Beauty

blakeleightontaylor.JPGBlair Waldorf. Serena van der Woodsen. Jenny Humphrey. These names have become synonymous with the styles that are hot now, along with the gals that play them -- Leighton Meester, Blake Lively and Taylor Momsen, respectively. But forget Milly, Tibi and Valentino -- these girls have been sporting some pretty fabulous hair and makeup looks this season! Read on to find out how you can look like your favorite love-to-hate-them Gossip Girls from the Upper East Side.

Leighton Meester.jpgLEIGHTON MEESTER: AKA BLAIR WALDORF
The Queen Bee herself, Blair always looks the epitome of chicness and upper-class royalty. She exudes more confidence than one would think possible, and her evil streak seems to know no bounds. But whether she's taking down poor little Jenny or trying to win the heart of her latest suitor, Blair's hair and makeup are always, always flawless. Not to mention she is personally responsible for starting the headband craze now sweeping the nation! Here's how you can get the look.

Stila Smudge Pot.jpgDiorshow Mascara.jpgStila Lip Stain.jpgBlair's eyes and lips are always a bit more done up than you'd think appropriate for school -- but of course she gets away with it! The key is in a sultry, smoky eye and a matte red lip. Start with Stila Smudge Pot in Black ($18) -- its creamy consistency and inky color make it perfect as both a shadow and a liner. Trace the lid with an eyeliner brush, staying as close to the lashline as possible, and then smudge out a bit to get that "come hither" look. Swipe a blacker-than-black mascara over your top lashes -- Dior DiorShow Mascara in Black ($24) will make them look long, lush and thick with just one coat! Finish with a red lip stain that will give your pout a sexy, just-bitten look. Stila Cherry Crush Lip & Cheek Stain ($24) has a click pen and miniature brush that will give you just the right amount of color.
All products available at sephora.com.

Leighton Meester Hair.jpgChi Iron.jpgKerastase Serum.jpgIsaac Mizrahi Headband.jpgBlair's raven locks are always that perfect amount of curly without being over the top, creating a chic boudoir-inspired look that screams sexiness yet never push her look over the top. This look is surprisingly simple to create! Start by applying a shine serum to dry hair to enhance glossiness -- we like Kerastase Nutritive Serum Nutri-Sculpt ($25.95), of which you only need a few droplets to really make hair gleam. Then all you need is a wide-barrel curling iron, so that your curls will be bigger instead of tight and Shirley Temple-esque. Try the CHI Turbo Spring Curling Iron ($105.95), whose 1 1/2" plates will create those fantastically tousled waves that Blair always sports. Comb through the curls with your fingers and voila! Bouncy, gorgeous waves. All you need to finish the look? One of Blair's signature headbands, of course! This Isaac Mizrahi for Target Wide Satin Headband in Pink Slip ($12.99 at target.com) is an interesting mix of glitzily glam and sugary sweet.
Products available at folica.com.

Blake Lively.jpgBLAKE LIVELY: AKA SERENA VAN DER WOODSEN
Serena's style is an intriguing mix of glammed-out-to-the-max Upper East Side princess with "I could care less, I just threw this on because it was the first thing I pulled out of my closet" ease. Her hair and makeup follow the same pattern -- sometimes her tresses are pulled up in a messy ponytail and all she's slicked on is some peach-colored lipgloss, other times she's got tons of curly tendrils and a face full of gorgeous makeup. Dying to be the next Serena van der Woodsen? Here's how to do it.

Too Faced Eyeliner.jpgTinte Blush.jpgtheBalm Lipgloss.jpgSerena believes in thick, dark eyeliner to play up her baby blues. Too Faced Liquid Lava in Lava Matte: Super Matte Black ($16.50) draws on thickly, easily and oh-so-sultrily. The key here is to trace it not only along your upper and lower lashlines, but in the waterline (the inner rims of your eyes) as well -- this will really make the liner stand out and look a lot thicker, even if you've only drawn the thinnest line along your top lashes! Following with a blush such as Tinte Shimmering Face Pearls in Nikki Pink ($11.20), a pretty shimmery pink, on the apples of the cheeks will add a subtle innocence and sweetness to the look. Finish with a nude or pink gloss on the lips for an understated yet sophisticated feel. We like theBalm Plump My Pucker Tinted Lip Gloss ($14), which comes in a ton of pink shades that complement every skin tone.
All products available at makeup.com.

Blake Lively2.jpgJohn Frieda Shampoo.jpgPureology Cream.jpgDying for Serena's gorgeous curly tendrils? Start with a curl-activating shampoo and conditioner to really get the hair follicles moving -- John Frieda Frizz-Ease Curl Around Style Activating Daily Shampoo and Conditioner ($4.19 each) hydrate and minimize frizz while still bringing curls to the forefront. Part hair on the side to maximize lift and body -- a center part just doesn't work as well with this look. Then work in a curl cream like PureOlogy Real Curl Define Cream ($22.49), which not only protects against color fading but defines and shapes curls. Then, let it air dry -- you'll be left with gorgeously tousled waves!
All products available at drugstore.com.

