While it is possible to enhance your appearance by picking the right clothes, the key to really looking–and feeling–your best is being confident about yourself and your body.  Unfortunately, there’s no secret formula for instant body confidence.  It’s something that comes with time, trial and error, and lots of hard work.  Moreover, fashion is supposed to be fun!  Rules were meant to be broken, and adhering to a strict set of them based on body shape is limiting and downright frustrating.  Besides, if you’re having one of those days (yes, you know the ones.  They usually involve PMS and heavy dosages of chocolate), it can be almost impossible to even determine your body shape:

So, let’s try something new:  there are no rules for dressing your body shape.  You don’t even HAVE a body shape.  You only have body features, and you’re allowed to choose one feature you hate the most, and one (or more) feature you absolutely love.  Read up on the tips below, and roll with it!

If You Hate Your…

Shoulders:  avoid cap/puffed sleeves, shoulder pads, spaghetti straps, and square-neck tops

Small Chest:  avoid tube tops and corsets (can bring more emphasis to what you don’t have) and any top that is too loose.  Get a good bra–if you haven’t noticed, there are many, MANY push-up bras out there, and several stores are starting to offer bras that boost you up two cup sizes (and it actually looks natural).

Large Chest:  avoid busy patterns, turtlenecks, and anything really tight or extremely low-cut.  Get a bra that fits well and provides you with enough lift.

Waist:  avoid bold patterns and thick belts.  Invest in jackets and blazers that cinch in at the waist, shirts with ruching, and a body shaper (if you want to go that far).

Hips:  avoid super high-waisted trousers, light colors on bottom, and clingy material.  Having longer coats and jackets will make your appearance more streamlined.

Butt:  pay attention to pocket size.  Big pockets can draw more attention to your ass(ets), and extra-small ones can get lost.  Also, avoid light colored bottoms.

Thighs:  avoid light colors on the bottom, jeans with whiskering or other embellishments, and leggings.  Wearing mid- to maxi-length skirts is an easy way to cover up your thighs, and get a good pair of heels (or five–they do amazing things for your whole body, but especially your legs!)!
If You Love Your…

Arms/Shoulders:  wear anything that shows ‘em off!  Sleeveless tops and dresses are a no-brainer, but try something with tight-fitting long sleeves, too, so you can show off your defined muscles through the fabric.

Chest:  try empire waist tops or any shirt that draws attention to the bust and neckline.

Waist:  wearing a big belt that cinches your waist is a work-appropriate option, while a crop-top is great for a more casual setting or night out.

Hips/Butt:  skin-tight, body-conscious styles are a great way to show off this area of your body.  Pencil skirts are great for the office, while a mini, elasticized version would be great for a show or date night.

Thighs/Legs:  skinny jeans are a wonderful way to discreetly show off your legs, while mini-skirts and short shorts are a more obvious way to flaunt what you’ve got.

Remember, these are just a few tips–not rules to live by.  Finding out what works best for you and your body type is all about trial and error, so grab a pile of clothes and start trying stuff on! 

- Ashley
http://2eyesinthemirror.com

plastic-surgery-0902-01 (Photo credit: madelineyoki)

A new cosmetic surgery degree will begin at the Anglia Ruskin University in September 2012. The course is open to all accredited plastic surgeons based in the UK and overseas plastic surgeons will be able to apply for the MSc from 2012.

The UK-based University hopes to put an end to “have-a-go surgeons” and wants Aesthetic plastic surgery to be recognised in its own right. The course will be very “hands on” and will prepare graduates for work in private practices as well as the NHS.

According to Professor James Frame, a surgeon who will help run the new course, newly-qualified surgeons lack expertise. He believes that while they are trained to carry out some reconstructive work – like repairing the face of a burns patient, for example – they do not have the experience to carry out cosmetic work like breast augmentations.

Commenting on the degree, Frame said: “Aesthetic plastic surgery is a rapidly enlarging super-speciality that requires recognition in its own right.

“At present a newly qualified, fully-accredited plastic surgeon is released, totally lacking any experience in aesthetic plastic surgery, and is able to operate in the private sector.

