make sure your toenails are painted and rough skin exfoliated, or they’re no point in wearing sexy shoes to begin with.

Finally-have a great hairstyle. Work with your hair type. If you have curly hair, don’t try to blow-dry it straight. The humidity in the club atmosphere and the sweat from dancing will return your hair to its naturally curly state. You’ll end up with a half curled, half frizz ‘fro. It’s not cute. Same goes for stick straight gals. Don’t spend all that time curling your hair, when it will revert to a limp, lame state. Buy hair magazines and try styles for your hair type. Ask your hairstylist for tips and products. The key to great hair is conditioning and good products.

To my fellow voluptuous ladies-the best look is a look of confidence and fun. Go out and make it a great night!

Understanding Acne – the 4 Causes and 3 Prevention Tips

Acne has become one of the problems plaguing millions of people today. People from all ages are prone to this infection but it is most common to adolescents because of the hormonal changes occurring in their body. Infections may vary from mild to moderate to severe wherein almost the entire surface of the face is covered with whiteheads, blackheads, lesions, cysts and nodules. This could be very devastating and will greatly affect a person self esteem.

In order to fight acne, first you have to understand what it is, what causes it and how to prevent it.

What is Acne?

Acne is a skin disease that is commonly seen in the face, back, neck and chest. This occurs when your oil glands produces more oil called sebum (excessive sebum production is usually brought about by hormone changes), this excess oil can get trapped in your pores and when this happens bacteria begins to grow which causes whiteheads, blackheads and pimples.

The 4 Causes Acne

There are a lot of factors that could lead to acne and being aware of them increases your chances of preventing infection. Although the real cause of acne is still to be determined.

1. Genes – Sad as it may seem but it is true that acne can be inherited. In these cases, a professional advice may be best in order to find the treatment suitable for you.

2. Poor Diet – Proper diet will help maintain good health and if you are healthy it will show in your skin. Load up with fruits and vegetables as these contain anti-oxidants and fibers that will help clean your system. Avoid food that has preservatives as your body might react on the chemicals and cause acne.

3. Stress – I’m sure you have noticed that whenever you are stressed your face gets oilier and you get pimples. This is because of the hormonal activity related to stress that stimulates our adrenal glands to produce more oil or sebum.

4. Environment – Living in a humid environment will make you sweat more, although sweat does not directly cause pimple but it could block your pores. Living in a dirty environment is also a factor since dirt can and will block your pores.

Other factors are identifiable with acne, we just have to be aware and try to determine what is causing them in order to treat them.

The 3 Acne Prevention Tips

Don’t ever think that you’re immune to it just because you don’t have it, everybody is prone to acne, so before that first sign, follow these simple tips.

1. Keep Your Face Clean – Wash your face when needed. Whenever your face is oily, after being exposed to pollution, after a sweaty exercise etc…Washing gets rid of excess oil and dead skin cells that might block your pores.

2. Drink Plenty of Fluids – Water cleanses your internal system by flushing out harmful toxins and excess oil. Pineapple juice also helps clean your system and it has high amounts of Vitamin C and B1 that is important in maintaining a healthy skin.

3. Drink Tea – If you’re wondering why the Chinese people have beautiful skin it is because they are drinking significant amounts of tea. Tea is rich in anti-oxidants that helps rid your body of harmful chemicals.

Preventing acne is always better than curing them, it takes discipline especially if you don’t see any sign of acne in you body. But wouldn’t it be nice to keep it that way?

Tips for surviving the heat

Sizzling hot! That is what it feels like during summertime or being in any place that is tropical. The sun can be such a blazing ball of fire. You can feel the intensity of the heat burning in your skin. The sweaty beads dripping down from your head to toe, crawling throughout your body. Yes, the heat can definitely take its toll on you. What better way than to have some survival guide on the heat!

When the temperature ranges from 31 degrees Celsius to 41 degrees Celsius or more (approximately equivalent between 88 degrees Farenheit to 106 degrees Farenheit or more), we got to take necessary measures to sweat it out. Here are a few tips that can be helpful:

HYDRATION – Keyword: Water. It is very important that you keep yourself hydrated throughout the day. Water is the most preferred drink in quenching down the thirst and keeping your body temperature in check. Always have a drink. When you are out in the road or doing errands or at work, bringing a water bottle with you comes in very handy.

