7 Ways to Look Perfectly Polished

Don't have an hour to get ready in the morning? No problem! You'll look put together in mere minutes with these totally doable tips.

By Holly Corbett, RedBookMag editor

1. The devil is in the details

You brushed your teeth this morning? Victory! You combed your hair? Jeez, I wish I'd gotten around to that. If you're doing these little things, you've already taken a big step towards appearing put-together.

"You don't necessarily have to buy anything new to look polished, but can work with what you already have," says Jennifer Scott, the fashion blogger behind The Daily Connoisseur and author of the upcoming book, Lessons from Madame Chic: 20 Stylish Secrets I Learned While Living in Paris (Simon & Schuster Nov. 2012).

"It's all about paying attention to a few details."

Try Scott's real-world tricks to look neat and stylish whether you're off to a fancy restaurant or to the grocery store.

2. Get a low-maintenance hairstyle

That trendy, razored cut seemed like a good idea at the salon, but without a flat iron, it likely turned haphazard. And who has time for daily styling when faced with screaming kids, a ringing cell, and a work report?

"Talk to your hairdresser about a cut that not only flatters your face, but is easy to style," says Scott.

"Get your money's worth from your hairdresser by asking for tips on easy ways you can wear your new style."

Holding off on a haircut? With hair, polish is in the details.

"For example, if you pull your hair back into a ponytail, hide the elastic band by wrapping a few strands of hair around it and securing with bobby pins. It's thoughtful touches like these that create the polished look," says Scott.

3. Start an at-home mani ritual

Bright colored polish looks chic for about two hours — that is, until you start doing dishes and using finger paints. But, your hands say a lot about your investment in your appearance.

"Once a week, file nails into a clean shape, cut away any rough edges, and apply cuticle oil followed by a coat of clear varnish. This will make your hands look polished and takes no time at all."

4. Know your core wardrobe

If you haven't worn it since before your last pregnancy, or it's a poorly-chosen gift from your mother-in-law, donate it to charity.

"When you create a capsule wardrobe, you'll be able to orchestrate several polished outfits that you can pick at a moment’s notice, meaning you'll no longer stand in front of your closet, frazzled, wondering what on earth to wear," says Scott.

Your edited wardrobe may include interchangeable go-to items that form the backbone of your outfits, such as a pair of skinny jeans, wool slacks, a blazer, a pencil skirt, a fitted cardigan, a blouse, ballet flats, and a trench coat.

5. Make friends with a tailor

A key to looking neat is to have your clothes fit perfectly, so find a good tailor who can make small tweaks to your core pieces.

"Especially important is tailoring your pants to fit your frame," says Scott.

"To avoid looking sloppy, have one pair of jeans tailored for flat shoes and another tailored for heels."

6. Perfect the 5-minute makeup routine

"If some mornings you have time for only concealer and lip gloss, so be it!" says Scott.

Instead of worrying, realize that this little bit of effort has a big payoff. Bright, flawless skin can do wonders for pulling together your look. Just be sure your concealer becomes invisible when blended into your skin. Also, avoid puffy, raccoon eyes by applying concealer only to dark circles rather than your entire under-eye area.

Try Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Waterproof Concealer ($22).

7. Organize your accessories

Next time the kids are out of the house, spend an hour determining which accessories work best with which outfits. That way, "you can easily finish off your look with the perfect accessory the next time you’re in a hurry," says Scott.

Whether you're wearing skinny jeans and a t-shirt or a LBD, having a pair of signature earrings that goes with everything adds variety to your wardrobe and helps complete your look. These gold and garnet drop earrings can easily be dressed up or dressed down.

8. Clean up your shoes

No matter how flawless your concealer or tailored your pants, wearing a pair of beat-up shoes will drastically take away from your overall look.

"To minimize scuff marks, take good care of your shoes by storing them carefully rather than piled on top of each other," says Scott.

Try the Whitmor Faux Leather 3-Tier Shoe Rack ($22.39) for easy safekeeping.

Source: RedBookMag

3 Ways To Wear Fall's Totally Chic (And Comfy) Loose Trousers

By Hannah Weil, FabSugar editor

1. Dressed Down

Switch from faded denim into a pair of fresh, loose-fit trousers that are as comfy and easy to throw on as they are entirely chic — especially when they're styled up with a bit of a Parisian twist via Breton stripes, black and white loafers, and a pop of red on a Fall-perfect satchel.

