Beauty and Style Steals - Cyber Monday and Black Friday codes

It's time to get your holiday shopping face on, but no need to leave the house - you have the Internet! Here are some top picks from my favorite brands and stores for your cyber weekend!

STYLE

J Crew | 30% off site wide, use code HOLIDAY at checkout

Piperlime | 25% off site wide, use code GIFT at checkout

Ann Taylor | 40% off everything, use code GET40

Banana Republic | 40% off everything, use code BRGIVING at checkout

ASOS | 20% off everything, use code GIMME20 at checkout

Shopbop | Save up to 25%, use code BIGEVENT13 at checkout

Baublebar | 15-35% on Black Friday depending on how many items you purchase

Ted Baker London | 30% off through Monday, use code TED30

Diane Von Furstenburg | Up to 30% off through Monday, no code needed

Madewell | 25% off your entire order, use code Feast25 at checkout

Tory Burch | 20-30% off + gift with purchase, use code holiday

BEAUTY

Beautylish | $25 off $100 

Becca cosmetics | 20% off with code FAMILY13

Bliss | 20% off full size bliss

Butter London | 20% off site wide, use code CYBER13

Dr Brandt Skincare | 40% off entire purchase, 11/29 only

Giorgio Armani | 20% off $75+ purchases, through 12/5

NARS Cosmetics | 20% off + free shipping, use code NARSFRIENDS

Peter Thomas Roth | 20% off entire site

SAKS | $25 gift card when you spend $100 on beauty/fragrance, use code BEAUTY13

Smashbox | 25% off everything with $50+ purchase, use code HOLIDAY25

Tarte Cosmetics | 25% off everything, use code TURKEY

YSL | 20% off $75+ orders and free shipping

A Model's Top Ten Beauty Product Reommendations for Camera Ready Photos.

I have been asked so many times to reveal my All time favorite beauty products, so I thought I would start with my TOP TEN tried and true go-tos. These are the beauty choices I make every time I'm on television or need to be camera ready - for they have never failed me! 

1. Giorgio Armani Maestro Foundation. One of the highest rated foundations by makeup artists for flawless perfection. Great coverage with a satin, light luminous finish - perfect for those high definition cameras!

2. Lorac's TANtalizer. My best feature are my legs and living in Arizona I get to show off nearly every day wearing shorts and skirts. My absolute best recommendation besides self tanning is this product to give a nice bronzed glow. Great to use all over before a swimsuit photo too ... anything darker recedes in photos and everything helps for those days.

3. HOURGLASS Aura Sheer Cheek Stain. I have to admit, I own all three colors. The great part of using a cheek stain is that it doesn't fade like powder or smear down like cream blush. Don't be intimidated by the color - it is VERY sheer and does not go on as dark as it appears. Secret trick: Layer this underneath highlighting blush and it will last all day long.

4. Beauty Blender. If you thought all sponges were created equal when it comes to makeup application, this one will prove you wrong. I have no idea why, but this little gem makes it look like you have almost used an airbrush to apply. No edges means no lines and the tip is perfect for getting underneath your eyes perfectly.

5. Amazing Cosmetics Concealer. One of my favorite concealers because it blends and erases any hyper-pigmentation so easily. Water resistant and  it comes in lots of different shades. 

6. Smashbox Photo Finish Lid Primer. This is a must have for anyone who wears eyeshadow. Not only does it prevent creasing, but no matter what brand of eyeshadow this will help it look better and last longer. I am also a big fan of the under eye primer in this line too. Both brighten the eye instantly.

7. Makeup Forever HD High Definition Powder. This year is all about a matte looking face, but there's a difference between matte and dry. This powder not only sets my makeup, but it mattifies the skin flawlessly which is key in front of high definition cameras that can see every pore. It is translucent which means it is invisible color for all skin. You can wear as a finishing powder or on a bare face alone.

8. Brazilian Blowout Acai Smoothing Serum. I use this every morning on my wet hair before blow drying. Not only does it prevent frizz but it coats the cuticle to protect it, locking in moisture and giving great shine.

9. YSL Touche Éclat. A concealer/highlighting pen that literally brings light to your face without any sparkle. Using this product always makes me look well rested. Check out my post about all the places on your face you should be highlighting {HERE}.

10. Givenchy Mister Mat Mattifying Foundation Primer. I must admit that I have tried alot of primers - far too many to remember or count. No matter what I buy or try, I always go back to Mister Mat. A primer makes the difference in flawless foundation application, but many times they are too greasy or have so much silicone that they literally "ball up" on my face. I especially love Mr Mat because he doesn't leave me with an oil slick when I'm done putting on my face. Key for on camera work and makes it so I need less powder too.

Best Monthly Subscription gift boxes - Holiday gift ideas for everyone on your list!

Back in the day, a subscription to a magazine seemed to be a good holiday gift idea, but now the subscription market has exploded beyond anyone's expectation. And with Christmas just over a month away these boxed deliveries will allow you to check everyone off your list - there is literally a subscription for everything and everyone!

