Bikini Swimsuits

The bikini was invented by Louis Reard and Jacques Heim, in Paris in 1946. However, due to its skimpiness, hardly anyone had the courage to wear a bikini until the late 1950s, when actress Brigitte Bardot created a splash by wearing a bikini in the film, ‘And God Created Woman.’ The bikini revolution subsequently became a rage, and even got its own song: ‘Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Yellow Polka Dot Bikini.’

Coming back to the present, bikinis have become modest in character. Bikini bottoms are offering more coverage than in the past without giving up on their sex appeal. Last season witnessed straight, top-line bikini bottoms. Surprisingly, there were hardly any deep-V bikini bottoms, thongs or G-strings in sight. With more coverage in style, fashion houses are predicting that the ‘skirtini’ is going to be the next big thing in the swimsuit industry.

Bikinis come in a variety of styles, the most popular being ‘Tankini’ (a longer top that leaves only a small portion of the stomach exposed), ‘Bandini’ (a bikini with a bandeau top), ‘Camikini’ (similar to the tankini except the top looks like a camisole), and ‘Boy Legs’ (the bottom is longer and resembles short shorts). The classic halter-top, however, is still in vogue although the ‘Bandini’ was the hippest bikini style last season, with almost every swimwear label producing its own take on it. For the ties that bind, sashes, rather than spaghetti strings, were in demand.

For those on the heavier side, sarongs continue to be a flattering way to cover up the extra pounds, although board shorts are a sporty alternative.

Swimsuits provides detailed information about swimsuits, bikini swimsuits, kids' swimsuits, maternity swimsuits and more. Swimsuits is the sister site of Women's Bathing Suits. http://www.e-bathingsuits.com/

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Skirts

Skirts have become an essential item in almost every lady’s wardrobe. They highlight the soft feminine side of a woman’s personality without underplaying her sex appeal. While it is a popular perception that skirts only suit a slim figure, this couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s just about choosing the silhouette that flatters your body type. While only those with perfectly sculpted bodies should attempt wearing a mini or a pencil skirt, a full skirt is much more forgiving.

The fervour for skirts has been gathering steam for some time now, but fall 2005 effortlessly brought the tale to a dramatic flourish in a melange of bold styles. Fabrics, styles and treatments run the gamut from casual to severely formal, laid-back to luxurious. Although knee-length skirts are being spotted on runways, narrow pencil skirts and risqué minis are equally popular.

The House of Dior recently showcased Tilcara skirts inspired by couturier John Galliano's visits to Argentina and Peru while Chanel has launched circle skirts reminiscent of the fifties era. Christian Lacroix’s runway show had soft, flowy skirts teamed with trenches and Armani's attention to detailing in his ruffled skirts trimmed in satin was visible at the Milan Fashion Week; his 15-cm pleated minis are ideal clubwear.

Stores are housing peasant styles and military influences on a range of fabrics such as corduroy, chiffon, tweeds, wool, leather, and more. Interestingly, all the embellishments previously seen on blouses have made their presence felt in skirts. People want something unique, with a racy edge, which has prompted design houses to take a vintage piece and add a new twist on it. The result: this season, skirts are satiated with sequins, beads, embroideries, lace, leather slashes, and fur trimmings.

Skirts provides detailed information about skirts, leather skirts, denim skirts, long skirts and more. Skirts is the sister site of Best Prom Dress. http://www.e-promdress.com/

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The Best Custom Jeans

The staple of everyone's wardrobe. There is a statistic that states that at any given time most people have at least eight pairs of jeans in their closet. Living and working in Los Angeles offers the option of going to work in jeans. I know that I am one of the people listed in that statistic. I have several different brands of jeans but here are the ones that I have found to be most useful. When choosing a pair of jeans you should be able to find a few pairs of everyday jeans that go with pretty much anything and can be used for most occasions. Also you are going to want a few pairs that are slightly more dressy for the nicer occasions and for more upscale bars and clubs.

For your everyday pairs I would recommend Abercrombie & Fitch. They tend to carry stylish jeans and have several choices in cut for your particular build and personal style. They have many different colors and washes in each cut of jean and can generally outfit anyone's taste. Their jeans are reasonably priced and can be matched with most clothes and shoes.