Taylor Momsen.jpgTAYLOR MOMSEN: AKA JENNY HUMPHREY
The girl who's trying to usurp Blair Waldorf's title of "Queen Bee" wouldn't be content unless she always looked the part, right? Jenny Humphrey tries super-hard to fit in with the well-to-do girls from Constance Billiard -- and while her clothes might not always hit the mark, her hair and makeup are always right on point. Soft waves go hand-in-hand with soft makeup to create an almost angelic look -- though we all know she's anything but. Read on to find out how you can create the look for yourself!

NARS Multiple.jpgCargo Mascara.jpgKevyn Aucoin Lipstick.jpgA subtle rosy shadow may seem barely there, but against creamy, porcelain skin it truly pops. NARS The Multiple in Antibes ($37) is a creamy shadow that can be used on both the eyes and cheeks to give them an iridescent glow. But the real key here is in the lashes, which are long, lush and blacker-than-black. Try CARGO Blu_Ray Mascara in Black ($20), which is designed to be seen even in high-definition television -- so it will make your lashes seem super-long and thick! Finish by slicking on a pink lipstick like Kevyn Aucoin The Expert Lip Tint in Samilke ($23), a pretty rose hue.
All products available at beauty.com.

Taylor Momsen2.jpgFresh Cream.jpgFrederic Fekkai Cream.jpgT3 Dryer.jpgJenny's hair is surprisingly simple to replicate. Her tresses are all about shine, shine, shine! Fresh Hair Cream--Anti Frizz ($26) will keep your hair from becoming too frizzy and will add some much-needed definition, while a dime-sized amount of Frederic Fekkai Glossing Cream ($19.50) will seriously keep your locks shining and glistening all day long. To dry your hair in the shortest time possible -- while remaining utterly chic, of course -- try the T3 Bespoke Labs Featherweight Dryer. Yes, the $200 price tag is off-putting -- but the fact that it literally cuts drying time in half is no small feat! Finish by parting hair in the middle and then off you go to dethrone another queen.
All products available at sephora.com.

There's just something so satisfying about makeup palettes. The choices offered simply astound -- eight lipglosses! six eyeshadows! ten blushes! -- and the color combinations are, more often than not, just so pleasing to the eye. Here are our picks for the ones we just can't be without.

mark Palette.gifmark Snap To It Mega Custom Color Palette
How can you live without a palette that's totally customizable? The options are endless.
$8 at avon.com




Benefit Powder Pop.jpgPowder Pop!

Benefit's trio of fabulous powders -- Dandelion, Hoola and Dallas -- are conveniently packaged into one gloriously adorable little box, and they even come with a brush for perfect application.
$28 at benefitcosmetics.com



Trish McEvoy Palette.jpgTrish McEvoy Petite Simply Chic

The double-decker palette packs quite a punch with mineral powder foundation, blush, shimmer powder, eyeshadow and four lip colors ... and all are so absolutely perfect for spring.
$32 at blissworld.com



Stila Glaze Set.jpgStila Gift of Glaze
Does it get any better than Lip Glaze in six amazing shades? We think not ... especially when the shades are the tasty Nutmeg Spice, Candy Cane, Grapefruit, Apricot, Vanilla and Brown Sugar.
$28 at beauty.com



Julie Hewitt Palette.jpgJulie Hewitt Tulle Palette
Lip color, blush and shadow all rest within oversized round pots in a simply chic black case, made even lovelier with a black-and-white wallpaper-like covering.
$48 at juliehewitt.net







Bobbi Brown Palette.jpgBronze Shimmer Brick Compact

This bestseller packs quite a punch with five shimmery brown and pink powders. Our insider tip? Try them as eyeshadows -- they'll make your eyes pop!
$38 at bobbibrowncosmetics.com



elf palette.jpgCustom Lips
Okay, seriously -- how ingenious is this? The four-tin compact can be customized with 10 different gorgeous shades. We're totally jonesing for Peaches (shimmery peach), Icing (sparkle-tinged pink), Crimson (glittery red) and Cinnamon (glistening coral).
$1 each (palette and colors), eyeslipsface.com


Sugar Palette.jpgSugar Cosmetics I Shop for Sugar
If you buy products based on packaging, then this is the one for you -- the mini tote bag opens to reveal four shadows and four glosses in beautiful shades of pink and purple.
$12.50 at makeup.com



Sephora Palette.jpgSephora Brand Classic Blockbuster

Sheer numbers alone make this one a mainstay in any collection. A whopping 64 shadows and 32 lip colors are accompanied by powders, blushes and brushes galore in a totally out-of-this-world black case.
$48 at sephora.com



Body Shop Palette.jpgShimmer Cubes

Each of the four shadows is infused with marula oil for easy application, while pearl pigments create added sparkle and shine.
$19.50 at thebodyshop.com




Sue Devitt Starbrights in Alhena

Two glosses and a cheek gel in coordinating shades of pale, shimmery pink can be used to create the most ethereally beautiful looks.
$35 at beauty.com

Let's face it -- even the best, longest-lasting perfume fades after awhile. But who wants to carry around a bottle of perfume in her purse all day, chancing it spilling all over everything else of importance in there? Luckily, tons of fragrances have now become available in solid form -- making it so, so easy to reapply the very second we gals decide we're feeling a little less than fresh. And an added bonus? Solid perfumes usually retail for way less than their liquidy counterparts -- making it so much easier to buy, buy, buy! Check out our top picks for the ones that will keep you smelling sweet all day (and night) long.

