Every girl knows that unless you’re some kind of anomaly and super okay with every inch of your body, the idea of being scrutinized in a bathing suit is a thought horrifying enough to keep most of us in sweats forever.

Why then, are so many people interested in breaking down celebrities who aren’t frighteningly thin?

Jennifer Love Hewitt is the most recent victim of badly angled paparazzi photos, and I have to say, I feel every inch of her pain. Sure, the girl isn’t skinny, but she’s not fat.

So there are a few instances of cellulite. So she has a waist thicker than a pencil. So she’s not wearing a ton of make-up at the beach. How many average women does this describe?

I’m happy that JLW isn’t thin. Even though I don’t watch her show (I mean, if we’re being honest here…it’s totally boring), I think she’s a good role model for girls all over the country who have boobs and an ass.

She’s on TV and she’s not a size 0. There’s hope for us all. Read More »

It’s that time of year again.

Actually, who are we kidding? It’s always that time of year. When is there a time when we don’t wish that our jeans were a little looser, our abs were a little tighter, and that we could resist the temptation of that evil bag of chocolate chip cookies lurking in the kitchen (that always seems to magically disappears within an hour while cramming for finals)

You and I both know that stress = Get me some good food now por favor. Add that with the festive holiday treats from gingerbread lattes to potato latkes, It’s no wonder the average American gains 7-12 lbs during the holiday season.

But, winter break is around the corner and while shoveling down yummy treats may help us cope with the fact we have to learn a whole semesters worth of econ in three days, come the end of finals, we are going to feel (and look) like a big ball of grossness. Sure, Santa’s belly full of jelly is cute and cuddle-y on an old guy in a plush-velvet, red jumpsuit- but I’m thinking not-so-much my look. Especially when i’ll be spending some quality time post-finals on the beach…

Whether you want to drop a few dress sizes or just maintain your weight, foodfit.com gives us some tried and true tips from weight loss specialists to help us avoid those pounds that just seem to sneak up on us.

Remember: Each pound of weight lost requires that you either consume 3500 fewer calories or burn them off with exercise (and let us not forget, one shot = 100 calories. And really- who takes just one?)

1. Figure out what 1,500 calories looks like. If you’re trying to lose weight on a 1,500 calorie meal plan, you need to maintain a healthy mix of those calories – at least five servings of fruits and vegetables; six of whole grain breads, rice, crackers and other grains; two of protein foods; and three of nonfat dairy products. Learn about serving sizes: 3 ounces of lean meat, fish or poultry (the size of a deck of cards) is one serving. One slice of bread is one serving, while a large bagel may equal almost five! Read More »

Seeing an ex sucks, but when you’re looking hot and life is going well a hot body can be the best revenge. Every girl knows that.

Which is exactly why Jennifer Aniston’s tabloid pictures were causing such a buzz after her Hawaiian vacay. She looked hot in her teensy weensy bikini and for once SHE was all anyone could discuss instead of Brad, Angie and their expanding brood of babies.

Of course, Jen had nothing to say about her hot body pics, but a friend told OK! Magazine,

“She didn’t realize the impact it had until she was back in Los Angeles after the trip. Everywhere she went, everyone she spoke to (told her) what an absolute knockout she is and what great shape she’s in. For a 38-year-old woman who has just come out of a relationship and hasn’t been in front of the cameras in two years — it had her walking on air.” Read More »

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: summer ain’t over until the school bell rings.

Before you dive headfirst into college orientation, that sophomore year daze-fest, junior year 300-level-class hell, and senior year craziness, do yourself a favor and recharge, reenergize, and take some time for yourself.

A perfect way to spend some lovely “me” time is to venture out to the beach by your lonesome. Read More »

Summer- a time for pool parties, road trips, and some serious damage to your hair!

In fear of skin cancer, we slather our bodies with SPF, but often leave our hair victim to the same brutal UV rays of the summer sun.

Until recently, my hair seemed to be benefiting from its exposure to the natural elements. It felt soft and it shone, whether I had straightened it or let it dry into my natural curls.

Then, one morning out of the blue, I realized my hair was completely fried. It didn’t straighten without a layer of extreme frizz. I let my hair dry naturally. My curls were frizzy, untamed, and unattractive.

Desperate times call for desperate measures. I abstained from shampoo. I assumed that only using conditioner would restore my hair to its natural, moisturized state. Needless to say, this experiment was a no go.

