Spray Your Way to Gorgeous Skin

Put on the spritz with one of these hydrating, refreshing face mists.

facial sprays
Mist Opportunities: There are now dozens of sweet-smelling, hydrating sprays on the market. Photo by INGA LIM.

Yes, we slather, dab, dot and rub many things on our precious faces in the name of beauty. Lotions, creams, ointments and serums all require nimble fingers—or at least a solid cotton ball—for application. But when’s the last time we sprayed a product on our face?

Get ready to take aim.

A few years ago, Evian (yes, the company known for its bottled spring water) introduced the first mineral-water facial spray. Touted as a refresher and toner, the product was marketed toward jet-setting women who wanted to stay hydrated during travel. Soon enough, well-heeled women everywhere were seen tucking these cute white-and-pink spray bottles in their carry-on bags before boarding the plane. //READ MORE

Floral Prints Spring Up on the Runways

Pretty petals to oversized bouquets, it’s time to smell wear the roses.

floral fashions

Never underestimate the va-va-bloom power of flowers. With seemingly magical powers, they add new life to a dull kitchen or cluttered desk—and, now, your closet. Indeed, there’s nothing like slipping into a fresh floral print for scentsational summer style. Bold bouquets, demure blooms and teensy petals are popping off sultry shifts and maxis, flirty rompers and chic tops. Here at Red Typewriter, we’re particularly smitten with vintage-inspired bathing suits in prints charming. Don’t consider yourself a “flower” girl? Have fun with the trend through accessories. Think scarves, handbags and sandals, or flower-shaped jewelry. Still not for you? Grab a pair of floral-print undies and call it a day, Sunshine. //READ MORE

10 Ways to Make Your Favorite Dishes Healthier

Simple ingredient swaps for more waistline-friendly meals.

cooking substitutions

At the beginning of my weight-loss journey, I initially cut many of my favorite foods from my diet, simply because they were too high in calories. After a while, I realized it’s impossible to live in a dieting bubble; there’s always a party, a celebration or a craving to contend with. So, I began to rethink my strategy. Instead of compiling a list of “bad” foods, I embarked on a quest to lighten up what would normally be very calorie-laden dishes.

At first, I tried the age-old substitutes, like replacing oil and eggs with applesauce in baked goods. Sure, my cakes and muffins cooked. But they certainly didn’t taste very good. But I kept experimenting, and through the years, I’ve discovered some ingredient substitutions that are so effective no one would notice the difference. The key is finding alternatives with similar tastes and textures. With a little thoughtful planning, it’s possible to create flavorful recipes that are low-calorie, low-fat and incredibly tasty. //READ MORE

Hawaiian Punch

Make a bold summer statement with these tropical-inspired fashions.

Hawaii fashion

This season, designers had tropical climes on the brain, gathering inspiration from the lush landscapes and warm beaches of the Hawaiian islands. Palm leaves, tropical fruit, leis and other symbols of Paradise City can be seen on a range of silhouettes right now, from loose, easy pieces like palazzo pants and rompers to body-con dresses and bikinis—appropriately designed to flaunt a little of that tanned tropical skin. Pineapples and hibiscus, the state flower, are popping up on earrings, necklaces, handbags and other accessories.

So pick up a few of these beach-worthy pieces and wear them out before summer comes to an end. Your wardrobe will be saying, “Mahalo.” //READ MORE

One-Piece Wonders

The romper is all grown up—and hotter than ever.

rompers

Does the mere mention of the word “romper” take you to a place where baby pink, drooling toddlers and cartoon characters roam free? Well, get over it, sista: The new romper is all grown up, ready for summer and wholly embraced by a slew of designers a la Diane von Furstenberg, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Ella Moss and BCBGMAXAZRIA.

Following in the footsteps of the still-trendy jumpsuit, the latest incarnation of the one-piece wonder is fresh, functional and oh-so-easy to wear. Those who don’t always have time to contemplate Instagram-worthy ensembles will love this trend, which requires no real fashion math—as in: “Does this top match this skirt?” Plus, making a footwear faux pas is virtually impossible, as flats, heels and sandals of every type are romper-friendly. //READ MORE

Throw a Sweet Summer Soirée

10 fun ways to turn up the heat at your next outdoor shindig.

summer parties

Was there ever a year when we’ve been more ready for summer? Between the arctic vortex that pummeled much of our country this winter, to the erratic temperatures and winds that ran up and down the coastlines this spring, we’ve experienced a wild range of weather for the past two seasons. Now that the warmth has finally arrived and your once-sleepy neighborhood is finally buzzing with activity, consider throwing a bash to celebrate.

If you’re wondering how to get the party started, reach out to the party people you know for ideas and support. Think about it: We all have that one friend who’s expert at throwing shindigs and making every bash look effortless, so why not enlist her to sit down with you, give you some tips and help you organize things? (That’s half your battle right there.) Maybe you know someone who can arrange photo-worthy appetizer trays and another who loves to bake the best cookies and cakes. Delegating planning and cooking responsibilities not only makes your job easier, but can also highlight the contributions of those who helped out. And everyone loves to be acknowledged for something they’re good at.

As long as we’re on the topic of delegating, try giving a few party attendees a job to do. Nine times out of 10 that person will be delighted to help grill, put out the plates and napkins, play bartender, rally the kids for some activities or serve as DJ. To keep the party momentum going, here are 10 inspiring ways to add panache to any hot-weather celebration. Your attention to detail will be appreciated and discussed well beyond Labor Day if you follow a few of these suggestions. //READ MORE