Travels Dream Summer Destination 10:36 AM Summertime is always the best of what might be. -Charles Bowden Temperature rising, humidity seeping into your skin, Mr. Sun making sure his presence is felt by every living creature under his reign...ahhh, summer. We can surely feel it now. Where's your next summer destination? I usually go to the beach when summer beckons. Boracay, Fortune Island, Isla de Gigantes, Baler, Calaguas---these are only a few of my favorite beach summer destinations. It's the perfect time to submerge in the pristine clear waters of the Philippine beaches, and sink my feet in the white sand to relax. But, this summer I dream of going to a cool place. Someplace different from my usual summer destinations. This year, I want my summer escapade to be an escape from everything that screams of summer. Away from the heat of the sun. Away from the sand on my feet, and the smell of salt in the air. This year, I dream of going to Japan. Dream Summer Destination: Japan Why Japan? Cherry blossoms Cherry blossoms is one of the many reasons people visit Japan because it's trademark to them. I love pink and I love flowers. And I love to see something new and be surrounded by nature. Cherry blossoms is enough reason for me to want to visit Japan. The cherry blossom season typically takes place in early April. So that's still summer here. Pinterest Mt. Fuji A majestic landmark and icon, you can't not go and see Mt. Fuji when you're in Japan. With it's perfect symmetry and unique appearance, this majestic mountain is on top of my list. One Japan Harry Potter World It is unforgivable for a Potterhead like me to visit Japan and not see the Harry Potter world. It's a crime! I want to drink butterbeer, visit the stores in Diagon Alley, get my wand at Ollivander's, and experience the magic all over again. Inside the magic Ghibli Museum Speaking of magic, who didn't fall in love with the magical world of Hayao Miyazaki? The moment I saw Spirited Away and learned about Ghibli Museum, I knew I have to go there before I die. I'd like to visit Kiki's Bakery, see Howl's Moving Castle and Castle in the Sky exhibits, and step into the fantastic creations of Mr. Miyazaki. Tofugu Hachiko As a dog foster parent, I know the depth of a dog's love, loyalty and dedication. The most popular story of which is of Hachiko's. No, I can't watch the movie. I might get a breakdown. But I want to see and give my reverence to the great Hachiko in his well-deserved and honored monument. Pinterest Castles and temples There are a lot of astonishing architectures in Japan. Most of which are their castles and temples that could rival and easily beat their modern buildings in beauty anytime. White Heron Castle or Himeji Castle, Edo castle, Kinkaku-ji, Matsumoto Castle and Senso-ji. There are just a few of these beauties I want to see in Japan. Faxo Where's your dream summer destination?
Fashion & Style Long Fashion Summer Outfits to Beat the Sun with Grace 8:00 AM Summer is fast approaching, so you better start preparing yourself to counter the heat and sweat. Nobody likes to get out of the comfort of air conditioners on a sweaty and patchy day; however, you have to, it can be for professional reasons or for social occasions. Whatever the reason might be and whatever might be the occasion, you must make sure that you feel comfortable with the dress you have put on, not to mention look attractive! One of the main concerns during summer, especially during the day times is to protect your skin from the scorching heat. Yes, there are various sun screen lotions and other items available; but how about going for easier options? During the summer, it is always advisable to put on long dresses which would cover your entire body. Sounds odd? Thankfully, there are many fashionable long dresses that would not only make you look attractive, but at the same time would offer you protection from the heat. Here are a few long yet fashionable outfits to look attractive and stylish this summer while protecting your skin from the heat: (Click individual image to view in full size) Long Fashion Summer Outfits Feel relaxed with Floral Summer dresses This would be the perfect option for you during the day times in the summer as these dresses are specifically meant for summer, and hence these are available in lighter shades to make you feel comfortable and relaxed during a sweaty day. Since these dresses are relatively loose in terms of their fits these allows air to ventilate through them. If you are looking for something on the longer side, then you have a wide variety of different designs which would touch your feet. On the other hand, if you prefer something shorter in terms of length, even then also you have lots of options to choose from. via Pinterest Opt for a Maxi Dress to look sexy Maxi dress, as the name suggests has a resemblance with the long maxi skirts in terms of their design. If you are looking for long, fashionable and sexy dresses during summer then these dresses are the best pick for you. These are available in various patterns, such as full sleeves, three-quarters, half sleeves and sleeve less in Zalora Singapore in discounted prices. Being made up of heat-resistant materials mostly like polyester, cotton etc these dresses give your skin the maximum protection when you are under the sun for long hours. via Pinterest Look stylish and different with Dungaree If you are looking for something cool and casual, then you can opt for the Dungarees. Blue denim Dungarees are very popular among the teenagers and young women. Besides, there are several other types of colors and materials available which you can choose as per your convenience. This is a dress which is essentially meant for summer and wearing this outfit you can go out in the sun casually without any