It's been a few days since I decided to switch the focus of this blog to female heroes, and I confess that so far (perhaps because I've missed or overlooked them) I haven't seen anything in the news worth reporting. The other day, however, I was watching "Criminal Minds" and was riveted by "Open Season," the episode about 2 serial killers who would take their victims into the wilderness and hunt them down with bows and arrows. Shades of Deliverance.
This would have been derivative of many similar "hunt 'em down" serial killers in countless cop shows, but the thing that set it a part - and fascinated me - was the incredibly feisty woman who turned out to the killers' last victim.
Instead of running and being a target, she hid behind trees, stalked them, and brought them down with a hunting knife (obtained by some unfortunate campers she ran into, who all fell victim to the hunters' arrows).
Apart from liking the show's compassionate take on the killers - they were clearly victims of their upbringing (reared by a serial-killer uncle) - I loved the fact that, for once, the victim turned the tables on her would-be slayers and they ended up dead instead.
So the only heroine I've found so far is fictional - how pathetic is that? I'd like to invite my readers - if I have any - to join in my search send in their suggestions for heroines (real and fictional) who could be profiled on this site.
Hair Special 3: LONG DISTANCE
Runway: The fashionistas' love affair with long hair - the longer the better at Luella, Versace et al - is back on track. Worn sleek, straight and most importantly swingy - not ironed into submission - or layered and in loose semi-waves, this look is at its most directional when draped over one shoulder and combined with a centre parting. 
Reality: Incorporating a slightly off-centre parting is more flattering than the ramrod straight variety for those not blessed with perfect model girl features. Regular trims are essential to keep very long hair from looking like rats' tails.
Over the shoulder
Poker-straight lengthy locks, like these flaunted at ES are big news this season, good news for Gwyneth Paltrow, who has been sporting this look for years.
Like Gwyneth, Nicole Kidman knows that poker-straight lengthy locks are both simple and effective - and the over-the-shoulder look was everywhere on this season's catwalks, as shown here at Bendelisi.
Diesel's Holographic Fashion Show
The audience were stunned during Diesel's show for Spring/Summer 2008 last week in Florence, Italy. Giant aquatic creatures from the deep, snaking robots made from watches and one man submarines were among many other things never before seen on the catwalk leave the audience in awe and open mouths.
The ‘liquid space’ concept for the collection brought life during the 17 minute show. This is the first time that holograms have been projected along a traditional catwalk, being visible from both sides, and the first to combine both real and holographic models in a fashion show.
Watch the video and check out the part where a shoal of fish tranforms itself into a model - this got one of the biggest reactions from the crowd!
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Wearable Fashion Trends 14: Artisan-Look
This summer maybe the perfect time to face fear and unravel a grown-up take on the 1960s homespun aspect. Wherever you look, fashionistas are going gaga over folklore- from mismatched prints and patchwork dresses to embellished smocks, slouchy fringed totes, raffia sandals and wooden heels. You've got to know how-to-wear these new look.
Runway: Bring out your inner artisan look with contemporary basics - think skinny jeans, fitted pants, city shorts and blazer.
Reality: Tightly belt a loose printed blouse for a more body-conscious feel. Always remember to balance patchwork fabrics with sleek indigo denim or black. Don't forget that heavy heels ground anything too billowing. To wrap it up, keep hair and make-up simple when wearing eclectic prints.
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Runway: Bring out your inner artisan look with contemporary basics - think skinny jeans, fitted pants, city shorts and blazer.
Reality: Tightly belt a loose printed blouse for a more body-conscious feel. Always remember to balance patchwork fabrics with sleek indigo denim or black. Don't forget that heavy heels ground anything too billowing. To wrap it up, keep hair and make-up simple when wearing eclectic prints.
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Paris' Freedom Fashion
We've seen her went into jail and just a few days ago we've also seen her went out. Now, she's in the spotlight again because style experts are analyzing Paris Hilton's more natural, post-prison look.
The difference between the Paris we saw strolling out of prison with a little spring in her step and a snappy spring ensemble was a far cry from the handcuffs and sweatpants we saw just over two weeks ago.
Click here to know what the experts sat on Paris' post-prishion fashion statement from hair to heels!