Britney Spears Fragrance.jpgFantasy by Britney Spears Portable Potion Solid Perfume Compact
Notes of red lychee, musk and kiwi combine with the sweet smell of cupcakes and white chocolate orchid inside a gorgeous, rhinestone-dusted pink compact that's seriously so chic and elegant.
$29 at beauty.com


YSL Perfume Charm.jpgYves Saint Laurent Elle Bag Charm Solid

Not only is this solid fragrance attached to a heavy-duty chain that keeps your bags looking chic, it comes with a gorgeous fuchsia lipgloss!
$56 at bloomingdales.com






LAMB Fragrance.jpgL.A.M.B Fragrance by Gwen Stefani Solid Perfume Compact
We love the interlocking "L" design in rich lacquered gold almost as much as the interwining musk and floral notes found within.
$42 at nordstrom.com


Lush Fragrance.jpgHoney I Washed The Kids Solid Perfume
The scent of honeyed toffee is so delectably mouthwatering, you'll wish you could eat the fragrance right out of the tin!
$12.35 at lush.com




L'Occitane Fragrance.jpgGreen Tea Solid Perfume
So soothing to drink, the aroma of green tea will keep you calm, cool and collected all day long when applied in even the smallest dose on your skin.
$9 at loccitane.com



SJP Fragrance.jpgCovet Sarah Jessica Parker Solid Perfume
A faceted crystal flower is a simply stunning addition to your everyday bag -- and the blend of chocolate, magnolia and amber musks is so deliciously intoxicating.
$40 at macys.com




Stila Fragrance.jpgStila Jade Blossom Perfume Solid
Cucumber, green tea and lemon verbena come together in a fragrance that's crisp, fresh and oh-so-lovely in a miniature tin with floral-emblazoned cap.
$20 at sephora.com



Estee Lauder Teapot Fragrance.jpgEstee Lauder Little Teapot Solid Perfume Compact

Okay, seriously ... how utterly adorable is this miniature teapot? The limited-edition collectible holds the sweetly scented Pleasures fragrance, and even comes in a protective velvet pouch.
$80 at nordstrom.com

Aquolina Fragrance.jpgAquolina Pink Sugar Creamy Perfume Solid
The fun swirly design contains tons of delicious notes like raspberry, licorice, strawberry and cotton candy to keep you smelling as sweet as you look!
$22 at sephora.com



Sonia Kashuk Fragrance.jpgSonia Kashuk Solid Perfume Palette -- Citron and Pink Mandarin
This is totally ingenious with three solid perfumes in a gleaming silver compact -- each can be worn alone or layered for a full, blossoming scent.
$24.99 at target.com



Marc Jacobs Fragrance.jpgMarc Jacobs Solid Perfume Compact

The silver case with black top somehow manages to be both elegant and austere at the same time, while the lush fragrance veritably spills out as you pop the top.
$55 at neimanmarcus.com

Monoi Flower.jpgWant skin so soft it feels like butter? You'd best check out the amazing properties of monoi. Used for centuries in Polynesia, this pure coconut oil is so highly refined that it can act as a natural replacement for your body's skin and hair oils. Monoi oil, which comes from the soaking of Tahitian Gardenia flowers (Tiare) with pure coconut oil, can even be found in the Polynesians' religious ceremonies and holistic medicine practices. Check out the products we're raving about.

Bath and Body Works lotion.jpgTrue Blue Spa Tahiti, Sweetie Body Lotion with Monoi Oil
We love everything about the cool, crisp blue tube, from the palm tree print to the skin-softening lotion within.
$15 at bathandbodyworks.com




Body Shop Oil.jpgMonoi Miracle Oil
From a bubble bath supplement to a pre-shampoo treatment, this miracle-worker -- which contains Brazilian babassu oil -- is totally indulgent.
$20 at thebodyshop.com



Elemis Moisture Melt.jpgElemis Exotic Frangipani Monoi Moisture Melt
Treat yourself to an at-home pedicure and be sure to soak your feet with this -- they'll come out supple and smooth as a baby's little behind!
$48 at timetospa.com






Fruits & Passion Shower Cream.jpgFruits & Passion Monoi Nourishing Shower Cream
The heady scent of coconut tiare wafts out of the bottle, completely enveloping you and whisking you away to a magical, tropical island with the simplest squeeze.
$14 at amazon.com





NARS Monoi Body Glow.jpgNARS Monoi Body Glow II
A dual moisturizer and massage lotion, the lightweight, sheer oil absorbs almost immediately and leaves skin looking and feeling dewy and positively glowing.
$59 at beauty.com