fear of the sun. Usually these dresses are made of cotton to make you feel relaxed and comfortable. You can go for Dungarees which comes with trousers or those which are available with skirts based on your choice. via Angel in the North Portray elegance with Long Printed Skirt Long printed skirts have always been very popular among women and these are now available in several new designs and styles. Whenever you think about combating summer and heat, this is the best option that you can go for. These skirts are elegant in terms of their designs and are usually available in loose fits. A printed skirt touching your feet adds an all different air to your persona. These lovely attires coming with a variety of prints are available in different colors, designs and textures. A light-colored full sleeve top would just be a perfect match with these skirts to beat the heat with grace and elegance. via Pinterest So, these are some of the fashionable long dresses that you must fill your wardrobe with to beat the outside heat in style this coming summer. Just get your desired color and texture and step out in the sun carelessly. Surely, you will make every head turn as you pass by. This post may contain affiliate links. Author: Vinod Kardam Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Lux Thinking Aloud A Little Help 10:30 PM Update: Although we didn't win as People's Choice despite having the most likes on Facebook, my brother still won the title. So thank you dear friends for the support and well wishes. We share this victory to you! Dear Ones, A little help? I know you're busy, and you've got more important things to do. But please help out this stage sister as she helps her brother win a pageant in school. Yep, I'm a stage sister. And yes, I seriously need your help, friends! I don't usually do this, but I'm doing it now to support him. PLEASE click this link or his photo below and hit LIKE. Thank you so much in advance for helping! Hey, I owe you. 😉 Contest ends February 23, 2017, 12nn Manila time.
Fashion & Style Dare To Be The Most Beautiful Girl In The Room 1:00 PM We’ve all heard it before – beauty is an inside job. And yet, women around the globe continue to feel inadequate because of society’s imposed beauty standards.Just think about the consistent problem of body shaming. Being beautiful goes beyond your appearance. It’s discovering new sources from which you’ll draw your confidence to reflect your beauty.You’ll learn that you’re beautiful in your unique way. Are you brave enough to have all eyes on you? A little shift in perception is all you need to dare to be the most beautiful girl in the room.Dare To Be The Most Beautiful Girl In The Room 1. Understand every era has a different definition of beautyRemember the ’80? Beauty was all about big, sprayed, frizzy hair back then. Thick and Full Brow was the trend, and Madonna was everybody’s goddess.It’s important to understand that the concept of beauty has changed through eras and was always had a mixture of cultural and social factors. Today, we are influenced mainly by the Western concept of beauty or the norms of various subcultures. The key to being the most beautiful girl in the room isn’t blindly following trends or being a copycat. It’s about building a look that matches your personality and aesthetic sense. That’s the only way you’ll feel good in your skin. from Mia 2. Address the skin issues you’re bothered by Many women struggle with skin conditions (e.g., acne, psoriasis), which may disrupt mental health.The link between psychology and our skin is strong, and the field of psychodermatology is developing to further examine the nature of this connection. We find people with clear complexions more attractive as it is one of the indicators of good health. Skin reflects our overall lifestyle. From the amount of sleep we get and water intake to eating habits and whether or not we use sunscreen. Most women have skin discolorations and eye wrinkles as a direct consequence of poor sun protection.If you feel self-conscious, you can consider taking care of pigmentation permanently or simply turn to makeup.A medium coverage foundation is a quick solution one can use daily. 3. Be active and give yourself some tough love We tend to fall into a vicious cycle of beating ourselves up about our imperfections.We’re definitely capable of changing them. If you feel uncomfortable about your excess weight, sign up for a gym membership and commit to a workout regime.Exercising has many benefits. You’ll feel good about the results you’ve achieved, and the toned body will give you a boost in confidence. 4. Unconventional beauty approach: your chance to stand outSpeaking of skin, learn a lesson from Winnie Harlow.She’s a model with a skin condition called vitiligo, which produces pigmentation patches.Despite her condition, she became a successful model.The world is more open to welcoming diverse beauty. Alicia Keys’ “no-makeup movement” or Stefania Ferrario’s #droptheplus campaign in which she demands the fashion world to drop the “plus size” term?Powerful.These are just some examples of women who dared change the definition of beauty.Women who dare to be the most beautiful girl in the room are to be admired, respected, and honored.Because it takes a lot of courage to step in front of the crowd and be your authentic self, risking the bashing and trolling.from MiaFinal ThoughtsFashion and physical appearance have always been great ways to express yourself.It’s often challenging to disregard the hurtful voices that say you’re not good enough.Whether they come from others or evolved and became internalized. Your self-perception of yourself plays a huge role here.The level of attractiveness is not just about your physical appearance but is rooted in how you feel about yourself. That is one of the things you should work on.You will turn heads effortlessly when you dare to be the most beautiful girl in the room. Hero image About the author: Mia Taylor is a fashion and beauty enthusiast from Sydney and a writer for www.highstylife.com. She loves writing about her life experiences. Traveling and enjoying other cultures and food with her husband is a big part of her life. She is always on the lookout for new trends in fashion and beauty and considers herself an expert in lifestyle tips. Twitter | Facebook
