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Tips for Picking and Packing the Best Travel Shoes


You pack three sets of high heels for a business trip — and then your client suggests you take a tour of the office and then walk half a mile to lunch.
You pack rugged sandals and sneakers for your European tour — and then find out you'll be visiting Michelin-starred restaurants.
You can't win. How do you choose the best travel shoes for your next trip? Here are some suggestions for dressy, athletic and walking shoes for women travelers.

Tips for Packing the Best Travel Shoes

  • Pack no more than three pairs. The pros say two should do, but for a longer trip, or one with variable weather, you can choose three. Travel blogger Hitha On The Go has created a fun grid of travel shoe combinations for various situations. For a wedding weekend: metallic or nude heels + flats for the airport + neutral oxfords.
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  • Pick a travel palette. The easiest way to pack a versatile travel wardrobe is to choose an accent color and a base of neutrals. Use the same palette when packing your shoes. Go for the ruby or kelly-green flats — just make sure you can wear them with multiple outfits.
  • Don't lie about working out. You tell yourself you'll take full advantage of the hotel's gym, but deep down you know you won't. Don't waste suitcase space with bulky athletic shoes. If you're committed to your workout regimen, pack lightweight athletic shoes (see below).
  • Wear your biggest shoes. Need to bring snow boots or sneakers? Wear them on the plane to save room in your suitcase.
  • Don't pack brand-new shoes. While some travelers say they can wear high-quality walking shoes right out of the box without any problems, it's not wise to risk it. Break in your new walking shoes a few weeks before your trip.
  • Invest in good socks. Wearing cheap, thin socks negates the benefits of high-quality walking shoes.The Savvy Backpacker recommends SmartWool, Thorlo and Darn Tough socks.
  • Pack first aid for your feet. Moleskine (fuzzy adhesive strips) can help prevent blisters from forming, while a Spenco 2nd Skin Blister Kit heals raw spots on your feet.

Best Travel Walking Shoes for Women

Your favorite neon-colored sneakers aren't necessarily the best travel shoes if you're headed overseas. They scream "American tourist!" when you'd prefer to blend in — and you may be better off with a shoe designed exclusively for walking.
Merrell makes classic walking shoes for women that are waterproof and breathable. The soles are designed to grip slippery terrain, whether cobblestoned streets or mountain trails in spring rains.
With a chunky, wedge-shaped rubber heel and lace-up leather uppers, the Fly London Ylva sandalisn't for everyone. Women who own them say they're some of the best walking shoes for travel, however, because the laces make the shoe adjustable for wider or swollen feet. One fan wore them for 16 hours while exploring London.1 The laceless Fly London Yala is just as comfortable but a little dressier.
If you don't mind a more athletic look, try KEEN sandals and athletic shoes. With rugged construction and oversized toe bumpers, they're designed for comfort over style, but they're hugely popular among travelers. The washable, strappy Rose sandal comes up again and again as one of the best travel shoes to wear everywhere.

Best Travel Shoes for Working Out

If you're committed to running, wherever you are in the world, invest in a pair of ultra-lightweight athletic shoes that pack easily. 
Hand-crafted Soft Star RunAmoc running moccasins are ultra-light and easy to stuff in a suitcase. Other running shoes for travel include the Under Armour Speedform Apollo, Reebok ZQUICK or the super-light (but SCUBA-bootie looking) ZEMgear 360 Ninja Split Toe.2

Best Travel Shoes that Can Dress Up or Dress Down

When you're packing for an overseas trip, you want your walking shoes to be comfortable enough for a full day of exploring but chic enough to wear to dinner. Here are a few of these all-purpose, all-star travel shoes.
French company Mephisto makes high-quality walking shoes for women that are dressy enough for business wear. Its Soft-Air midsole reduces foot fatigue even after a day of walking. While some Mephisto models look a little too sensible, the City line works for a night out.
Dansko is synonymous with clunky clogs, but some of their styles are polished and chic — not to mention ridiculously comfortable. Flight attendants say Dansko does wonders to prevent foot and back pain.3
Travelers are freaks for Tieks. These Italian leather flats are flexible enough to fold and stash in your purse (in the included pouch). But they're also substantial enough — with a non-skid rubber split sole and a cushy instep — to wear on an all-day walking tour of Barcelona. The vegan version is made of durable fabric.
In the same vein, Ahnu's Karma slip-on is a cute leather flat with crossed straps and a rubber toe kick. "They feel like slippers!" one traveler raves. Remember that it's important to keep your feet happy while traveling, so great travel shoes are a worthwhile investment.