Zia Eye Creme.jpgZia Natural Skincare Ultimate Eye Creme
Because it's never too early to start protecting your skin from fine lines and wrinkles. And the tons of antioxidants, vitamins and extracts are good for the earth, too.
$35.99 at drugstore.com



LAVANILA Fragrance.jpgLAVANILA Vanilla Coconut Eau de Parfum Spray
Truly decadent, this fragrance combines monoi and Madagascar vanilla bean with goji berry and kakadu plum to create an absolutely intoxicating scent.
$56 at sephora.com



Monoi de Tahiti Soap.jpgMonoi de Tahiti Monoi & Cream Soap Bar
The package of four bars looks so deliciously creamy, and they each lather up really wonderfully.
$3.50 at creativebodyessentials.com


Kiwi Essence Bath Crystals.jpgMonoi Bath Crystals
The main ingredient of monoi is infused with softening almond oil, moisturizing Vitamin E and the sweet scent of apricot to create such a uniquely fun bathtime experience.
$7.99 at kiwiessence.com



Yves Rocher Mist.jpgJardin des Iles Alcohol-Free Body Mist
Spritz yourself and be surrounded by the intoxicating scent of Polynesian monoi ... if you close your eyes, maybe you'll actually be transported to a sun-soaked island!
$12 at yvesrocherusa.com


ist2_2777114_kiss_lips.jpg

Lipgloss or lipstick? Tube or pot? Balm or crayon? There are seriously so many choices in the world of lips, it's hard to find the right ones ... and then you just end up with 45 identical pink lipglosses rattling around in your makeup bag! Luckily, we've scoured the beauty scene to bring you the absolute best of the best. So whether you're into gloss or balm, stick or stain, read on to find out what products absolutely need to make it into your makeup bag this season.



LIP-SMACKIN' LIPGLOSSES


Prescriptives Lip Gloss.jpg

Custom Blend Lip Gloss
With 24 shades, 6 finishes and 9 flavors to choose from when creating your very own personalized gloss, the possibilities are endless! We chose Medium Rose with a Luster finish and Bellini scent on our first go-around ... but we're pretty sure we'll be back for more!
$26 at prescriptives.com



mark lipgloss.gif

mark Caribbean Shine Lip Gloss
The names alone -- Walk in the Sand (shimmery taupe), Soak in the Sun (sparkling peach) and Kiss on the Beach (mauve) intrigue us to no end, and the creamy formula is super-moisturizing.
$6 each at avon.com



Clinique Lipgloss.jpg

Full Potential Lips Plump and Shine
We love that Clinique divides their shades into four categories -- Nudes, Tawnies, Pinks and Violets -- and that each one has so many amazing colors to choose from! Our fave is definitely Peach Plump, a glistening apricot that's flattering on seriously every skin tone.
$17.50 at clinique.com

Benefit Pocket Pal.jpg

Pocket Pal
Benefit's signature benetint is paired with a super-shiny gloss in a miniature stick form that fits perfectly into even the smallest clutch!
$20 at benefitcosmetics.com

BEAUTIFUL BALMS


Smith's Rosebud Salve.jpg

Rosebud Perfume Co. Smith's Rosebud Salve
There's a reason the glossy balm in this tin is a cult favorite. The subtle rose scent is enticing, the balm makes lips look absolutely amazing, and it can even be used on rough elbows and knees!
$5.59 at beauty.com



Kiehl's Lip Balm.jpg

Kiehl's Lip Balm SPF 15
The slightest hint of color combines with sunscreen protection and a non-drying formula that keeps lips from becoming dried-out and chapped. No wonder this makes its way into so many makeup artists' cases!
$9.50 at nordstrom.com






John Masters Organics Lip Calm.jpg

John Masters Organics Lip Calm
This certified organic balm soothes lips and even protects them against inclement weather.
$6 at beauty.com




Korres Lip Butter.jpg

Korres Lip Butter
Formulated with shea butter, the balms in these tubs keep lips feeling soft and supple all day long. Our favorite is Guava, whose sheerness is surprisingly sexy!
$9 at sephora.com


LIP-LOCKIN' LIP STAINS


Sephora Lush Flush.jpg

Lush Flush Wine Lip & Cheek Stain
The miniature tube contains red wine extract to bring out such a beautiful, reddish-pink tint.
$10 at sephora.com



Smashbox O-Gloss.jpg

O-Gloss Intuitive Lip Gloss
Wow, are there a lot of good-for-you ingredients in this gloss -- like gingko biloba, pomegranate seed antioxidants and Smashbox's own Goji Berry-C Complex -- and when you slick on the clear formula, it turns an individualized hue of pink!
$22 at smashbox.com

NARS Color Wash.jpg

NARS Color Wash for Lips and Cheeks in Modesty
Blueberryish-purple provides such a gorgeous flush to lips, and the staying power is amazing!
$25 at beauty.com




Stila Cherry Crush.jpgCherry Crush Lip & Cheek Stain

Antioxidants like cherry and pomegranate extracts react with the pH levels in your skin to create a gorgeous, personalized flush.
$24 at stilacosmetics.com