Listicle Valentine’s Dream Date 8:00 AM Whether single or in a relationship, you have that one dream date you've always wanted to try. A location, food, or experience you've always wanted to tick off your bucket list. What is your Valentine's dream date? 1. Valentine’s Dream Date by the Beach The relaxing sound of the waves splashing, the cool salty breeze against my skin, the comforting feel of sand on my feet, and the breathtaking backdrop of the sunset...oh, heaven! That’s a dream date any time of the year, really.2. Valentine’s Dream Date Under the StarsThere’s something magical and profound about looking up at the stars. Those balls of fire from afar bring out the romantic side in anyone. Plus, it’s fun to search for your favorite constellations with your beloved while talking about your dreams.3. Valentine’s Dream Date and the Aurora Borealis Experience Who wouldn’t want to see the spectacular northern lights? It’s breathtaking, awe-inspiring, and definitely romantic. Have you ever seen this spectacular display of light with your significant other? 4. Staycation Valentine’s DateNo need to leave the comfort of home to enjoy a special Valentine’s Day date. What can you do on a staycation date?Cook a special dinner with your loved one.Or order your favorite meal.Play a fun board game.Watch your comfort movie or show.Listen to great music and dance the night away.5. Cityscape Valentine’s Dream Date For those working in the concrete jungle who can’t afford to go out of town due to their hectic schedules, the view of the city at night is a beautiful alternative. Have dinner on a rooftop or make a reservation in a restaurant with a stunning city view.To be away from the city below and to still feel connected to everything around you is solace. Valentine’s Dream DateWhether out for an adventure or staying home, it’s all romantic, fun, and memorable when spent with your significant other. There are many options for dates, but my ultimate Valentine’s dream date is one with a scenic view. It’s essential to preserve and remember special moments like romantic times with your partner, so choose how to document them properly. Use a reliable camera to take and store the photos. It would be lovely to look back years from now and see how wonderful your Valentine’s date was. And remember: The view is perfect when you’re gazing into your beloved’s eyes. What’s your Valentine’s dream date? Hero imageThis post contains affiliate links, so we'd get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost to you.
Fashion & Style Happiness Boutique: Happiness In A Small Box 8:00 AM We define our own happiness. Happiness can come from many things. Some from the most profound reasons, others from life's simple pleasures. My latest happiness came from Happiness Boutique. Happiness in a small box it is. A simple parcel that contains a fanciful pair of earrings and an elegant necklace. Life's more beautiful when you surround yourself with pretty things, don't you think? It's perfect timing because it's my friends' wedding. Oh, I'm so happy to finally see her get hitched. She and her fiance were my favorite neighbors when I was living alone. So, to the wedding I went and celebrated their milestone---with my Happiness Boutique jewerlies. It was a happy day. Happiness Boutique: Happiness In A Small Box The items Dainty Flower Earrings Material: zinc (nickel and lead free). Pastel Colors Statement Necklace Material: zinc (nickel and lead free), acrylic, rhinestones. The verdict Packaging: I love that they took extra care by wrapping the items in bubble wraps separately. The box was simple but nice. There was a card that contains instructions on how to care for the jewelry. It has a short note for me too. Design: I definitely love how the jewelries sparkle especially in the light. The design is very posh and versatile. You know it will not go out of style any time soon. I chose the product because I think it will be easy to find a dress or top that will match with it. And I was right. Superb quality for the price. Did I say I love it? The customer representative was also professional and helpful. So it's a breeze transacting with them. My dress was really simple, but I felt elegant. I was confident because I chose the right accessories---thanks to Happiness Boutique! I got to see good friends, I witnessed a marvelous cerebration of love, and I was more than satisfied with my look. Oh, happy day! We define our happiness. Happiness for me is surrounding myself with people who appreciates me for who I am, laughing my head off over silly jokes, and catching up with friends I don't always see. Happiness is a heart full of gratitude at the end of the day because you know that somehow, you've done something right in your life to deserve wonderful friends. Happiness is witnessing true love being celebrated. Happiness is a pair of dainty earrings and a pretty necklace to go with your dress. Yeah, happiness can be found everywhere if you know where to look. Disclaimer: I have received these products from Happiness Boutique free of charge in exchange of an honest review. All opinions are my own. 📸: Carlo Vicente If you like this blog post about life and love, please share the article using the social media buttons below or on the left. Thanks!