As far as dressy jeans go there are many choices. I am always wary of buying jeans that come from companies who don't specialize in jeans. Some of the choices that I would recommend are Diesel, Seven and Ben Sherman. These jeans tend to be more expensive and will probably run in the neighborhood of $200 a pair. Since these are nicer brands they are worth the money but make sure to try on several different designers before you make you choice. Once you have a pair of jeans that you like make sure that they will work with your wardrobe before buying them. If you are going to spend a lot on one pair of jeans you want to make sure they work with a lot of your wardrobe and will be worn often.

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The Best Of Vintage Tee Shirts

Stop buying Abercrombie & Fitch vintage T-shirts. Have you noticed you have on the exact same thing everyone else around you has on. Not to mention that they are overpriced and boring.

Major corporate stores are great for some of the basics like jeans or undershirts, but you t-shirt collection should be something personal and not a function of what goes on sale at the Gap.

The truly great vintage tee comes from finding the one great shirt that you stumble across in your parent's old wardrobe or at a garage sale. There are great finds to be had in every thrift store. You never know what classic shirt has been tossed away by someone with no appreciation for pop culture. Hit up some thrift stores and cruise through the selection. You will see a lot that doesn't work but the one great find will set your wardrobe and sense of style apart from all the rest.

Other goldmines are vintage record stores, and flea markets. You should be looking for something that appeals to you and is a one of a kind. There are plenty of great finds out there just waiting to be discovered, and if they don't work out you are only out $1.50.

Always be on the lookout for classic concert tees. Even if the band sucked at the time it is now vintage and it will make your parents feel old. Also keep an eye out for any company or logo that was popular in its day but has been phased out. Just like classic cars, these will never go out of style.

However you go about finding your wardrobe try to be original and breakaway from anything that everyone has either already found or can buy when it goes on sale. Your clothes say a lot about you so make sure to add your own touches.

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Look Good Nude: Health And Beauty Tips

Oh stop blushing. We're not asking you to run through the streets in your birthday suit or attend a business meeting sans clothes. But we all have times when we want to look our best in the buff. While some of us are blessed with blemish-free, wrinkle-free and jiggle-free skin, the reality is nobody is absolutely perfect. So, we need products. Thankfully there are lots of them out there, although not all are created equally. Here's a roundup of quality cosmetics, lotions and potions to get your skin and body in tip-top shape for when the lights go out-or stay on.

Sex appeal has a lot to do with sense of smell and touch. Start things off right with sexy skin. You'll feel as sweet as sugar (and possible taste as good, too) with the Age Defying Body Buff($14.95) from Zia Natural Skincare. Spread the honey and brown sugar scrub over your skin, leaving your body tastily smooth.

Most of us have indulged in too much sun at one point in our lives. While we'd like to consider it a lesson learned, we may have some sun damage on our "decollete" to remind us of our past sun-worshiping sins. The Sea Tonic Bust Gel ($49.50) by Phytomer soothes and tones the skin of the decollete, instantly firming and contouring the bust. What's more, iridescent bubbles create an enticing shimmer, perfect for candlelight.

Get a flawless complexion without worrying about a meltdown. Amazing Base($42), the all-in-one foundation, powder, concealer and sunscreen by Jane Iredale provides unsurpassed coverage and staying power and actually helps improve the skin with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which act as anti-inflammatories.

The French have such polite names for body parts. Whip your derriere in shape with Victoria's Secret's Cellulite Rx Lipotherm Contouring Cream ($96). The powerful agents in this firming cream smooths and actively slims the skin, leaving your delicate derriere smoother and sensually contoured.

Make your skin irresistible to touch with the Hydra System Rich Delicate Body Cream($146.50) from Vie. Drape your skin with this silky velvet cream and you'll never spend another night alone. Not to be overlooked, your hair should send the right message. Go for the tousled bedhead with ISO Nexture($20.99). With one treatment you'll have soft, sexy waves that can last up to 20 shampoos.

About the Author
Amy's passion is writing about the good things in life: food, wine, fashion, and travel. Writings include topics such as Luxury and Fashion.

