With the myriad product lines on the market it can get a little overwhelming as you begin to navigate makeup counters looking for the right foundation to match your skin tone. You can simply head to your favorite cosmetics counter and ask for a makeup application. Sephora, MAC and Aveda are great places that have well-trained staff and make-up artists that can help you. Simple applications are usually complimentary but some lines do charge a small fee for a sitting so be sure to ask prior to booking.

You can also take the horse by the reigns and search on your own. Choosing the right foundation is all about the type of coverage you want. To help ease the pain here’s our guide to incredibly designed and sweetly-priced foundations:

If you’re looking for light/sheer coverage and have normal to oily skin…
We suggest you stick to: Loose powders that won’t dry your skin or clog your pores

Our fave pick: M.A.C Mineralize SPF 15 Loose Foundation
Get Yours: www.MacCosmetics.com

If you are looking for medium coverage and have combination skin…

We suggest you stick to: Oil-free pressed powders that offer radiant coverage without leaving your skin looking greasy
Our fave pick: Interface Blot Out Translucent Pressed Powder
Get Yours: www.InterfaceBeauty.com

If you are looking for a moisturizing foundation that leaves your skin luminous and you have normal to dry skin…

We suggest you stick to: Liquid and Tinted Moisturizers that give skin a healthy glow , conditions and leaves a natural matte finish

Our fave pick: Cover Girl Queen Collection lightweight oil-free liquid formula
Get yours: www.CoverGirl.com

Don’t forget that cosmetics do have a short shelf life so be sure to replenish your make-up every 6 months! And always remember to disinfect your makeup and never share to prevent bacterial growth!

Get makeup sanitizer wipes from Beauty So Clean (www.BeautySoClean.com) to keep your cosmetics clean and safe.

South Beach, Miami

There are many things that affect how you feel about the city in which you dwell. It may be the taxes, cost-of-living, nightlife—but what about the people? How do America’s cities rank when it comes to the number of attractive people. In 2009, some cities ranked surprisingly higher than others on the beauty meter. In a recent “America’s Favorite Cities” survey, conducted by Travel+Leisure Magazine and CNN Headline News, over 125,000 travelers voted and (drum roll please….)

Of course warm weather seems to break out the hot bods and golden tans as Honolulu, Miami and Los Angeles all made the “top 10” list. Miami, for the third time in a row ranks 1st place—but hey who’s really surprised, maybe it’s the sunshine or aqua-blue beaches, or that Latin flavor—whatever the reason, they seem to carry the “pretty people” burden with grace. Read on to see the places that made the list—it just may surprise you.

1 4.53 Miami

2 4.50 San Diego

3 4.43 Charleston

4 4.40 Austin

5 4.34 Honolulu

6 4.31 Los Angeles

7 4.28 San Francisco

8 4.26 Minneapolis/St. Paul

9 4.25 New York

10 4.23 Denver

Chicago came in close but didn’t quite make the cut as the windy city landed in 11th place and Philadelphia gets no brotherly-love, landing dead last at #30. So if you’re on the shallow side and want some gorgeous people around you at all times—venture off to MIAMI—its CALIENTE!

Want to see the full list of cities didn’t make the cut: Click Here

I’m not pessimistic (well not all the time) but I’m a bit tired of hearing the term “soul mate”. What does this phrase even mean? There are tons of articles on “How to find your soulmate”? “Are you married to your soulmate”? The list goes on and on. It makes me wonder do we use this term as genuine affinity for someone or to allow ourselves to believe that the person we selected with all their faults– is just perfect for us? Are people so overcome with being “in-love” that they cannot fathom being with anyone else, (well at least for now). I was having one of those sister-girl conversations with my homie Trace, who blurted out matter-of-factly, “Sometimes, I think couples stay together because it’s easier than looking for someone else, easier than having to self-examine what’s not working in your relationship—so you stick it out and hope for the best.” Is this true? Am I missing out on this private world of euphoria that others seem so wrapped up in. Honestly, I don’t believe in a “soulmate”–here’s why?

The term soulmate is right up there with fairly tales of a night-in-shining armor or kissing the frog that magically turns into a prince. In the real world, a frog is just that–a frog! This notion sets us up for disappoint if a relationship doesn’t work out and places people on pedestals that should not even have gotten off the ground. However, I do think that you meet people you might connect with on numerous levels, and a bond develops. In essence your relationship is what you make of it, he/she becomes your soul mate, they are not born to become a part of your destiny. I know some people res shaking their heads and thinking how unromantic, but it’s a theory that I have yet to shake. In the end I may be wrong and instead of lust-0at-first sight it really is love but for now there isn’t that one person out their created for you by God—afterall isn’t that the ultimate definition of a soulmate?