“Many surgeons complete their training and, unable to find work in the NHS, have no option but to turn to private groups without that experience.

“There are many competent surgeons but at present there are too many under-qualified surgeons, particularly from elsewhere in the EU, coming over here and operating.”

On the other side of the coin, the president of the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS), Fazel Fatah, said that it was disingenuous to claim that surgeons receive inadequate training in aesthetic surgery in the NHS stating:

“Aesthetic surgery is part of most up-to-date plastic surgery syllabus which has been approved by the General Medical Council – every trainee is taught the basic principles of aesthetic surgery as part of their education and they must undergo a thorough examination to attain the final FRCS (Plast) qualification.

“Precisely for the purpose of further enhancing direct experience, the BAAPS has established a number of Fellowships for those who complete their training and wish to practice aesthetic surgery. The addition of an MSc may be desirable for some but is certainly not necessary for fully qualified plastic surgeons.”

All UK-qualified plastic surgeons also complete Royal College of Surgeons-approved training to do NHS work and a spokesperson for the institute said:

“Surgeons go through extremely rigorous training – it takes around 17 years training to become a consultant – and they continue their professional training in a range of settings and training providers throughout their surgical life to learn new techniques and to further specialise and offer the best care for patients.”

So what are you opinions on this new degree course? Do you think surgeons in the UK need to undergo more thorough training? Let us know your thoughts!

Simon Cowell (Image via RottenTomatoes.com)

The luxurious lifestyle of Simon Cowell has been revealed in his unofficial biography – Sweet Revenge: The Intimate Life of Simon Cowell by Tom Bower.

According to the book, this straight-talking music mogul enjoys twice-yearly Botox at a reputable clinic, regular colonic irrigation and intravenous vitamin injections to keep him looking young. He’s reportedly hooked up to a drip every Saturday afternoon (whenever he’s in the US) and has magnesium, B vitamins and pure vitamin C pumped into his bloodstream.

The notorious talent show judge is also said to have “life-enhancing” fresh fruit sent to him by air freight and drinks two smoothies a day made from exotic plants. The star also has massages and chest waxes on a regular basis, wears tooth caps and dyes his thick mob of hair a darker colour – but the revelations don’t stop there.

Cowell’s also believed to travel everywhere with two large suitcases packed with potions, eye drops, face creams, bath salts, lotion and shampoo to maintain his looks. He certainly has plenty of style, but does he have The X Factor after all these treatments? That’s for you to decide!

Simon’s latest book is currently being serialised by The Sun and is attracting lots of media attention. His publicist Max Clifford is thought to be “disappointed” by Simon’s collaboration with Bower and believes it is a “massive own goal”.

Cowell tweeted: “This book is not written by me. It is unauthorised. The writer is Tom Bower.”

What do you think of Simon Cowell’s beauty regime? Has he gone too far or do you think cosmetic treatments can improve your looks? Let us know.

Paparazzo Presents celebrity gossip blogger at Barnes & Noble book signing (Union Square, New York City, September 6, 2011) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Perez Hilton knows how to get people talking – after all he’s one of the internet’s most notorious gossip columnists. He dissects the contours and curves of celebs, rants and raves about boob job procedures and judges the appearance of others– but now his bod’s come under the microscope.

The loose-lipped blogger was spotted at Logo’s NewNextNowAwards without a shirt, sparking plastic surgery rumours left, right and centre. His stomach looked usually toned, his abs appeared chiselled and his chest seemed to have had more than a wax – but has he had work done?

Well, according to Dr. Semirya Bayati, a CA Board Certified surgeon from California, Mr Perez has indeed gone under the knife. In fact, he’s believed to have had several procedures to revamp his appearance, so here’s what she had to say:

“Perez Hilton has had liposculpting of the abdominal wall. In this procedure, the fat under the skin is selectively reduced to give the appearance of a six-pack. It is done very well and he has minimal excess skin in the lower abdomen, which occurs after massive weight loss followed by liposuction alone”.

