The Right Necklace for Your Neckline

Your choice of necklace can make or break your outfit.

How to choose the perfect necklace to go with your outfit? It doesn't mean the more expensive the necklace, the more stunning you'll look. Here in this section, we'll take a look at how different necklace lengths complement the different necklines of your outfit.

Collar Necklace

Collar (12 to 13 inches) necklaces lie snugly around the middle of the neck and instantly jazz up V-neck, boat-neck and off-the-shoulders tops.

Choker Necklace

Chokers (14 to 16 inches) fall perfectly aaround the base of the neck. A simple choker is a must-have accessory.

Chokers match any outfit and almost any neckline, but they especially play up the strapless or plunging necklines.

Princess Necklace


Princess necklaces (17 to 19 inches) fall just below the throat. This is the considered to be the popular classic piece because the versatile Princess necklace can be worn with just about any neckline from high crew necklines to low plunging necklines.

For a bolder eye-catching statement, you can also mix and match different types of pendants (like crystal, diamond, pearl) of different designs and colors to further accentuate your outfit.


Matinee Necklace

Matinee necklaces (20 to 24 inches) end at the top of the bust and look best when teamed with outfits with high necklines.

Avoid wearing this length with plunging necklines because the necklace will end where your neckline starts, and this tends to vie for attention with your blouse.

Matinee necklaces lend an air of professional sophistication to your outfit: perfect for your business attire.


Opera Necklace

Opera necklaces (26 to 34 inches) fall below the bust and look elegant with a very high neckline. Opera necklaces are traditionally worn with eveningwear, but you can use them to accessorize your more casual attire for a fresh, edgy fashion statement.



Rope Necklace

Rope necklaces measure at least 45 inches in length. The versatile Rope necklace is the accessory for the fashion chameleon.

Rope necklaces often come with hidden clasps located in strategic positions to allow the necklace to be broken up or linked together to transform into a variety of single- or multi-strand necklace and bracelet combinations to complete your look.

One necklace, many styles, so you can expect this versatile necklace to complement any outfit night or day.

Copyright © ShoppingLifestyle®

The Right Earrings for Your Face Shape

Yes, the shape of your earrings can have an influence on the shape of your face.

Earrings are basic accessory items that add a finishing touch to your attire. You probably have dozens of them in your jewellery box. In case you're wondering how these dainty accessories can have any influence on your face shape, remember that good fashion sense, however subtle, adds up and makes a difference. Enough of the arithmetic. Now, time for some lesson on geometry.

Face Shape: Round
The round-shaped face is almost as wide as it is long. The cheeks are full, making them the widest part of the face.

Wear: Earrings with curved lines that are long and narrow. These will help lengthen the face. Square- and oblong-shaped earrings, and dangling earrings with angular designs are all good choices for you.

Avoid: Tiny or stud earrings.




Long earrings with curved lines add length to the round face.

Face Shape: Heart
The heart-shaped face is defined by a wide forehead and high cheekbones that taper down to a narrow chin.

Wear: Small circular or large oval earrings work well for you. Wear dangling or chandelier earrings that are oval in shape or that are broader at the bottom (triangular). This will add width near the chin line. Choosing teardrop earrings that have curves and flare at the bottom will also counterbalance your features.

Avoid: Earrings that tapers to a point.


Teardrop earrings compliment the heart-shaped face.

Face Shape: Square
If your face falls under the square-shaped category, your forehead appears squared, as does your jawline. The browbone, cheekbone and the jawline are approximately of the same width. Your squared jaw is the dominant feature here.

Wear: Medium-sized earrings that are angular in shape and have curved corners. Drop earrings, creating the look of length, will also flatter your face shape.

Avoid: Square-shaped earrings that just exaggerate the squareness of your jawline.


Angular earrings with soft corners flatter the square face.

Face Shape: Rectangle (Long)
The rectangle or long face is an elongated version of the square face. Like the square-shaped face, your forehead is about the same width as the cheekbones and the jawline. Except that your face is noticeably longer.

Wear: Wide chandelier earrings with curves that will create the illusion of width around the middle of your face. Other styles that will look great on you include circular earrings, (upright) triangular earrings and square-shaped earrings. Also flattering for you are thick, chunky earrings that will add width to your lean face.

Avoid: Flat or dangling earrings.


Chandelier earrings add width to the long face.

Face Shape: Oval
The oval face is considered to be the ideal face shape. If your face is oval, your forehead is slightly wider than the chin. Your dominant feature will be your cheekbones and your face tapers gently from the cheeks to your chin.

Wear: Almost any shape will look good on you! Hoops, large ovals, or chunky earrings work well for you, but triangular earrings look especially stunning. If your hair is short, simple stud earrings will also flatter your oval face.

Avoid: Extremely long shapes that can elongate your face.


Hoop earrings are great for the oval face.

Large Face

Wear: Long earrings, large ovals, and flat earrings. Choose large angular earrings if you have a full face.

Avoid: Hoops, short, circular, triangular or chunky earrings, which just add bulk to your face.


Long and flat earrings are best for minimizing a large face.

Copyright © ShoppingLifestyle®

Blush Application Tips

Extracted from InStyle / April 2005

Hair's To You!!

A good head on your shoulders is topped by wonderful hair. And these days, the most up-to-date styles are anything but high-maintenance.

It's one of those bad hair days, and you've barged into the salon demanding heat-styling, colouring - the works.

Think again before you let yourself in for it all, because every single one of those treatments robs hair of its natural beauty, says New York-based hairstylist Ouidad.