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HOW TO PROPERLY CLEAN EVERY BEAUTY TOOL YOU OWN

How to properly clean your makeup brushes (and other beauty tools) is no new topic in the beauty industry. But just like most things in everyday life – it’s tough to keep track of every little thing you should be doing. When it comes to brushes, spoolies, sponges, and tools, keeping them properly cleaned will not only extend the lives of your precious products, but keep them safe and healthy too!
How to Properly Clean Every Beauty Tool

Makeup Brushes & Sponges

Beauty sponges, such as wedges or your beautyblender, should be cleaned by adding a cleaning solution and dampening with water while squeezing thoroughly. Rather than just let water hit the sponge, you want to gently distribute the soap to ensure a proper clean (you can even do this with a natural bar soap!). You may be in a hurry, but don’t aggressively twist, or you run the risk of tears. Make sure to squeeze out excess water and store in a ventilated area to dry it out. As far as the type of cleanser to use, beautyblender has their own gentle formula, but most mild soaps (or even shampoo) will do the trick for a variety of sponges, as well as a simple mix of dish soap and olive oil!
Like beauty sponges, you have to make sure to thoroughly distribute the cleanser throughout makeup brushes to completely remove leftover product. To clean brushes after daily use, simply spritz a brush cleaner (or the options above) and keep brushes somewhere they’ll dry. For a more in depth guide to makeup brushes, check out my makeup brush guide.

Beauty Tools

If you’ve also tried using makeup remover or soap and water to clean your eyelash remover with less than stellar results, you might need to try a new method. Like I mentioned in my eyelash curler tricks post, sometimes all you need is a little heat. Some people actually use a lighter to heat up (and melt away) extra stuck-on product, but it’s just as effective and a lot safer to run it under your blow drier or even soak it in hot water instead. Once heated, you can let cool enough to safely run tissue paper over it and voila! – good as new.
You can clean long overdue spoolies with the same solution you would a brush or sponge, but in the long run, it’s a lot easier to just make sure you’re giving it a rinse with each use. Excess brow gel or powder will generally come off with a bit of eye makeup remover – it’s how you get the product off your skin, after all – so grab a remover wipe and gently roll the spoolie over it after each use to make sure you start fresh each time. Save Up To 65% OFF eBay Today's Top Deals + FREE Shipping. Click here

Hairbrushes

Yep, you’ve gotta clean your hairbrush too! To do so, start by combing through (you can literally use a comb) the bristles to remove as much hair as possible. Then, soak it in warm water and a modest amount of clarifying shampoo… you guessed it… to extract the buildup. (If it can’t be soaked just dip it in a couple times.) Comb through it again and let dry. If it’s still dirty, it may be time for a deep clean or perhaps a new brush altogether.

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EBAY PROMO CODE & FIRST STROBING, NOW THIS

If you read my post on strobing, you know that contouring is no longer everyone’s go to (though it IS still super popular). With strobing, you’re ditching the famed contour for a more dewy, youthful approach – one that’s entirely dependent upon highlighter. But there’s now another player in the face makeup trick game: baking.
Baking 101
Have you guys heard of baking? It’s where you let your concealer (particularly the under eye, but everywhere you wear concealer is fair game too) sit on your skin for about ten minutes before diving into your makeup routine.
It sounds a little tedious (unless you have an updo to perfect during that time…) but apparently it’s for good reason: your own body heat helps the product set, leaving you with a more even application and flawless face. Even though the term “baking” is a bit scary (you’re going to do what to my skin??), it’s really all about that 10 or 15 setting time.
So here’s how it works: Start off with your basic skincare routine and use a primer to prep skin. When it comes to adding your concealer, apply a liberal amount – don’t be shy here. You’ll do the blending later. Some people even add another layer of concealer (or loose powder if you’re not 100% committed) to seal the deal. Let it “bake” before blending with a sponge or fingertips—it helps if it’s a bit damp. You can also blend with a large brush to make sure everything sits nicely. Afterwards, apply a bit of translucent powder (such as the popular Laura Mercier version) or spritz a setting spray. Fall Savings: Up To 75% OFF + FREE Shipping at eBay! Click here
The one caveat about this trend is that it can be a bit bold (it was created to set stage makeup, afterall). No, you’re not going to end up with giant pre-blending splotches as pictured, but as with any makeup technique, the more product you use, the less natural it looks. If you’re not into that, strobing really might be the best option!
And like most trends… This technique was actually utilized by pros long before it became a “must-do” trick. What old tricks do you know that have had a revival recently? Share your secrets below!

