Tons of Tunics

Tunics are probably the first type of bathing suit cover-up that comes to mind.  They can be dressed up or down and are perfect on and off the beach. There’s no end to the colors, prints and prices for a tunic.  Most are cut V-neck style and are easy to take on and off. Many are decorated around the neckline with beading or embroidery.  Keep it simple or glitz it up, it is entirely up to you.  Add a pair of fitted capri pants with wedges or espadrilles when offshore.

Befriend Your Boyfriend

The Boyfriend shirt is a great way to play it safe. This is literally a buttoned-up look.  Dress it up with a nice pair of dark jeans, short skirt and pair of flats (sandals or ballet) and you can go off to lunch without looking frumpy.

Pleasing Palazzo

Palazzo pants may not be at the top of your list but they are back big time. They are both easy and breezy and can be thrown on over any kind of swimsuit.  If you are traveling they can perform double duty as a cover-up and for a night out.  Just pair the palazzo pants with heels, a sparkly top and some chandelier style earrings for a look that is both sophisticated and cool.

Sunny Sundress

Let’s not forget the standard sundress.  From the laid back drawstring style to the spaghetti straps and tube-top wonders, the sundress is the most popular style cover-up.  Change it up by wearing a button-down or t-shirt over the dress. You can mix and match it with a variety of summer shoe styles. Here the realm of ideas really is endless.

Now that you found what works for you remember to cap off the look with a pair of sandals that compliment.  Flip-flops in a fun color that coordinate or a pair of funky sandals will add style to any of these cover-ups.  Add a hat for protection and an extra dose of panache. Styles abound at every type of retailer too.  Just remember to have fun this summer and you will always look great.

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Ditch the Snack Attack

You trained hard today. You worked up quite an appetite. You can totally eat that piece of pie or cupcake … or maybe not.

Consider this: the average restaurant dessert is 1,200 calories+ while a 45-minute run (for a woman of 140 pounds at a 10-minute pace) burns about 476 calories. That’s not enough.  There’s another problem too. If you’ve working out at the same pace for months your body has become accustomed to it and is no longer burning as many calories.

Try adding heavier weights to your work out and eat leaner snacks. Fuel up with foods like nuts, berries, yogurt and string cheese post-workout instead of a protein bar and smoothie.  Keep a food journal to help you over the hump. You are probably snacking more than you realize, or making more unhealthy decisions than you originally thought.  A quick fix is to find the appropriate number of calories your body needs based on your weight and height and plan your workouts and food intake accordingly.

Sweat – Don’t Glisten

You can run all you want but if you don’t change up your routine your body won’t change either.  What once worked in the beginning of your fitness plan now has you at a plateau.  If it has been a few weeks or months since you last saw results it is time to change your workout by going to a different class or adding heavier weights.  If you are only doing cardio then add weight training to your routine.  The difference will show quickly and have you building lean muscle while burning fat. Add a High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) to your fitness program.  Twenty minutes twice a week will make you sweat and burn fat fast.  There are plenty of quick sessions located online on channels like BeFit on YouTube.

Get a Plan

Planning is the key to seeing maximum results in any aspect of life.  Formulate a fitness schedule on your own, with the help of a friend or a personal trainer.  Take into account your current lifestyle, along with the changes you want to see in your fitness and body. Don’t be afraid to mix it up and try new types of workouts or classes.  Find a buddy to help be accountable and stick to the plan. If you miss a day don’t beat yourself up.  Instead remember how important your body and health are in the big picture that is life and get back into the game again tomorrow.

EcoColors Hair Dye

Permanent, gluten free, non-toxic and all natural, Eco Colors is available in hair salons and has an at-home hair dye kit option.  Made primarily from 100% organic Rosemary oil it also contains Vitamin E & C, grapefruit, seed extract, nettles and flower essences.  It works well on gray hair, comes in a wide array of colors and provides a high quality shine that helps to restore hair each time it is used.

Light Mountain

This one has been around since the 1980s. Light Mountain is henna based and has a smaller amount of basic color options like red, blonde and brown.  It works by softly tinting hair of all types, especially gray hair.  It is extremely affordable and can be used often.

Clairol’s Natural Instincts

One of the first mass-produced, semi-permanent natural drugstore options Natural Instincts has a range of shades that brightens hair without using ammonia.  You can go from blonde to black at any time and keep hair loaded with antioxidants.  This tint gives good shine while still being low in peroxide and loaded with Vitamins C & E.

