Flat Ironing 101

Someone recently asked me how I get my hair so smooth when I flat iron it; so let me give you a few of my tips for achieving smooth, shiny hair.

The first step to getting smooth, sleek hair is to start with the right flat iron. You should purchase a flat iron with ceramic plates as they are less damaging to your hair. Irons that do not have ceramic plates can have hot spots that can burn sections of your hair. You should also purchase a flat iron that has controllable heat settings so that you can set it to the correct temperature for your hair type.

I use an Allure 1 inch flat iron with ceramic plates. This iron has an adjustable temperature gauge that ranges from 300° F to 425° F. I usually set the temperature to approximately 325° F.  I purchased this iron about 2 years ago and I believe that it works quite well.

Coarse, thick hair- 380 ° F

Wavy or Curly Hair- 350° F- 370° F

Medium, Straight Hair- 330° F- 350° F

Fine, Thin Hair- 300° F- 330° F

You should start with clean, freshly washed hair before you flat iron. I also suggest that you deep condition your hair in order to give your hair some moisture. Never try to straighten wet hair because this can cause irreparable damage to your hair.

 Spray a good heat protectant on your hair in order to minimise the chances of receiving heat damage. 

You should start from the back of your hair and pin up the top half and start with the lowest layers. 

Separate your hair into one inch sections and start ironing.

Use a comb directly in front of the iron when you pull the flat iron through your hair. This allows the hair to be evenly distributed across the iron's plates.  

Remember, movement is essential. Use even, fluid strokes along each section. Not holding heat in one place will prevent damage and deliver even results. 

Follow these tips and you are well on your way to have smooth and shiny hair.

Steph

Summer Nails

Summmer is almost here so its time to break out the bright nail colours. Over the last few weeks I have been wearing the brightest shades that I could get my hands on.

For summer OPI is introducing their Texas Collection. This collection is based on several colours that just scream summer. There are several corals and pinks that remind me of ripe fruit. This collection also includes 6 sorbet shades which are semi- sheer, jelly, high gloss finishes. 

I am most interested in trying out the sorbet finishes since I have never tried that type of nail polish before. I have high hopes for these sorbet shades. They look very bright and punchy and they are definitely summery.

Inspiration

Bronzer

Who said that bronzer was only for those of the fairer complexion? Bronzer can save dark skin from a world of evils. It may be used to achieve that bronzed goddess glow or it can be a subtle stand in for foundation.

Bronzer should be added along the bridge of your nose, on the apples of your cheeks, and the top of your cheekbones in order to achieve a gorgeous, natural outdoorsy glow. Just remember that less is more and use a light hand when applying your bronzer. I like to layer bronzer and blush since I find that this gives a really great depth of colour.


If you have darker skin, pick a shade two tones darker than your skin tone and use it to highlight your cheekbones. Pick a brown-based bronzer to look the most natural. Ones that are more orange-based will look cakey by the end of the day.

Those with oily skin should opt for powder bronzers and should stay away from the liquid formulations that are best suited for dry skin.

Steph

Fashion Inspiration

I get a lot of fashion inspiration from street style blogs. These blogs show the fashions of real people and their interpretation of the trends. I draw a lot of fashion inspiration from these blogs and I like to see how people take the looks that we see coming down the runway and make them their own.

There are a few street style blogs that are in my weekly reading list. These include:

• The Satorialist
• The Style Scout
• Street Chic

These blogs show the fashion point of view of fashionistas all over the world and I hope they inspire you as much as they inspire me.

Ebay Finds

I have a confession to make. I am absolutely addicted to Ebay. I seriously have a problem. There are just so many things to purchase.

One of my latest Ebay finds is this jacket.

I absolutely love this vintage jacket but I have no idea how I should wear it but I have to have it. The crystal and pearl detail caught my eye and made me fall in love with this jacket.

I need to incorporate more colour into my wardrobe and I decided not to purchase any more black pieces for a little while but I really cant let this jacket go.

Steph

Trend Alert: Wedges

I am a firm believer that a girl can never have too many shoes and I believe that now is the perfect opportunity to add a few new pairs to your wardrobe.Wedges have become the new wardrobe must have for summer. They are so versatile and easy to wear and can be paired with virtually anything. Lets not forget that they are oh so comfortable to wear. Your feet will certainly thank you for the break that you will be giving them from teetering around on those stiletto heels. There are countless options to choose from at all price points.Whether you prefer wood, cork or braided styles you should certainly add a pair of wedges to your wardrobe.

Here are a few pairs that I am absolutely in love with:

Steph