Clinique 3 Step Skin Care Review

So I ordered Clinique's 3 Step Skin Care system approximately 2 weeks ago and I've been using it ever since in order to give a full, detailed review over it. If you go to Clinique's website (www.clinique.com), there is a quiz link on the main page at the top (My Skin Consultation). There, you can answer a few questions and they will generate the best results for your skin type. My personal result was Very Dry. They have different customizable sets for all skin types (even if you are acne prone, which I am not) but these products are for dry skin. If you have a different skin type, these items may not work well for you.

The first product I use is the Liquid Facial Soap. I use about 2 pumps and apply it to my face and my neck. When it's washed off, it leaves my face feeling soft, supple and fully hydrated. The consistency of the Liquid Facial Soap is thin, almost runny, but it tends to work very well to where you feel like you don't need a moisturizer.

The second step is the Clarifying Lotion. This is a toner, which I tend to stay away from since toners tend to dry my skin out even more than usual however this claims to be a hydrating toner. It also exfoliates your skin without you having to wash it off. You saturate a cotton ball with the product and apply it to the face and neck. It does not leave my skin dry at all. In fact, it hydrates just like it claims. You know it's working because there is all sorts of dirt, bacteria, and traces of leftover makeup in the cotton ball. You let it dry on your skin for a few seconds before moving on to the 3rd and last step.

The last step is the Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion. You do not need much of this product at all. I use two squirts of this item and it covers my face and neck. This lotion is not sticky, it doesn't leave residue and it leaves your skin softer than how the first two products leave it.

I may have only been using it for about a week and a half but I can tell it is doing amazing things to my skin. It is hydrated throughout the day and my makeup goes on smoother. My skin tone appears more even (pre-foundation). I definitely give this system 2 thumbs up. The retail price runs about $50. I know it may be a tad expensive for your face but seeing as I am on camera every week posting YouTube videos, it is a necessity.

SKINNY RUNWAY MODEL CRAZE??

So there have been multiple controversies about the skinny model scandal. Why does the industry use mostly, if not only, models that seem to be underweight? Why not add a few regular sized models? 

Smaller models are ideal because clothes tend to look better. If a plus-sized model were to model couture clothing, the designers and stylists would have to be selective in the clothing. For example, if Jane had a more full chest, that marigold ruffle shirt would get put aside since ruffles have a tendency to add volume to a larger bust. So a designer would need Jill to come in to work since her chest is smaller and it would fit more nicely. Jill is more likely to also have few curves which means most types of clothing would fit better since curves can be created (i.e. belted shirts).

The goal of becoming a fashion designer is to have the world view your creative mind and also to get money. They decide what fabrics they need. Some of these particular fabrics are quite expensive given the quantity needed. Having a size 2 model means using less fabric and therefore, accumulating more money.

Of course it gives off negative vibes to our young teenaged youth. Teens want to be what they see especially in the stages of finding themselves. But contrary to popular belief, most models eat hamburgers and fries. Incorporating a mix between normal and smaller models would be ideal. Costly, but ideal to save that one girl in your class that was hospitalized for battling bulimia.

This situation is so controversial that people tend to overlook the pros of having a smaller model. Given, models should in no way be underweight especially if they will be in the eyes of a younger crowd. However 1 in 3 children are obese (tripled since 1963) so it doesn't seem to be affecting them too much.

(Pictures: http://omgeemag.onsugar.com/tag/size and http://petitebrigitte.com/2007/02/21/skinny-models-debate-continues-as-pret-a-porter-looms/)

Stackable Ring Trend

Although the stackable ring has been around for years, it is making a stronger comeback. It has been seen on many 2010 runways and the ever popular celebrity stylist, Rachel Zoe, has been known to rock the style. Some people like to purchase multiple rings and stack them or they like to purchase them already stacked. 

You can wear the rings as basic as you'd like or you can get creative with it. Mix different stone cuts, colors, and sizes. I personally love to have a statement ring in the middle and smaller rings surrounding it. It may be overwhelming for some (especially petites). In that case, experiment until it works for you. With that being said, make sure you wear more simple necklaces, bracelets, et cetera so they won't be competing with each other.

What are your personal views? Do you like the idea of the stackable ring trend or should it be left on the runway?

Secrets of the Little Black Dress

We all know about the famous LBD (little black dress) a la Audrey Hepburn, but how exactly can we become as chic-looking as Audrey? The answer is simple. Your best bet is to start off with a plain black dress and dress it up with statement pieces such as jewelry or shoes. A statement piece is, for lack of better words, a huge chunk of jewelry or shoes that immediately draws attention to that specific item and away from your flaws.

BOTTOM HEAVY?

Try a dress that is not form fitting on the bottom area. This helps disguise your hips. In this case, you may consider a statement necklace to bring more attention towards your upper area and away from the lower.

NOT SO TONED ARMS?

Your blessed jewel is a dress that covers the flabby area of your arms. You may consider wild and crazy heels as your dress will be simple.

BLOATED?

If your belly doesn't resemble Shakira's, (Mine doesn't either.) don't fret. Ruching is an amazing option for you. Ruching is literally a lot of fabric bunched up together. If your sides are your problem, get ruching at your sides. If the stomach, then so. This will minimize the appearance of extra tummy flab. Your statement piece options are unlimited since you would do well with either shoes or jewelry.

BUSTIN' OUT THE SEAMS

Are you busty? Opt for a V-shaped neckline at the opening of the dress. Stay away from fabrics that cling to your bust. Also avoid details on the top of the dress. All of these options will give you a great looking bust that doesn't overwhelm you. Statement shoes take the cake instead of your bust.

SMALL BUST?

The exact opposite of busty. If you would like to define the upper bust area, wear ruffles or detailing. If you choose ruffles, stay away from necklaces. You don't want them competing with each other.

With these tips in mind, no matter if you are going to a formal evening party or just want the look for the upcoming fall, you will feel extremely confident and might possibly be the talk of the town!

WHAT TO WEAR FOR FALL 2010

So Fall is just around the corner and a lot of people are wondering exactly what's in for Fall 2010. There's one thing that is definitely not in: wearing shorts with leggings. We're not exactly sure where that look came from but it definitely needs to stay on the runway. But that's a whole different story...

Fall is an amazing season to break out the boots and the trench coats. Not to mention darker and more dramatic colors (smokey eye, anyone?) To adapt to this cooler weather, you will definitely need a few items. These are delicious and pocket-friendly;

THE MILITARY JACKET

This military green jacket is only $50 at Target. Pair it with dark wash boot cut jeans and some black leather tall boots to give this outfit just the edge it needs.

FAUX FUR BOOT

This Nine West boot is a tad bit more expensive. It's a little over $200 but you need to invest in a good shoe or you will be purchasing a new one every few months. This boot will last you up to a few years because it's manufactured well. It's also animal friendly (faux fur). That's a plus, right?

FALL NAIL COLOR

Who says Fall is all about matte colors? Throw some shimmer in to your matte wardrobe and you've found the perfect balance. Try OPI's "Tease-y Does It".

NOW GRAB YOUR PAYCHECKS AND GO, MY LITTLE FASHIONISTAS!!