Fortunately, "the trend has moved away fromaggressively straightened and tousled hair to more feminine and wearable styles that put a greater emphasis on hair health and natural beauty," says Manhattan-based stylist Antonio Prieto.

To get the best "natural" look, the pros offer these tips.

The look
Long hair has been believed to be best on taller women, and pixie cuts have usually been recommended for those with delicate features.

These generalisations no longer hold true. Stylists from the modern school say the best style is achieved by playing up your hair's natural texture, rather than following a set of arbitrary rules.

"The idea is to emphasise the real state of your hair," says celebrity hair guru John Sahag. "Don't try to force it into something that it's not."

John Frieda, another salon owner, adds: "Beautiful hair does not exist on its own. It suits a woman's personality, style of dress, bone structure and the occasion."

The cut
"A good cut requires minimal styling, and is as becoming to you as it is practical," insist Ouidad. To that end, stylists can't say enough about layers, which provide volume and emphasise texture. Long layers work best for medium to long lengths, and graduated ones for short hair.

Forget hard edges and straight lines, and go instead for razored ends and a subtle unevenness. The effect, says John Frieda's international creative director Rick Haylor, is "like you've had a beautiful cut that's been growing out for a few weeks. Think of it as no-makeup makeup for hair".

The ritual
In terms of shampooing, every pro has an opinion on frequency. All agree, however, that over-washing is a no-no, though newer, milder formulas allow clean freaks to get their daily fix without too much damage to the hair.

Take note: "Shampoos that don't lather a lot contain fewer sufactants, which can be harsh on hair," Ouidad says. Better to go gentle and choose products like Kerastase Re-Balancing Shampoo, Pantene ProV Daily Moisture Renewal Shampoo, and Philip Kingsley Moisture Balancing Shampoo.

Conditioning after every shampoo is also important, since "you have to put moisture back into the hair", says hairstylist Philip B. "Most hair problems, such as fly-aways and split ends, are caused by dryness.

"Work conditioner through the hair with a fine-tooth comb," he continues. "It's a myth that wide-tooth combs are better. You have 120,000 hairs on your head. A fine-tooth comb will distribute conditioner to more individual strands."

To make the most of your conditioner, Ouidad has another technique: Leave about 25 per cent of it in your hair after you've rinsed. Also, get a deep-conditioning treatment at least once a month.

The trick
The state of your hair tells a lot about your diet, says Manhattan nutritionist Heather Greenbaum. "I see so many women who have hair problems because they are always dieting." She is against depriving yourself, and advocates sensible meals that are high in protein, which is essential for new hair growth, as well as in Omega-3 fatty acids. The latter, found in fish like tuna and salmon, work as internal deep conditioners for dry, brittle hair.

The surprise
Next to your hairstylist, your masseuse might be your scalp's best friend. Goldwell's national training specialist, Cydni McCoy, says a sensual cranial massage improves blood circulation in the scalp. The increased circulation feeds hair follicles so that strands stay stronger, longer.

If you prefer to DIY, Philip B recommends a peppermint shampoo: "Peppermint works as a local anaesthetic," he says. "When combined with massage, it relaxes the scalp muscles, penetrates thhe skin and increases circulation."

Those with weak hair may consider Sisley Botanical Extract for Hair and Scalp, which stimulates hair growth (it's supposed to be effective on eyebrows and eyelashes as well).

Two local salons offer the prescribed head massages: The Salon (Wheelock Place, tel: 67340734) and Mahogany Hair Body and Soul (Winsland House, tel: 67375956).



Text: Nanny Eliana
Extracted from Family: March 2005

Slimming Secrets You Should Steal

Why is it that Japanese women look slim and younger than their years? And how do they manage to live such long and healthy lives? SHER MAINE WONG unlocks the secrets behind their fountain of youth.

Japanese women never eat canned food
Take a long, hard look at your kitchen: count the number of canned products, instant mixes, bottled chilli sauces you have. Point noted? If you look inside the fridge of a typical Japanese family, you're more likely to find sushi and sashimi - not preserved or processed food.

Executive chef Hiroshi Ishii of the famed Keyaki Restaurant at the Pan Pacific Hotel notes that as Japan is known for its seasonal abundance of fresh mountain vegetables, herbs and seafood, very little or no help is needed to bring out their exquisite taste. Broiling and steaming are thus popular methods of cooking. For example, crabs are usually grilled with just a light sprinkling of sea salt to enhance the flavour. Such cooking techniques help to preserve more of the food's nutrients including anti-ageing antioxidants.

Japanese women eat a lot of fish, says Alvin Cheah, a personal training manager at the Planet Fitness at Suntec City. He adds: "Chinese food is very high in carbohydrates and low in protein. Because the Japanese eat a lot of fish, like salmon and seafood, that are high in protein, the majority stay trim." Moreover, fish not only helps to decrease the risk of heart disease, it is full of Omega 3 oils which are good for the skin.

They are not big on alcohol
According to a 2002 study, as few as six in 100,000 Japanese women suffer from breast cancer compared to 67.3 per 100,000 females in Singapore. The reason? While Japanese men are often seen with some alcholic beverage in hand, the womenfolk usually refrain from it. That, says naturopathic physician Dr Sundardas DA, is one reason why they stay so healthy and youthful as reports have shown that women who indulge in binge drinking put themselves at a higher risk for certain diseases.

