Shimmer

There's a great way to look natural but still have a shimmer around your face on a hot night out. Try some sparkle around your eyes and cheeks. That way, those great parts of your face will be highlighted. It's totally glamorous and natural at the same time (see title link).

Beautiful Eyes

You want those eyes that scream to be noticed. Well, try a bold statement, like rimming them with midnight blue eye shadow. They'll pop out in the best way (see title link).

What Time Is It?

Sports watches can be great for the summer. They're waterproof and often have lap memory to time those lines you make across the swimming pool. Brands try to entice you with their colorful bands and countdown timers with alarms. Take Adidas Originals, for example (see title link). The watch pictured above has all of the aforementioned perks, as well as a polycarbonate stainless steel case, digital movement, and polyurethane strap. On top of it all, it's imported, making it all the more sophisticated and classy. But the price of the watch? $60. Honestly, I saw a similar watch at Wal-Mart some months ago with the same general features. Perhaps the strap wasn't polyurethane, but it was quite strong and useful and didn't come at such a high price; it was only about $20. So before you go for the brand name, shop around and make sure you're getting your money's worth. After all, it's the quality that matters, not the brand. And brand names don't ALWAYS guarantee quality.

Judgement

You know that feeling you get at a party when things get uneasy? Chances are, if things feel bad, they are, so trust your gut. However, if you have done something you regret at a party or have been violated against your will, you can always visit the RAINN website (see title link).

Frankie B!

The vest that Taylor Swift is wearing in this photo (see title link) is by Frankie B. What an awesome piece of fashion!

Taylor Swift

One of those rare stars who actually has her feet planted on the ground is Taylor Swift. Her music is so raw and natural that you feel as if she's singing what's really in your own heart. With her squeaky-clean image, she's a great role model for girls and women alike (see title link).

Shell Jewelry

At the beach? It's great to bring some beachy themes into your outfit by accessorizing. Try a shell necklace (see title link) which you can buy at Claire's. Plus, it's only $10!

June.

One tip: Read this month's June 2008 issue of Seventeen. It offers so many life-changing stories, fashion tips, and makeup tricks (see title link).

MISSING.

Did you know you can put an AMBER alert banner on your Facebook or MySpace to alert others about missing kids? Then others can click on it and help, too. Spreading the word could be vital in saving kids' lives. So do your part and help to spread the word (see title link).

Confidence/Manipulation

You know that weakling girl who's always asking you for help and emotionally blackmailing you if you don't. The cycle continues endlessly. Well, you need to stop this and give her help when she doesn't ask, so she can stop annoying you by creating problems herself. Confidence is important, and there's nothing wrong with spreading it (see title link).

Beach Don'ts

Lots of girls think that showing off in front of a guy at the beach is flattering. I myself have made similar mistakes, sometimes subconsciously, hundreds of times. Acrobatics on the beach is not impressive, trust (see title link).

Serious Issue: Rx drugs

There's a common misconception among the teen demographic that prescription drugs are not as bad for you as illegal drugs. Well, news flash: drugs not prescribed to you are equally dangerous to your health (see title link). Over 2 million teens in the United States abuse prescription drugs each year. It's important to raise awareness so this issue doesn't unnecessarily take lives.

The Importance of Health

Thanks to Seventeen magazine, you can get bikini ready in 4 weeks! The workout (see title link) is designed by Gregory Joujon-Roche, the trainer of Gisele Bundchen. Yowza!

Secret Sparkle

Sometimes it's great to have a deodarant that's actually fragrant. My personal favorite is Secret Platinum Scent Expressions in Kuku Coco Butter. It reminds you of the Caribbean and the folk music will have you swayin'. It combines sweet chocolate and warm vanilla to make you smell great (see title link).

The Dreaded Topic...

The hush-hush word: tampons. Someone has to talk about them, though. Tampax Pearl Plastic is supposed to be the best. It has LeakGuard protection, too with a built-in backup braid. Personally, I'm a little scared to trying tampons, but they're good for athletes and other girls on-the-go (see title link).