Liposuction surgery can remove fat in difficult areas and it seems Perez has used this to his advantage – but he’s not the only one to have done so. Aussie paparazzo Darryn Lyons shocked the UK public when he revealed a perfectly sculpted tummy in the Big Brother House, 2011. His cosmetically enhanced stomach made news and brought innovative plastic surgery procedures into the headlines.

Dr. Semirya Bayati also believes that Perez has had “some filler to the facial lines and some Botox to the forehead” but makes it clear that “there is no other evidence of any major surgical intervention in the face at this time”.

Both dermal fillers and Botox injections can get rid of crow’s feet, laughter lines and wrinkles. They’re both carried out in a short amount of time making them a convenient lunchtime treatment.

Angelina Jolie (Image via RottenTomatoes.com)

The biggest names in Hollywood recently gathered for the most spectacular night of the movie calendar – but who looked the best at the Oscars? We’ve assessed the style of some of the sassiest stars, so here are our best-dressed awards:

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie dared to dazzle in a high-slit black gown that revealed her well-toned right leg. The long-limbed star stole the limelight from partner Brad Pitt and sent social media networks into overdrive thanks to her perfect pins. A Twitter account named Angie’s Right Leg quickly attracted 15,000 followers and the Mrs and Mrs Smith star knew how to work the camera from every angle. She’s sent people running for a lip enhancement procedure in the past, but her great dress sense showed off another off her amazing assets – we salute you Angelina!

Natalie Portman

Black Swan actress Natalie Portman rocked vintage Hollywood glamour in red chiffon Christian Dior Couture gown with velvet polka dots. The thirty-year-old superstar looked elegant and chic in this designer number and showed fellow stars how to work the red carpet effortlessly. Complementing the strapless dress perfectly with an expensive looking necklace and matching earrings, Portman shimmered as she presented the Best Actor award to Jean Dujardin.

Cameron Diaz

Blonde bombshell Cameron Diaz looked truly radiant in Gucci and made the most of her petite figure. Her tanned skin looked fresh against the peachy coloured dress and the bodycon frock flared out at the knee making her appear wonderfully curvaceous. A pretty gold clutch bag and a simple diamond necklace completed the outfit and helped the Charlie’s Angels star stand out from the crowd. If you want perfect skin like Miss Diaz, treat yourself to a course of microdermabrasion and exfoliate on a regular basis.

Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez worked her curves at the 84^th Academy Awards in a stunning, shimmering cream Zuhair Murad gown which plunged at the front and the back. The sensational dress fitted her like a glove and the fishtail bottom glided neatly along the red carpet. Extra detailing around her waist drew attention to her middle and the sweeping lines of the dress made the most of her figure. You too can look beautiful this year by dressing for your body shape – so what are you waiting for?

We’re still buzzing from the Oscars, but what did you think of the night and who did you think looked the best?

It is important to realize that there are many groups of people who have experienced high volumes of side effects from Botox when receiving the drug for medical purposes, such as to treat spasms and other conditions, but the side effects listed here are based on studies of people who took Botox for cosmetic purposes and underwent only facial injections near the eyes.  For example, patients receiving Botox for cosmetic surgery report droopy eyelids immediately following the procedure only up to three percent of the time, whereas with medical treatment it is up to over twenty percent.  This is due to a number of conditions including dosage differences as well as differences in the body of healthy patients versus those receiving the treatment for medical purposes.

In addition to droopy eyelids, Botox also causes nausea in up to three percent of cosmetic patients.  Other side effects can include muscle weakness, heartburn, facial pain, tooth problems, and hypertension.  These side effects occur in less than two percent of patients and are temporary.  It is also possible to experience dry mouth, drowsiness, sore throat, anxiety, infection, flu like symptoms, and bleeding at the injection site, but again these side effects are rare when Botox is used for cosmetic purposes.  Botox injections near the mouth carry the added but slight risk of affecting speech and smile muscles, and should always be administered by a well trained professional.

Your chances of experiencing side effects from Botox are very low, but you should understand the risks before undergoing the procedure.  Talk with your doctor to discuss any health problems you may have to ensure that the procedure will be safe for you.  There is no way to predict who will experience side effects, and it is important to consider them.  With this in mind, however, in healthy patients Botox injections are remarkably safe as long as they are administered by a trained medical professional.

