The bar for women has been set unrealistically high by the role models people have today. The deck has been stacked against the modern woman. It was bad enough women used to see 17-year-old fashion models wearing $25,000 haute couture gowns in women's magazines. Now, thanks to Photoshop and other photo-editing software, photos may be manipulated to make their subjects look thinner or heavier, taller or shorter, bustier or flatter chested. Wrinkles can be magically erased and prized features, such as pronounced cheekbones, can be enhanced. The touch-up technician has become an essential part of every photo project.

Watch what happens when women are forced to choose between walking through doors marked 'average' or 'beautiful'... as it is revealed that 96 PER CENT of women rate themselves as average looking

Given the choice between 'average' and 'beautiful', which description would you choose for yourself?

That is the question that has been posed to women by Dove in a new survey, and the results are shocking.

83 per cent of Australian women rate themselves as average looking, the study found.

Of the 9,397 out of 11,000 that answered 'average', 84 per cent regularly have negative thoughts about their appearance.

While the statistics speak volumes about Australian women's perceptions of themselves, they appear more confident than the global average.

Just four per cent of women around the world describe themselves as beautiful - with a staggering 96 per cent choosing 'average'

Dove highlighted the survey results with a new video, released this week, that shows women being faced with the physical choice between beautiful and average.

Shot in five cities - Shanghai, San Francisco, London, Sao Paulo and Delhi - Dove erected signs above doors to public buildings and filmed women's actions when faced with having to walk through one or the other.

The vast majority of participants chose to walk through the 'average' door, demonstrating the survey results accurately.

Many said afterwards that they regretted their decision, and that it had affected how they felt about themselves.

'It was confronting to see these signs, and to have to choose, and be self concious of how you perceive yourself and if it lines up with how the rest of the world perceives you,' said an British woman.

'It was my choice, and now I will question myself for the next few weeks, maybe months.'

An American participant added: 'Am I choosing because of what is constantly bombarded at me and what I'm being told that I should accept? Or am I choosing because that's what I really believe?'

'Beautiful, to me, is too far out of reach,' a Chinese woman said, after choosing the average door.

The video is part of Dove's #ChooseBeautiful campaign, which aims to 'encourage women worldwide to reconsider the choices they make about their beauty and how those choices make them feel.'



source Daily Mail

Nature never seems to stop amazing the human race, it amazes in ways that are most times beyond the realm of scientific reason, and this is not better explained than in the look-alike effect. Imagining being born a single child of French speaking parents, and grow up to find an exact look-alike in Serbia, wouldn’t that be a shock to you, wouldn’t you feel your parents played a fast one on you, by not revealing to you the existence of a long lost sibling?, well don’t go ballistic, nature is a continuous establisher of all that is mysterious, and beyond normal, and just as you would find someone with similar striking personality traits as yours, striking facial characteristics of different none related personnel’s are in existence.
Let us start by establishing a detailed definition of the word look-alike. A look-alike in simple terms is a person, or individual not related to you in any way possible, but having strikingly similar facial characteristics as yours. Look-alikes are one of nature’s great mysteries, one would think of nature as being a large supercomputer with complex algorithms, which creates people of different genetic makeups, having defined facial characteristics on the same planet.

German culture and folklore has been obsessed with the look-alike effect, so much that a name for it, known as doppelganger, is in existence. A doppelganger in fiction and folklore is literary a look-a like or double of a living individual, who sometimes is portrayed as paranormal, the paranormal state being that which is beyond normal as explained by scientific inquiry. For years artist and photographer FRANCOIS BRUNELLE , has spent most of his adult life dwelling and delving into the concept of look-alikes and has created a catalogue of interesting details about look-alikes, check them out on his website and be astounded.

So thus we get down to the every present question DOES EVERYONE HAVE A LOOK-ALIKE?, well it’s hard to establish that as fact, but in practical terms a lot of people have been able to find one, Elvis Presley the legendary American singer, had many among which was Norwegian Kjell Elvis, so the chances of one having a look-alike are available, so be on the lookout, and don’t freak out about seeing one, it’s nature at it’s very best, playing a good one on you.