They don't believe in the Atkins diet
A study of the longest-living people in the world - the Okinawans of Japan - showed that a low-calorie diet was a key factor in their life expectancy of 81.2 years. The Okinawan Centenarian Study, which began in 1976 and involved over 600 centenarians, found that it was not merely low carbs or low fat which did it; rather, it was a diet which emphasised the right carbohydrates, healthy fats and proteins. This calorie-light diet cuts hunger and maximises fat loss rather than the water loss seen in many low-carbohydrate diets.

You never see them at buffets
Ever spotted a Japanese woman stuffing her face with food? Probably not. Housewife Ritsuko Awano, 33, remembers what her mother always told her: "She said that if I was full, it was bad for me, and to always make sure I am only 80 per cent full."

Similarly, the long-living Okinawans practise calorie control in a cultural habit known as "hara hachi bunme", or eating until they are 80 per cent full.

Not surprisingly, kaiseki, not a buffet-laden table, is the more popular form of presenting food in Japan. Chef Ishii says: "It's similar to a degustation menu and consists of several dainty individually-plated courses presented simultaneously. The dinner is encouraged to taset each dish consecutively to fully appreciate the cuisine. This style of gradual consumption is a good deterrent to over-eating."

Even during pregnancy, Japanese women are careful about their diet. Instead of eating for two, as local women are often told to do, they keep a tight tab on what they consume. Ritsuko, for instance, is mindful that if she were to get pregnant, she would cap her weight gain at a maximum of 8kg.

They are the masters of Zen
Staying calm in the eye of the storm is a Japanese attitude that's been proven to be a factor in keeping them youthful. In the Okinawa study, personality tests showed that the centenarians scored low when it came to feelings of "time urgency" and "tension" and high in "self-confience" and "unyieldingness". Interviews by researchers found that the old folks were optimistic, adaptable and easygoing. Moderation was a key value and a deep spirituality was particularly evident amongst the older women.

They walk everywhere
The idea that 10,000 steps a day would keep you fit and healthy without the need for additional exercise originated in Japan in 1965. And nobody needs to tell a Japanese woman that a little walking every day does wonders for her wellbeing.

Ritsuko reckons that the walking culture developed in Japan because transportation is not cheap. "The traffic is really bad too, so it's sometimes faster to walk," she says.

Unlike other Asian countries, walking is not seen as a chore. For instance, says Ritsuko, instead of driving to the supermarket once a week to lug back a week's worth of food, Japanese wwomen usually walk to and from the market every day. In fact, the pedometer, which measures the number of steps you take, is a widely-used device in Japan.

They don't believe in maids
It's easier to stay slim when, instead of sitting down at a desk-bound job, you are tending to the children and cleaning house, a common practice for married women in Japan.

Moreover, most Japanese ladies believe in doing everything themselves and not hiring maids. Says Ritsuko: "It's not done in Japan and even if a Japanese woman moved here to Singapore, it's not a custom."

Personal trainer Alvin says about this Japanese clients: "They are constantly on the go and their activity level is high. If they have kids, they take them everywhere."

They believe in natural therapies
Many Japanese women swear by hydrotherapy and the use of hot steam baths. Says Dr Sundardas: "Hydrotherapy has many therapeutic benefits. It helps to relieve stress, softens the skin and releases endorphins." Endorphins act as an anti-depressant, increase metabolic rate to aid weight loss, and lower cortisol levels to reduce stress.

The Japanses faith in all things natural does not just stop at food, but extends to what they apply to their skin. Says Dr Sundardas: "If you review Japanese skincare products, in general, you find that most of it is natural or organic. This is becoming more common in Asian countries but it is already a big deal in Japan."

They aren't as highly strung
Being a full-time homemaker might sound like a death knell to some women but this cultural attitude actually means that Japanese women experience less mental and emotional stress than those who are struggling to handle both career and family. Says Dr Sundardas, who sees patients from many cultures: "If you know this what you are supposed to do in lefe, our role is pretty well-defined. Unknown and rapid change is stressful. For a Japanese woman, once she has a family, and is doing something she enjoys, she is probably happy."


Extracted from HerWorld / June 2006

8 Skin Commandments

Obey these skin commandments and you'll be on the highway to flawless-skin heaven.

THOU SHALT NOT...

