ponytail

How to Wear It: Not Your Mother’s Ponytail

September 12, 2011 at 11:42 am , by Nykia Spradley

Stocking up on new school supplies—from shiny pens and mechanical pencils to completely revamped wardrobes—has become a Fall right of passage for children. But, why should the kiddies have all of the back-to-school fun? While you’re working on overhauling your own autumn wardrobe (FYI: peplum blazers, mustard hues, and polka dots are all the rage), don’t forget about your hair. Here is a grown-up ponytail style from celeb stylist David Lopez (his clients include the Glee cast—Heather Morris, Lea Michelle, and Diana Agron) to add to your autumn repertoire.

STEP 1: Prep your strands beforehand by applying a texture spray or mousse to the hair line and blowdry completely.  ”Don’t forget to blow dry the hair around the nape of your neck upwards towards the base,” says Lopez.

STEP 2: Gather all of your hair into a ponytail with a large paddle brush.  Use the top of your cheekbones as a guide to line the ponytail up and follow diagonally towards the crown.  ”I like to use a ‘wrap’ style ponytail holder but a snag free holder works just as well,” adds Lopez.  After securing your ponytail take a one inch section of hair and firmly wrap it around the base of the ponytail to hide the elastic. This trick makes an otherwise sporty style look a bit more glam.

STEP 3: Use a large barrel curling iron and wrap large one inch sections to give the pony some bounce. A ponytail showcases the ends of your hair so smooth them with a light oil like Amika Obliphica Pure Oil too boost shine and definition.

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Three Ways To… Look Your Best for the Super Bowl

January 31, 2011 at 9:30 am , by ekaufman

Being from Boston, I stay true to the New England Patriots, but that doesn’t mean I won’t be kicking back this Sunday to watch the most important football game of the year. Whether you’re cheering on your favorite team or just watching for the fun of it all, Super Bowl events require a different, more casual, beauty preparation. Here are three ways to sport a great look for the big game:

If you’re a fan, represent! Use eye liner to show your pride by wearing team’s colors. Bright yellow and emerald green might look silly as an eye shadow, so keep your makeup from looking garish with a slick of colored eyeliner across the upper lash. Make Up For Ever Aqua Eyes, $17, has a fantastic assortment of shades. You’ll feel festive and fellow fans will appreciate the statement.

Any occasion taking place around the television shouldn’t involve too much work. It’s better to go for a more relaxed look and pull back your hair. Hair ties and headbands are effortless. Differentiate this style from your gym ponytail by using a curling iron to create loose waves, or go super-sleek with a flat iron.

Keep your lips simple. Traditional football cuisine can get messy. Rather than constantly wiping and re-applying, wear a gloss that’s easy to smooth on without missing a moment. With a variety to choose from, Burt’s Bees Lip Shimmer, $5, works as lipstick and balm in one by both coloring and moisturizing lips.

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