2. Office Appropriate

Play right into the workwear classics with a few modern twists. Keep it polished up top with a snug crewneck knit with a pretty pop of print and color with a handy built-in collar. Adding a pair of classic pumps in leopard print speaks to the corporate vibe, albeit with a little flair (and print on print).

Evening Out

The slightly luxe finish on these trousers was made for dressing up. We love countering the slouchy fit with slinky, sexier pieces, like a moody burgundy tank to flash a little skin and a slick leather jacket to layer up on your walk home. To finish, reach for subtle jewels that have a little personality and a pair of killer heels to really up the sexy factor.

Source: FabSugar

What Men Really Think About Your Bikini

Swimsuit season is stressful enough when women are tasked with finding swimwear that's both fashionable and flattering. But what does he think about all your hard work? Marie Claire asked 100 random guys about some of the most popular swimsuit trends — and their answers may have you reconsidering that new bikini in your beach bag.

By Kate Schweitzer, MarieClaire editor

The String Bikini

One of the most popular swimwear styles on the market happens to be the one with the least amount of fabric. But what do men really think of the skimpy suit? 74 percent were fans of the triangles-and-string ensemble, while 26 percent thought it looked too revealing and left little to the imagination.

The Standard Two-Piece

Guys' most favored suit was the basic two-piece bikini. A bit more material — while still showcasing some serious skin — meant a whopping 93 percent approval rating among men (and several said the look most closely resembled women in bras and panties...). Only 7 percent didn't like the cut.

The Bandeau Top

Another option men and women can agree on is the strapless two-piece suit that harkens back to Roman times — when women's breasts were wrapped in garments during sporting events and at baths. Maybe it's the historical significance of the fashion statement that got 89 percent of men to approve and only 11 percent to not like it.

The Monokini

Women wanting to make a statement on the beach may opt for the monokini — a one-piece suit in which the sides are completely cut out, giving the appearance of a bikini, with the top and bottom sections connected by a thin strip of material. Guys, however, prefer to opt out. Only 22 percent liked the look. The most common response of the 78 percent who hated it? "I don't get it."

The One-Shoulder Suit

This Tarzan-esque suit, in either a one-piece or a two-piece, left men torn: Roughly 67 percent liked it, while 33 preferred to see something with either both straps or none at all. But, don't be too discouraged by the mixed review, ladies. A lot of men who didn't appreciate this suit said that it was because it would likely lead to problematic — and as one guy put it, "really weird" — tan lines.

The Tankini

Introduced in the late '90s, the tankini grew in popularity because of its combination of the modesty of a one-piece with the convenience and style of a two-piece. The look got mixed reviews from the guys surveyed. 53 percent liked the look, while 47 percent didn't. A few even compared the concept as being synonymous to men wearing T-shirts in the pool.

The One-Piece Swimsuit

Few women sport one-pieces despite the traditional swimwear's resurgence on the runway — and despite the fact that the majority of men like them. In fact, 65 percent prefer the look, as opposed to only 35 percent who don't. The only rule? Some men said they like the style as long as it's still sexy and doesn't look like the woman is trying out for the Olympic swim team.

The Retro Pin-Up

Vintage-inspired bathing suits have been quite the comeback in recent summers. One-piece bombshell suits and high-waisted two-pieces allow women to show off their curves while still remaining more than a bit demure. Of course, demure is not a look most men have come to expect poolside, so only 21 percent gravitate to this '50s-era style. The rest, 79 percent of guys, want to see more skin.

The High-Fashion Bikini

Like many new fashion trends, women inevitably find them far more interesting than their male counterparts. Funky suits — like those with studs, grommets and beaded detailing or others with unorthodox accessories — were the least favored swimwear of all the styles. Only 17 percent liked them, while 83 percent were mystified that the garments could even hold up in water.

Source: MarieClaire

7 Days, 7 Ways to Update Your Fall Look

Give last year’s wardrobe a totally new look with these easy-peasy updates. Try one a day and you’ll be ready for fall in one week flat!

By Katie Alberts, iVillage editor

Day 1: Try something neon!

Shocking pinks, greens, oranges and yellows are lighting up stores for fall and there’s only one rule of thumb: The crazier the color, the simpler the silhouette. That’s why this satchel—with its minimal hardware and classic shape—is so smart.

Day 2: Test out a nail trend!

Nail art is the perfect counterpoint to fall’s muted colors and cozy looks. But there’s no need to spend ages in a salon chair. A new generation of nail stickers fit wonderfully well and come in an incredible array of patterns, including this neutral python print.