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NAIL POLISH’S NEW NEUTRALS

Nail art is fun (especially in the summer – have you given these watermelon nails a try?) but sometimes the best pair for a summer dress or even a casual t-shirt and jeans look is neutral. But fear not, color lovers, because neutral nails no longer means boring beige and basic brown. These new neutrals are where it’s at this year, and they range from near-pastels to shiny nudes:
Nail Polish New Neutrals

HIPPxRGB, Ciate Cookies and Cream, Marc Jacobs Fluorescent Beige, NCLA Tutus & Traffic Violations, essie Coconut Cove, Deborah Lippmann Dirty Little Secret, Ciate Antique Brooch
What do you think of these new nail polish neutrals? The nude nail foundations from RGB and NCLA’s Tutus & Traffic Violations are both for those of you on the hunt for a subtle neutral, while if your idea of neutral also contains a little sparkle (because why not?) you might try Deborah Lippman or Ciate’s Antique Brooch. Read the descriptions on the graphic above and find your perfect match! Enjoy Up To 10% OFF On Select Items With eBay Coupon Extras. Save on health, beauty, toys and more! Get the latest eBay coupon code, eBay redemption code 2016 now
Do you have any neutral nail colors? Share your faves below!

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BEAUTY SCHOOL: HOW (AND WHY) TO USE AN ICE ROLLER

Hi everyone! Have any of you used an ice roller before? If not, I thought I’d share this handy little graphic explaining what they are and how to use them:
How to Use an Ice Roller
If you’ve heard of ice cube facials, cold therapy or even de-puffing your eyes with cucumber (thinkway back), then you’re already familiar with how an ice roller works. Made popular by Korean beauty experts and in spas around the world, this cooling treatment for skin is a super simple, non-invasive way to get that instant reset – and maybe even reduce some fine lines and blemishes too. Though it looks a bit similar to a derma roller, this handy device is actually often used to soothe skin post-derma and other cosmetic procedures. Not to mention it’ll instantly wake you up after an all-nighter – whether you spent it studying or socializing.
Prices range from about $15 to $70, but most will run you somewhere in between. You can purchase the trending stainless steel Revive Professional Ice Roller from Vanity Planet and Hansderma Skincool Ice Roller + Esarora Ice Roller from eBay.com. Get 2% Back on Items Paid by Paypal. Plus get up to 90% OFF eBay Daily Deals & Sale Events. Get it now!

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QUICK TIP: HOW TO GET RID OF T-ZONE SHINE

Ah, the T-Zone. That area of your face that makes up your forehead, nose, and chin is often the problem area for acne and oily skin. But even if you don’t break out there, you still might get a little shiny once in a while. It’s a delicate balance between achieving that much sought-after dewy look and looking totally reflective, so try these simple steps to get rid of unwanted shine and get you looking your best.
get rid of t-zone shine
Salt & water - Just like other beauty products you can nab from your kitchen pantry, a mix of salt and water can do the trick for your t-zone. Make a paste with equal parts of the two ingredients, apply it to your face for a few minutes, and wash away with warm water. Because salt is pretty drying, I wouldn’t recommend using this solution more than once a week.
Witch hazel - Witch hazel is a natural astringent, so it helps absorb dirt and oil. Dab a little on a cotton ball and apply to your t-zone. This one from Thayers has a sweet rose petal scent and aloe vera so you don’t dry out too much. If you don’t have witch hazel, rubbing alcohol will work too. Follow this link and get FREE Shipping On Daily Deals - New Deals Every Day! Save on thousands of products in different categories at eBay!  Click here
Blotting sheets – Oil blotting sheets are compact and portable, and in a pinch they’re a great way to help reduce that unwanted shine. These mint sheets from Sephora add a perfect cooling effect for the summertime. Just dab them to the area and you’ll get a matte effect right away.