LANDMARK LIPSTICKS


CARGO Lipstick.jpg

CARGO PlantLove Botanical Lipstick
Celebrities like Evangeline Lily, Lindsay Lohan and Maria Menounos designed ten of the colors ... and if that's not reason enough to buy them, the flower-emblazoned tube is made entirely out of corn and the formula includes jojoba and shea butter!
$20 at sephora.com

Bobbi Brown Lip Crayon.jpg

Bobbi Brown Lip Crayon
The chubby, chunky pencil actually glides on much like a combination of gloss and lipstick, and it lasts for hours without flaking or fading. Naked Pink and Nude Berry are perfect for school, and you'll definitely want Red Plum in your bag when you go out on the weekends!
$22 at nordstrom.com





Lancome Lipstick.jpg

Color Fever Shine
Hues like Blazing (pearly pink), Femme Fire (creamy lavender) and Hot Nights (rollickin' fuchsia) are all super-hydrating and feel almost like a gloss!
$25 at lancome.com



Tarte Lipstick.jpg

Vitamin Infused Lipstick
Lychee, acai, green tea and grape seed extracts. Jojoba. Vitamins E, A and K. And as if that weren't enough, each of the three shades contains BORBA's neutraceutical blend to nourish and rejuvenate lips!
$22 at tartecosmetics.com



Lined Eyes Collage Small.jpgSeen all over the runways for Fall 2008 Fashion Week? Eyes lined so thick, they could be seen from miles away! Well, maybe we're exaggerating slightly. But heavy eyeliner was a huge trend at the shows. From the slightly understated eyes at Bill Blass and Giorgio Armani to the traffic-stopping versions at Monique Lhuillier and Christian Dior, all eyes were truly on the prize -- thick, dark eyeliner that totally transformed and perked up otherwise so-so makeup looks. Read on to find out more about the trend, and -- if you dare -- how to create it by yourself at home!

Giorgio Armani Eyes.jpgAlberta Ferretti Eyes.jpgKarl Lagerfeld Eyes.jpg
Romantically Inclined
Many designers chose to make eyes the focus without going too overboard. But while the smoky eye comes back season after season, these really stepped outside the box to create some truly beautiful looks. Romance was definitely in the air at Alberta Ferretti, where dark liner rimmed the top and bottom lashlines to make the eyes stand out against an otherwise bare palette. Giorgio Armani and Karl Lagerfeld followed suit -- and while each of their looks were slightly more bold and dramatic, all three are definitely very wearable.

NARS Eyeliner.jpgTo recreate the look on your own, liquid eyeliner is definitely the way to go. Our favorite is the NARS Liquid Eyeliner in Angel Heart ($27.50 at narscosmetics.com) -- it has a cream base, it lasts forever and it comes with the cutest little brush.





Smashbox Eyeliner.jpgAnother option? Smashbox Jet Set Waterproof Eye Liner in Midnight Black ($22 at smashbox.com). It's crease-resistant, and since it's also waterproof you can even put it inside the waterline for a totally dramatic look!




Monique Lhuillier.jpgChristian Dior.jpgBalenciaga.jpg
Freakishly Fantastic
Some designers just went up, up and away this season. Eyes at Monique Lhuillier were actually lined and shaded in multiple hues of blue and purple, creating an almost peacock-like look. Christian Dior was, of course, in typical John Galliano fashion -- this time in the form of super-long lashes and winged-out white shadow and liner that formed an almost cat eye-esque look. And at Balenciaga, eyelids were so heavily cloaked in black that it was hard to see the peepers underneath! While these looks would definitely be way too much for every day, why not spice things up at the next party or school dance?

Laura Mercier Eyeliner.jpgTo recreate the look seen at Balenciaga, try Laura Mercier Brilliant Eye Liner in Onyx ($22 at lauramercier.com). It goes on thickly, evenly and is super-dramatic.









Sugar Color Stick.jpgThe gorgeous eyes at Monique Lhuillier can be yours with the Sugar Cosmetics Color Sticks ($14 each at sephora.com). While a bit more sheer and pastel than the dark hues above, Blue Pop and Grape Soda will add just the right amount of fizz to your look.


Shu Uemura Eyelashes.jpgUrban Decay Eye Gel.jpgThe idea at Dior was to be super over-the-top! Urban Decay Heavy Metal Glitter Eye Gel ($18 at sephora.com) can be painted on thickly and adds a subtle hint of sparkle for that extra glam factor. Finish with the Black Velvet Feather False Eyelashes by Shu Uemura ($25 at shuuemura-usa.com) which are uber-thick and even have bits of feathers stuck to the ends!

And do you notice the one thing that all of these looks have in common? Nude lips that don't compete with the eyes -- so that all focus is truly on one feature! Try these two glosses that will make your pout pucker in the subtlest of ways.

Stila Lip Glaze.jpgStila Lip Glaze in Apricot ($22 at stilacosmetics.com): It's chic, it's subtle, and the non-sticky, non-tacky click pen is one of our favorites
!