One of the best-selling creams on the market was met with a lukewarm response at the start of this experiment. While a number of women commented on the sweet, “orange sherbet smell”, others were put off by the “cold”, “dry” and “greasy” texture. Only a small percentage of the panel found it “easy to rub in” and the application instructions seemed somewhat lacking. During the first week, none of our ladies reported an increase in boob size.

After three weeks (the midway point) things started to look up as our ladies reported a softened and moisturised chest. While some ladies said they felt no difference at all, another panel member stated: “I do think my breasts feel fuller and tighter.” She continued: “For example, in the past when I had on a bra and put my hand in the middle of my chest when the bra sections meet it was totally flat – now it feels fuller. My breasts also look a bit rounder and more appealing in my bra.” At this stage in the process, this product achieved more positive feedback than the high-end cream.

At the end of the six weeks, the panel were full of praise for this cosmetic product. The moisturising properties of the cream were highlighted and one lady said “my chest feels more feminine”.  A number of volunteers were “pleased with the results” and others said it made them examine their breasts more. It “made me more breast aware,” one lady said. “Having to stand there twice a day rubbing it in, I’d certainly be more likely to notice changes.”

While one volunteer “didn’t notice any results” another “did notice an increase in size”. One woman said “the change is very subtle, but it’s noticeable for me” and someone else said: “my bra is fitting much tighter and in certain tops I can see a real difference”.  Although the positive results weren’t completely unanimous, this product received a more positive response than the most expensive cream on the market.

Results seem to vary from person-to-person, but the comments in general were good. In the words of one panel member “it won’t turn you into Jordan”, but it might improve your assets over time. If this experiment is anything to go by, it appears price isn’t always an indicator of quality – but that’s up to you to decide.

Related articles

• Boob job creams reviewed – the final results (cosmeticsurgeryguru.com)
• Boob job creams reviewed (cosmeticsurgeryguru.com)
• Boob job creams reviewed – three weeks later (cosmeticsurgeryguru.com)
• Do boob job creams really work? (cosmeticsurgeryguru.com)

The rather costly, high-end cream received positive reviews to start with. Our lovely ladies praised the “soft scent of rose, orange and grapefruit oil” and were highly impressed by the “attractive” packaging.  It was described as having “luxurious”, spa-like qualities and was praised for being a “very well-formulated moisturiser with proven emollients, skin repairing ingredients and anti-inflammatory agents”.  Nobody reported their breasts had grown, but the outlook seemed positive.

At the halfway mark, our volunteers started to see the moisturising effects of the cream and one lady reported a much “softer and supple” décolleté. Our panel continued to like the pleasant scent and found the product absorbed easily. The quality of the cream was appreciated and the idea of applying a specially-designed bust cream remained novel.

Despite some positive feedback however, respondents found it a nuisance to apply and often forgot to incorporate it into their beauty regime. One of the volunteer team explained “on three occasions I’ve left it off at night when I’ve gotten home late and just want to get to sleep.” Our ladies were also becoming disheartened with the cream. “I started by enjoying the experience and the luxury of the cream, [but] I’m getting bored with the extra step – especially as there’s no discernible difference” one of our trial team has said.

At the end of the trial, the expensive product was met with mixed reviews once again. One lady said “the twice daily moisturising cream on my breasts has improved the texture of my skin”, while another said “the cream has made me like my breasts more”.  The cream was also said to give the chest “more elasticity” and was reported to make the “skin softer” – but there was still no mention of breasts increasing.

One of our panel members said she was “gutted” that her breasts didn’t grow and another said “there’s no promise in a jar”. The price was also an issue with one particular volunteer calling it nothing but a “posh body moisturiser”.  Considering this is supposed to be a high-end, alternative to a breast augmentation procedure, this all added to what were largely negative results.

Regardless of the promises sprawled across the posh packaging, it seems this cream is not a great alternative to having a boob job. Sure, it makes women more aware and proud of their breasts, but it doesn’t plump up their assets – according to our study.