The Corset - A Symbol Of Powerful Female Expression

Madonna, Sarah Jessica Parker, Beyonce and a score of other celebrities in current pop culture have repeatedly brought the corset "out from under" and into the limelight over the past couple of decades. Whether a leather corset for an erotic spectacle on stage, a beaded one for the Red Carpet or lacy and casual for lunch with friends, the image harkens back, ever so subtly, to one of the first powerful ladies to don a corset, Queen Elizabeth I of England. That's not to imply of course that Queen Elizabeth's corsets were such blatant fashion statements as these women's, but underneath it all, was there more being said than meets the eye? And it may not have been any of these celebrities' intention to associate herself with powerful women of eras past necessarily, but it's not a far stretch to say that this fashion statement speaks volumes and brings with it to its wearers a powerful history of female expression that spans centuries.

For a simple item of clothing, corsets have stirred many opinions as to their function and the role they play in the female wardrobe. In eras past, as a required fashion staple, corsets were sometimes considered to be the epitome of conservative male oppression of women with their restrictive binding. In current times however, fashion designers are less likely to consider corsets as a figment of male domination and instead covet them as a timeless fascination with shaping the female body and today's wearers can surely be considered to be clearly exhibiting the ultimate form of confidence and feminine expression. Still, others who couldn't care less about a corset's cultural implications or their ability to shape a body consider them to be ideal under-garments supporting the back in a comfortable way--a very practical fashion in this sense. Of course, no fashion would be worth its weight without a little controversy and on this point, corsets have delivered.

Corsets basically evolved into the modern bra. But there clearly remains a fashionable allure for the earlier predecessor. Described today as gorgeous, ultra-glamorous, and sexy, corsets are available in a variety of styles and colors, fabricated from all types of materials. They're often boned as were early patterns. But now, three things make modern corsets distinctly different from 16th and 17th century patterns. Today they range in size from small to 3X and above. Corsets are worn as outerwear, with jeans in casual settings and glamorized for evening wear. They are often used as lingerie, and unlike their predecessors, they're designed to be comfortable and easy to get in and out of quickly.

In recent corset news, confirming the fascination with these garments, celebrities have custom designed embellished leather corsets and those made from other unusual and creative materials that have been auctioned for upwards of $1000 and beyond, to benefit charity. Not only are corsets sexy fashion, but they have become a very profitable endeavor!

On the lingerie front, leather corsets or those made from classic lace or racier PVC are popular today and available in a variety of styles and sizes as well. Just like their outerwear counterparts, a myriad of designs are created to accentuate the curves of the female physique and they are consciously designed to flatter the wearer. Many lingerie corsets now have optional G-strings and detachable garters. Other options include front zippers, lace up backs, hook and eye front closure, and adjustable shoulder straps. Sometimes lycra is added for more comfort and many patterns are lined in silk or satin.

It's unlikely that the "powerful women of eras past" would have considered one of these garments as a staple in their wardrobe. But as for the women of today, current day corsets, from the simplest to the most elaborate, are one way of exuding powerful feminine expression on the outside and underneath.

About the Author
Mike Mansfield is well versed in the history of the corset as the owner of Leather Obsession , the leading online source for affordable high-quality leather corsets and other leather clothing.

The Bali Bra

The Bali bra line is a collection of high-quality pretty undergarments offering women from all over who come in every shape and size complete support and protection.

A brassiere or bra like the Bali bra is a garment for females to give coverage and support for the women's breasts. A typical bra is made up of straps at both sides of the shoulder, two cups to accommodate the breasts, a center panel, a band to hold the two cups and goes under the breasts, and a hook clasp or a bra fastener to close the brassier. The brassieres are typically made up of materials such as cotton or lace or even spandex, depending on the style and function that the manufacturer intended. The under wires of the bra are added to provide maximum support and to give shape to the bra cups.

The brassieres like the Bali bra line come in different types, depending on the material used, the function intended, and the style. The Bali line comes in different styles - a bra that closes in the front, another that closes in the back, one that has no straps perfect for tube dresses, a convertible line, push-up line for that wonderful added lift and support, sexy demi-cup or half-cup Bali bra for the ultimate tool in seduction, and the full-cup Bali bra for maximum coverage. The Bali bra also comes with three-quarters cup, soft cup, half-cup, shelf-bra, long line, and Bali bra that comes with under wires. For the active, energetic women, a t-shirt Bali bra is available.