Day 3: Add some dots!

If there’s one pattern set to take fall by storm, it’s white dots against a dark palette. Of course they look good with jeans and basics, but these spots can also be treated as neutrals—pair them with pastels, brights, even those neons you just added to your wardrobe. Not sure what piece to pick? Consider swapping your trusty black blazer like this one.

Day 4: Try a high-volume pony!

Transitioning to fall means hair should be more polished—but that doesn’t mean boring! Take inspiration from celebs like Kate Beckinsale, Eva Longoria, Jessica Biel and Kim Kardashian, who have all stepped out in swingy, volumized ponytails. Achieving the hairstyle should only take a few minutes—lightly tease dry, wavy hair at the crown, then smooth up into a high pony, manipulating and smoothing until you have nice lift at the front.

Day 5: Slip on some brogues!

First came the cool girls in their oxford shoes, then a ton of tassels on the red carpet, and finally the Britannia craze. What it’s all led to is this season’s “it” shoe: brogues with wingtip details and kilt-y charm. Givenchy, Balenciaga, Fendi, Marni Burberry, YSL and Prada all have their versions, in flats, boots and even pumps, but we’re adding these comfy classics to our cart.

Day 6: Add a wardrobe staple!

Sometimes what your closet needs isn’t another trend, but rather a pitch-perfect basic you’ll wear again and again. A denim jacket, khaki trench or tall leather boots—pick whatever you always wish you had when putting together an outfit.

Day 7: Spike it up!

Spikes are the new diamonds? Well, almost. Designers at every level are obsessed with pyramid spikes, using them to add serious edge to otherwise simple jewelry. The result is fresh, fearless and a nice break from all those chandeliers and pearls we’ve seen for so many seasons. This stretchy bracelet looks tough, but is comfy enough to wear all day long and into the evening.

Source: iVillage

8 Perfectly Coordinated Fall Outfit Ideas

Who said perfectly coordinated outfits went out of style with the Partridge Family? This fall, matching is back--and it's so pretty. Try these mixed doubles.

By Audrey Slater, RedbookMag editor

Point 1: Go for an old-school suit

The two-piece suit feels fresh again, and with a fun striped tee, it shakes off any '80s Working Girl connotations.

Point 2: Do a double animal print

It's infinitely fun to pair two wild patterns in the same color family (like this leopard and giraffe); just do it in small doses.

Point 3: Stick to one (neutral) hue

Wearing a whole bunch o' camel creates a super-sophisticated monochromatic look... and lets you go really bright with your shoes!

Point 4: Be black and white all over

Two graphic patterns look seamless together but still have a nice touch of funkiness.

Point 5: Pair up your jewelry and clothes

There's something happy-making about wearing a whole lot of your favorite hue, and colored stones are just so chic.

Point 6: Create a two-piece dress

Combine a top and a skirt in the same print to make something that's as lovely as a dress. The bonus: You can also split 'em up!

Point 7: Make it all of a theme

Let a bold print direct the colors of your entire outfit, from the top to the accessories. The result is creative--and cool.

Point 8: Match your tights with your shoes

Keeping the colors similar all the way up nets you instantly endless legs. Neat, right?

Source: RedBookMag

The Dos & Don’ts of Fall 2012 Fashion Trends

By Megan Gustashaw, Glamour editor

The fall 2012 New York Fashion Week shows were jam-packed with trend after trend. Here are our tips on how to wear ‘em all without entering into the dangerous DON’T zone.

1. DO dress up your cozy knits.

At the J.Crew presentation, cozy sweaters were given a glam update when paired with dazzling skirts and silky printed pants.

DON’T be shy! Mix rustic sweaters with your most dance-floor-ready bottoms.

DO stick to similar colors to make the pieces feel more natural together.

2. DON’T skip the statement collar.

The bedazzled collar continues to thrive as a trend on and off the runways. We love it because it makes any outfit look polished!

To save a bit of money, DO find detachable collars on sites like Etsy or even DIY one!

DON’T worry about looking too trendy. Stick to plain tops and knits for a slightly more toned-down look.

3. DO rethink old-school quilted fabrics.

Crafty quilted fabrics have been thoroughly modernized by young, hip labels like Proenza Schouler and Jason Wu. Now it’s sleek, chic and ready for the city.

DO feel free to wear these pieces a bit loose, but DON’T get lost in them. Show off your legs, and add heels to maintain the It Girl factor.