• PICK YOUR PIMPLES: "Picking pimples can cause an infection. It may also leave scars and marks behind. Instead use appropriate pimple care products or consult a doctor or dermatologist if it is severe," says Methode Physiodermie's trainer Carol Soh. Whenever a pimple pops up, most women are tempted to attack the offensive bump with brute force. But this can cause more harm than help. If the extraction is not done properly, you may actually be forcing dirt and bacteria deeper into the pores, causing a more serious infection. Worse, if you use your bare fingers, you could be introducing dirt (from beneath your fingernails) that's unseen to the naked eye. If you want to get rid of pimples or blackheads fast, get them extracted professionally.
• FORGET YOUR SUNCARE: This really can't be emphasised enough - the sun's rays can cause serious damage to your skin, so never skip your suncare. Coat on a suncare product especially developed for the face right after your moisturiser and use makeup products with built-in SPF. Don't forget to reapply your suncare whenever you wash your face during the day. These little actions will do a world of good for your skin in the long-term.
• USE THE WRONG PRODUCT: Many women invest in certain products simply because they are popular. But just because they work for other people doesn't necessarily mean they'll work for you. To find out if the product suits you, Soh advises undergoing an in-depth skin consultation session and to have your skin analysed prior to any purchase. She stresses, "Check if the product suits your skin type and condition. Secondly, test the product on your wrist for 24 hours to ensure that there are no adverse reactions. Finally, if there is no improvement or significant results after a month of usage, one should reconsider the purchase and review accordingly."
• NEGLET YOUR NECK: What's the point of having a youthful-looking face but a neck like a turkey's? The TLC that you lavish on your face shouldn't stop at your jawline. Treat your neck with utmost care, simply because it's one of the first areas to show the signs of ageing. Explains Soh, "The neck is as fragile as the delicate eye area. The skin there is also thinner and therefore signs of ageing show up more quickly and more prominently. The skin on the neck loses elasticity easily, so taking care of the neck is a must!"
• FORGET TO REMOVE YOUR MAKEUP BEFORE BED: One of the biggest skin sins that a woman can commit is to forget to clean her face before bedtime. No matter how late, how tired or how drunk you are, you have to make it a point to remove all traces of dirt and makeup before your head hits the pillow. Letting the day's makeup, grease and grime sit on your face for a full 24 hours will just result in clogged pores, pimples and filthy pollow cases. Invest in quick and easy cleansing wipes to remove makeup if you find that you're often too tired at night for a lengthy cleansing regime.
• USE UNHYGIENIC TOOLS: It's easy to forget, but just like your dog needs a regular bath, the sponges, brushes and applicators in your makeup compacts and cases need regular cleaning, especially if you use them on a daily basis. Bear in mind that every time you touch up you face with your powder compact, the sponge takes away a little sweat and grime that has cuumulated on your face. Let that collect and you've got a breeding ground for the germs for a make up tool. So give your makeup tools a wash in warm, soapy water at least once a week.
• BE CARELESS ABOUT PRODUCT APPLICATION: It's easy to get carried away with creams and lotions so you end up with more grease on your face. Be careful not to overdo the application of creams at night - if your skin feels greasy in the morning, you've gone overboard. The more, the merrier doesn't apply here so instead of slapping on the creams in a haphazard manner, do it with care. Dot it around the face in little dallops: forehead, cheeks, chin and a larger amount on the neck; massaging outwards and upwards - never downwards, which drags skin and can accelerate the sagging process. As for eye cream, dot it around the orbital bone (trace the brow bone, all the way round the eye socket). Gently tap the small amounts of cream into the skin and avoid pulling the skin aggressively.
• CONSIDER YOUR BEAUTY REGIME A CHORE: Instead of treating it like a dreaded task, enjoy yourself while you are going through your beauty regime. That little time is for you to pamper yourself, so whether it's moisturising your hands or relaxing with a facial mask, savour every moment of it. See your beauty regime as "you" time, because it lets you feel and look good.

Extracted from ELLE Magazine

Framed! The Best Brow For Your Face Shape

If your face is LONG
Try: A flatter, as opposed to very arched, brow draws the eyes from side to side, rather than up and down. This helps soften the length of the face.

If your face is ROUND
Try: A relatively higher arch draws the eyes up and down, rather than side to side. This helps flatter a round face.

If your face is SQUARE
Try: A well-defined arch helps balance a strong jawline. The highest point of the brow should hover directly above the angle of the jawline.

If your face is OVAL
Try: Choose a brow shape - be it flat, well-arched, or rounded - that is to your taste because you can carry off just about any shape you fancy.

If your face is HEART-SHAPED
Try: A rounded brow shape adds curves, which helps soften the face and emphasise the lovely heart shape.



Extracted from The Singapore Women's Weekly - April 2005

10 Signs You Need a Hair Update

Are you stuck in a hair rut? Here's how to tell if you are - and turn things around.

one You know those "Hot" and "Not" lists glossies are fond of? Well, you start seeing your style being pronounced the latest new comeback rage - you never realised it had gone out to begin with.

two All you need to do is style your hair a wee bit different - say, change your parting - and your pals won't stop raving.

three You're zipping around town in a convertible with the top down, and your hair barely moves. It's time to lose that strong-fix hair spray - hair today is about bounce and texture.

four Making your hair look decent involves torture - be it abusing the flat iron or wielding the crimping iron. Today, hair is about going with your natural texture, be it super straight or ultra curly.

five Your idea of upping the ante is to scrape hair back into a ponytail - if you feel the best way to tame hair is to slick it all back, it's probably out-of-shape. Some layers may change your entire look.

six You've been grappling with the same hair issues all your life, be it frizz, flyaways or flatness. From products to treatments to tools, you think you've tried it all. Well, the one thing you haven't is a new style.

seven Your threads may be S/S or 05 Balenciaga, but your hair is pure Jennifer Aniston circa 1994. As trendy as your cut may have been a decade ago, it's time to move on. Your hair should be in sync with the rest of your style.

eight Looking at your old photos, while you may have lost the shoulder pads and gained a few lines, your hair has remained a constant. Many of us cling to a style we think suits us - truth is, your hair needs to evolve as your lifestyle does.

nine You've been carrying the same tattered magazine tear of a fab new hairdo you'd like to try in your wallet for yonks.

ten Whether it's Farah Fawcett waves or a Meg Ryan shag, your do is more costume than coif.



Extracted from The Singapore Women's Weekly - April 2005

Quick, Fix Your Makeup!

Is your foundation too light for your tan or your favourite eyeshadow too shimmery for work? Here's how to mix and fix your makeup.