Polish [for your body]

Lots of teen girls wonder about the secret to making skin glow at the beach. A sugar scrub is the perfect solution, if applied to your body daily! Try Victoria's Secret Stimulating Body Scrub. The Pure Seduction scent is the absolute best (second from left, bottom row). Plus, the scrub is just $9 (see title link). In addition to making your skin show, it clears away all of your dry skin. Its sugar crystals exfoliate skin, and the lather that forms feels luxorious. Plus, each scrub has a great scent!

Red [by Marc Ecko]

Ashley Tisdale is now endorsing Red by Marc Ecko sneakers. Those kicks are pretty hot, with the rose design on the side and the clean white style (see title link). But if you're looking for good support, these shoes are not the way to go. Try athletic sneakers instead; they'll give more back to your feet, and you'll thank yourself later.

Hair Extensions (Again)

Sometimes you wish that you can change your hairdo without having to do anything to your nice, permanent locks. But is it worth paying hundreds of dollars for extensions? Jessica Simpson and Ken Paves have created a new line of hair extensions (see title link) and advertise great hair every day. But even if you change your hair as often as you change your mood, their line is quite costly. So think again before you splurge; it may not be a worthwhile investment.

Take Action

In a previous blog entry, I've talked about the importance of getting involved. Well, start small and become a member of the 17 Actionista Panel! Seventeen magazine is conducting surveys and if you take them and learn more about what's happening, you'll be eligible to win tons of free stuff! Click on the title link and get involved today!

The Solution to Curvy Thighs

Ever at the beach and wish you could do something about your self-consciousness in a swimsuit? Well, we're all a little insecure; we're girls, after all. But here's a potential solution: L'Oreal Paris Sublime Slim Anti-Cellulite + Skin Sculpting Body Firming Gel. Within four weeks, it smooths skin and contains caffeine which helps keep your legs firm for a few hours. The lotion is soothing, too. Plus, it's available (see title link) for just $14! No expensive cellulite treatments!

One-Pieces CAN Be Glamorous

I used to hate the one-piece bathing suits my conservative parents allowed me to wear. But then I discovered that some one-pieces are actually teen-worthy! Check out this suit from Victoria's Secret PINK. The one in white is better, in my opinion (it has PINK 80 written on it). The style is the same, though. It's $42, and totally reasonable (see title link) considering the prices of some of those suits these days. It'll make you feel confident as soon as you try it out.

For Great Jeans...

There are some great jeans out there. But the best, most comfortable? DKNY (see title link). This particular pair of jeans is $69, which may sound like a splurge. Well, it is. But trust me, these jeans LAST. They're perfect for that hippie cool look and they don't feel as if they'll slide down any minute. Jeans can be the perfect staple to any look, so it's good to get a classic pair that will go with anything.

Skechers

Great sneakers that look great and actually support your foot can only be from Skechers. When I bought my white Skechers sneakers, I was having a lot of heel pain. After months wearing them, however, my pain has been limited to a small spot instead of my whole foot. Honestly, I love Skechers. There's something there for everybody (see title link).

Creme? Oh, Yes.

If you're sick of all those red spots on your face from waxing, you probably want a solution for that excess dark facial hair. Jolen Creme Bleach lightens and masques so your face looks pretty and clear (see title link). It's quite effective!

No Chip Nails!

Sally Hansen's Insta-Dri Anti-Chip Top Coat is a perfect solution for all those messy nail polishes. The product dries in 30 seconds on your nails and gives them a great shine. It also has double UV filters so your polish won't dry up and fade, for up to 10 days! The formula contains an acrylic polymer complex, and dermatologists have tested it for safety. It's extremely effective, so try it out (see title link).