Fashion & Style How To Tell Your Hairdresser What You Want 9:17 PM I think that the most important thing a woman can have- next to talent, of course- is her hairdresser. -Joan Crawford How often have you left the hairdresser with a hairstyle you don't like because you were too scared to say that you wanted something else? For example, you asked for a change in hair color from your natural blonde to red. But you're unsure if your hairdresser gave you the right shade after. It's quite lighter than you expected. Do you dare ask your hairdresser what's the difference between a redhead vs ginger? Here are some tips on how to be firm and stand up for yourself and tell your hairdresser what you want. How To Tell Your Hairdresser What You Want Why do so many otherwise self-possessed women feel intimidated by hairdressers? Hairstylists are on a pedestal, and we are quailing below, afraid that if we say the wrong thing before we put our heads in their hands, we will emerge looking ridiculous. Not that hairdressers will actually take revenge and deliberately make you look that way, but that, artistic egos wounded, they will lose interest and do a half-baked job. We've had too many experiences with hairdressers who act as though they are doing us a favour: that we are the merely raw and poor raw material. Well, a hairstylist wants to style, create, take your hair, and do something extraordinary. The problem occurs when she or his idea of something special does not coincide with yours. The hairdresser may either be fixed on the current trend or not possess an excellent eye for what flatters a face. It is your responsibility to communicate your wishes. Some hairdressers have become like spoiled children. Dealing with hairdressers involves an extra psychological dimension. A hairdo has to be a collaborative effort: the stylist's expertise, plus your personal preferences, in light of what's possible. Simply putting yourself into someone else's hands is an odd way of behaving. Would you call in a house painter and say, "Paint the living room any color"? Too often, women approach hairdressers as if they wield a magic wand instead of a pair of scissors. It's scary to confront your own looks analytically, but force yourself! It's not vanity, just common sense. Going to a hairdresser with a vague fantasy is simply unrealistic. You lay open to having the hairdresser plant her or his ego on your head, and the chances are you'll be disappointed. To get on the right track, here are some helpful tips. How to find a hairdresserBest results come from dealing consistently with someone who knows you and your hair.Get recommendations from friends whose hairstyles or cuts you like. What you are looking for is a general indication of expertise, not a replica of how you would like to look.Ask for the head of the salon or for the head stylist.Ask the receptionist for a person who is good with your type of hair or hairstyle.Meet your new hairdresser before you change into a smock and are shampooed. Seeing you in your current hairstyle and clothes helps a stylist to give you advice.Check out a hairdresser first for a shampoo and set or blow dry. It's a perfect opportunity to talk long before severe cuts or colouring.Avoid the fashion dictator who gives every customer (regardless of age, face, or hair) the same style. What to discuss first with a hairdresserTell the hairdresser as much as possible about your hair: how often it needs washing and how long it holds a set.Be honest about how much upkeep you can give a hairstyle. Can you set it or blow it dry or do you only have time for a wash and wear?Make sure that you are perfectly clear in describing what you want. Leave nothing to chance; don't forget to state the obvious.If you want a change but are unsure what and want the hairdresser's expert advice, you should at least say what you don't want.Confront your expectations and keep your wishes within the bounds of reality. Don't fall in love with a hairstyle that is impossible to have with your hair. Beware of big changes.If you are contemplating a dramatic change of length or color or going from straight to curly or vice versa, go somewhere and try on wigs first.In the case of a perm, set your hair on lots of little curlers to try out the effect. And if you achieve just what you want, get it right before you go to the hairdresser.It is worth the effort to test the look of permanent waves, straighteners, and hair color because these are chemical processes. The results can continue to affect your hair for as long as two years, and no magic will take them away.Take pictures of the hairstyle you want, but remember, it's only a starting point.Feel free to complain to your hairdresser.If things don't turn out entirely to your satisfaction, complain to your hairdresser, not to your friends, and if you continue to be unhappy, it's time to switch.Don't be afraid to go back for a correction to a cut.If you're not much at handling a hair dryer, ask to be shown how to blow-dry your hair. Or how to set it or comb it. The days of the weekly shampoo and set visits to the hairdresser are pretty well past; today, hairdressers mostly do the big stuff (cut, curl, straighten, colour) and are happy to help you learn how to maintain your hair between visits. About the author: Scarlett Hilton is a lifestyle blogger at Life Tips. She has the heartbeat of one passionate to share her beauty secrets on how to look pretty.