source: unbelievable-facts

For the time first time, Filson has introduced a collection of watches with the help of Detroit-based Shinola. Made to enhance the outdoor enthusiasts’ lifestyle, above all else, these timepieces are rugged and durable. There are two case designs and 25 different styles in the Filson watch collection, all of which are made in Detroit. The Mackinaw Field watch comes in both a three-hand and chronograph version, while the Journeyman is available as a GMT and chronograph with a World-Timer feature on either. All pieces feature a screw-down crown and sapphire crystal. If these options are enough, you can customize the look further with a wide range of strap options. Options include Bridle Leather and Dry Tin Cloth as well as nylon, rubber, and Horween leather. Filson watches will retail between $600 and $1,100 USD, with availability starting in March 2015 through Filson stores, filson.com, and select retailers. Can’t wait? Click here to pre-order now

mophie has announced their juice pack line for the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus. The protective battery cases come in a few variations, with the juice pack air for iPhone 6 delivering more 100% extra battery, juice pack plus for iPhone 6 packing 120% more battery, and the juice pack for iPhone 6 Plus provided more than 60% reserve. The figures are tremendous and will give users up to 17 more hours of talk time, up to 12 more hours of web browsing, up to 13 more hours of video playback, and up to 60 more hours of music playback. Beyond extended use, each case provides high-impact protection. Quick-charge and pass-through technology are incorporated into each model, so users can charge and sync their phone simultaneously and at a much faster rate. The mophie juice pack line for iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus is now available on Amazon:

With this year’s SIHH just weeks away, IWC is getting ahead of the wave by updating its Portuguese family of watches with this the Portuguese Yacht Club Chono. It’s powered by the same self-winding in-house movement from previous iterations while other details include the chrono’s flyback function and 68-hour power reserve. There’s also a unique chronograph display that uses one dial to indicate both elapsed hours and minutes. One of the biggest changes comes from IWC taking note of comments from potential buyers who wanted a slightly smaller version of the sportiest watch in the Portuguese lineup. The case diameter drops here just a bit from 45.4 to 43.5 mm. The original Portugieser came out in 1939, so it’s only right we see this unveil on its 75th anniversary. The IWC Portuguese Yacht Club Chrono comes with a black rubber strap and buckle that matches the case material. Look for it to release in the weeks ahead.

Is this real? Yep. Introducing the Blackberry Classic smartphone, a return to the days pre-iPhone and Android. If you still daydream about having a physical keyboard then you’ll be happy to hear that Blackberry’s bringing this design back with a 3.5″ screen that runs Blackberry 10 OS. Email’s quicker than ever and there’s an 8 megapixel camera and 16GB of internal flash storage onboard as well. Beyond getting BBM again, you’ll also have the ability to install Android and Blackberry apps on this device. Good play, Blackberry, good play. The Blackberry Classic is available unlocked through BlackBerry and Amazon’s online stores for $449. Local carriers worldwide have already picked up the device while Verizon and AT&T are confirmed to be jumping on board in 2015.
See Image below for details.

Designed by British designer Jake Phipps, this quirky lamp is inspired by a classic British cultural icon, the Bowler Hat. The Jeeves Lamp is made with an authentic bowler hat that is lined with gold aluminum to reflect light optimally, and is adjustable so you can tip your hat. A classic statement piece that ads a gentle welcoming glow which is perfect for any room.

Available for purchase. For more details, click on the image below.

If you’ve got a question that needs the female treatment, chances are you’re not the only one who wants to ask it. Here's one such example...


Hi Author,

I just turned 44 a few days ago, and have worked hard over the last year to lose 40 pounds. Along with remaking my body, I decided that I was tired of being clean shaven, and started to wear a little bit of facial hair. Think Orlando Bloom in the Pirates of the Caribbean movies. A thinner mustache, a bit of chin hair, and that’s it.

I’m currently single and ready to date, but I’m not sure if facial hair will be a turn off? Especially something that’s a bit more purposeful & groomed like this, instead of just scruff?

I’ve been told I actually look OLDER without a beard. But maybe that’s because I’ve gone to the trouble of coloring my facial hair, since my beard has started to come in gray. Yet the hair on the top of my head has stayed youthful looking.

Is this going to be a deal breaker for any potential dates?

- Henry

Hi Henry,

Congrats on losing weight and remaking your look. Way to take a bit of a risk with the facial hair–nothing ventured, nothing gained, right? Facial hair is not an automatic turn off, not at all. Women like it, or they don’t, but there’s no rule for all women everywhere. We’re a varied bunch. Most women would say they like facial hair when it looks good. Real helpful, right?

Facial hair is like man-cardigans, bow ties, and suspenders–they flatter and look at home on some people, and on others, not so much. And yes, there are instances when men look better with facial hair. If you have a weak chin, or a bit of flab around the jawline, facial hair can mask it, or give your face the appearance of stronger structure. And some faces just look better with hair. I’ve always thought Javier Bardem looked much handsomer with facial hair than without it.
On the other hand, facial hair can make you look less attractive if it grows in patchy and uneven. It can make you look unkempt if it’s not meticulously groomed. And for some men, it just doesn’t look great with their bone structure, or it hides their good features. Casey Affleck, for instance, has a beard that grows in too patchy; it makes him look kind of skeevy. Brad Pitt is also not best served with facial hair mainly because, if you’ve got that face, why hide it under hair?