Neutrogena Goodness

I recently found another mascara that should satisfy. Neutrogena Healthy Volume Mascara promises to please with its formula that actually contains olive oil. It plumps lashes with no clumps or smudging. Flakes are nowhere to be seen, either. Available in three shades, it's dermatologist tested, like all Neutrogena products, and is safe for contact lenses! It reportedly makes your lashes 400% fuller (see title link)!

Lashblast by CoverGirl

I recently discovered a great new mascara that Drew Barrymore promotes, called LASHBLAST Volume Blasting Mascara by CoverGirl. It's a great product that makes sure that each lash gets ultimate coverage and is maxed out to the fullest. It comes in four cool shades (the best is Very Black) and also comes in waterproof (see title link)!

Soffe

Comfortable shorts are hard to come by. TRENDY, comfy shorts are even harder to find. Well, look no further; Soffe shorts are both cute and comfy! They're found at cheerleading suppliers but are perfect for anyone who's walking down the street, leading a workout, or going to a sleepover! Try the Soffe shorts...they come in a variety of colors (see title link).

Pre-Prom Perfect

Photographs. Parents. Paparazzi? Prom is all about taking millions of pics of the day that you'll never forget. Parents are all crowding you and your friends, eager to capture the precious moments. Here's a thought: if you don't want the entire world to see some of those more embarassing pictures of you putting makeup on, get an account at Photobucket. That way, you can share pictures with the rest of your friends by having a group account; they can share their pictures with you, too. So to avoid the humiliation, go to Photobucket today (see title link)!

Be the Change

If you are an American citizen, I cannot stress how important it is to vote when you become a legal adult (18 years old). Vote to improve education, and secure the changes you wish to see for the next generations. Fight for human rights or campaign to bring our troops home! Either way, it's important to do something about your views if you can. Without voters, our country will never be a true democracy. On Election Day in November, head to the polls and cast your vote (see title link).

D&G

Simple pieces are an essential part of any girl's wardrobe. These clothes from D&G are sophisticated and classy. The sleeveless black top is perfect in Look 26 in the gallery. Some bright blue eyeliner or bold makeup will make you look too cool for school (see title link).

Glam Lids

Want some eyeshadow that will make you look more glamorous than the stars in Hollywood? Revlon ColorStay Eyeshadow will give you that at a great $7 price. The Lavender Meadow variety works best. The silver shade should be applied to your browbones to bring them out. Lining eyes with the darkest plum shade and then blending the others between browbones and eyelids will give you a bright shine that's gorgeous for up to 12 hours. It has this wonderful, silky consistency that stays smooth on your lids. Buy it at your local drugstore!

Fiesta Hoops

Want some fun earrings in vibrant colors? Try these by Fiesta (see title link) that cost just $6. The best come in this style with a bright magenta shade. Paired with simple clothes, it'll make your face pop!

Guys? What?

Guys seem like a mystery right now. Although everyone keeps informing you that everything will be clearer once you grow up, it won't. Guys are just as complicated as ever. But a few adolescent magazines have made it their goal to help us understand them a little better, so that we may form relationships that work (see title link).

Floral Fashion

Want a cool, springy dress that doesn't heat you up in summertime? Try this floral bouquet print dress by Anna Sui. The designer brand is often pricey, as this dress' MSRP is $462, but right now it's on sale for $210 (see title link). Don't get me wrong, the price is still pretty steep, but if you've got some birthday money to spend and want a soft, conservative style that's still flirty (the dress' material is translucent, so it'll look glamorous with a camisole or slip underneath) and bright, with it's light, neon shades of flowers, try this dress.

Spring Clothes

This spring, try soft, subtle looks. You'll look sweet and flirty at the same time. Trashy is out, so try being more light and pretty (see title link).

Dear to Your Heart

Want some clothing that's dear to your heart? Well, there's DEAR by Amanda Bynes. She has cool blue printed heart shirts, solid, vibrant skirts, and accessories. Her clothing is cheap and affordable. Pick it up at a Steve & Barry's store today (see title link)! A typical t-shirt is only $10!

College Survival?