The size of Bali bra depends on the size of a woman's breasts. There are different kinds of brassieres for different sizes and shapes of a woman's breasts. The band size is the circumference around the body which does not include the breast. The "cup size" indicates the breast's volume, and it is indicated by letters.

The Bali bra makes sure that a woman's bra fits her right to make sure that the woman gets a flattering shape every time she wears the brassiere all the while giving her maximum support and makes her feel comfortable. Women with big breasts usually experience uncomfortable and annoying back pain because of inadequate support given by the wrong brassiere. In the United Kingdom, surveys show that about 70% of the female population do not wear the right bra and instead strap on ill-fitting, uncomfortable ones. This was probably because of insufficient knowledge regarding bra and correct fitting. There is also the problem of finding larger bras although the manufacturers nowadays have come up with brassieres that are intended for women with larger breasts than the average female.

The Bali bra line offers brassieres of all kinds and sizes. Brassieres come in cup sizes A to DD. Finding the right cup size can be confusing. Brassiere manufacturers in Europe create brassieres that usually come in increasing sizes, like AAA-AA-A-B-C-D-DD-E-F-FF-G-GG-H-J. The only fool-proof and sure way to get the correct bra is by trying the brassiere on. Band size is determined by getting the circumference of the body directly under the breasts. A certain number is added to give allowance because the ribcage is wider at the height where the breasts are. In the US, about 4 to 6 inches is usually added to the measured circumference to arrive at the correct and size. Bra size may also change depending on weight gain and weight loss. The menstrual cycle also causes changes in the bra size of a woman.

According to statistics, the average woman in the US nowadays has at least six bras. Out of the six brassieres, usually one is colored and one is a bra that has no straps. Brassieres are created for different functions, so you can find Bali bra lines that are classified as minimizers, maximizers, or push ups depending on the support the woman needs. There are also bras that show the woman's cleavage in really thin, Lacy material which is a bra that is intended for showing off.

No matter what your size or shape is, there is a Bali bra for you!

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Women's Hats

Many women will wear a hat to go along with their outfit. Rather they want to look like a diva or they want to blend in, women will wear several different types of hats that not only look good but are functional too.

In the summer time, woman will wear a hat when working outside in the gardens. A nice straw hat is good for outside. Usually they will have a wide brim so that the entire face is protected from the sun and harmful UV or ultraviolet rays. These types of hats are not fancy but are just for function.

If a woman doesn't wear a straw hat, they will at least wear a baseball cap. It does sound a bit masculine to wear a baseball or truck cap, but it is all about the function of the hat. If it keeps the sun out of a woman's eyes and doesn't allow the sun to scorch her face, no woman ever cares what their hat looks like in the garden. They are only going to get it dirty, so it's not going to fancy, just functional.

Therefore, for special occasions, there are woman out there that still wear hats. Although we are leaving in a time where woman just are interested in hats or bonnets, there are still a lot that is produced every year.

In practically in women's clothing magazine, the have a hat collection. When it comes to dressing up, hats have to be big, bold, and beautiful. They have to give the whole outfit a certain something that will for sure make someone notice them. When it comes to special occasions like a wedding most people will go with a brightly colored outfit like red and match it with a neutral color like white. It's simple and elegant and perfect for the event.

When it comes to the summer, a hat that is appropriate for the weather is needed. If it is a bright sunny day and you are spending it on a boat, a nice big hat is due so that the face can be protected all day long. In addition, many women have begun to take an interest in fishing.

A nice dainty beige hate will do so that it's not in the way of your fishing and it still gives your face some protection from harmful UV rays. Many women will wear a simple canvas hat that matches their outfit in the summer. The purpose of this is to add something to the outfit and yet keep things casual and fun.

For the wintertime, many women refuse to wear a snowcap. Why? Lets face it, it does nothing for the hair! Most women will not wear a snowcap, but will wear a beret or some other type of hat that doesn't put that much pressure on the hair and ruin the hairstyle for the day. Some women will also not wear a hat, but take a scarf and tie it around their head (covering the ears).

About the Author
Vigdis Tange Andersen: http://www.womenshatonline.com

THOUGHTS FOR MOTHER'S DAY

Just a poem I wrote a while back, and some thoughts for Mother's Day..