Then there are the bastards who look good, facial hair or not, and can go from swarthy to clean-shaven back to hirsute, and collect a barrage of compliments along the way. George Clooney. That man. Full grey beard, little bit o’ scruff, smooth as a baby’s bottom. He looks good every which way.
Because you and I have never had the pleasure of meeting, I can’t tell you which camp you fall into, but it sounds like you’ve gotten feedback (from more than one person? On separate occasions?) that you look great with facial hair. Sounds promising. Keep it for awhile and see what it does for your dating life. The good thing about hair is you can always shave it off, and then grow it back again. Don’t worry that being purposeful with your grooming is a bad thing, it’s not. Yes, sometimes casual scruff is sexy (George!)…but sometimes it’s reminiscent of Ethan Hawke, circa 1994. I mean, Reality Bites is a classic, but that anemic tufting has to go.

-Author

Got something brewing in your life?

We've all been there. Staring at Pinterest with a glass of wine, browsing aimlessly through photos of models, bloggers, and celebrities. Subconsciously adding pin after pin to that "Trends I Wish I Could Pull Off" board. Let me guess: You were previously under the impression that "overalls" and "graphic tees" fell under that category too, right? Wrong!

I knew there was something special about these two items that we haven't worn in years.

GRAPHIC TEES

When I first got wind that graphic tees were making a victory lap of sorts, I was taken back to the good ole' days to say the least. You mean, cheesy sayings and cartoons, galore? Luckily, that’s not the case this time around. Today's graphic tees come complete with punchy imagery or cheeky one-liners we just can't resist. They're that perfect twist to any outfit — whether you're dressing up or down!

How to style it: Going for a dressy-casual look.In my mind, a drapey pant of black and white paired with a red heel is the way to go. The loose fitting pants balanced the tied-up tee perfectly, which I would absolutely suggest to avoid looking like, you know... a tent. Top it off with statement jewelry: a chunky necklace with pearls, drop earrings and a layered bracelet. This bold look is perfect for girls’ night, or even a casual office setting!

OVERALLS

Put 'er there, sister: Truth be told, overalls have come a long way since the MK&A days. I haven’t worn overalls since I was a kid. Even then, I never had shortalls in the rotation. Better late than never right? Incredibly versatile for warm weather, they too can easily be dressed up or down with the right accessories! I’m also looking forward to styling these in fall. Some thick tights, booties, long sleeve top and chunky scarf? I’m ready for you!

How to style them: For a dressy day look (perfect for a brunch date!), pair your shortalls with a light, floral tee and strappy wedges. Bright lips and sweet, simple jewelry are all you need to complete your look. Patio in your future? Grab your favorite wide-brimmed topper! For night, just swap those florals for a slinky, dark blouse, and a pair of booties!
Will you put either of these trends to the test?

Caught that dreadful cold that's being passed around? Even though you may feel sick, these tips will help you look great.

We're right in the middle of flu season and germs are being passed around like hot cakes. It happens to all of us. Those mornings you wake up feeling awful because you picked up a cold along with that box of cereal at the grocery store the night before. Your skin is dull, your head is congested, and your eyes—yeah, they're puffy to say the least. We know the feeling. That's why we've gathered these tips for looking great, even when you may feel your worst.

1. Stay hydrated (on the inside and out)
Of course you know how important it is to drink plenty of water every day, but especially when you're under the weather. Just as important is keeping your skin hydrated as well. A rich moisturizer can help restore water in the skin and soothe redness and itching, creating a more vital, energized look. We love the Skinfix Daily Body Lotion because it immediately softens and soothes irritated skin without greasiness. It's made with all natural ingredients like calendula and chamomile extracts, as well as emollient oils of sunflower, jojoba, and grape seed. It works in conjunction with the Skinfix Body Repair Balm, which treats super angry skin with 2% colloidal oatmeal and ultra-rich natural active ingredients. Like the lotion, it's free of fragrances, parabens, and steroids. Apply this balm to a chapped nose or any dry patches of skin, for that matter. It's also the perfect size to tote around, so pack it or the hand cream in your purse before you head out.