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HOW DO THESE 4 BLACK EYELINERS MEASURE UP?

Sometimes the most interesting beauty products are also the simplest; they’re those staples in our routines that we’d never leave the house without, yet we tend to forget they’re even there. Black eyeliner is one of those staples for many of us. 
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From making those peepers pop at work to creating a glamorous and sultry night-out look, black eyeliner just might be the most versatile product in your makeup bag. At the MichellePhan.com HQ, we decided to round up the team and compare 4 classic brands:
How to These Black Eyeliners Measure Up?
So how did all four eyeliners measure up?
Smudge - A felt tip is always good for smudging, and if you like the look of a smudge across the upper lash line, Revolution‘s eyeliners are the way to go. You won’t get a dainty, delicate line with this thick pen, but they do have liquid liners and thin felt tips to choose from too. Luckily, they’re all a steal.
Waterline - Given how smoothly NARS Larger Than Life Longwear Eyeliner glides on for a more defined and dramatic application, it’s an obvious pick for the waterline – their long-wearing formula makes it perfect for areas that other liners slide right off of. This one is versatile for a variety of looks including natural smokey eyes too – no wonder it’s considered a classic.
Precise Lines – Jouer Kitten Liner lives up to its name. The small, gentle pen tip makes it ideal for precise winged liner, including cat eyes, but it’s also the one you want to experiment with. The pen is designed for easy application, so you can experiment with new ways to wear eyeliner whether you’re beginner or pro status.
Winged Liner – But if the perfect flick is what you’re after, there’s a reason why Tartiest – Clay Paint Liner is loved by so many. This is a cream liner that comes in a little paint tube along with a thin brush with an angled handle for easier definition. When I say that makeup models the art world, this is what I mean! The two tools in this set are just like a paint brush and tube of black. It may take a little practice, but once you nail it, you’ll get the most coveted look of all: flawless winged liner.
 What’s your #1 black eyeliner?

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The 12 Best Fall Trends from New York Fashion Week






As always, the end of New York Fashion Week brings with it the inevitable forecasting of next year’s biggest trends, and while it’s still too early to tell which styles the masses will take to, there was a handful of strong recurring looks that emerged with a vengeance from the high-fashion Fall 2016 runways. While a few are holdovers from this past fall (statement fur, thoughtful layering), others definitely feel shiny and new (chokers, excessive ruffles).


Overall though, the biggest trend appeared to be not really paying attention to the season at all. Blame it on the exceptionally warm weather most of the U.S. faced this winter, but nearly every designer presented fall collections that felt springlike in nature—slinky slip dresses, billowy off-the-shoulder tops, florals, and strapless tops.

And while coats were present in most collections, we were hard-pressed to find chunky knits, wintry trousers, and other pieces typically found on fall runways.


Still, there’s plenty to look forward to, namely the 12 trends highlighted below. Take a look and let us know what you’re looking forward to wearing .as the season approaches.




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Michael Kors; J.Crew; Prabal Gurung (ImaxTree)
Statement Fur

Overall, fur—both real and faux—made a strong showing on fall runways in various forms, but it was the use of bold colors and prints that really caught our eye. Two we bet the street-style crowd will embrace: Michael Kors’ floral fur and J.Crew’s cotton candy coat




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A Detacher; Christian Siriano; Cushnie et Ochs (ImaxTree)
Ruffles

We’re used to seeing over-the-top pieces on runways that often employ laughable proportions. But for fall, designers like Jill Stuart and Cushnie et Ochs managed to fuse structured high-fashion ruffles with wearability.




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Karen Walker; Marissa Webb; Michael Kors (ImaxTree)
Shades of Tan

Expect to see tons of pants, knits, skirts, and—our favorite—outerwear done up in varying shades of tan, perhaps the chicest, most classic color there is, from muted khaki to soft camel.