TIME – A good time to keep in mind is avoiding sun exposure between 10 AM to 3 PM. This is when the sun is at its peak. The heat can get pretty intense around that time. Try to keep yourself indoors or at a shaded area when going out. If it is really unavoidable and you need to get out, wear a hat/cap, sunglasses, and remember the good ol’ reliable sunscreen lotion.

CLOTHES – When you’re sweating out really profusely, it would not hurt to have a change of clothes. A change in t-shirt or underwear will do. This would also keep you fresh in a way, by having to keep at bay the smelly stench that would emit from your heavy perspiration. People then would not have to avoid getting near at you.

SHOWER/SWIM AWAY – To feel totally refreshed, a good shower, a dip in the pool, or cooling yourself away in the beach is the best way to go about it. Think of it as a leisure activity. Enjoy the water! Float your heat troubles away!

EXTRACURRICULAR – If you’ve got some spare time and got nothing else better to do, go for a stroll in the mall or the airconditioned stores. Instead of sulking yourself in the agonizing heat, going to airconditioned shops can take your mind off the hotness from the outside. Although, you got to remember not to empty your pockets while malling. You can also find other activities to enjoy, either a sport, picnic, etc.

That’s all folks! No matter how hot it can get, have fun in the sun!

Tips for coping with hot flashes – Part 2

The dreaded hot flash, or is it? Every time I experience a hot flash I remind myself that this is just temporary and as a result of my entering a new phase of womanhood, without monthly periods. Then it is much more acceptable to me.

Hot flashes are a temporary nuisance and therefore can also be embarrassing at times. I recently had a friend ask me ” why are you so red, are you okay ?” It seems that very often when hot flashes occur your face and ears become noticably flushed. The worst part is you can feel it happening. All of a sudden your head is overcome in a sweltering humidity, though only for a matter of seconds but you know it’s there and if you’re in public many will know it’s there as well. However, you need to remember every woman goes through this, you are not alone out there.

There are some specific things you can do to help cope or even prevent the onset of hot flashes. First, eliminate your caffeine intake and drink more water. Eat healthy. Eliminate sugars, fats and salty foods as much as possible. Exercising will also help. Try and do some type of physical exercise daily even tf it’s just walking or gardening.

I’ve also noticed that I do not wear as much clothing even in cooler weather. Where before I would venture out with a sweater or light jacket now I no longer even do that. I know it’s not stylish but it’s much better to wear looser clothing and always try to wear cotton. The same for your bed sheets. For myself, I’ve always used satin sheets which creates unbearable heat during those horrible night sweats. So, I’ve switched to cotton and have yet had a return of the night sweats.

Always try and carry some bottled water with you wherever you go. It will help you cool down and also helps in getting in those 8 glasses per day. Another tip is to take cooler showers. If you like hot showers, try and cool it down a bit everyday. If you use a hairdryer, which most of us do, dry your hair on the style setting which does not produce as much heat and helps immensely.

Also, try and take care of all your errands either in the morning hours or late afternoon when it is cooler outside. The same goes for your exercise routine if it is done outdoors. Avoid that noon to 3 p.m. heat.

Above all do what works for you and remember this is a transition into another phase of your life. A phase in which coming into your own is the key to yur happiness and well being.

Camp tips: How to sleep warm in the forest

Nothing is more miserable than trying to sleep when you are cold. Sleeping warm during winter camping requires following a short list of basic tips to eliminate moisture and keep your body heat stable. Following is a list of cold-weather camping tips to make you more comfortable on winter camping trips:

*Buy a quality sleeping baga mummy bag rated for 10 degrees or lower with quality fill material, zipper baffles, and drawstring hood.

*Vent the tent at night. This prevents condensation from your breath from forming on the inside roof of the tent and dripping on you and your sleeping bag while you sleep.

*Change into dry clothes immediately before bed. Even clothing that feels dry to the touch has enough moisture to cause you discomfort. Some campers place a minimal change of clothing in their sleeping bag during the day, keeping it warmer for a quick change right before bed.

*Make sure you are clean and dry before climbing into your bag. Why clean? Dirt retains moisture. Use a moist towellette to clean your skin, and a dry towel to dry your skin, before climbing into the bag.