Yikes! Eyeshadow's too shimmery.
Yay! Sweep loose powder over eyelids and then follow with matte eyeshadow in the same colour family as your shimmer eyeshadow. Apply the shimmer colour last.

Yikes! Cream blusher isn't the colour you want.
Yay! Mix lipstick in a different tone, a little at a time, with your cream blusher on the back of your hand. Once you get the colour you want, apply on cheeks as usual with fingers.

Yikes! Foundation's too dark.
Yay! Lighten liquid foundation slightly by mixing your daily moisturiser with the foundation on the back of your hand. Add moisturiser till you get the right shade and apply as usual. What you get is really a tinted moisturiser!

Yikes! Foundation's too light.
Yay! In your palm, mix liquid foundation with loose bronzing powder till you get a skin-tone match. Remember to add in a little bronzing powder at a time or you'll get too dark a shade.

Yikes! Foundation is a tinge too oily.
Yay! Using a fluffy powder brush, dust on a very thin layer of shifted cornstarch over foundation to absorb oil. The result is a foundation with a satiny matte finish. And don't worry, cornstarch is translucent and lightweight.

Yikes! Lippy's too bright!
Yay! Tone it down by applying a pale shimmer gloss over it. Simple!

more easy fix-it recipes

• Make your own sheer, tinted eye gleam by mixing some light pink lipliner with nude no-shimmer gloss like Make Up Store's Gloss Lips in Exit ($27) on the back of your hand. The result: Clean bright eyes with no frost or sparkles.



• To add lumionsity to your face, apply highlighter powder like Laneige Make-Up Brighter ($24) before liquid foundation and set it again with another light layer of highligter.


• Hair looking a little too greasy? Sprinkle just a little baby powder on the roots to absorb the extra oil and use fingertips to rub it in. The powder will add volume to your tresses too.


• Sprayed on too much perfume? A little rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball can help erase the too-pungent fragrance.


• A key to create smoky eyes is petroleum jelly. Line the top and bottom lash lines with a dark pencil, put a thin layer of petroleum jelly over the lid and squint really hard and you'll have the desired smudged look.

Extracted from Simply Her / May 2006

Spec-tacular Statements!

Despite Lasik, some of us still insist on statement-making frames. LOY CHIA YIN asks women who love their specs what their funky glasses do for their looks.

fashion frames
Barely 10 years ago, spectacles were essential for vision correction and came in either the traditional gold rimmed metal frames or the black plastic ones. Naturally, the convenience of contact lenses was the preferred option for those with poor vision. Now with myopia-correcting Lasik surgery gaining popularity with Singaporeans, it's surprising to find out that spectacles are fast gaining fashion-novelty status with their bright colours and distinctive designs.

Says Desmond Ng, the manager of optical shop Eyeplay, "A lot of women are asking for more unique and interesting designs, particularly half frame spectacles." The retro look is also a hot favourite. "Customers come in asking to look as nerdy as possible. They want frames as thick as they can go and glashy colours like pink and purple." With spectacles, you can change your look in seconds - appear stern with a pair of black cat-eye frames or flirty with a diamante rimmed frame.

Choo Wai Yee, 32, who works in the Ministry of Manpower, explains that after years of wearing lenses for more than the recommended 12 hours, her optician finally told her the lenses are starting to leave an imprint on her cornea. So she swopped them for glasses.

Wai Yee regards her spectacles as her lifesavers - protecting her eyes when she hits the roof of her car as she buckles up her young ones and when hot oil splashes out as she cooks.

lasik or glasses?
Since the inception of the Lasik (Laser In-situ Keratomileusis) treatment in Singapore, women now have the option of regaining near perfect or perfect vision. The prospect of waking up every morning to a clear perfect vision entices women to correct their eyesight. However, a quick check among bespectacled women reveals that most would reject a Lasik treatment because of medical reasons.

Kathleen Yip, a 32-year old doctor who wear a pair of blue two-toned plastic frames, sums it up - from a medical viewpoint. "Lasik may help near-sightedness, but you also develop long-sightedness faster. And personally, I can't accept any risk of corneal scarring." She says that Lasik doesn't seem to her to be the safest option since most ophthalmologists (people who operate Lasik treatments on patients) she meets wear spectacles.

Spectacles lovers like Janice Lum, a marketing manager in her 30s, offer an alternative take, "With the money for Lasik operation, I can buy so many more interesting and funky glasses!"



HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR STATEMENT SPECS

• Colour Pick a colour that provides a good contrast against your skin tone. Warm colours go well with darker skin tone.sand cool colours with fairer skin tones. Shades that tends to work for your clothes and makeup will flatter you in glasses as well.
• Hair Balance is the key. A heavier frame is suitable for short dos, while a light frame is good for those with long hair.
• Eyebrows Don't hide your brows. They should always show above the frames.
• Eye Makeup Eye shadow shades look ligher through glasses, so pick darker colours. Near-sighted lenses make your eyes appear smaller. Pick stronger colours to brighten and enhance your eyes. Far-sighted lenses emphasise the eyse so go light on your makeup.
• Nose To reduce the length of your nose, pick glasses with a low bridge. High bridge glasses will make your nose seem longer. Details on the temples will also draw attention away from the nose.
• Lip Colour If your frame is bright in colour, pick a lip shade that's equally strong.

Extracted from Simply Her/February 2005

Quick-Fix D.I.Y. Beauty Recipes

Raid your kitchen and follow Laurel Tan's at-home pampering treatments for skin and hair.

