With temperatures rising, toes are begging to be set free from the heavy boots and shoes of winter. Just remember that after being kept in stockings and socks for the last several months, your tootsies will probably need a little TLC before they can make their grand appearance. Your feet, in sandals or open-toed shoes, can make or break an entire ensemble. A polished foot is as important as any other accessory, whether it be a sophisticated hairstyle or the right jewelry selection.

If you haven’t already, treat yourself to a pedicure to start the season. Getting a professional job initially will make things much easier for you to maintain if your budget only allows for the one. If you can swing monthly (or even bi-weekly) pedis, go for it!

When choosing a polish color, be bold! OPI always has great seasonal offerings in bright, punchy colors and for a lower price point, check out Sally Hansen at your local drugstore. Don’t feel like you have to adhere to the outdated notion that toes and fingers must match…select a pedicure color that flatters you!

If you are self-tanning, be careful to moisturize your feet and ankles first because they tend to be dry and can soak up more tanning cream for a streaky look. Also pay close attention to your shoes as they can cause your tan to rub off, leaving white stripes across your feet.

If you keep these tips in mind, you shouldn’t have any trouble getting your feet in shape with high style for the season! Just remember, every element of your appearance helps to make an overall statement, including your feet!

via Cupcakes and Cashmere blog (w/ permission according to FAQs)

It’s that time of year when the days are getting longer and daylight savings time is approaching. As colorful buds burst forth on trees and shrubs, we find ourselves longing to do the same with our fashion choices. This warmer weather means the unveiling of body parts that haven’t seen the light of day for several months.

Before revealing any skin, it is imperative to make sure it is healthy, polished and soft to the touch. Our skin is constantly renewing itself, but in order for this process to take place, we must slough off the outer layer so that the young, new skin can shine through. If you need some help in this area, try booking an appointment with a spa for a full body exfoliation treatment. This type of treatment will refine your skin with special oils and salts, leaving it healthy and glowing.

If a spa day isn’t in your budget right now, try the DIY approach using either a drugstore scrub or a homemade recipe. For a great homemade scrub, try mixing olive oil with some coarse sugar. This will soften and buff your skin at the same time while smelling delicious too!

If your skin tone is looking a bit pale or pasty, you might want to consider adding a little glow to your body with a sunless tan. Again, there are different options for different budgets, including a professional airbrushed tan or spray-on system as well as self-tanner you can apply at home. Many of the self-tanners available for purchase these days provide other qualities besides a tan. From a bronze glow to a glittery shimmer, to lotions that firm and tighten the skin, there are nearly unlimited options to help your skin look great.

If at all possible, get a massage every once in awhile. This helps improve the skins appearance because it gets blood flowing and helps things appear more toned.

I prefer organic products when possible. There is such a wide range of them available these days and for all different price points. Also important to remember is truly healthy skin must be achieved from the inside out. Make sure you eat a healthy diet, drink lots of water, exercise often and get the proper amount of sleep. Always check with a physician before starting any new types of health regimens.

I recommend taking good care of your skin all year around so you are always prepared to show a little skin and look great doing so. You never know when the opportunity might arise for a trip to a warm and dreamy destination.