Finding Hatshepsut: sometimes time is the best revenge
 |  The mummy was discovered by Howard Carter in 1903  |
| |
Egyptologists say they have identified the 3,000-year-old mummy of Hatshepsut, Egypt's most powerful female ruler.
Lucky Charms: Have Some!
Having a bad day? Don't just pout, get lucky with these lucky charms.
Evoking the hedonistic mood of a lazy summer's day. Zoe & Morgan's "What's up Rockers" collection is brimming with light hearted bird, wing and cloud motifs. Made of glistening gold and silver, these soulful jewels will perk up the most pared-down ensemble into a striking statement of style. The long pendants add easy cool to sun-dresses and give a rock 'n' roll lift to your evening gown.
Work you charms now...
1. Bird and tassel necklace- Gold plated silver long necklace with smoky quartz crystal stones. It has a bird and cloud pendant towards base with a tassel on the very bottom and slips on over the head.
2. Cloud pendant necklace - Gold plated silver circle link necklace with cut-out cloud pendant. It has a single designer emblem link and simply slips on.
3. Clutched wing pendant necklace - Gold plated silver necklace with wing-shaped pendant at base. It has a small clutched fist above the wing pendant and slips on over the head.
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Work you charms now...
1. Bird and tassel necklace- Gold plated silver long necklace with smoky quartz crystal stones. It has a bird and cloud pendant towards base with a tassel on the very bottom and slips on over the head.
2. Cloud pendant necklace - Gold plated silver circle link necklace with cut-out cloud pendant. It has a single designer emblem link and simply slips on.
3. Clutched wing pendant necklace - Gold plated silver necklace with wing-shaped pendant at base. It has a small clutched fist above the wing pendant and slips on over the head.
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2007 BET Awards: Kudos
Yesterday, was a regular Dreams reunion at the 2007 BET Awards. Onscreen girl group mates Beyoncé Knowles and Jennifer Hudson each won a leading two awards, a common tally for a kudosfest that spreads the love among hip-hop, R&B, sports and movie stars.Beyoncé, who shook it like a Polaroid picture during her gold-suited performance of "Get Me Bodied," was named Best Female R&B Artist. She also took home the first award of the night, a Best Video win for "Irreplaceable."
Here's a rundown of the winners at the 2007 BET Awards:
- Best Female R&B: Beyoncé
- Best Male R&B: Ne-Yo
- Best Group: Gnarls Barkley
- Best Gospel Artist: Kirk Franklin
- Best Hip-Hop Artist: T.I.
- Best New Artist: Jennifer Hudson
- Best Collaboration: "Runaway Love," Ludacris featuring Mary J. Blige
- Video of the Year: "Irreplaceable," Beyoncé
- Best Actor: Forest Whitaker
- Best Actress: Jennifer Hudson
- Best Male Athlete: LeBron James
- Best Female Athlete: Serena Williams
- BET J Cool Like That: Gerald Levert
- Viewers' Choice Award: Birdman and Lil Wayne, "Stuntin' Like My Daddy"
- Humanitarian Award: Don Cheadle
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Diana Ross
Be Nice and Naughty!
You'll know it's summer because young woman's thoughts turn to sandals, sundresses and instant bronzer. Yes, even as the rest of their wardrobes are lightening up, celebs are maintaining their crimson smiles. Makes sense. Nothing else packs quite the same glamorous punch. So, the next time you need to make a stylish impact, remember this: There's only one thing that could turn you into both nice and naughty....
Check out these lip gloss shades from Maxfactor, for every lip gloss in the new MAXalicious Naughty or Nice collection tells at least one story.
Check out these lip gloss shades from Maxfactor, for every lip gloss in the new MAXalicious Naughty or Nice collection tells at least one story.
Baby Bumps or Bloated?
For some dose of entertainment, I visited E! Online and was intrigued with this celebrity gossip. The article goes like this:
"Suspected baby bumps are being spotted all over Hollywood. So, we thought we'd offer you a look at a couple of these rumored pregnancies versus the real deal and then ask: Is the maternity mania legit? You decide."