*Wear very little clothing inside your bag. Many campers sleep in minimal clothingsocks and underwear only. Minimal clothing lets you and the bag heat up quickly and avoids sweating resulting from overheating.

*Don’t wear too much clothing. You’ll sweat inside the bag, and the moisture will make you feel colder.

*Cover your head. Use the mummy bag’s built-in head piece and drawstring or wear a knit cap.

*Breathe outside the bag. Your breath is the main source of moisture inside the tent, and this much moisture inside your bag will dampen you and make you feel colder.

*Waterproof your tent. Install the rain fly over the tent tautly, ensuring that it does not droop and touch the tent face. Use seam sealer to seal all stitch joints and be careful not to pitch your tent in drainage paths. Water and cold in combination are uncomfortable at best, and hazardous at worst.

*DO NOT LIGHT ANY TYPE OF OPEN FLAME, CANDLE, OR STOVE INSIDE A TENT EVER-This is extremely dangerous! Avoid the tempation to use any kind of heater inside a tent.

*Never place chemical thermal packs (i.e. Hot hands) inside a sleeping bag-a very bad burn can result. These types of warmers only

*Keep your sleeping bag dry. Store it inside the tent at all times. Keep your tent’s rain flap sealed when you are away from the campsite.

*Use an insulating pad under the bag. This product is available as an expensive self-inflating type or inexpensive closed-cell pads. Either one will help you stay more comfortable by separating your bag from the cold floor of the tent.

Clothes shopping: Tips for men buying for women

Shopping for clothes is a fun activity for many and a painful task for others. If you are a man shopping for a woman, you will also know that it can be tricky. Because not all women’s bodies or their tastes are created equal, bad choices can be made.

Men shopping for women’s clothes often become overwhelmed. There are so many sizes and styles to choose from that this can seem pointless. It doesn’t have to be. There are a few tips and tricks that men can follow that will help them navigate their way through a boutique.

The first thing to keep in mind is that women don’t always see themselves as men do. You may think your woman is beautiful head to toe while she may have minor flaws that she can’t take her mind off of. You should be careful when you choose an item to be sure that it isn’t taken the wrong way.

If you don’t know the woman in your life’s size, get it. You can look at the tags in her favorite clothes or ask a friend. If you get something too small, she will think that you want her to lose weight. If you get something too big, she will think that you think she is fatter than what she is. This is a catch twenty-two. Whatever you do, it is smart not to guess at a woman’s size.

Think about comfort. Women do like to look pretty but they want to be comfortable. Put yourself in her shoes. How would you feel wearing something that cut off your circulation or had pointy objects sticking from it? Use common sense when shopping for items.

Unless your woman asks you for sweat britches or comfortable stuff, it is best to avoid pants or jeans altogether. Sizes are tricky and not all items are made the same. Instead, opt for clothing items that won’t have a bad underlying message even if one isn’t intended.

Lingerie

This is the most common clothing item that men purchase for women. When a man buys a woman lingerie he is telling her that he thinks she is sexy and wants her to model it. This is a great idea as a gift. The thing to remember with lingerie is to keep it simple. Buy simple two-piece camisoles or sleek nightgowns. Anything too extravagant can cause problems.

T-shirts

Shirts are very comfortable and universal for many occasions. Because shirt designs can vary this is a big category that can be universal. Concert shirts, shirts that advertise her favorite products, or even sentimental shirts that proclaim your love for her will be a big hit.

Pajamas

Buying pajamas for a woman tells her that you want her to be

Healthy eating tips for dining out

Even though you eat healthy at home, sometimes it gets tricky eating out at restaurants. Let’s start with some basics on eating out. By now, you probably know to avoid consuming too many carbohydrates and hydrogenated foods; they will slow you down and give you nothing but heartache. Some things to keep in mind wherever you go – whether stopping for a quick bite on the road, casually out with friends and family, or stepping it up at a fine restaurant:

* Thirst quenchers: Water is always the simple yet healthy choice. For something different, try hot tea in lieu of sodas or coffee.

* Tasty does not have to mean fatty – it’s all in the seasoning, not necessarily fried food.

* Colorful food – vegetables add color and nutrients to your plate.