I have been thinking about what a PRIVILEGE it is to be a mother. Sure, there is staying up half the night, taking a carvan of accessories everywhere you go, the costs of feeding, clothing, medical expenses a new baby comes with. They don't come with manuals either. It is a "learn as you go" process. But being a mother also means that it is YOU who gets to see that irresistable smile, YOU who gets to see the delighted look on the face of a little one when experiencing first solid food, (or their look of disgust and confusion). You also get to see them take that first step, and that is the first step in a long line of steps, which leads them on their own walk through life, one away from your comforting arms.

But in the time from infant to infinite possibility of adulthood. You have been the one to place your imprint on their hearts and minds.

Once I was helpless and very small, just like our own children, and only one person in the world was given the task of "me". All my needs, food, clothing, shelter, solace were met by a woman named ... my Mom. Others may have helped to give a bottle, change a diaper, babysit, but there was no one like Mom. No one to this day makes creamed peas and carrots like my mom. No one calls me as often as my mom. I am very thankful for her. I recall her carrying out brightly lit birthday cakes, and making my birthdays royal events (to me anyway). No one taught me manners like she has, or respect, or how to love, go an extra mile for someone, no one but my Mom.

Now she is small and helpless, nearly 79 on dialysis and not doing well at all. Her heart is failing, kidneys failing, but her cornflower blue eyes never fail to light up when I come over. For all these years it has been a privilege to know her, I pray each and every day, Lord, don't take her just yet, for there is no one like my Mom.

PROFESSIONAL MOM

"When you grow up," a friend once asked,

"What do you want to be?"

I thought... a teacher, or a nurse,

Maybe have a family.

Doctor, Lawyer, Indian Chief,

Did you know, dear friend of mine?

I turned out to be all of these,

(and then some) by this time.

I had to teach them baby steps and

How to pray and say please

I had to bandage many cuts

And kiss "owies" on the knees.

And when it came to defending

or prosecuting, my kid or some other,

I never thought the court of law

Would be found in me - a mother!

And yes, I've been an Indian Chief,

And a clown and a Cowboy, too.

I've even been a hairstylist,

And a keeper of the zoo.

I once drew a mustache

On each of us one day.

We went shopping and to the bank

and I forgot I was made up that way!

Am I a career person?

I think that you can see

I have more careers I ever dreamed of

Being a mother of three.

O Lord, I do thank you

For the opportunities You have given to me.

Of all the professions I could have had

You gave the best job to me!

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The Louis Vuitton Bag

Louis Vuitton Bag A Louis Vuitton bag is a statement of style, high class and good taste. Louis Vuitton is the world's best known bag manufacturer since the beginning of the 20th century. Wearing a Louis Vuitton bag makes every woman feel more confident.

The choice you make when you purchase a Louis Vuitton bag reflects your personality. A discrete woman will choose a slim and elegant clutch bag (such as the Pouchette Louis Vuitton bag); a sports orientated person would buy a backpack bag (for example a Montsouris backpack from the Louis Vuitton Monogram series) while a practical woman may buy a shoulder Louis Vuitton bag (like the Abbesses Messenger bag). A Louis Vuitton bag is suitable for every occasion, no matter if you are going to a wedding, a social event or if you are just going shopping with your friends.

It has happened to every woman to go shopping and see a Louis Vuitton bag that she immediately has fallen in love with and wished to buy. However, if she is not a rich person she will most probably not afford to buy that beautiful Louis Vuitton bag. In such situations the solution is to find a quality replica designer handbag that looks just like the original at a much lower price. On our site you can find the best replica designer handbags at affordable prices. It is not necessary to spend a small fortune on a Louis Vuitton bag that you will most probably not wear the next season, when you can buy an identical replica designer handbag at less than a quarter of the original price.

Fashionable women know that you can't wear the same Louis Vuitton bag for more than two seasons because you will not be considered trendy. Think about how much money you would have to have to buy a new Louis Vuitton bag every season. Replica designer handbags offer a solution to this problem. Buying replica designer handbags, you can always have the latest creation of Louis Vuitton, Fendi or Hermes without ruining your finances.

When you purchase a Louis Vuitton handbag that is not authentic, you should always check its quality. You should compare the details of your replica designer handbag to the real Louis Vuitton bag. The details of the two should be almost identical, which means that your fake Louis Vuitton bag is a quality product. The risk in buying a low quality replica designer handbag is that your friends might notice that your Louis Vuitton bag is not authentic and this can be very embarrassing. On our site, we offer only very high quality replica designer handbags that are almost identical to authentic ones.