What's in your box? Watch the video {HERE}

The Beauty Box

The most widely known monthly box service. I am a subscriber to many of these monthly programs and when my package arrives it feels a little like Christmas! I get to try out new makeup without having to research and purchase. Plus, if you can imagine what a beauty bloggers' bathroom cabinets look like then you'll understand when I tell you that my collection has exploded far beyond into other areas of the home which is why I appreciate trying before buying full size product.

• Birchbox is one of the original sample subscription boxes. I am a faithful member and at $10 a month this is still one of the best values out there! They send out 4-5 deluxe samples each month and usually one full size product and offer video tutorials and you can earn points for purchasing products through their website. {Subscribe to Birchbox}

• IPSY formerly myGlam - I also subscribe to this box. This box was created by You Tube beauty guru, Michelle Phan. Very similar to Birchbox, also $10 a month for a variety of samples that arrive in a super cute zippered pouch. {Subscribe to IPSY}

• GlossyBox has been an international success UK and Canada. Now launching in the U.S.Included each month are 5 high end and emerging beauty treats from around the globe for around $20 a month depending on your plan.  I just received my first box and was very impressed which contained a full size Tarte Lights Camera, Flashes Statement  Mascara with a retail price of $23. {Subscribe to GlossyBox}

• New Beauty Test Tube - This comes straight from the editors of one of my favorite magazines, New Beauty. This is sent out quarterly and for $29.95 you receive a large tube with awesome products valued over $150. {Subscribe to New Beauty Test Tube} 

Man Boxes

• Birchbox has also rolled out their program to the men so that they can discover the best new grooming and style products geared for them. This subscription is $20 a month. {Subscribe to Birchbox for men}

• Dollar Shave Club. For as little as $1 a month, receive razors delivered to your door. Shave time and shave money! {Subscribe to Dollar Shave Club}

• Mystery Tackle Box. 

• Ashton Kutcher Fancy Box. Each month Ashton will be sending you the coolest gadgets, hippest t-shirt, electronic accessories and more. $39 monthly gets you over $80 worth of products. {Subscribe to Fancy Box}

Personal Style Boxes

• Pop Sugar Must Haves. Every month the editors of Pop Sugar will send you full size items worth over $100. The "must have" in fashion, beauty, home decor accessories and more. {Subscribe to PopSugar Must Have Box}

• Wantables. A monthly subscription that sends you hand selected items that match your style. Three categories: Intimates, Makeup and Accessories. Cost is $36 and each has a value between $80-100. You enter your profile of likes, dislikes and loves. You never get your dislikes. My first box I received a statement necklace, super cool ring that fit me perfectly, and Betsey Johnson houndstooth boxer pj bottoms - that all fit my style perfectly! WOW I was impressed. {Subscribe to Wantables}

• Stunner of the Month. A monthly subscription service that sends you a new pair of sunglasses every month for $9 including free shipping. {Subscribe to Stunner of the Month}

• FabFitFun VIP Box. Giuliana Rancic and her team 4 times a year for $49.99 per season will send you full sized premium products worth over $120 in beauty, fitness, fashion and wellness. Yes, pretty fabulous! {Subscribe to FabFitFun VIP}

• Stitch Fix. Fun clothes, chosen by your own personalized stylist delivered straight to your door. You fill out a detailed questionnaire and they send you a box of 5 clothing/accessories hand picked for you based on your profile. Yes your personal stylist. You pay $20 for the styling fee which also includes delivery. You have 3 days to try on and decide what to keep or send back. Your $20 will be applied as a credit for anything you decide to keep. Keep all 5 items and get a 25% discount! {Subscribe to Stitch Fix}

Children's Boxes

• Citrus Lane. Babies to preschoolers will love this box tailored to grow with each stage of your child's life. Products chosen by moms for moms. A great way to try and discover new brands. around $20/month. Your Citrus Lane box will be filled with healthy treats, books, engaging toys and sometimes a goodie for the parent. {Subscribe to Citrus Lane}

• Crafter's Crate. Designed for girls ages 5-10. For $20 you will receive 4-5 complete craft sets to make. Perfect for busy moms who want to do something fun with their child. {Subscribe to Crafter's Crate}

• Fab Kids. Every month you will get a new play outfit for your son or daughter. Girls or boys sizes 2 to 12. $39.95 a month. {Subscribe to Fab Kids}

Pet Boxes

• Bark Box. $29/month. We love a box that gives back. 10% of all proceeds given to shelter and rescues for animals in need. 4-6 items each month including all natural treats, toys and pet products not typically found in big box stores are sent depending on the size of your dog, small, medium, large. {Subscribe to BarkBox}

How to look like a Victoria Secret Fashion Show Model - 2013 video peek

Makeup by Margarita Potts 

Every woman has a little secret ... above is a photo from my own inner angel transformation last month.  

In just a few weeks, on Dec 10, the  2013 Victoria Secret Fashion Show that just taped a few days ago will air on CBS. I always look forward to watching because it motivates me to stand taller, wear heels, eat better and try harder with my own beauty regime. 

