IT'S TIME TO WINTERIZE: Your Lips

Whether you use Chapstick, Carmex, Vaseline, or EOS, it's most definitely time to break out the lip balm and moisturizers because the cold temps have hit early and looks like they're here to stay for the time being.

Most people don't think that lips are greatly affected by the cold weather, however it's the most affected because it is one the most exposed to the harsh wind and brash outdoors. 

It's very important to moisturize and seal to ensure that there will be no cracking, peeling, or ash. Yes, ash! Your lips tend to dry out quite frequently during the colder months which create an ashy or white layer of skin on and/or around the lips. 

Many feel that skin color is a factor in whether you should moisturize, especially in the cold. However, facts show that all races during fall and winter months suffer from dry and dull skin. So it's imperitive for everyone to protect and moisturize our lips, which are a very sensitive to the cold.

Some may find themselves licking or drinking more to try to ward off the dryness of the lips. But this in itself is not a good idea. Why? Because this dries the lips out more. It actually saps the natural moisture from the skin and the water or liquid is a drying agent. You must seal the moisture in order for liquid to be effective. 

What's a good lip balm or chapstick that can moisturize and seal, you may ask? Well, there are a plethora of fantastic lip balms and chapsticks that do just that. I am fan of the new EOS lip balm. Yes, that's the egg shaped lip balm. It's light, not too greasy, and there's little need to reapply a thousand times a day. Another great lip balm and moisturizer is the Baby Lips made by Mabelline. You can find those in clear or a light tint for those who want a little color without having to put on lipstick. Even though it does go great with lipstick because it is very important to moisten the lips underneath the lipstick to ensure a smooth application without any flaking or drying. Last but not least, the go to lip balm and moisturizer that has stood the test of time, Vaseline. I know a lot of people especially African Americans, shy away from this age old staple in our community as many of our mothers abused it, covering us from head to toe during the cooler months. The fact is though, Vaseline has always been a great moisturizer and sealer. For those that don't care for the thickness and greasiness of Vaseline, they have definitely had a complete makeover. While you can still purchase the classic Vaseline, their lip line is amazing. It goes on light, it's not too greasy and it seals the moisture for the most part of the day, if not all day, and protects the lips from the harsh cold.

So as the months grow colder make sure  to winterize your lips. There are many products, organic and the like, for those that are into natural and homeopathic remedies. No matter what your preference, be sure to moisturize and seal to get full protection from that harsh cold air this winter.

Dee PoeticMamii

CUFF ME: The Ear Cuff Trend

By now we've all seen or at least heard of the ear cuff fashion trend.

This dainty and sometimes over the top statement piece has simply exploded on the fashion scene. Most have often associated these cuffs with the rock -n- roll era and style but they are far removed from that brand.

They have gone from casual and flirty to posh and glamorous. Though some have said that they are uncomfortable, many celebrities are sporting the infamous ear cuffs on the red carpet, adding flare to a nice up-do or swooped to the side hairstyle that shows off the earpiece.

The ear cuffs themselves have transitioned quite a bit over the years and have become more extravagant. They range from small and petite, that fits right at the top part of the ear that is subtle yet barely noticeable to large and crafty, with a full on ear takeover. 

There are even those that are bedazzled to the gods and ones that are chained and connects to the hair. While others have chains that hang below the chin or connects to a neck piece.

Whatever the preference or occasion it looks like the ear cuff is definitely going to be around for awhile. Will you be 'cuffed' this fall and winter season? I think I will.

Dee PoeticMamii

BREAKING RULES: Open Toes & Pantyhose

The age old fashion faux pas of wearing pantyhose with open toed shoes, has now become a fashion trend.

Open toe shoes are no longer red flagged for cold and winter months. In fact this trend has bloomed and blossomed right alongside the quirky yet intricate patterned tights.

Though the rules of this fashion trend has been shattered and broken, there is, however, a RIGHT way to wear open toed shoes and tights or pantyhose.

The pantyhose and leg wear industry has been quite accommodating with this new trend. You can now wear open toe tights or pantyhose, from sheer to opaque, essentially giving you the best of both worlds. Colors, designs, and and your favorite open toed or peep toed shoe, has no bounds with these new style of pantyhose and tights. Which is, honestly one of the more popular ways to wear open toed shoes during the cooler months.

What's Hot & What's Not...NYFW 2013

There have been a lot of new pieces and colors that have made it to this years' runway and even more classic designs with a new twist to them. The question is, however, what pieces do the stars and stylist think will make it to the red carpet and what pieces are best left on the runway?

Let's take a look at some of the designs and pieces that are red carpet HOT!

New York Fashion Week is well underway. While a number of designers made a repeat appearance such as J. Crew, Betsy Johnson, and Ralph Lauren, there were newcomers that made it to the list of designers to watch such as Josep Font, Simone Rocha, and Thomas Tait just to name a few.

Leggings: A New Type Of Canvas

The temperatures are dropping and it's time to start covering up! But you don't have to be boring to be warm, leggings are the new canvas for fashion! Check out some of these styles and be inspired to add some graphic leggings to your wardrobe this season!