Three steps before you begin:1 Preparation is key to a stress-free treatment-making session, so lay out ingredients and tools beforehand 2 Sterilise jars before use and always store treatments that contain perishable ingredients in the refrigerator 3 Don't keep your natural beauty treats longer than one or two days.


'FAT' DAYS
'Slimming' wrap When you need to squeeze into your 'thin' clothes, try this quick 'slimming' treatment - a temporary fast fix used in beauty salons!

How it works Jojoba oil emulsifies fats, grapefruit and lemon grass detoxify, and orange cleanses. The cling film keeps the oils from evaporating and encourages perspiration. This wrap helps shape your waist quickly (note, the effect is temporary).

You'll need Make up a bottle of lemongrass blend as follows. Combine the following essential oil with 60ml jojoba oil:

• 5 drops lemongrass oil
• 10 drops grapefruit oil
• 3 drops orange oil

What to do After a shower, massage the lemongrass blend into your waist and tummy, then wrap these areas with cling film. Leave overnight.


IRRITATED SKIN
Goddess body scrub This recipe uses oatmeal, which is famous for its anti-inflammatory, anti-itch and skin-soothing properties.

How it works Almonds, which act as a natural emollient and exfoliant, are ideal for irritated, tired and dry skin - especially when combined with oatmeal. Avacados contain nourishing vitamins A, D and E.

You'll need

• 1/2 cup almonds
  
• 1 cup dry oatmeal
  
• 1 ripe avocado, peeled and mashed
  

What to do Chop almonds and combine with the oatmeal. Add the avocado to the oatmeal and almond mixture, then rub onto skin with a mitt. Rinse with warm water, towel off, and moisturise as usual Tip The avocado seed can be rubbed into sore muscles as a soothing treat!


TIRED, PUFFY EYES
Cool-as-cucumber eye mask Wonderful as a quick pick-me-up, these thin green slices really do help relieve puffiness and eye fatigue.

How it works Cucumbers have a high salt content. The salt helps draw excess water from the tissue surrounding your eyes, reducing puffiness. The refreshing cucumber juice helps tone and firm skin around the eyes.

You'll need

• Sliced cucumbers
  
• Bowl of ice
  

What to do Allow cucumber slices to cool on the ice for a few minutes. Place a slice over each eyelid and leave for 10 to 15 minutes.


ROUGH HANDS
Banana butter hand mask Treat your hardworking hands to this nourishing mask that conditions and forms a 'glove-like' protective barrier against moisture loss.

How it works The vitamins and minerals found in bananas and butter make this the perfect mask for dry, chapped hands.

You'll need

• 1 ripe banana
  
• 1 tablespoon butter
  

What to do Mash both ingredients together, then rub the mixture into your hands. Leave for 10 minutes. Rinse off with warm water.


DRY, CRACKED FEET
Strawberry foot scrub Try this simple, vitamin-enriched exfoliant for your neglected tootsies!

How it works Fresh fruit and nourishing oils are pure, potent sources of vitamins and antioxidants. Ripe berries contain vitamin C and salicylic acid, which helps to slough off dead skin.

You'll need

• 8 strawberries, lightly mashed
  
• 3 tablespoons kosher salt
  
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

What to do Combine all ingredients in a small bowl. Massage mixture into feet, rinse, and dry off. Note Overblending may leave you with a runny, watery scrub.


DRY SKIN
Avocado and honey face pack An ultra-welcoming treat for thirsty, dehydrated skin!

How it works Protein-packed avocado hydrates the skin, thanks to its high levels of fatty acids. Honey, a poweful antioxidant, acts as a humectant, helping the skin retain moisture.

You'll need

• 1 ripe avocado
  
• 2 teaspoons plain yoghurt
  
• 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
  

What to do Mash all ingredients into a paste. Chill for 30 minutes. Apply the cold mixture to your face for 10 minutes Gently rinse off with cool water and pat dry with a clean towel.


WEAK, LANK HAIR
Banana hair mask Restore shine and health to your hair!

How it works The vitamin A and potassium in bananas do wonders for lifeless hair.

You'll need

• 1 banana
  
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
  

What to do Mash banana till smooth. Add mayonnaise and oil, blend till creamy. Apply mask to hair, wrap hair with cling film and leave for 15 to 30 minutes. Shampoo and condition.


YELLOWING NAILS
Nail whitening treat Condition your cuticles and clarify your nails at the same time!

How it works Olive oil is effective in treating brittle nails, while lemon juice is a good bleaching agent.

You'll need

• 1/4 cup olive oil, warmed
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  

What to do Soak nails in the oil for a few minutes. Massage each nail, then shape using an emery board. Blot off excess oil. Rub juice into nails to whiten them.


OILY SKIN
Lemon astringent This zesty, lemon-rich toner will leave your skin feeling fresh and clean.

How it works Lemon juice is packed with vitamin C. Witch hazel, which is great for toning and cleansing oily skin, is the base ingredient in many health and beauty products

You'll need

• 1/2 cup witch hazel
  
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
  

What to do Mix the witch hazel and lemon juice and store in a plastic or glass container. Apply to face and neck with a clean cotton ball. For an added kick, chill before using.



Extracted from FEMALE Magazine

Beauty 101 Haircare

Laurel Tan tells you how to have hair that always looks healthy and gorgeous, no matter what the type.

WHAT IS HEALTHY HAIR?
Hair that's in good condition is reistant to breakage, easy to manage, and reflects light. This last quality depends mainly on the cuticle of the hair shaft, and how intact it is. According to Paula Begoun, in her book, Don't Go Shopping for Hair Care Products Without Me: "When the cuticle is healthy and intact, lying flat and tight against the hair shaft, the hair reflects light evenly, producing a wonderful lustre and shine."