4. DON’T save bright colors for spring.

Donna Karan reminded us of this age-old technique for making bright, cheery color work in cold weather: add black!

DON’T forget to update your stash of black tights at the beginning of the season. A shiny, no-pills pair makes an outfit look so much more expensive.

DO balance the ratio of black and bright color by experimenting with accessories, outerwear and shoes.

5. DO fall back in love with the navy-blue peacoat.

We heard “the peacoat is the new parka” whispered behind us during one of the shows—and that stylista was so right. Joseph Altuzarra was just one of many designers to rework this wardrobe staple for fall.

DO look for versions with big, exaggerated collars for extra oomph.

DON’T be afraid to invest in this trend. Even when the moment ends, the peacoat will never look out of style.

6. DON’T be afraid to do head-to-toe pattern.

Head-to-toe patterns, particularly florals, were a trend on the catwalks this season. Modern cuts and fabrics make it look way cute and not at all dated.

DON’T skip the shoes! When we said head-to-toe, we meant it!

DO break the look down and wear it with other print-free items in your wardrobe for maximum return on your trendy investment.

7. DO add wine colors to your fall wardrobe.

Dark red and purple shades were a big statement this season. The hero piece? Shiny burgundy coats likes these from Tommy Hilfiger.

DO find the shade that suits your skin tone. Brick reds look great on warm skin tones, for example, while bluish plums look great on cool ones.

DON’T forget to mix wine colors with autumnal brights in addition to neutrals. Mustard, cobalt and emerald green can be especially chic.

8. DON’T ditch the peplum trend just yet.

We called the peplum one of the most wearable trends of the spring 2012 season, so it’s a good thing it stayed strong for fall 2012.

DO let this cute detail take the place of accessories for a simple-yet-strong nighttime look.

DON’T limit yourself to dresses and skirts. Pants and tops look chic with a coordinating peplum too!

9. DO incorporate yummy textures into your outfit.

Fur (both real and faux) was big news on the fall runways, but angora, mohair and cashmere made a statement too. Find a luxe fabric to suit your personal style and budget and revel in the chic it brings to your cold-weather wardrobe.

DO let the luxe piece stand out in the look.

DON’T go head to toe in one texture.

10. DON’T underestimate the power of pointy pumps.

Pointy pumps feel fresher than ever for fall, especially when rendered in shiny, slinky fabrics. Thakoon hit the right note with satin and metallic styles, while J.Crew cornered the print market with its Manolo Blahnik pairs.

DO wear these sexy shoes with cropped pants, but DON’T do them with wide-leg jeans. Sadly, these two fab pieces just never quite work together.

11. DO mix sporty and ladylike.

Baseball caps were just one of many sporty statements on the runways, styled with girly and ladylike pieces. Practical meets pretty? We like this trend.

DON’T wear too many sporty pieces at once or you’ll look like you’re on your way to the gym.

DO add one sporty element—like a letterman jacket or perforated tank—to give a girly look a sporty twist.

12. DON’T play it safe with your handbag.

Handbags were large and in charge this season, mimicking outfits in color and pattern and mixing unlikely combinations of hardware and material.

DO follow Tory Burch’s lead and opt for a classic shape with a wild design. The bag will make a statement but never feel too trendy.

DON’T be limited by your budget. Grab your most glam clutch and wear it during the day for a free-and-easy way to try out this trend.

Source: Glamour

Cameron Diaz Is 40 And She's Never Looked Better

By Laurel Pantin, Glamour editor

Happy birthday, Cam! You porn-loving, paddle boarding hottie, you. Maybe it's all that rowdy fun that keeps her from aging a day, because seriously, girlfriend looks amazing.

Here she is at the London premiere of "What To Expect When You're Expecting," wearing the hell out of that jumpsuit. Rumors around her personal life aside, how comfortable and healthy does she look? She's mastered the natural beauty thing, but dang, 40 does her body good.

She nails the menswear trend, but still looks feminine. I mean, with that neckline and her miles-wide grin, she kinda looks like a tomboy goddess.

That's not to say she can't rock a gown with the best of them. I was floored by her Gucci gown at the 2012 Oscars. She looks like a princess! A super laid-back beach princess, but one nonetheless.

So Cam, wherever you are, I hope you're tucking in to a delicious indulgent cake, because after all the work I'm sure you do to maintain your figure all year, you deserve it!!

Source: Glamour