* Enjoying food does not mean over-indulging; try sharing platters to get a variety of foods in one sitting

* High protein content will fill you up faster and stay fuller longer

* Eat s-l-o-w-er – by taking your time when eating, you’ll find yourself feeling full without over-eating.

More specifically, each place presents its own challenges, but there are ways to get around them. Take note:

FAST TRACK:

Junk food has that name for a reason; it’s simply not the best for you. However, some junk food joints have started getting on the health wagon – at least their version of it. Many fast food places, such as McDonald’s and Wendy’s now offer deli-style sandwiches. Also geared towards the health-conscious diner, you can also find a variety of salads. If you’re going on a long road trip (say a day or two), do a quick look online to see the nutrient values at the big chains. You’ll get a good idea as to what satisfies your needs and have an idea as to where to pit stop along your trek.

FAMILY AFFAIR:

Look out for the “what’s cheap is plentiful” type of restaurants. A lot of family style restaurants try to fill you up with mountains of rice, bread, or other filler, with a whisper of meat and vegetables on your plate. For a test, I discovered two hopeful franchises trying to help out health-conscious foodiesn u/index.htm?rightportion), particularly the “Shrimp Key West” plate.

FANCY PANTS:

Fortunately, when it comes to fine dining, you won’t need to sweat it out as much – key phrase being “as much”.

Advantages:

* Fine restaurateurs opt for quality cuts and produce.

* Higher end restaurants don’t give you a mountain of rice and/or other starch with your proteins – it’s usually balanced and moderate in size.

* Along with choice quality produce, they usually offer unique dessert options worth every penny and calorie.

IN THE END:

Remember two more things:

a) Everything in moderation including moderation.

b) Relax, breathe deep, and enjoy your food.

Writing problems to avoid: Five things that kill good writing

A GOOD FIRST SENTENCE IS LIKE GOOD SEX

I have a ritual, which I follow faithfully. As soon as I walk into Barnes & Noble, I stroll directly over to the fiction section. This familiar ritual never grows old. My hands begin sweating at the mere sight of books; my mind becomes exhilarated, rejuvenated, energized. I would even compare this sensation to sex, the same endorphins rushing through the body.

I run my fingers over the beautiful spines of new fiction and my heart begins racing. Usually I search for particular authors, but I’m also attracted to distinctive titles and interesting pictures on book covers. For example, the cover of “Waiting” by Ha Jin, has a stunning image of a long, glossy black braid streaming down the front cover; an appealing eye catcher.

Typically, I grab about eight attention-grabbing books to bring into the caf. I order a cappuccino and something delectably chocolate. Then I read the first sentence of each book. If the first sentence doesn’t grip me, I move that book to the side, or as Dorothy Parker perfectly articulated, “This is not a novel to be tossed aside lightly. It should be thrown with great force.”

With that said, I shall begin:

FIVE Steps, Which Kill, Kill, Kill a Novel.

1. A BAD FIRST SENTENCE: The first sentence must intrigue the reader, pull them from their seats, and excite them. Here are a few great first sentences.

I am a sick manI am a spiteful man. Dostoyevsky, Notes from the Underground

Mrs. Dalloway said she would buy the flowers herself. Virginal Woof, Mrs. Dalloway

They shot the white girl first. Toni Morrison, Paradise

I write this sitting at the kitchen sink. Dodie Smith, I Capture the Castle

Lolita, light of my life, fire of my loins. Vladimir Nabokov, Lolita

This is the saddest story I have ever heard. Ford Madox, The Good Soldier

Mother died today. Albert Camus, The Stranger

Every summer Lin Kong returned to Goose village to divorce his wife, Shuyu. Ha Jin, Waiting

I would read all of these books, simply because of the first sentence. I want the author to knock my socks off, especially with the first sentence. If I’m not caught then, it’s too late.

2. UNORIGINAL: It’s ok to write a story that’s been written before, but it better damn well be told with new, fresh, innovative eyes. If an author is stealing another’s ideas, they MUST express those ideas with an original perspective and a voice, which is truly their own. Nobody, and I mean

Big and tall mens fashion tips: Creating a sexy look

Big and tall men can create a sexy look to compliment their grand figures. This can be done by emphasizing their good points and downplaying what they may feel to be negative. Despite appearance, big and tall men often feel shy when it comes to fashion and may need some tips on how to appear more confident and find their personal style.