What is your take on the “soulmate”? Do you have one? How did you know this person is your fate? Once you meet him/her do you always end up together?

Hey Divas,

While I’m taking a maternity break for the next few weeks, enjoy THE BEST OF HIGH FASHION ON THE LOW & LOVE IT OR DUMP by clicking on each link below.

I’ll be back soon with fresh and fabulous spring fashion deals and product reviews!

Smoochies,

Nicky

CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST OF HIGH FASHION ON THE LOW

CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST OF LOVE IT OR DUMP IT

Gap Linda Trench - $133.33 on Asos.com

The Trench is to spring as The Turtle Neck is to fall – the most recycled items in your closet. The best trench coats are a classic double-breasted fit in neutrals like khaki, black or white. Although, some designers have put their modern twist on the trench by using color, prints and trendy details such as the crop, swing, ruffled or ballooned bottom trench.

If you’re shopping around for a trench, you’ll find more options as it is one of the must-have items this season. So before Mother Nature suddenly takes us from snow storms to bright skies  and cool 50s and 60s, check out some of my favorite trench coats this spring:

Diane Von Furstenberg Spy Crinkled Trench - $465

Andrew Marc Trench with Notch Collar - $350

Ink Lightweight Trench - $111 on Asos.com

Juicy Couture Black Bow Trench - $265 on Ssense.com

Elie Tahari Cropped Trench - $195

Marc by Marc Jacobs Sateen Trench - $398 at Bloomies

Jessica Simpson Ombre Trench - $118

If your love for designer labels extend far greater than shoes and bags, you may be willing to splurge on these scented designer candles or know someone who will appreciate a high-end gift for the home.
 

St. John Signature fragranced candles - $45

Prada Infusion D'Iris Candle - $78

Chloe Perfumed Candle - $65

Lily Pulitzer Scented Candle Collection - $34

Juicy Couture Candles - $65

We have all experienced the familiar yet weird dream of falling from great heights or the sound of water that equates to a mad dash to the bathroom but exactly what does it all mean? Why do we have some dreams in common, while others are so far-fetched, we awake scratching our heads in thought? Dating back to Ancient Rome and Greece, dreams have always been an interest and mystery. Theorists such as Freud called dreams “‘the royal road to the unconscious,” left open to interpretation—his theory bordered on sexual desires—maybe or maybe not? However, one thing is clear dreams are often the response to daily life, whether it’s our subconscious thoughts, sensations or activities.

Did you know infants spend 70% of their sleep time dreaming, while adults average about 24% in dreamland and even animals dream? In the end, what do our dreams mean and how do the “experts” interpret some of our most typical or even outlandish dreams…well let’s see

The Falling Dream

-Falling dreams are one of the most common dreams that people have. When you fall in the dream there is nothing to grab or hold onto that is sturdy enough to save you. Studies reveal that in many cases, dreams of falling may be due to physiological in nature (i.e. a blood pressure drop at the moment of slumber or out-of-whack equilibrium). However, dream analysts suggest that falling dreams can have a symbolic significance that indicates a feeling that life is spiraling out of control. Falling dreams are interpreted as insecurities, and anxieties. There is an overwhelming sense that your situation in life is out of control. This may be a personal relationship or career-oriented. This type of dream may also indicate a fear of falling.

The Flying Dream
“Hey is that Superman?” Have you ever had a dream where you were flying amongst the clouds, free and unburdened by the world? In this dream you have no cares or worries, no schedule, no responsibility. Many dreams are forgotten by the time we awake, but that is not usually the case with flying dreams. This dream seems to be divided among those who fly spontaneously in their dreams and those who have a lucid dream and choose to fly. These dreamers have a powerful feeling of freedom, exhilaration, a feeling that you control your own destiny. Kudos to those who fly!

The Sex Dream
This dream is probably one of the most favored dreams. Almost everyone has had the sex dream—sex, is sex! But if we look at it both symbolically and literally then a dream about sex can you wish you were getting some good loving in real life, or that there is a person you desire in real life, etc. Dreaming of a sexy ex or a good-looking stranger is healthy. It just means you have a fantasy side that shows up in your dreams–afterall, dream sex is safe sex. Maybe you want more sexual excitement or never had the chance to fulfill a sexual urge. Whatever it may be enjoy and let live!