KNOW YOUR HAIR TYPE
The key to understanding which products work best for you lies in determining your hair type. There are three broad categories: fine and thin, medium, and coarse and thick. Asian hair is dark brown to black in colour, has a straight, non-bending hair shaft, and can be thick compared to Caucasion and African hair.

HAIR-Y WISDOM

• Basic haircare is the same as basic skincare - shampooing the hair is like cleansing the face; a rinse-off conditioner works like a toner; applying a leave-in treatment is the same as applying a face moisturiser.
• Use cool water to rinse your hair as hot water can dry out your scalp.
• A well-balanced diet ensures healthy, shiny hair.

4 STEPS TO CREAT HAIR
Follow these hair-TLC steps from Leslie Wolski in her book, The Body Shop Spa.

1. Hair brushing This massages your scalp, loosens dead skin cells, spreads natuaral oils over the hair shaft, and improves circulation in the scalp to promote hair growth. Choose a brush with flexible bristles, and only brush hair when it is dry. Comb hair about 50 times using long, firm strokes. Bend over and repeat.
2. Essential oil wash Choose an essential-oil-infused shampoo. Shampoo your scalp gently using the pads of your fingers. Avoid rubbing your hair against your scalp. Scratch scalp lightly with your nails to stimulate circulation. Rinse and gently pat your hair dry with a towel.
3. Scalp conditioning Treat yourself to a scented scalp-conditioning rub. Blend two drops each of ylang-ylang and palmarosa essential oils with one tablespoon of jojoba oil; apply the oils to your head and knead your scalp. Wrap your hair with a towel and leave on for 15 minutes.
4. Hair conditioning Hemp seed oil conditioners are excellent for light conditioning. Gently work a dollop of conditioner through your hair, paying special attention to the ends. Rinse with tepid to cool water. Towel-dry your hair, then comb through gently. Let hair dry naturally.

HAIRCARE FOR YOUR HAIR TYPE
Wendy Ng, techincal manager at Redken, on what different hair types need.

Damaged Hair
What it is? Hair is damaged when the cuticle is no longer flat enough or intact so as to provide structural integrity to the hair, leaving it vulnerable to splitting and breakage. Damage can occur as a result of excessive chemical porcessing, exposure to heat, and mechanical factors (eg. backcombing).

Tips The best course of action in most circumstances is to cut it. The last thing you should do is try and correct the damage through further colouring, perming or heat treatments!

How to care A weekly intensive home mask coats the hair follicle with ingredients that smooth the cuticle and seal in moisture A good rinse-off conditioner and leave-in treatment are important for strength and shine. Leave in for as long as possible for maximum penetration.

Try

• Schwarzkopf Pofessional BC Bonacure Repair Collagen Therapy, $36
• Goldwell Kerasilk Treatment Ultra Rich Care, $20, Tel: 68351551
• L'Occitane Aromachologie Shampoo, $30
• L'Occitane Aromachologie Conditioner, $30

Dry/Brittle
What it is? Dry hair is characterised by dullness, split ends and roughness, and is often difficult to comb or brush. Frequently caused by excessive heat-assisted styling (e.g. hairdryers, curling tongs, etc) and overexposure to the sun and chemicals.

Tips Try using a hair sunscreen or protecting your hair with a headscarf or hat while in the sun When using a hairdryer, set it on 'cool' and aim it downwards from the top of your head against the hair shaft.

How to Care After shampooing apply a rinse-off conditioner and leave-in treatment. Use a moisture treatment/mask once or twice a week to replenish mositure. Regular brushing will stimulate the scalp's production of natural oils and counteract dryness.

Try

• Kiehl's Extra Strength Conditioning Rinse With Added Coconut, $35
• Paul Mitchell Instant Moisture Daily Treatment, $22.50
• Origins Rich Rewards Intensive Moisture Treatment For Scalp and Hair, $35

Fine/Thin
What it is? Fine hair lacks volume and can be fragile as well. Compared to medium- or coarse- textured hair, it is more vulnerable to damage and twice as prone to breakage. It is commonly difficult to add volume to fine hair or get it to 'hold' a style.

Tips Volumising products like mousses can help boost fullness by coating the hair, making it appear thicker Deliberatly damaging your hair through colour or heat treatments can add volume and increase ease of styling, but we don't recommend it.

How to Care Avoid heavy, moisture-based products, as these can weigh fine hair down. Try a lightweight conditioner to protect hair from damage. Apply a leave-in treatment at the roots to boost hair volume and strengthen hair fibres.

Try

• L'Oreal Professionnel Volume Extreme Volumising Conditioner, $26
• Paul Mitchell Botanical Body-Building Treatment, $26.50
• Redken Body Full Plump Treat Leave-in Thickening Treatment, $36

Coloured

What it is? Coloured hair tends to be dry and has a slightly rough texture, no thanks to chemical processing. It may have split ends and be prone to colour fade-outs.

Tips If you wear your hair in a part, try alternating the side you wear it on so you don't get just one section of your hair exposed to the elements. Shampoo your hair immeidately after swimming to remove traces of chlorine and other chemicals.

How to Care Choose gentle moisturising shampoos and nourishing conditioners formulated for coloured hair; use masks once a week and wear a sunscreen for daily protection. A leave-in treatment helps prevent colour oxidisation and makes artificial hair colour last longer.