SHIRTS AND TOPS

Men who are big across the girth can add the appearance of a slimmer figure by wearing shirts which have vertical stripes.

Any man with a large stomach should avoid large prints and patterns with a bold confusion of colors as this will make them look even larger just where they don’t want to. Sticking to plain, dark colors will appear more flattering and stylish.

Tall men, who are slim, would do well to avoid vertical stripes when it comes to shirts as it will make them appear even slimmer. Horizontal stripes and light colored shirts and tops will do the opposite.

PANTS AND JEANS

High waisted pants and jeans are not a good look for either the tall or the big man, particularly if he has a small upper body and longer legs as this cut will only emphasize this feature.

Jeans and pants which begin just below the waist will be the most flattering. Low rise will not suit a man who is big in the stomach area as they will allow his paunch to peep out over the top of them. This is not an attractive look.

Material such as thick denim will be supportive for the larger man and smooth out the appearance of his figure well.

Pinstripes will again, give the appearance of slimness for the man who wants to achieve this effect.

Tall men look great in tailored pants made of cotton or linen. Old fashioned Chinos never go out of fashion and can add style to a look.

The latest style of long shorts, or short pants worn with a low v neck will flatter the stature of a big and tall man, as well as helping to keep him in fashion.

JACKETS

Big and tall men don’t look great in short or long-line jackets, but they do look great in jackets which end just below their hips. This neither adds height or width but does compliment a mans look.

Single breasted jackets can have the appearance of a slimming effect to the wearers physique, and will look great on a large man.

SEXY ADDITIONS

The sexy part of a mans look can come from the little extra personal touches which he adds to his outfit. Wide, black leather belts with large shiny buckles and matching leather shoes can give personality to an outfit.

For the man who is unafraid of his height a trilby hat, or similar, can let his taste shine through and make him just a little different from other men.

A sweater worn underneath a suit jacket can add texture and interest to an outfit, as can a large watch and unusual cuff-links.

Extra appeal can come from good grooming and personal confidence to stand tall, big and proud.

Summer makeup tips

In summer people tend to sweat a lot and this leads to disaster effects if you have got a heavy make up. In summer one should prefer a light make up and one should think of protecting sun from the sun rays and sweating. One should stop using oily creams and oily styling products as they clog skin pores and form acne and thus pimples. Some tips to keep your skin healthy and have a long lasting make up are

Using a sun screen lotion

Use a sun protection cream on a summer day. You have to apply this cream to your face, hands and legs. Before 20 minutes of going out under sun, you have to apply this lotion. You can get sun screen lotions from any store or beauty salons. If you have dry skin, you can use moisturizers with an SPF of 15 or above.

Avoiding creams

Avoid using creams considerably. Especially, stop using oil based creams. They block your skin pores to form acne. Besides this when you sweat, the oil of the cream starts to spread making your face look oily.

Avoid heavy make up

Avoid as much make up as you can. Try to use very little make up. Just a layer of sun screen lotion would be fine on a summer day. If you use heavy make up, when you sweat, the make up the liquid flows down your cheek making it look awkward with colored liquid flowing. Besides this, you have to let your skin breath and sweat naturally. This helps the skin to secrete waste products freely. This helps in maintaining a healthy skin. This avoids the formation of oils and acne on the face.

Use light eye shadows and less eye liners

Don’t use too much eye products. Use little amounts of eye shadow and try to avoid using eye liner as much as possible. If you sweat when you have applied eye liner, there are chances that the sweat mixed with eye liner may run down. If this liquid gets in to your eyes, there are chances for eye damage.

Water proofing

If you have to go for a party or function, you obviously can not go without mascara. If you apply one, there are chances that you may sweat resulting in the flow of sweat mixed with the mascara. In such cases, use waterproof mascaras available in the market. They don’t run down along with sweat.

Some more important tips for summer care for your skin are

* Use translucent tinted powder instead of using foundation.

* Prefer nude natural look for the lips instead of lip sticks with glitters and sparkles.

* If you really have to apply a foundation, mix it with powder to get a fresh feel throughout the day.

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