2. Don't skimp on tissues
Getting sick is bad enough without having to deal with a sore nose. It might seem obvious, but treating your nose to good, quality tissues is super important. Rough tissues can irritate your nose and surrounding skin and can even cause broken capillaries. They're scent free and cool to the touch, which is incredibly soothing on an irritated nose.

3. Soothe those puffy eyes
We've got a few tricks for soothing the under eye bags and puffy eyes that unwantedly tag along with a cold:

• Try sleeping with your head elevated on a couple of pillows to drain fluids that have accumulated in the eyes.

• Applying cold, wet tea bags to your eyes for about 15 minutes will help de-puff and wake up tired eyes.

• Try storing your favorite eye cream in the fridge. The cool cream will feel refreshing and further help to decrease under eye bags and is formulated with two much needed ingredients when your skin is dehydrated and dull—hyaluronic acid and caffeine. The hyaluronic acid will help infuse the skin with moisture (and keep it there for 24 hours) and the caffeine, as you can imagine, will perk up your peepers.

• Eye drops—cooling, lubricating ones—are always a yes when feeling sick.

4. Stick with gloss
A pop of color will definitely brighten your look, but stay away from lipstick, as they can be drying on already chapped lips. A lip gloss offers a fresher, more light-reflective look. Find a gloss that's packed with argan oil, vitamin E, and omega 3 to keep lips soft and supple.

5. Bronzer is your best friend
Bronzer can be a lifesaver when you're paler than you ever thought possible. Just a light sweep of a light-reflective bronzer on your cheekbones and forehead can bring life back into skin by giving it a sun-kissed glow. Look for a cream-based product which will look natural on dry, winter skin.

6. Stick to the basics.
Unfortunately, when you're sick isn't the time to try out a new smokey eye or a bright, red lip. Instead, stick to a simple, light makeup routine. A little concealer under the eyes, around the nose, and on any blemishes, plus a sweep of bronzer and mascara is all you need.

...because sometimes it's OK to leave the red lipstick at home.

This romantic holiday is a good excuse to have fun with your makeup, whether it's a girls night out or a charming dinner with your special someone. Shades of red and pink are almost always the usual colors for Valentine’s Day; but remember, your makeup doesn't have to be this bold! Today Chicago bloggers Kaleigh Glaza and Ali Shelton from Lux and Concord show us how to keep makeup subtle and polished for any Valentine’s Day plans.


1. Keep a clean palette

Start with a basic base in terms of foundation and cover-up. Make your eyes and lips (our most alluring features!) the centerpiece of your look and just put on the bare minimum. Start off simple to even out your skin tone and cover up any pesky blemishes. Our current light coverage foundation favorites are: bareMinerals bareSkin Pure Brightening Serum Foundation and the gloMinerals Luxe Liquid Foundation(which gives a lit-from-within glow, especially when applied with the Luxe Foundation Brush.



2. Add soft intensity

A smoky eye is the perfect beauty look for Valentine’s Day, adding just the right amount of drama. But do not go overboard with dark hues! Instead, stick to a neutral palette of gold, light brown, and nude colors that allow your eyes to be the focal point. First, even out your lid color with a light shade, like found in this All About Shadow duo in "Buttered Toast" from Clinique. Then, add some intensity! Use a palette with warm, metallic nudes, like this Milani palette (currently loving!). Play with colors to figure out what looks best for your eye color and have fun with a little metallic! Tip: Use a q-tip or your fingers to blend the colors.

 

3. Finish off the eyes

Complete your smoky eye with a thin layer of eyeliner from Cate McNabb. This applicator makes it simple to get a clean line. Apply short strokes at the base of the lashes until you achieve your desired effect. Remember, you can extend the liner further out for a cat eye look. Add a few layers of mascara from Cate McNabb or another favorite from MAKE (or a little of both!) to finish it off. We also love the Tarte Lights, Cameras, Lashes 4-in-1 Mascara and the Laura Mercier Full Blown Lash Volume Building Supreme Mascara.


4. Keep it rosy

There is a time and a place for bronzer, but Valentine’s Day is all about a rosy flush! Apply just a hint of blush in a circular motion on the apples of your cheeks. The Dream Bouncy Blush from Maybelline in "Fresh Pink" is easy to apply with fingertips and will last the whole night.

5. Pucker up

A bold, red lip is a classic romantic look for this holiday, but sometimes subtlety is better. We love pairing a smoky eye with a paler, pink lip and just a hint of gloss. This tinted Clinique Chubby Stick Moisturizing Balm in "Roomiest Rose" lays a nice base. Then top it off with this Revlon Super Lustrous lip-gloss for the perfect finishing touch.



That's it! Gorgeous!