Try

• Kerastase Reflection Bain Mirror Shine Revealing Shampoo, $36


• L'Anza Hair Repair Formula Reconstructor, $27


• H20+ Spa Sea Plankton Restructuring Conditioner, $39.90

Coarse/Unruly
What it is? Hair that's voluminous and dull in all the wrong places. It usually comes with a slight wave.

Tips Once hair is dry, any last bits of frizz can be tamed with a silicone-based serum. Handle your hair as infrequently as possible. Too much friction erodes and fractures the cuticle.

How to Care A leave-in conditioner applied daily from mid-shaft to ends, will help smooth and tame flyaways. For better control and to prevent static electricity, run a fabric softener sheet through your hair.

Try

Kiehl's Leave-In Hair Conditioner, $45

Cotril Sleek Hair Smoothing Shampoo, $21.50, Tel: 68442720

Lancome Hair Sensation Nutrition Intense Extra Rich Conditioning Mask, $44

Curly/Wavy
What it is? Curly/wavy hair tends to be fry, fragile, frizzy, hard to control, dehydrated, and sensitive. Some types are wavy while other have medium to tight coils. The degree of variation depends on the curl pattern of the hair.

Tips A curl activator will increase curl definition and encourage a more polished finish. Use a diffuser when blow-drying to define curls naturally.

How to Care For added moisture, give your curls and waves a hot oil treatment every two to three weeks. Apply a deep conditioner on a regular bsis for moisture control. Have a haircut every six to eight weeks to neaten stringy ends.

Try

L'Oreal Professionnel Shine Curl Nutripulse Curl-Enhancing Shampoo, $22

Kerastase Nutritive Elasto-curl Definition Forming Cream, $42

Goldwell Curl Definition Treatment Intense, $27

HAIR 'FACTS': TRUE OR FALSE?

'FACT' No. 1: Washing hair every day dries it out
FALSE! Daily shampooing will maintain the moisture , body and beauty of your hair. The key is in finding the right shampoo for your hair type.

'FACT' No. 2: The same shampoo becomes ineffective if used over time
FALSE! Many people swear that hair becomes 'immune' to the benefits of the same shampoo over time. There is no scientific evidence for this.

'FACT' No. 3: Scalp burn can lead to hair loss
TRUE! Severe sunburn or burns that occur over time can damage hair follicles at the root. Avoid scalp burn by applying sun protection products to your scalp as well as your hair.

'FACT' No. 4: Hair should be washed every day
FALSE! Your shampooing schedule should suite your hair needs and lifestyle. While some people benefit from a daily shampoo, others prefer a twice- or thrice- weekly wash.

'FACT' No. 5: Brushing thinning hair will make it fall out faster
FALSE! As long as you use a good brush, normal daily brushing should not cause hair loss. If your hair is suffering from a hair-loss condition like alopecia, brushing will only cause you to lose hair that is already ready to fall. Do not brush hair excessively.

Hair-grooming habits!
According to studies by Pantene,
41% of us colour our hair at least once every 6 months
20% of us blow dry our hair more than 7 times a week.


World-reowned cosmetics 'cop' Paula Begoun shares her tips.

• Hair at the root is healthier hair. Apply conditioner only along the length of hair and at the ends, not the roots, especially if you have an oily scalp.
• To avoid 'frying' your hair, make sure every strand is 100 per cent dry before taking a flat or curling iron to it.
• Hair is most fragile when it's wet. To detangle wet hair, blot it dry then run a wide-tooth comb or wide-bristled brush with rounded tips through it.
  
• It's not necessary to buy expensive shampoos and conditioners. Instead, splurge on a good quality blowdryer, and ceramic flat and curling irons.
• Thicker hair loves serums whereas thinner hair prefers shine sprays.

Bet you didn't know...
A single strand of hair is only 0.02 to 0.04 millimetres thick, but it is remarkably strong, with a tensile strength equivalent to a thin strand of wire!



Extracted from FEMALE Magazine

7 Reasons Why Flats Are The Newest Cocktail Choice

1. They're unpredictable. Which makes your style stand out from that of the heel-tottering crowd.
2. They show you're confident. How many women can stand tall while being lower than others?
3. They're comfy. You can stand for hours sipping champers without a grimace on your face.
4. They make you look efforlessly chic. Like you only took minutes to look this put-together.
5. They're subtly glamorous. Which is the look every woman should aspire to nail.
6. They're all over the shops. Glitzy flats in every possible colour and design are out there. You're sure to find the perfect pair.
7. They can go from day to night. Which means bang for your buck!

Extracted from CLEO Magazine / May 2006

How to Wear a Perfume

On The Pulse
Let you body - rather than your clothes - do the talking when it comes to wearing perfume.

Surprise, surprise, your pulse points may be your erogenous zones too:

Behind the ears:
As he leans over to whisper...

At the temples:
Great when you're moving closer to make conversation...

Behind your wrist:
As you use your hands to communicate...

Crook of your elbow:
Link arms and leave your scent behind...

Base of your throat:
Another magnet for those nuzzling moments...

Behind the knees:
And the other reason is that you can show off your legs...

Nape of your neck:
For when you're swinging your hair...

Between your breasts:
Need we say more?



Extracted from an advertisement of LANCÔME perfume

3 Ways to Wear a Scarf

Click to learn the 3 Ways to Wear a Scarf

Extracted from CLEO Magazine / January 2005 issue