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Rachel Zoe; Tibi; Suno (ImaxTree)
Gold Metallic

Once upon a time, the thought of shiny gold attire called to mind glitzy grandmas or Las Vegas party girls. However, thanks to an especially strong showing on Fall 2016 runways, metallics—specifically gold—are poised to be a seasonal standout. At Rachel Zoe, a lamé-like sheer maxi stole the show, while cool-girl label Baja East opted for gold “going-out” tops paired with slouchy tan pants and flat slides, accentuating their wearability.




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Altuzarra; VFiles; Lacoste (ImaxTree)
Shearling Bombers

Classic aviator-style shearling jackets are back for Fall 2016, with designers such as Altuzarra and Kate Spade showing them with everything from kick flares to midi dresses.




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Karen Walker; Creatures of the Wind; Tory Burch
Turtlenecks Under Dresses

Why wait until next fall when you can start testing out this mega-trend—long-sleeve shirts layered under dresses—right now? Not only is it easy for any body type to pull off, but it allows you to take those slinky slips, glitzy sequins, and low-cut cocktail dresses out in broad daylight.




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Victoria Beckham; Rachel Zoe; Calvin Klein
Plaid Overcoats

Fall runways usually bring more tartan than we can handle, but this year, labels like Calvin Klein and Victoria Beckham approached plaid in a much cleaner, subtler, muted way, and used the print on everything from outerwear to cocktail dresses.




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Rebecca Minkoff; Brock Collection; Hellessy
Off-the-Shoulder

Perhaps taking cues from the fact that OTS cuts were massive in the retail space throughout 2015 and Spring ’16, designers amped up their offering for Fall 2016, showcasing dramatic blouses and luxe-looking dresses with the subtly sexy silhouette.




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Delpozo; Ulla Johnson; Marissa Webb
Dusty Pink & Yellow

At first blush, this modern color combination felt more suited to spring than fall, but designers such as Ulla Johnson and Delpozo were careful to use separates that had an autumnal feel such as turtlenecks and coats.




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J.Crew; Zimmermann; Cristian Siriano (ImaxTree)
Pantsuits

It’s probably not a coincidence that fashion wasn’t shy about updating the dowdy pantsuit for fall—ahem, Hillary Clinton. Slim, stylish, and often colorful, the new power suit is just as suitable for a night out as it is for the boardroom.





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Fall Florals

It’s not every fall designers play with florals but for 2016, a pretty hefty number of number of designers kicked minimalism to the curb and added small yet bold prints to sweatshirts, skirts, and sweeping dresses.




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Adam Selman; Hellessy; Oscar de la Renta (ImaxTree)
Chokers


It doesn’t matter if you prefer a skinny silk scarf or a chunky choker—just make sure something is around your neck this fall to add a little extra oomph to everything from button-down blouses to cocktail dresses. And nope—it doesn’t make you basic.


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The latest eBay redemption code in September 2016

Are you guys all completely in the fall spirit yet? This year, the scarves are bigger than ever, the bags come in the prettiest colors and there are endless accessories to choose from. There’s really no excuse not to experiment with your personal style. I’ve definitely been vibing the darker hues and moods lately, and there’s no better time to bring it all together than with a cozy yet bold autumn outfit. Here are four basic fall essentials to mix and match throughout the season:

Over Your Shoulders


What did I say? You hardly need to worry about having the most stylish sweater; an oversized scarf makes all the statement you need. Take it step further with a cape or wrap on chillier days.

On Your Head

essential fall accessoriesBraid Knitted Headband, Marble Mirrored Round Sunglasses, Ash Felt Floppy Hat
Knit headbands and big felt hats are two classic must-haves for fall, and as much as I love vibrant colors, neutrals are practical. If you live in a sunny area like southern California, you understand why sunnies are in the mix. These mirrored sunglasses are chic and don’t look too out of place with a huge cowl neck sweater. eBay offers redemption code for 20% off, $5 Off, 10% Off that enable customers to get extra discount in addition to already lowest prices anywhere. Check out the latest eBay redemption code september 2016

To Carry The Essentials


All those oversized essentials will need a place to say or at least a practical piece to complement them. I chose a backpack, crossbody and tote so you could be inspired to suit your needs. What’s cozier (or more 90s) than a velvet backpack for days at the library?

Adorning Your Sweater


Gold is killer in fall. It goes with red, greens, blacks and purples insanely well without minimizing impact. I say go bold with fringe, body chains or statement pendants and your fall look is complete.

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