Now, it’s time to turn to the products. With so many choices out there, I have narrowed down the hair products that have been best reviewed by beauty sites throughout the web.

Ojon Restorative Hair Treatment-$21- This product is made from palm nut oil and serves triple duty, promising to act as a deep conditioning treatment, leave in conditioner, and shine enhancer all in one. Ojon’s coconut shaped container is adorable and with multiple uses, it may prove itself to be worthy of its high price tag. Read More »

Ever feel like lying on the beach in peace? Ever want to make the catcalls and leers and “hey ladies, need help putting that lotion on?” disappear from your favorite sandy hang-out?

The Italians feel your pain. And have done something about it.

Fausto Ravaglio, owner of 50 miles of coastline along the Italian Adriatic has made the area completely male free. “It’s a simple idea” he says, “”We have given the women their own world.”

“Pink Beach” (clever dirty pun or innocent gender/color coordination?) opened last week, complete with exercise classes, water aerobics and makeup tips. If any dudes are stupid enough to stumble farther than the parking lot, a big pink sign greets them with a stern “No Men” warning. Read More »

In my exploits over many summers to the Jersey shore, I have discovered that a day at the beach must not only be viewed as a day of rest, but also as a day of skill and organization in order to be successful.

This is why I have decided to compile a list that will prevent beach goers everywhere from ruining their day in the sun by making the silly mistakes that can often snowball and cause a tripto the shore to be (gasp!) unenjoyable.

1. Check the Weather- This is the single most important move to make when planning a trip to the beach. The weather will make or break your entire experience. No one likes sitting in a bikini on a cold, cloudy beach and why experience this misfortune when Weather.com is just a click away?

2. Look Hot- Remember that a trip to the beach means massive exposure. Remember to shower and shave all the right spots before you go.

There is nothing more horrifying than laying your towel down on the sand and realizing you have a bird’s nest worth of hair protruding from your armpits. (Gross).

Tousle hair with some Garnier Surf Hair texture paste for natural beach hair before you hit the waves. Pick out some cute sandals, throw on some shades and you’re good to go! Read More »

So the June issue of InStyle has a beauty story called “What to Do for Cellulite” and divides up the advice based on each age group (20’s, 30’s, 40’s, etc.). For “the 20’s” age group, dermatologist Dr. David Bank says that about 90 percent of women get cellulite after puberty and I, for one, am not ok with this.

The treatment? InStyle is honest and admits that nothing topical completely gets rid of cellulite so they recommend a deep massage or “Endermologie” that actually rolls and sucks the skin…apparently this machine temporarily swells the skin and makes it appear less dimpled? Right.

I’ll admit that I don’t really have any cellulite but I do have a few stretch marks on my hips and I find it disheartening that so many girls in their early 20’s fear the secret demon of my mom and grandmother so early.

Though it may not completely get rid of cellulite, Avon’s Super Shape Anti-Cellulite & Stretch Mark Cream diminishes the appearance of cellulite and stretch marks in just two weeks and according to research, 91 percent of users showed an improvement in the appearance of cellulite and 93 percent showed an improvement in the appearance of new and old stretch marks. I’m not one who likes to be rolled or sucked by a machine of any kind and with beach season fast approaching, I’d rather spend $16.50 on Avon’s solution.

So we all know how expensive dying our hair is. And when you’re in college, it really sucks to have to shell out $200 every three to six months to get your roots re-touched and highlights re-done at an expensive salon. As a highlighted blonde myself, I’ve discovered a few (cheap) products that can help extend time between colorings.

Paul Mitchell’s Color Protect Shampoo is great for the daily washing of color-treated hair. It gently cleanses while adding strength, elasticity and body and contains sunscreens to extend the life and longevity of your hair’s color. Read More »

It’s Cinco de Mayo! What better time for beach and alcohol-inspired beauty products galore?

Lips:

Avon Glazewear Extreme has ultra high shine and is enriched with Vitamins A, C and E to moisturize lips…try Sangria to get a good Cinco de Mayo buzz going on your way to class.

Stila’s mixed up some special cocktail-inspired glosses for Cinco de Mayo. There are three different shades with names like Pina Colada, Spiced Rum and Daiquiri…and yes, they taste and smell as delicious as they sound. Read More »