Philosophy Big Mouth.jpgPhilosophy Big Mouth in Nude ($22 at philosophy.com): Your mouth will look seriously plumped and amazing after slicking on this barely-there gloss.
You've got the dress, the shoes and the jewelry. You've even got the date. But the right hairstyle can make or break the outfit! Should you go with an updo or tousled waves? French twist or low bun? There are just so many choices! Luckily, we spoke with Redken Session Stylist David Cruz to bring you the absolute best styles for the big night. Read on and you'll be sure to discover which one is best for you!

Tips To Get You Started
Prom-perfect hair doesn't have to be scary or tricky! Cruz has a couple very important rules for you to follow.
1) "Try not to overdo it," he says. "Have fun -- chose a style that isn't super-fussy. Simpler styles tend to be cooler."
2) Haven't met with a hairstylist yet? That's okay, says Cruz ... but, "it is a great idea to bring pictures with you."

Trust Your Hairdresser!
Your stylist is there to help you. Curious about what style will work the best? "If you can, bring a picture of the dress along with the pictures of hairstyles you like," Cruz recommends. That way, you'll be sure to have a hairstyle and dress that complement each other! You can even schedule a consultation and trial run with your stylist before the big day. Many times, consultations are free -- but be sure to check with your salon to make sure.

Don't Overdo It
Alberta Ferretti Hairstyle.jpgThe number one rule this season is not to make your hair look too done. Cruz thinks the tousled updo -- like this one seen at the Spring 2008 Alberta Ferretti show, left -- is "a big hit this season!" This means face-framing layers, roughed-up waves, and loose buns. Worried about creating this style on your own? Don't be -- it's simple, thanks to these fabulous tips from Cruz!
Conair Curling Iron.jpg1) Take a comb and draw a clean side part, and then pull your hair back into a ponytail. Curl the ponytail with a curling iron -- one with a 1" barrel, like the Supreme 10 Cermaic Curling Iron from Conair, left ($7.50 at walgreens.com) will give you fantastic Shirley Temple style curls! Then pin them up randomly to create a soft, pretty bun.
Redken Fabricate.png2) Cruz recommends leaving bangs or face-framing layers out, and spraying them with hairspray to create a rough texture. While blowdrying, you can spritz your tresses with Redken Fabricate 03 Heat-Active Texturizer, right ($12.95, redken.com for store info) -- this spray will make your locks really manageable. Ever heard of the screen siren Brigitte Bardot? She was famous for always having the perfect, tousled bed hair. That's the look you want to go for!

A Little Polish
Vanessa Hudgens Hair.jpgClassy, elegant, sophisticated ... the French twist never goes out of style. This look is actually super-simple to do at home, and will definitely step your whole ensemble up a notch. Simply create a side part, pull hair into a low ponytail and twirl inward with your fingers. When hair starts to buckle, just secure it with hair pins and voila! A glamorous look that's ready for any red carpet. Cruz loves the idea of making the twist a bit messier. "You can also rough up the hair slightly with your fingers before pulling it back," he says, "it'll make some voluminous texture." This look from Vanessa Hudgens at a recent red carpet event incorporates the chic updo with a mass of curls to create a tumbled, rough look that's still glamorous enough for prom!

Redken Quick Dry.pngAbove all, have fun! Prom is meant to be the time of your life. So while you want your hair to look perfect, don't forget to dance the night away! And just in case you need a little touchup during the night, Redken Quick Dry 18 Instant Finishing Spray, left ($12.95, redken.com for store info) is available in a handy mini size that fits right into your clutch!



Organic Makeup.jpgWant to do your part to save the environment and use products that are natural and organic? These days, it seems environmentally-conscious labels and brands are popping up all over the place. From the bounty of products available at Sephora to brands like Kiehl's and John Masters Organics, everyone is going green! Even e.l.f. and Physicians Formula have launched mineral makeup lines. But knowing the difference between natural, organic, mineral and all the rest can be quite confusing -- which is why we're here to help you figure it all out! Plus you can pick up some fantastic goodies along the way!

Mineral Makeup
This is makeup made from natural minerals that have been crushed into silky powders and formulated without icky substances like preservatives, oil, fragrance, waxes and talc. They're great for all skin types and especially perfect for people with acne, rosacea or sensitive skin! Check out these fabulous options.

BareMinerals Lipgloss.jpgBuxom Big & Healthy Lip Polish -- 10 gorgeous shades, like Bianca (golden peach), Brandi (candied plum) and Candi (strawberry) make lips full and super-shiny.
$18 at bareescentuals.com




Physicians Formula Concealer.jpgMineral Wear Talc-Free Mineral Concealer Stick -- This concealer even contains SPF 15, so your face will be protected all day long.
$6.95 at physiciansformula.com





TheBalm Overshadow.jpgTheBalm Overshadow -- A luxe loose powder in four gorgeous shades that can be dusted anywhere from your eyes to your collarbone for a bit of extra shimmer.
$14 at sephora.com




ELF Starter Kit.jpgStarter Kit -- Get foundation, concealer, blush and two brushes, all stowed in a handy-dandy makeup case. Bonus? These products are all made without chemical dyes.
$20 at eyeslipsface.com

Natural Makeup and Skincare
Using plant-based and naturally-derived ingredients, these products are made without synthetic fragrances or dyes, parabens or other chemicals. There are seriously tons of fantastic makeup, skincare and bath products to choose from -- here are a few we just can't live without!