Garnier HerbaShine

Garnier has a few options for natural hair coloring but HerbaShine is their star performer.  Made from Bamboo extract this is one luxurious cream that feels silky and rich that cares for hair during the coloring process.  Using an ammonia-free formula is offers brilliant color in over 18 color options.  It is also fast and easy taking only 10 minutes to cover gray hair or test out a new hue in a natural way.  Priced right and sold in drugstores.

L’Oreal’s Natural Match

It may have limited color choices (only brown and dark blonde) but it packs a colorful punch while using only natural ingredients like jojoba, pomegranate and apricot oils.  Giving hair a gorgeously glossy shine it pumps up dull, dry hair and is ammonia-free.  Highly affordable, Natural Match is available in drugstores everywhere.

Today there are a wide set of options to color your hair naturally in beautiful, shiny shades that are also less damaging to your hair, body and the environment.  Ask your stylist if they can also be used on your next salon visit.

Yellow & Light Blue

Pantone released their colors for 2013, which included a bright citrus yellow and soft light blue.  What could be more perfect for summer than this vivid color tempered by a softer, complimentary shade? Alone, a light blue sundress is pretty enough but adding a thin, braided yellow leather belt adds some zip.  Reverse it with a blue boyfriend cardigan over a lemon yellow tank and set of white capri pants for a casual look.  Play it up another way by going monochromatic with your outfit in light blue and accessorizing it with a sunny yellow statement necklace and bag.

Lilac & Green

It’s true that emerald green was named color of the year and it is a gorgeous choice.  Take a cue from nature during the summer months when the whole landscape is alive with newly unfurled leaves, fresh cut grass and tiny green shoots. Wear a lilac button-down camp style shirt under a light green sweater for a truly seasonal look.  The Gap ran with this trend and added a new twist by combining pieces in navy blue with the soft shades to create an outfit that just pops.

Mint & Coral

Before you know it you’ll be poolside or sitting on the beach.  Using mint’s cool tones up against the heat of the color coral is hot.   A coral maxi dress can be dressed up or down depending on the accessories you use.  Mint green sandals, a pair of chandelier earrings or set of stacked bracelets add sharpness and elegance to this warm shade.  Work it another way by wearing a set of mint lace or patterned shorts and a casual coral t-shirt that works anywhere.

It is time to get inspired by the world around you.  Take a look at what your friends are wearing or check out a store website or window for more color options.  It only takes a little bit of practice but before you know it you will be noticing bits of inspiration all around you and putting pieces together from all the color trends this season.

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Pack a Protein Punch

Smoothies are a great way to fuel up before or after a workout.  Drinking a milk-based smoothie can help you replace the lactic acids needed to repair tired muscles post-workout.  Go beyond the basic protein powder shake and bulk up your daily fruit and vegetable needs.

Ingredients

• 1 scoop of chocolate protein powder
• 1 cup skim milk
• 1 banana
• 4-5 whole strawberries (frozen or fresh)
• ½ cup kale, chopped
• ½ cup spinach, chopped
• 1 tsp. ground flax-seed

Blend together and serve.  Makes 1 serving.

Going Green

The green smoothie has seen a lot of action lately.  It is an almost perfect blend of fruits and vegetables in one serving. It can be tailored to your needs and tastes while throwing in a few things that you may not like the taste of, but need in your diet.  You can change it up daily and create a limitless range of green smoothies, even ones that can help eliminate belly fat.  Green smoothies have been known to improve skin, aid in weight loss, promote better sleep and improve your overall health, detox your liver and help digestion. Here is a basic recipe from Dr. Mehmet Oz to get you started.

Ingredients

• 1 apple (cored, skin on)
• Big handful of spinach
• 1 small cucumber
• 1 celery stick (chopped)
• ¼ tsp. ginger root (peeled)
• Pinch of parsley
• Lime juice from ½ a lime
• Lemon juice from ¼ lemon

Blend and serve.

Get Energized

A protein smoothie can provide fuel for your body and a green one can detox you – but what about a drink that is like a shot of energy each time you drink it?  Using ingredients like peanut or almond butter and a potassium-rich banana will get you going and feeling great.  Add cocoa powder and a dash of cinnamon for flavor and you have a vitamin packed drink that gives the energy you need to start your day or hit the gym.

Ingredients

• 1 banana
• 2 ice cubes
• 1 tbsp. cocoa powder
• 1 cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp. creamy peanut butter.

Blend and serve.  Makes 1 serving.