About the Author
About the Author: Becky King is a well respected software reviewer who lives in California with her family and two dogs. www.myexoticbags.com

Corset Tops

There is a saying that goes, "If you have it, flaunt it," and what better way to flaunt it than in a sexy corset top with sheer mesh or a lace bustier. You can buy it as a single piece or match it with a skirt. No matter how you wear it, you'll be making a bold fashion statement wherever you go.

Corset top material could be for either lingerie or formal purposes. Both are readily available in all kinds of fabrics like satin, brocade or leather. Leather will certainly help you make a statement at any event or romantic rendezvous. In colder weather, corset tank pullovers are a stunning piece. And furthermore, this classic fashion apparel is not restricted to parties alone. If you wish to look for a corset top that you can wear for an occasion that you would consider not so formal, you will be surprised at the wide range available in fabrics such as cotton and linen. These corsets are not as restrictive as the Victorian or Edwardian corset but still do wonders for your body shape.

Men wear corsets as well. Corsets help to define a man's waistline and help him feel sensual and more comfortable with his body. Fashion designers have seen the trend and are designing more styles for men. Male leather corset tops are popular, as are the satin tapestry tops. One thing is for sure - a man wearing a corset looks well toned and is bound to be a hit with women.

About the Author
Corset provides detailed information on corset, leather corset, corset lingerie, corset dress and more. Corset is affliated with Discount Lingerie.

Camouflage Make-up to Hide All Your Skin Imperfections

Cam*ou*flage (kam e-flaj) n. -- Camouflage is defined in the dictionary as a means of disguising things completely, so they appear a natural part of the surroundings. This holds true for the advanced camouflage make-up available today that conceals major to minor skin imperfections, with precision, yet with a perfectly natural look. This new technology, offers the convenience of a cover-up formula that works for both face and body without setting powder.

Application techniques have also become more patient friendly to accommodate the women and men who may not wear ordinary make-up, but need to cover unsightly skin flaws. According to the most recent criteria requested by Dermatologists, Plastic Surgeons and other skin care professionals, camouflage cosmetics should have these inherent qualities: * Clinically Tested

* Allergy Tested

* Fragrance Free

* Non-Comedogenic

* Opaque Coverage

* Long Lasting

* Waterproof

* Non-Greasy

* Smudge-Resistant

* Appropriate For All Skin Types

* Natural Shade Selection

* Ease of Application

* Blendability

Serving as an adjunctive service to physician care, Camouflage Therapy helps people help themselves. Skin problems can range from pigmentation disturbances to post operative trauma to diseases of the skin. The camouflage material must be versatile enough to mask most skin imperfections including: Birthmarks, Post Laser Redness, Surgical Discolorations, Chemical Peels, Bruising, Hypo and Hyper Pigmentation, Vitiligo, Rosacea, Lupus, Melasma, Dark Eye Circles, Broken Capillaries, Cleft and Craniofacial Conditions, Acne Blemishes, Psoriasis, Sun Spots, Age Spots, Brown Spots, Varicose Veins and Spider Veins, Surface Scars, Uneven Skin Tone, Fine Lines, Furrows, Freckles, and Tattoos.

Detailed instructions should accompany Corrective Cosmetics so that patients can master the cover-p applications that best suits their needs. They want instructions to be short, simple and easy to follow at home. Support services should ideally be provided at a toll-free number or on a dedicated website.

In today's society, where outward image and appearance are increasingly important, camouflaging is gaining speed s the practical solution. "Cosmetic cover-ups are desirable options for eliminating some of the emotional barriers caused by skin disfigurations, says Steven D. Shapiro, Board Certified Dermatologist, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. He commends the fact that the new age concealers have become uncomplicated and satisfy his multigenerational patient base.