Phytodefrisant.jpgPhytodefrisant Botanical Hair Relaxing Balm -- Dying to tame wild, crazy frizz? A dab of this non-oily formula -- created with ferula, garlic and horseradish -- will make those locks sleek, even if it does sound like something that should be used to ward off vampires!
$26 at sephora.com



Korres Mask.jpgKorres Natural Products Wild Rose Mask -- Shea butter, avocado butter, Provitamin B5 and Argan tree oil combine with wild rose oil to really make skin glow.
$27 at beauty.com




Carol's Daughter Almond Cookie.jpgThe Carol's Daughter Almond Cookie Collection -- The Body Cleansing Gel is simply superb, the Sea Salt Body Scrub will leave your skin silky smooth and the Shea Souffle is to-die-for. Plus, they all smell like fresh-baked cookies. Mmmm.
$13.50-$30 at sephora.com



Organic Beauty
These products are grown without pesticides, insecticides and herbicides and their production has to be certified as organic by independent organizations like EcoCert or the Soil Association. The USDA's National Organic Program takes care of this for personal care products in the USA. There are four levels of USDA Organic certification, as follows:

1) 100% Certified Organic: certified by the USDA and can bear the USDA Organic Seal

2) Certified Organic: product has at least 95% Certified Organic ingredients and is certified by the USDA, bearing the USDA Organic Seal

3) Made with Organic Ingredients: the product is made with 70-94% Certified Organic ingredients and is certified by the USDA, but does not bear the USDA Seal

4) Less than 70% Organic Ingredients: organic ingredients are marked with an asterisk and only the ingredients are certified by the USDA. The product can't call itself organic and can't bear the USDA Seal.

Check out these products that we guarantee will make you want to go organic!


Nvey Eco Mascara.jpgNvey Eco Organic Moisturizing Mascara -- Nettle and horsetail may not sound like stuff you want to get near your lashes, but this brand's formula is created with Vitamin B5 to keep them looking lush. We're totally jonesing for the blue shade.
$24 at saffronrouge.com



Juice Beauty Lip Balm.jpgJuice Beauty SPF 15 Tinted Lip Moisturizers -- Honey and bee propolis make lips so soft, and the three shades give the most beautifully subtle hint of color.
$15 at sephora.com




Stella McCartney Toning Fluid.jpgCare Stella McCartney Toning Floral Water -- Antioxidants like green tea and linden blossom soothe while cornflower revitalizes, leaving skin beautifully refreshed.
$36 at sephora.com




Parabens

These are the most commonly used synthetic preservatives in beauty products. Products formulated with parabens have a long shelf life by inhibiting the growth of yeast, mold and harmful bacteria. But many companies are going paraben-free with their products -- here are some fantastic choices.

Burt's Bees Bubble Bath.jpgBaby Bee Buttermilk Bath Pint -- Hey, this doesn't just have to be for babies! We all have sensitive skin. Made with real buttermilk, a few spoonfuls of this will give you a totally relaxing bath.
$16 at burtsbees.com






Suki's Naturals Shampoo.jpgClean Balance Shampoo -- Get rid of all that nasty buildup with this mix of organic elements like oats and rice, sweet-smelling lavender and rosemary, and healthy amino acids.
$23 at sukipure.com


Lola Cosmetics Foundation.jpgLola Cosmetics Paraben Free Creme Duo Foundation -- It's oil-free, it's gel-free and the two different shades will totally conceal any imperfections.
$35 at ulta.com

Chanel Runway Image.jpgThe hot nail color for spring? It may shock you. Forget pinks, lavenders and other pretty pastels ... the hue seen everywhere this season is a deep, gorgeous navy. Designers such as Chanel and John Galliano sent their models down the runways sporting variations on the shade, while Chanel's Navy Satin has been spotted for up to as much as $50 a bottle! But never fear, you don't have to spend nearly that much to get in on the trend. Check out these fabulous iterations, guaranteed to make heads turn anywhere you go!

NARS.jpgNARS Nail Polish in Midnight Express
It's glossy, it's rich, and it's oh-so-chic. Plus it's available only at Sephora, so you'll feel like a total insider walking around with it on your nails.
$16 at sephora.com



Lippmann Collection.jpgLippmann Collection Nail Color in Rehab
"They tried to make me go to rehab, I said no, no, no!" Amy Winehouse sure got it right ... and so does this polish, whose deep cobalt hue is so utterly vixenish.
$15 at beauty.com



Piggy Polish.jpgPiggy Polish Nail Lacquer in Something Blue
Our wedding might be a bit far off, but can we buy this aptly named polish now and just save it for when the day actually comes? Added bonus: the delicately pretty rose ring around the stem.
$6.50 at ulta.com











Tini Beauty.jpgTini Beauty Nailtini Straight Up Nail Color Lacquer in Navy Grog
Deep midnight blue is shot with the tiniest touch of shimmer to really make your nails pop.
$12 at makeup.com