Teeth Falling Out Dream

This dream is one of the most infrequent but daunting. There are a few theories surrounding the teeth falling out dream. One is your teeth reflect your anxieties about your appearance and how others perceive you. Since teeth play an important role in self-image and attractiveness, such dreams may stem from a fear of rejection, sexual impotence or the consequences of getting old. On another note, it also shows a rooted fear of being embarrassed or making a fool of yourself. These dreams are an over-exaggeration of your worries, frustration and anxieties.

Water Dreams
Water dreams depends on how you feel about water. Do you view it as serene and tranquil or intimidating? How you feel about water will represent the symbolic aspect of your dream. Was the water a peaceful lake or a muddy Bayou? Were you floating along your favorite beach or drowning? Did it have vicious waves or a beautiful waterfall?

Death Dreams
Dreams of death are scary but are important signs from your unconscious. These dreams are present when there is an aspect or situation in life that is no longer working for you.
Sometimes it may reflect an old patter or habit that has died within you or an old relationship that can no longer blossom. Dreams of death about someone else could be an outward expression of an inner situation or maybe someone that you have lost contact with. Death dreams are described as “feeling the most real” but alas, it is the most uncommon.

As women we all have our hang-ups, whether it’s our breast size, butt size we dislike at least one aspect of our body part, especially during sex. While talking to a few of my girlfriends, the same statement kept coming up “My man loves it, but I don’t know why?” Isn’t it interesting the things we find intolerable, they consider womanly. Even though men look at the perfectly sculpted bodies of swimsuit models on the cover of sports illustrated or the bony A$$ chicks that walk the runways, they still know a woman isn’t perfect (thank God).

Fellas, next time you’re giving her the business, she is wondering about what jiggles or wiggles. To help you guys out, here are the top three things we hate the most and I know you all probably don’t care—as long as you’re getting some…

1. We think about how our booty looks from the back…does it resemble jelly or jam?
2. We may love it on top, but some ladies are conscious of that little bulge on our otherwise perfectly flat tummy
3. Whether your chick is sporting double D’s or barely reaching a B-cup, or boobies gotta look good, especially in jockey position.

Ladies, what do you hate most? Guys, do you really care if her rump jiggles too much? What bothers you most about women in bed? Is this a turnoff?

Philip Marie located in the vibrant West Village offers up stellar New American cuisine including a “to-die-for” wine and food pairing menu on Thursdays, which I greatly enjoyed. The cozy eatery has low lighting and an atmosphere that is classy, yet not stuffy.

The pairing includes four courses for $32, and the menu changes often.

The first course, the Smoked Ravioli a la Bolognese with crispy sage, was paired with Tunnel of Elms Merlot Beringer (2007). The raspberry undertones of the wine went well with the tomato sauce in this pasta dish, accented lightly with carrots. Crispy sage gave the dish a nice light crunch.

The second course was the Stuffed Prosciutto Di Parma with creamed spinach, pecorino Romano cheese, and braised asparagus, and was paired with Gloria Ferrer Carneros Merlot (2006). The hints of plum in the wine were a nice match with the saltiness of the prosciutto. This was not a combination I am use to, but found it exceptionally delightful.

The third course was the Wild Mushroom Risotto with roasted pine nuts and black truffle essence. It was paired with a Tangley Oaks Merlot (2006). The robustness of the wine was tempered by the deliciously creamy risotto. It’s a great winter dish, with a hearty taste that warms your bones.

The fourth course was the Filet Mignon of Wild Boar wrapped in applewood smoked pancetta. It was served with espresso Dijon mustard sauce and coconut mashed potatoes, and paired with a Blackstone California Merlot. The boar was quite tender with a crunchy outer skin. The mash potatoes with the sauce made for a great side dish.

If you don’t want to try the tasting menu, Philip Marie offers a full menu with a variety of seafood, pasta, and meat dishes. Some notables to try are the grilled ostrich filet, the sautéed double cut stuffed pork chop, and the Maine lobster black ravioli.

Special note: Many of the cocktails pay homage to New York, such as the Tom Collins, made with Hendrick’s Gin, fresh lemon, simple syrup, and soda and the Sidecar, made with Remy Martin VSOP, Cointreau and fresh lemon juice. If it’s available, ask to be seated at one of the stellar semi-private window seats, providing a great ambiance that would be great for a date or a group dinner with the girls.

Enjoy!

Here are some great buys, in these shades, from other makeup brands:

Lancome Color Fever Roses Collection - $25

Sue Devitt Hydrating Marine Minerals Eye Pallete in Kilimanjaro - $37.50

Laura Mercier Creme Blush in Blaze - $22