*the last photo made me laugh... :D
"Suspected baby bumps are being spotted all over Hollywood. So, we thought we'd offer you a look at a couple of these rumored pregnancies versus the real deal and then ask: Is the maternity mania legit? You decide."
Katie Holmes-Cruise
Isla Fischer
Nicole Richie
Naomi Watts
Christina Aguilera
John Travolta - Hairspray movie
*the last photo made me laugh... :D
Wearable Fashion Trends 13: Taka Wear
Taka Wear is created by Turkish designer Tania Eskinazi. The collection is an eclectic mix of Turkish and Ottoman heritage, European fashion sense and American spirit, the result being bohemian and hippyesque. All the decorative embroidery on Taka Wear is hand made in Turkey by village women, which adds to the originality of the garments.
The exclusive label is fast becoming a fashion favorite of celebrities including Mischa Barton, Britney Spears and Paris Hilton.
Runway: If you love your celebrity fashion you'll definitely be picking up these pieces from Taka Wear. A vintage yet contemporary look!
Reality: The bright yellow hue is bang on trend for summer '07. Look for beautiful kaftan shape maxi dress with flared sleeves that adds an easy going appeal. You can also wear it over a plain white top. Capri leggings can also be worn under your favorite taka.
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The exclusive label is fast becoming a fashion favorite of celebrities including Mischa Barton, Britney Spears and Paris Hilton.
Runway: If you love your celebrity fashion you'll definitely be picking up these pieces from Taka Wear. A vintage yet contemporary look!
Reality: The bright yellow hue is bang on trend for summer '07. Look for beautiful kaftan shape maxi dress with flared sleeves that adds an easy going appeal. You can also wear it over a plain white top. Capri leggings can also be worn under your favorite taka.
Source
"No woman is born a prostitute"
I've been so disheartened lately by news of female journalists and broadcasters being murdered in Iraq and Afghanistan, "honour" killings, a "wife-fattening farm" in Mauritania, etc. etc., that I was thinking of giving up on this blog in despair. After all, I'm the first to criticise people who rail and wail and winge about injustice but do nothing but wring their hands. Therefore (a word that should be unknown to poets, according to André Gide), I was pleased and heartened to see this article on the BBC website today:
Read it and smile.
I think I'll make female heroes the theme of this blog from now on, and take the word heroine back from the druggies while I'm at it.
Prostitutes in the Argentine capital, Buenos Aires, have launched a campaign to raise awareness about the difficult circumstances in which they work.
Read it and smile.
I think I'll make female heroes the theme of this blog from now on, and take the word heroine back from the druggies while I'm at it.
XXX
Scarlet Johansson's Fashion Line
Scarlett Johansson knows how to score endorsement deals. First, she was the face of Calvin Klein fragrances and she's currently representing L'Oreal, but that hasn't stopped her from taking a new deal with Reebok.
Reebok and SJ teamed up to create a retro inspired, sport lifestyle collection for the woman who is equal parts tom-boy and glamour-girl. The collection consists of apparel and footwear that combines, athletic looks with modern, feminine details. With the following tag line: "I am more than the next anything."
Reebok and SJ teamed up to create a retro inspired, sport lifestyle collection for the woman who is equal parts tom-boy and glamour-girl. The collection consists of apparel and footwear that combines, athletic looks with modern, feminine details. With the following tag line: "I am more than the next anything."
Fashion Specials: Doggy Style
According to handbag.com, it's not the stylist, nor the hairdresser who completes a celebrity's look. But what they were having or who are they with. Take a look at these pictures of celebrities with their best bud. One thing's for sure, they're not half as stylish without them. Woof! Woof! Woof!
To have this look, bring out you're dogs and take a walk!
To have this look, bring out you're dogs and take a walk!
Clockwise from top left: Rachel Bilson and former beau Adam Brody, Jake Gyllenhall, Maybelline model Molly Sims, Sienna Miller, Nicole Richie, Ben Affleck, and Scarlett Johansson.
Mix and Match!
At 23, I still don't know how to apply make up. I have posted infos on the latest fashion get-ups and how to wear them. So now, it's high time to include this post in my blog, the mixing and matching.
According to what I found, when it comes to finding your perfect makeup palette, let your hair color be your true guide. Here we go!