Have you used these creams? What is your opinion?

Related articles

• Boob job creams reviewed (cosmeticsurgeryguru.com)
• Boob job creams reviewed – three weeks later (cosmeticsurgeryguru.com)
• Do boob job creams really work? (cosmeticsurgeryguru.com)

One of the products we were testing is currently the most expensive out there and we discussed last time how it was proving very popular with our panel. Since then, the moisturising benefits of the cream have been praised with one of our women reporting a décolletage that is much “softer and more supple.”

Respondents have said they have mixed feelings about having to apply the cream on a regular basis, with some saying it has become part of their daily routine and others finding it difficult to remember to apply twice daily as is recommended. “On three occasions I’ve left off at night when I’ve gotten home late and just want to get to sleep,” one of the panel members explained.

However, while this product has received a great deal of praise for its moisturising properties and pleasant scent, there have been no reports of any increase in size after three weeks of use. Of course, the company that makes the cream says results can take up to six weeks, but there is a sense that one or two of our girls are disappointed. “I started by enjoying the experience and the luxury of the cream, [but] I’m getting bored with the extra step – especially as there’s no discernible difference,” one of our trial team has said.

We’ve also been testing out the best-selling boob cream on the market, again with mixed results. Once more, there was praise for how the product has softened and moisturised the chest of those who have used it, but equally some have found it tricky to remember to include as part of their daily routine.

That said this particular cream has had the most positive results in terms of results. While a couple of the women said they had seen no difference at all, others were more impressed. “I do think my breasts feel fuller and tighter,” one said. “For example, in the past when I had on a bra and put my hand in the middle of my chest when the bra sections meet it was totally flat – now it feels fuller. My breasts also look a bit rounder and more appealing in my bra.”

So of course, we are now only half way through our six-week trial, but are seeing the first signs of improvement for some – while others have almost given up on the creams. The next few weeks will give us the biggest indicator of whether or not these often expensive products are worth your attention, so be sure and check back soon!

Related articles

• Do boob job creams really work? (cosmeticsurgeryguru.com)
• Boob job creams reviewed (cosmeticsurgeryguru.com)
• Would You Buy a Breast Cream? (bellasugar.com)

You may have heard about people having cosmetic surgery to wind back the clock, but there’s also a wealth of non-surgical options which can be just as effective. Here we look into three of the most popular treatments on the market at the moment.

IPL skin rejuvenation
This treatment uses Intense Pulsed Light technology to improve skin tone and texture. IPL generates bursts of red or blue light, which is shone on the skin and penetrates the tissue. The injured tissue is removed through the body’s natural processes and leaves you looking fresher and younger. Along with being used to improve skin tone, IPL is also often used to treat a range of skin problems, from acne and sun damage to age spots, birthmarks and wine stains.

Omnilux light therapy
This relaxing skin rejuvenating treatment stimulates deep skin tissue to achieve a smoother complexion and better skin tone. It involves relaxing under Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) at a clinic for around 20 minutes. Repeat sessions are recommended for best results and after a course of treatments it’s expected that skin tone, clarity and smoothness will improve. Omnilux can also soften fine lines and wrinkles or help wound recovery after surgery, along with treating conditions such as acne, vitiligo and sun damage.

Facial peels
If you’ve had a tough first half to the year, your skin could have been left dull and lifeless due to clogging with dead skin cells. Facial peels can remove this dead skin through deep exfoliation to improve the tone and texture of the skin. There are a number of peels to choose from on the market, each more suited to various skin types and conditions. Usually, there’s a range of formulations to select from which can treatment acne, blemishes or uneven skin. Depending on the type you go for, your course of treatments could last between four to six weeks, with results usually seen at the end of the process. Given that facial peels can start from as little as £90, they can be an affordable little pick me up when the weather has given your skin a bit of a bashing.

Related articles

• Non-surgical procedures to stop you looking old (cosmeticsurgeryguru.com)
• 3 Acne Scar-Reducing Products That Really Work (bellasugar.com)