Dior.jpgDior Dior Vernis Long-Wearing Nail Lacquer in Poison Blue
Inspired by Dior's Midnight Poison fragrance, the hot new shade -- it was just released about two weeks ago -- is seriously all the rage in the beauty world.
$19 at sephora.com



OPI.jpgOPI Nail Lacquer in Yoga-Ta Get This Blue!
"Ohm" will become your new mantra after slicking this beauty on your nails.
$7.50, opi.com for store info












Orly.jpgOrly Nail Lacquer in Witch's Blue
This sparkle-flecked indigo is so beautiful it must have been whipped up in a witch's cauldron.
$7 at orlybeauty.com













Rimmel.jpgRimmel Play Fast Quick Dry Nail Polish in Night Before
While wearing this frosty hue, you'll be instantly transported to the chain of events from last night. Well, not really ... but it will, we're sure, induce some fantastic reminiscing.
$3.69 at ulta.com







Rescue Beauty Lounge.jpgRescue Beauty Lounge Nail Polish in Dead Calm
Would we be calm with this opaque, satiny shade of navy on our nails? We're thinking it would be pretty darn hard to contain our excitement.
$18 at rescuebeauty.com







N.Y.C. New York Color.jpgN.Y.C. New York Color Long Wearing Nail Polish in Skin Tight Denim Creme
Just like your favorite pair of jeans, this baby never goes out of style.
$.99 at ulta.com










Dashing Diva.jpgDashing Diva Nail Polish in Stellar Ella
It's enchanting, it's ravishing, and it will look seriously amazing for your next pedicure. (We should know -- it's on our toes right now!)
$7.99 at dashingdiva.com

leprechaun.jpgSt. Patrick's Day is just around the corner, and you know what that means -- tons of tiny leprechauns out to entice you to find the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow! But what they really should bring you? Green beauty products, of course! Here are some we're hoping to find at the end of our rainbows this year.


06_bal_cucumber_tonic_7oz[1].JPGOle Henriksen Balancing Cucumber Face Tonic
Formulated for normal-to-dry skin, this tonic contains essences of cucumber, chamomile and ginseng to soothe and brighten after cleansing.
$18-$30 at amazon.com









Avon Hand Soap.gifNATURALS Cucumber Melon Antibacterial Liquid Soap

Keep those digits squeaky clean with this sweet-smelling hand soap. The oversized pump bottle is definitely a fun addition to your bathroom vanity.
$6.49 at avon.com





DuWop Green Eyes.jpgDuWop Green Eyes
Three coordinating shades of velvety eyeshadows, one shimmer highlighter, one cream liner and a double-ended brush add up to one amazing little palette.
$32 at eluxury.com







Gal Pal Ice Bag.jpgGal Pal Retro Ice Bag
The green-checked pattern lends such a 50's-inspired touch to a ruffled ice bag that promises to relieve everything from headaches and migraines to swelling and muscle aches.
$14 at beauty.com





Sage Candle.jpgSage Candle
With the gorgeous floral-printed case, woodsy base and lush musky undertones, we're hard-pressed to find anything that's not to love about this candle.
$56 at beautyhabit.com




Crabtree Eye Mask.jpgGel Eye Mask
Feeling stressed? Lie down, put on some soothing music and place this over your eyes. You'll feel relaxed in no time!
$6 at crabtree-evelyn.com






H20 Plus Lotion.jpgPoolside Moisturizing Body Balm
Green melon, magnolia, camellia and marine extracts combine with shea butter and aloe vera to leave your skin feeling oh-so-soft and smooth.
$6 at h20plus.com





ELF Eyeshadow.jpgDuo Eye Shadow Cream in Olive
Two pretty shades of creamy eyeshadow that layer and blend beautifully, all for an amazingly low price. What's not to love?
$1 at eyeslipsface.com





Lush Dreamboat.jpgDreamboat
A three-pack of soaps in olive oil, sea salt and lemon are seriously refreshing, seriously hydrating and seriously such a great gift in their cute little package.
$22.35 at lush.com





L'Occitane Gel.jpgGreen Tea Mint Leaf Light Gel

The zesty and refreshing gel really relieves tired, achy muscles and smells so fresh and clean.
$28 at loccitane.com






Sephora Clutch.jpgMetallic Sequin Clutch
Keep track of all your beauty essentials in this totally glam makeup bag.
$18 at sephora.com



Tweezerman.jpgSlant Tweezer
The ever-popular tweezer by Tweezerman is now available in a fun green hue! The slanted tips really help pulling even the peskiest of tiny, fine hairs a snap.
$20 at smallflower.com


Boscia Blotting Linens.jpgBoscia Green Tea Blotting Linens
How embarrassing is it to exhibit a shiny, sweaty sheen when you're out on a date or with your girlfriends? Luckily, one of these papers takes care of that instantly, leaving your skin freshly matte and clean.
$10 at skinstore.com




The Body Shop Wash.jpgTea Tree Oil Invigorating Body Wash
Your skin will tingle and feel just so amazingly fresh after lathering up with this lemon-infused body wash in the morning.
$11 at thebodyshop.com

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