One tip if you're going to college as an average student: Get a job, EARLY. Those jobs on campus fill up FAST and soon you'll have no spending money! Plus, you'll gain valuable real-life experience with a job (see title link). Am I in college? No, not yet, but I know that I will make sure to get the job over the summer, so they'll make sure to hire me.

Come Clean: Repairing Your Rep

Ever had to suffer through the rumor mill? Done something you regret (or don't remember) at a party? Well, the first tip is to come clean about it. Since the whole school knows you did something anyway, denying it will only make you more unbelievable. Accept it and try to shrug it off. If you don't make it a big deal, pretty soon, others won't either (see title link).

Details of Dating

In May's issue of Seventeen, the Jonas Brothers talk about the dos and don'ts of dating. After all, the best advice regarding guys should be given by guys, right? Well, one of the biggest things they talk about is details. Joe Jonas said that he loves Vera Wang perfume (see title link). What does that mean? That subtle nuances in your appearance really can catch his eye. Make sure to remember the deodarant and choose your clothes carefully. Yes, he should be listening to you and not looking, but appearances do determine some level of judgement, whether we admit it or not.

Intimate Questions

Want the answers to all of your itching, personal questions about your body but are too afraid to ask anyone face-to-face? Read some answers (see title link) at the Seventeen website!

Trainers: Worth It?

Do you want some motivation and discipline to work out but just never quite get to it? Well, similar to an SAT tutor, which forces you to practice at a certain time, a personal trainer does just that. Natasha Kufa (see title link) is the personal trainer for Fergie. She uses resistance bands to help intensify a workout, so you can get fit fast. If you have that kind of money to spend, maybe a personal trainer is right for you.

Discover Your Wild Side

Want a great bronzer that will make you look tan and confident? Try Wet 'n Wild Mega Glo Illuminating Powder, which will give your face a warm, bright glow. It comes in four shades all packed in one tin, so you can mix to create different combinations of tan goodness. You can use it on your face, cheeks, and eyes!

Lip Lovin'

Want a daring red lip gloss? The kind you think you can only wear on momentous occasions but really want to wear to a business meeting? Well, this one is perfect; it's L'Oreal Paris Infallible Never Fail Lipgloss in the Rebel Red shade. It's bright and read but doesn't look clown-like. Plus, it'll stay on for six hours and keep your lips feeling deliciously moisturized (see title link). Available at drugstores, you can pick it up for an economical $10.

Made of Honor

Seen Made of Honor yet (see title link)? It promises to be an "unbridaled comedy" and I've heard it's great. Patrick Dempsey is amazing as always, and Michell Monaghan seems promising. See it in theaters today!

Green with Envy?

Want a great, new look for spring? Try getting lime eyes! For a beige skin tone, this Flirt! I'm Whipped Eye Shadow Mousse is absolutely perfect to make your eyes twinkle. The shade of green is called Lucky Chance, and you can pick it up at any Kohl's store for $12. Good deal? For this soft pastel, I think so.

The Unmentionable...

Yes, today I'm answering the most embarassing question for a teen girl. What to wear so as not to get leaks in bed? Well, try Always Extra Heavy Overnight Maxi. It has great coverage front-to-back and will help you have sweet dreams without a worry. They really are the best that's out there.

Wish Upon a Star...

I've been asked many times for my opinion on stars. My response to these questions depends on the denotation of the word "star." For example, I may be asked of my inclination toward certain Hollywood stars, or maybe those bright white lights that we see every night when we gaze toward the heavens.
Personally, I like stars on my clothing. Yes, that's right. Stars look great as prints or jewelry shapes. Here's one particular tee from Kid Robot that I particularly adore. It's simple but bright and makes quite a statement. The catch? Well, this cute top that's perfect for spring will cost you $65 (see title link). Is it worth buying? I think not. Go to Wal-Mart or Target. I'm sure they have an identical top for a fifth of the price. On another note, however, do try looking at those stars. They may look better than you think.