Choosing summer footwear that looks and feels great

(ARA) - So long, snow boots, warm weather is here at last after one of the snowiest winters on record. But while you're skipping through summer in your saucy sandals or padding through the sand in your favorite flip-flops, what toll will your seasonal footwear take on your hardworking feet?

Nearly eight of every 10 Americans have experienced foot problems caused by wearing uncomfortable or ill-fitting shoes, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association. "Many of us increase our activity levels in the summer, and that could mean an increased risk of foot and ankle discomfort or even injury," says APMA President and podiatrist Dr. Kathleen Stone. "Plus, many of the shoes we enjoy wearing during warm weather, like flip-flops and sandals, may not always be the best choice in terms of foot health."

The foot health experts at APMA offer some advice for taking care of your feet this summer:

Finding flip-flops

Once considered only beach wear, flip-flops have gone fashionable, now showing up in offices, classrooms and social events when warm weather arrives. But some styles may be more harmful to your feet than others and can cause blisters and foot pain. When shopping for flip-flops:

* Forego vinyl or rubber and look for high-quality, soft leather, which will minimize the potential for blisters and other irritations. The APMA certifies some footwear products with its Seal of Acceptance, which tells you a team of APMA podiatrists have evaluated the footwear to ensure it allows the most normal foot function and promotes foot health.

* Like all shoes, the flip-flop should bend at the ball of the foot. Don't buy it if the shoe bends completely in half.

* Straps should fit comfortably but not be too loose or too snug. Your foot should not hang off the edge of the flip-flop. The thong between the toes should not be irritating.

* If last year's flip-flops show severe signs of wear, toss them and buy a new pair.

* Don't wear flip-flops for long walks; even the sturdiest styles don't offer sufficient arch support and shock absorption for extended wearing. And never wear them when doing yard work or playing sports.

* If you suffer from heel pain or diabetes, avoid flip-flops altogether.

No sandal scandals

As popular as flip-flops, sandals are versatile options for warm weather footwear, but you don't have to sacrifice foot health to look good in them. Foot care specialists with the APMA suggest that you should choose a sandal as much for its comfort and support as its fashion appeal. Fortunately, following a few simple steps can ensure your feet look and feel good in the summers hottest fashion sandals:

* Flats and slides are comfy and convenient, but prolonged wearing and inadequate support and cushioning may lead to arch and heel pain. Use cushioned inserts to improve sandals' support, and choose styles that have soles that don't twist excessively.

* Gladiator sandals are back in step this season, but some styles may irritate the toes and cause calluses on the heels. Choose natural materials like soft, supple leather. Toes and heels should not hang off edges.

* Platforms and high heels may make your legs look great, but they can also put you at risk of foot and ankle injuries. Opt for heels less than 2 inches high, which offer more stability.

* Rubber soles with good traction, and a wider, flatter wedge are a must for anyone wearing wedges or espadrilles.

* Peep-toe sandals can put a lot of pressure on your feet, causing bunions and hammertoes over time. Wear them for short periods only and use APMA accepted toe inserts to improve comfort.

* Ankle-wrap sandals often lack true ankle support, and friction from the straps may cause blisters. Choose sandals with straps made of soft, breathable material like leather, cotton or satin. Never wrap the straps too tightly.

Podiatrists are uniquely trained to treat ailments of the foot and ankle, even serious conditions that may require surgery. If you suffer from persistent pain in your feet or ankles, it may be time to see a podiatrist. You can find a podiatrist by visiting the APMA's website, www.apma.org. You'll also find more helpful information on how to keep your feet healthy at any age, and during any activity, on the site.

Courtesy of ARAcontent


-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter:  @GAFrontPage

Warm-Weather Trends Focus On Nude Shades And Bare Legs

(NAPSI)-As temperatures rise, there are new opportunities to find styles that suit you-and this season's warm-weather looks are no exception.

To help shape up your summer style while staying within your budget, here are some tips from fashion and style expert Lilliana Vazquez of Cheap Chica's Guide to Style-- http://cheapchicas.com.

• Nude Shades--This season, anything in nude shades will be hot. These tones are very sexy, show off your tan beautifully and have been all over the red carpet on Hollywood's hottest celebs.

• Rompers--Rompers are a flirty and fun alternative to a dress that's much more current. Always remember when you're showing off your legs that smooth skin is a must. Nair Shower Power Max is an easy and convenient way to get smooth skin that lasts days longer than shaving. It actually removes hair while you shower and comes in a convenient pump you can keep in your shower caddy. With designers showing shorter skirts and shorts, your legs will be more in focus than in seasons past. This summer, you could win concert tickets from the makers of Nair. Find out more about the Nair Step Out Challenge at NairLikeNeverBefore.com.

• Menswear-inspired Pieces--Who doesn't love a classic white button-down? Pair it with something super sexy such as a bikini or a banded skirt for a feminine flair.

• Perfect Prints--From abstract watercolor prints to classics like polka dots and stripes, there's a print out there for every personality.

• Wedges and Ghillie Ties--For summer sandals, wedges are easy to wear on the boardwalk or on the beach. If you need something a little dressier, a lace-up or Ghillie Tie sandal is the "it" shoe for the summer. A tan pair is a great go-with-everything style that will make your legs look a million miles long.