Blonde
Avoid matte nudes — they can wash you out. Instead, pair a shimmery eye shadow with sheer berry cheeks and lips to brighten your complexion, says Jillian Dempsey, Avon's new global creative color director.
Wear It With:
1. Bourjois Liner Pinceau in Prune Styliste, $15
2. Neutrogena Full Volume Fortifying Mascara in Brown, $6.49
3. Maybelline Dream Mousse Shadow in Lilac Cloud, $6.50
4. L'Oréal Paris Bare Naturale Gentle Mineral Blush in Pinched Pink, $15.25
5. Clinique Colour Surge Lipstick in Extreme Pink, $14
Black
Flatter a dark hair/fair-to-medium skin combo with sheer plum pigments. For dark hair/dark skin, opaque plums and jewel tones look gorgeous coupled with a swipe of sexy gray eyeliner.
Wear It With:
1. Neutrogena Soft Color Blush in Sunny Spice, $9.75
2. Avon Ultra Color Rich Lipstick in Sheer Sangria, $6.50
3. CoverGirl Perfect Point Plus Eye Pencil in Charcoal, $4.69
4. Iman Sheer Finish Bronzing Powder in Afterglow, $13.99
5. bareMinerals Eyeshadow in Good Fortune, $13
Brown
Unless you're going Goth, avoid pale foundation, as the contrast between dark and light can get ghostly. To play up your hair color, stick with deep hues instead, like rich purple, says celebrity makeup artist Landy Dean.
Wear It With:
1. Rimmel Cheeky! in Cheer Up, $6.95
2. Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Mulled Wine, $7.99
3. Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencils in 1999, $15
4. Yves Saint Laurent Everlong Mascara in 3, $26.50
5. L'Oréal Paris Wear Infinité Eye Shadow Single in Midnight Sky, $3.95
Red
It's a given that redheads look gorgeous in green. But warm makeup tones, like peach and copper, are equally flattering, says Carmindy, a celeb makeup artist.
Wear It With:
1. Lancôme Color Design Eye Shadow in Click, $15
2. Rimmel London Eye Twist Automatic Duo Liner & Shadow in Double Trouble, $5.70
3. Clinique Blushing Blush Powder Blush in Precious Posy, $18.50
4. Neutrogena Moisture Shine Lipstick in Shimmering Blush, $8.99
5. L'Oréal HIP Color Truth Eyeliner in Brown, $8
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According to what I found, when it comes to finding your perfect makeup palette, let your hair color be your true guide. Here we go!
Blonde
Wear It With:
1. Bourjois Liner Pinceau in Prune Styliste, $15
2. Neutrogena Full Volume Fortifying Mascara in Brown, $6.49
3. Maybelline Dream Mousse Shadow in Lilac Cloud, $6.50
4. L'Oréal Paris Bare Naturale Gentle Mineral Blush in Pinched Pink, $15.25
5. Clinique Colour Surge Lipstick in Extreme Pink, $14
Black
Wear It With:
1. Neutrogena Soft Color Blush in Sunny Spice, $9.75
2. Avon Ultra Color Rich Lipstick in Sheer Sangria, $6.50
3. CoverGirl Perfect Point Plus Eye Pencil in Charcoal, $4.69
4. Iman Sheer Finish Bronzing Powder in Afterglow, $13.99
5. bareMinerals Eyeshadow in Good Fortune, $13
Brown
Wear It With:
1. Rimmel Cheeky! in Cheer Up, $6.95
2. Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Mulled Wine, $7.99
3. Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencils in 1999, $15
4. Yves Saint Laurent Everlong Mascara in 3, $26.50
5. L'Oréal Paris Wear Infinité Eye Shadow Single in Midnight Sky, $3.95
Red
Wear It With:
1. Lancôme Color Design Eye Shadow in Click, $15
2. Rimmel London Eye Twist Automatic Duo Liner & Shadow in Double Trouble, $5.70
3. Clinique Blushing Blush Powder Blush in Precious Posy, $18.50
4. Neutrogena Moisture Shine Lipstick in Shimmering Blush, $8.99
5. L'Oréal HIP Color Truth Eyeliner in Brown, $8
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