Here's a video of the Victoria Secret Fashion Show:

Don't be too hard on yourself ... these girls have advantages beyond good genes to looking this wonderful: stylists, professional makeup artists,  extra hair, and perfect lighting! There's a reason their call time is 9am for an 8pm show! It takes alot of effort to look that good! 

Here's a few of their tricks: 

HAIR

What you might not realize is that most of the Victoria Secret models are wearing hair extensions. Models' hair is typically damaged from the constant products and styling required for multiple photo shoots and appearances. Watch this video to see how they are matching up extensions for one of the models, at minute 7:08 to 7:30. Most of us don't have stylist to help us every day so read on to learn about a new design hair extension that anyone can put on themselves in less than 30 seconds.

The best human hair in extensions to buy is REMY hair, it is 100% real and cuticle correct meaning the cuticles all lay in the same direction which makes it soft, silky and less apt to tangle. Because it's REAL hair, you can color it for a perfect match to your own, but a word of advice - because this hair is already processed you do not want to lighten, only deposit color. Lowlights, toner or all over color. Unless you can find a perfect match I suggest taking it to your stylist to color for you. Here's a photo from theFashionspot.com's backstage photos pass just to give you an idea of how many extensions are used in the show: 

Real hair is also measured by weight. For my own hair which is long, somewhat fine but lots of it, I find that 120 grams is the right amount to add fullness and body.

Clip in extensions are great, but they can damage your own hair sometimes and the tracks can be hard to hide so people might notice.

My favorite hair extension design is called Hidden Crown halo style hair extensions and it is literally a whole set of extensions on a transparent wire which requires no glue, no clips and gives no damage to your own hair. It literally takes less than a minute to put on and you just pull your own hair over top to hold it in. You can shake your head up and down - side to side, and it doesn't come off!

Here I am getting glammed up with my Hidden Crown Hair extensions prior to my own Victoria Secret-esque shoot. Order yours at www.hiddencrown.com

Photos by Zara Ashby

BRONZED SKIN

Victoria Secret runway girls and women in athletic competitions always get a tan on before competing. A tan will automatically make you look a bit thinner

Of course nothing can replace regular workouts at the gym and a healthy diet, but you can fake more muscle tone by applying tanner or bronzer strategically in areas that you want to define.

The trick is doing it in 2 steps. First an all over color and then a second layer or contour bronzer. For the second step you will want to add deeper color to the sides of your stomach - this is to make the love handles disappear. (Use this same concept for slimmer thighs) Then flex your muscles and make a line down the center of your abs and finish with horizontal lines to define your muscle tone.

My favorite self tanners are St Tropez and Phenomenal by Vita Liberata (the world's first 2-3 week tan!), for bronzer use Lorac's Tantalizer - especially wonderful to add some shine down the front of your shins.

PERFECT LIGHT

We don't always have control over this, but one thing that makeup artists always make sure to do is add highlights to our face with light reflecting products, often using 2 different colors of foundation to contour the face. 

FULLER LIPS

To perfect a  fuller pouty lip, draw a line straight across your cupid's bow in a pinky tone just a tad darker than your own lip color before adding your favorite lipstick - finish with a dab of gloss in the center. I have no idea why, but this trick gives an optical illusion of bigger more kissable lips!

DE-BLOAT

Strictly limit sodium. and drink lots of water to flush out toxins. 
Eating can be as simple as fruits and vegetables as long as you stay clear from gassy veggies like broccoli, brussel sprouts and cauliflower. And avoid dairy and starches. Read a few more in depth tips on how to de-bloat {HERE}

SKIP the GYM 

One thing every one of these Victoria Secrets girls' will tell you is that they work out every. single. day. But models don't hit it hard core, many do Pilates, yoga and jogging. They tone, and watch what they eat so their weight doesn't fluctuate. 

If you're headed to the beach in your bikini and want your thighs to look their thinnest, skip the heavy weights the day before. Hitting the iron too hard can make lactic acid build up and make your muscles temporarily swell. 

Finding your Fashion Style without a Personal Stylist!

As a model there are a few things you pick up walking in show after show. Each designer's goal is to make their clothing stand out so models are sent down the runway looking somewhat the same, with usually these three things kept constant:

HAIRSTYLE

MAKEUP

SHOES 

So it makes sense then that you could use this strategy in reverse, to stand out. In other words, regardless of whatever clothing designer you are wearing, lose the model uniformity by developing your own personal style as simply as changing your hair, makeup and shoes! 

I recently sat down with All Parenting writer Molly Smith to share these ideas in depth and the simple ways to develop a signature style from a model mom's perspective.You can read the entire interview and all my tips {HERE}

My best advice ... always, always, always,"Dress for the part you want to have and never get lazy with this!"

Working out is an important part of my daily routine but it's important not to get so comfortable in workout clothes that you end up sitting in spandex at lunch with your girlfriends. This is NOT a style. Go home and throw on jeans, boots and a sweater ... you'll feel better about yourself, and that will show ---- on or off the runway!