Dress It Up

An eyelet dress is traditional in white. Ideal for summer, it brings to mind both the beach and garden.  This year many stores, like Old Navy, are showcasing a variety of dresses. Find them in cuts from A-line to strapless – and in vivid shades of pink, blue, orange and yellow.  The cut and stitching on this type of eyelet is big and bold. That means these styles can handle large accessories – like arms loaded with slinky bracelets and chandelier style earrings – without looking overdone. Dresses in these bright colors work well for all occasions from a wedding to the office. You can layer a cardigan, blazer or even leather jacket over top. Play it up with a statement necklace or add a leather belt to make the outfit really rock.

Bottoms Up

Eyelet shorts are so sweet and simple.  Then you put them on and you wonder, “What do I wear on top?”  Just like a dress or skirt, you can bring on the harder side or turn to neutral territory.  It’s your choice. Style the shorts or pants (capri style only please) with a beige pump or tan sandal, belt and bag to make the eyelet stand out.  Bring it front and center again by adding thin gold or silver bangles and stud earrings or even small hoops.  I bought a pair of red eyelet shorts from Target and added a thin knit black slouchy sweater.  Adding a pair of black wedge heels and thin gold accessories completed the look.

Think Small

Maybe you don’t feel comfortable enough with this ultra-feminine fabric to jump right in with a dress, skirt or pair of shorts.  Why not start small and add a pair of eyelet lace-up sneakers or leather lace-up heels with an eyelet design carved into them?  Soften an outfit with an eyelet infinity scarf.  Sweeten your look by throwing an eyelet leather tote over your shoulder.  The options and colors are numerous for both and add a touch of elegance to any outfit.

Eyelet is versatile, fun and perfect for warm weather.  It’s a girly fabric that is more casual than lace and one that works well with metal hardware, leather, rope and even suede accents.

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Tension Headache

Probably the most common headache and easily the most curable. The pain feels like an ache or pressure that can become intense as it radiates around the temples or at the back of the head and neck. The cause of this pain is often stress-related. Muscles in the neck and scalp can contract during stress and cause the head to ache. A tension headache won’t stop your day like a migraine but it can certainly feel like it might, if it gets worse.

Treatment: Ibuprofen, acetaminophen like Tylenol and aspirin can get the job done. And remember to drink lots of water.

Sinus Headache

When your sinuses are inflamed it is natural to think that an infection in the sinus cavity is the cause. Pain is intense in the sinus area and radiates upward between the eyes and in the forehead area. Fever and sometimes pus are present during this type of headache. A doctor can diagnosis you after viewing the sinus through a fiber-optic scope.

Treatment: Antibiotics prescribed by a doctor are needed in many cases but some sinus infections can be treated with decongestants and antihistamines.

Migraine Headache

For those who suffer from migraines the experience is excruciating. A migraine can last between 4-72 hours with symptoms that include medium-to-severe pain that can stop your day. Sensitivity to light and sound, nausea and/or vomiting can occur as well as throbbing pain or pain on one side of the head. Migraines can be hereditary so be sure to note not just the number of times you have had a headache like this but also alert your doctor if other family members suffer from these symptoms. Keeping a ‘headache journal’ can help find the triggers, list the symptoms and help you and your doctor find the best treatment.

Treatment: OTC medications like Excedrin, which contain caffeine and a pain-killer, can do the trick and zap a migraine. Herbal supplements like melatonin before bed can lessen the occurrence just like Vitamin B2, acupuncture and a low-fat diet. Sometimes only a prescribed medication using a triptan or beta-blocker can do the trick. Your doctor will have find the right prescription and dosage that works for you.

Whether it is a cluster headache, one caused by seasonal allergies or tension the trick is to think back and remember the triggers and symptoms to truly eradicate the headache and its cause so it won’t happen again.

Get Fit

Finding the right length and fit on this skirt is the most important thing you can do. Too long and it is dowdy looking. Too much fabric and you run the risk of looking older than you’d prefer. The length should run anywhere from 23-30 inches depending on your height. You want a longer skirt (30”) if you are 5’9” and over.  If you are between 5’4”-5’8” then opt for a skirt length of about 23 inches.  Petite styles for anyone 5’3” and under measure at around 25 inches.  You can have it a bit boxy but fitted works best to keep it fresh.

Work It

Midiskirts are not the easiest skirt to style but if done properly you can use it both for work and a night on the town.

While prints are everywhere this season, it is best to stick to solid colors or very muted prints when wearing a midiskirt.  Bright colors are perfect and so are stripes. Using a bold stripe can really take a midiskirt up a notch style-wise. Pair the skirt with a fitted crewneck shirt or sweater in a complimentary color. Add a belt to break up the waistline. You can wear V-neck t-shirts that are fitted or even a soft blouse as long as it can be tucked in without being bloused over the top of the skirt.