With the increased use of camouflaging to hide skin flaws, new application techniques have been developed by Aestheticians and Corrective Make-Up Artists, to provide gratifying results for their clients. Consider these case studies:

* Case #1. Linda K, was born with a large port-wine stain running from her neck down to her shoulder. As a twin, having this noticeable mark was very disturbing during her formative years. Until she discovered a concealer that would really last, she tried to live with it. However, she now applies a one-step formula that goes on creamy and dries to a matte finish and she wore a low cut dress to her daughter's wedding (see photo below)

* Case #2. Angela E, was born with a hemangioma on her face that grew to huge proportions and seriously disfigured her physically and mentally. With the support of her grandmother and caring physicians, she underwent over 30 surgeries and grafts to give her a more normal appearance. Now that she is in her late teens, camouflage make-up has been a welcome solution to some of the scarring and uneven skin-tone that resulted from the reconstructive surgery.

Proven Application Techniques:

According to Christina Smith, Hollywood Make-Up Artist and Academy Award nominee, "I couldn't do my job without Camouflage Cosmetics. Most of the beautiful stars I work with have something to hide and I must give coverage that lasts under studio lights. Very often, I need to mix 2 or more shades to obtain the perfect match for my client's skin tone (there's no retouching in film photography). Although the shade mixing can be done on the hand, I prefer to use a Q-tip and blend the shades on a piece of wax paper... less mess and easier blending.

* Camouflage make-up is very opaque and should be applied gradually until complete coverage is achieved. Allow time for make-up to dry completely.

* Corrective Cosmetics should be formulated to be worn under make-up, over make-up or alone.

* For best results choose a camouflage make-up shade that closely matches your skin tone. Match the area that is being covered since the skin on your hand may be a different shade than your face.

* Use a light, non-greasy primer before applying camouflage products. This primer will help prepare the skin for a smoother application.

* Blending is the KEY to successful camouflaging on large areas. For a nice smooth finish, apply cover material and use a dry, wedge-shaped sponge to evenly blend make-up on face and neck. For targeted areas such as scars and blemishes use fingertips to blend edges.

* Try using camouflage products for contouring: use a slightly darker shade than your natural skin tone to minimize areas. For example, to minimize a broad nose, draw contour line down both sides of the nose and blend with a sponge. Contouring and highlighting can help minimize the look of swelling.

* Camouflage products are much more than ordinary foundations and concealers. They can be used daily as a foundation for uneven skin tones and to soften the redness associated with rosacea.

* For scarred areas use a camouflage crème slightly darker than skin tone since scarred tissue usually has a loss of pigment.

* For post surgery, use a concealing make-up that is creamy in texture so it won't pull on the skin during the application process.

* It is recommended that cosmetic surgery patients purchase their camouflage makeup before surgery in the correct shade since it is difficult to "shop post op."

* After procedures around the eyes, it may be simpler for the patient to use a highly pigmented cover-stick with a creamy consistency to get into corners and avoid tugging on the delicate eye area.

* A word of caution -- all cosmetic cover-ups should never be applied to open skin lesions or raw irritated skin. Seek the advice of a physician if you are in doubt about when it is appropriate to apply a concealer.

About the Author
Flori Roberts and Nancy Roberts of Smart Cover(R) Cosmetics. Flori was the original creator of Dermablend(R) and an authority in the field of Corrective cosmetics. To receive your 10 Free Concealing Tips, go to http://www.smartcover.com/products.html

Camouflage Make-up to Hide All Your Skin Imperfections

Cam*ou*flage (kam e-flaj) n. -- Camouflage is defined in the dictionary as a means of disguising things completely, so they appear a natural part of the surroundings. This holds true for the advanced camouflage make-up available today that conceals major to minor skin imperfections, with precision, yet with a perfectly natural look. This new technology, offers the convenience of a cover-up formula that works for both face and body without setting powder.

Application techniques have also become more patient friendly to accommodate the women and men who may not wear ordinary make-up, but need to cover unsightly skin flaws. According to the most recent criteria requested by Dermatologists, Plastic Surgeons and other skin care professionals, camouflage cosmetics should have these inherent qualities: * Clinically Tested

* Allergy Tested

* Fragrance Free

* Non-Comedogenic

* Opaque Coverage

* Long Lasting

* Waterproof

* Non-Greasy

* Smudge-Resistant

* Appropriate For All Skin Types

* Natural Shade Selection

* Ease of Application

* Blendability

Serving as an adjunctive service to physician care, Camouflage Therapy helps people help themselves. Skin problems can range from pigmentation disturbances to post operative trauma to diseases of the skin. The camouflage material must be versatile enough to mask most skin imperfections including: Birthmarks, Post Laser Redness, Surgical Discolorations, Chemical Peels, Bruising, Hypo and Hyper Pigmentation, Vitiligo, Rosacea, Lupus, Melasma, Dark Eye Circles, Broken Capillaries, Cleft and Craniofacial Conditions, Acne Blemishes, Psoriasis, Sun Spots, Age Spots, Brown Spots, Varicose Veins and Spider Veins, Surface Scars, Uneven Skin Tone, Fine Lines, Furrows, Freckles, and Tattoos.