When it comes to footwear the style is really up to you.  With spring here, ditch the boots and go for something a bit more seasonal.  A sleek set of pointed-toe pumps in a shockingly bright color can be worn, or even a chunky heel.  You want a shoe that elongates your legs and promotes that column length.  Take the look casual and toss on a jean jacket and pair of flat sandals with a tribal motif to wear beachside.  Ballet flats or pointed-toe flats with a metallic cap are another way to be casual and comfortable yet stylish in a midiskirt.

Remember that these are just guidelines to get you started with midiskirts and branching out into something new.  You can play around with lengths and if it doesn’t work for you go a bit shorter or longer and find the spot that works for you.

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All Lined Up

Eyeliner is having a moment right now and it is a big one. It is all about finding new ways to experiment with one of the beauty industry’s often shunned products.  We buy liners with good intention and for experimentation but then tend to move away from wearing them beyond the cursory swipe.  Don’t be shy, girl!  Break out the black, the bold and the colored pens or sticks.  It is time to wing it out, cat-eye it up (thick or thin lines) and get free.  Rim your eyes in a dark tone and smudge it out a little bit for an updated take.

Paging Debbie Gibson

Blue eye shadow and eyeliner keeps trying to come back in style.  By the looks of the latest fashion magazines and blogs it might have finally taken root.  The switch for 2013 is that – rather than wearing the eye shadow on the eyelid – it is being placed just under the eye on the lower eyelid.  Bright blue, cerulean and even baby blue shades were seen on many models walking the spring catwalks. Designers like Michael Kors, Rebecca Minkoff and Monique Lhuillier showed off various versions of this bright blue hue. Lining the bottom lid with a shadow or creamy liner is not a subtle look but it can be a fun one when the top lid is muted in shades of bone or beige. Can’t you just see yourself sitting poolside or heading out for a night with friends all lined in blue?

Get Smokey

The dark grey or black version of the smokey eyes is still in style – but this spring and summer you can change it up with a softer, smokey eye in brown tones. Bobbi Brown illustrates this beautifully.  Using a light base of cream shadow from lid to brow bone then apply a subtle brown in taupe or fawn color to create the smokey effect.  Using a deep brown chocolate liner plays is up further. It’s a look that works on everyone.

Fake It

Another hot trend is the fake eyelash. Kim Kardashian might just be your new style queen. She reigns supreme over the long lash style gracing the runways and fashion glossies. Using a few well-placed false lashes you can draw attention to your eyes, making them appear bigger and you look more awake.

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Just Say Om

Seasonal allergies are exacerbated by more than just pollen floating through the air. Stress can also trigger the sneezing, congestion and itchiness. Yoga, a great relaxer, helps to diminish our sense of flight-or-fight response and in turn reduce our allergic symptoms. Our nervous system works with our immune system and when we are stressed both get maxed out. If doing a few sun salutations boosts our immune system then inflammation and mucus production will back down and so do our allergies.

Great yoga poses include many standing poses to massage the spine and thoracic cage and help the lungs. Forward and backward bends like Bridge can do all this while slow breathing will help too. Try Sarvangasana (shoulder stand) or Plow Pose also known as Halasana to open up your nasal cavities and help drain your sinuses. Focus on breathing out for long exhalations and shorter inhalations to help promote relaxation and lung health.

Drink Up & Chow Down

The most important thing you can do to be healthy is to stay hydrated. This applies to seasonal allergies too. Drinking lots of water keeps skin moisturized and alleviates dryness and itchiness in skin. Fluids flush your sinuses and keep mucus production down.

• Two to three cups of green tea, which is loaded with epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) helps block histamines and immunoglobulin, two things that cause allergy symptoms.
• Matcha powder (powdered green tea) can be added to foods like smoothies to get your daily dose of EGCG.
• Sugar can make your allergies worse (sugar is high in acid and creates more mucus) and should be avoided, others work a little bit of magic on your respiratory system and help the problems that are associated with allergies.
• A daily yogurt, filled with probiotics, maintains a healthy digestive tract and has shown to help allergy sufferer’s symptoms by up to 90 percent.

The key is to hit the allergies before they start. Stay indoors in the early morning when you can and head out mid-day when pollen isn’t being released into the air by plants and trees. Finding time to incorporate a bit of yoga and fill up on probiotics and fluids can help you breathe easier this allergy season.