Detailed instructions should accompany Corrective Cosmetics so that patients can master the cover-p applications that best suits their needs. They want instructions to be short, simple and easy to follow at home. Support services should ideally be provided at a toll-free number or on a dedicated website.

In today's society, where outward image and appearance are increasingly important, camouflaging is gaining speed s the practical solution. "Cosmetic cover-ups are desirable options for eliminating some of the emotional barriers caused by skin disfigurations, says Steven D. Shapiro, Board Certified Dermatologist, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. He commends the fact that the new age concealers have become uncomplicated and satisfy his multigenerational patient base.

With the increased use of camouflaging to hide skin flaws, new application techniques have been developed by Aestheticians and Corrective Make-Up Artists, to provide gratifying results for their clients. Consider these case studies:

* Case #1. Linda K, was born with a large port-wine stain running from her neck down to her shoulder. As a twin, having this noticeable mark was very disturbing during her formative years. Until she discovered a concealer that would really last, she tried to live with it. However, she now applies a one-step formula that goes on creamy and dries to a matte finish and she wore a low cut dress to her daughter's wedding (see photo below)

* Case #2. Angela E, was born with a hemangioma on her face that grew to huge proportions and seriously disfigured her physically and mentally. With the support of her grandmother and caring physicians, she underwent over 30 surgeries and grafts to give her a more normal appearance. Now that she is in her late teens, camouflage make-up has been a welcome solution to some of the scarring and uneven skin-tone that resulted from the reconstructive surgery.

Proven Application Techniques:

According to Christina Smith, Hollywood Make-Up Artist and Academy Award nominee, "I couldn't do my job without Camouflage Cosmetics. Most of the beautiful stars I work with have something to hide and I must give coverage that lasts under studio lights. Very often, I need to mix 2 or more shades to obtain the perfect match for my client's skin tone (there's no retouching in film photography). Although the shade mixing can be done on the hand, I prefer to use a Q-tip and blend the shades on a piece of wax paper... less mess and easier blending.

* Camouflage make-up is very opaque and should be applied gradually until complete coverage is achieved. Allow time for make-up to dry completely.

* Corrective Cosmetics should be formulated to be worn under make-up, over make-up or alone.

* For best results choose a camouflage make-up shade that closely matches your skin tone. Match the area that is being covered since the skin on your hand may be a different shade than your face.

* Use a light, non-greasy primer before applying camouflage products. This primer will help prepare the skin for a smoother application.

* Blending is the KEY to successful camouflaging on large areas. For a nice smooth finish, apply cover material and use a dry, wedge-shaped sponge to evenly blend make-up on face and neck. For targeted areas such as scars and blemishes use fingertips to blend edges.

* Try using camouflage products for contouring: use a slightly darker shade than your natural skin tone to minimize areas. For example, to minimize a broad nose, draw contour line down both sides of the nose and blend with a sponge. Contouring and highlighting can help minimize the look of swelling.

* Camouflage products are much more than ordinary foundations and concealers. They can be used daily as a foundation for uneven skin tones and to soften the redness associated with rosacea.

* For scarred areas use a camouflage crème slightly darker than skin tone since scarred tissue usually has a loss of pigment.

* For post surgery, use a concealing make-up that is creamy in texture so it won't pull on the skin during the application process.

* It is recommended that cosmetic surgery patients purchase their camouflage makeup before surgery in the correct shade since it is difficult to "shop post op."

* After procedures around the eyes, it may be simpler for the patient to use a highly pigmented cover-stick with a creamy consistency to get into corners and avoid tugging on the delicate eye area.

* A word of caution -- all cosmetic cover-ups should never be applied to open skin lesions or raw irritated skin. Seek the advice of a physician if you are in doubt about when it is appropriate to apply a concealer.

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