This season's rompers, shorter skirts and shorts focus on legs. Smooth skin is a must when showing off your legs.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter:  @GAFrontPage

Summertime protection for mom and baby -- inside and out

(ARA) - Whether you're relaxing beachside on vacation, picnicking in the park or strolling through the neighborhood, warm weather offers many opportunities for outdoor fun. However, these activities can lead to dehydration, sunburn and fatigue if you're not careful. Barbara Dehn, women's health nurse practitioner and award-winning author, offers tips to keep mom and baby safe all summer long.

“Mom and baby both need extra protection in the months following birth, especially during the summer season,” says Dehn. “By following a few simple guidelines, the entire family can enjoy summer outings and activities together."

Dehn suggests protecting yourself and your little one with these tips:

Practice sun protection -- If sun exposure is unavoidable, don’t forget to shield yourself and your little one with a hat and sunblock to guard against powerful UVA and UVB rays. Make sure to use a baby-safe sunblock with a high SPF that has no artificial colors or unnecessary chemical additives.

Stay nourished -- It is important to maintain your overall health, especially in the heat. Sufficient hydration is essential because a lack of fluids can cause heat exhaustion and improper digestion. Moms should also increase their intake of foods that are high in protein as well as those that contain natural liquids to improve energy and emotional state, and prevent dehydration. Best bets include dark green vegetables, juicy fruits, eggs and almonds.

For babies who are using infant formula, you can choose one that is designed to support your baby's natural defenses and digestive health. For example, Similac Advance EarlyShield is specially designed to support your baby’s developing immune system. It’s the only formula that has the EarlyShield blend of prebiotics, nucleotides and antioxidants -- nutrients found naturally in breast milk.

Refocus and recenter -- Summertime is meant to be carefree. Allow yourself some alone time to unwind. Have your partner or a friend watch the baby so you can focus on yourself. Keeping a journal is a simple way to organize your thoughts and help examine your emotions. Help baby relax, too. Set aside time to give your newborn a massage. Massaging enhances the emotional bond with your baby, improves sleep patterns, aids with digestion, boosts immunity, helps fight disease and calms your baby.

Rest up -- Hot temperatures during the summer months can cause fatigue. Nap time is not just for your little one. Force yourself to drop chores and nap while the baby does. Use a lavender-scented eye mask to get maximum rest and awaken refreshed. For baby, start a consistent bedtime routine as early as possible. Sing lullabies, read books, give a warm bath or rock in a rocking chair to help trigger bedtime.

Following these simple tips will help ensure a safe and happy summer for both you and your baby. For more information, visit www.earlyshield.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Dress for success and comfort at work

(ARA) - Wondering what to wear at the office as the temperature climbs this summer? Fashion experts at The Art Institutes have some words to live by when dressing for success at your workplace.

"There are many ways to incorporate summer's hottest trends into your office wardrobe without compromising your professional credibility," says Marlise Vance, senior instructor in Fashion Merchandising at The Art Institute of Ohio - Cincinnati. "Using color, accessories and patterns can bring a summer feel to your work ensembles, even if the pieces themselves are traditional office conservative. A bright tank or cami under a jacket, a colorful patterned skirt or fashion-forward shoes can make a big impact."

"Black is never out of style," says Stephanie Taylor, academic director of Fashion Marketing and Management at The Art Institute of Charlotte. "A great idea is to pair a black suit with fresh colors such as lime green, hot pink or yellow."

Some of the hottest trends this summer include a more do-it-yourself kind of attitude. "The big trend this summer is that there is no big trend. Instead of going out and buying a trendy new outfit, recycle and reuse the clothes you do have," says Taylor.

As part of this do-it-yourself kind of season, however, there are essentials every woman may want to purchase when dressing for the office.

"Accessories are an essential part of the dress code, and summer can be a good time to try a new scarf or bracelet," says Thomas Liddy, apparel design instructor at The Art Institute of Portland.

Cardigans are another great buy.

"Women want to invest in a great cardigan this summer," says Mike Watson, Fashion Marketing and Management instructor at The Art Institute of Charlotte. "A cardigan is great because you can wear it over a sleeveless shirt or dress, and then take it off when you leave work."

He adds, "If I had to tell women to buy one thing for the summer, I would tell them to buy a white skirt or pants."

"Think about your overall look throughout the day," says Patricia Crockett, Apparel Design instructor at The Art Institute of Portland. "If you choose to wear a lower-cut top or camisole underneath your blazer, ask yourself if you'll really wear the blazer or sweater all day. If the answer is no, choose another top that will complement your outfit and look work-appropriate on its own."

What's underneath your outfit also is crucial to your being dressed for success.

"Appropriate undergarments are essential," says Julie Hengle, academic director for the Fashion Merchandising and Interior Design programs at The Art Institute of Ohio - Cincinnati. "There is nothing less professional than an unsuitable foundation piece."

Common sense goes a long way, she elaborates. "Though it should go without saying, it bears repeating and reemphasizing: There should never be an occasion in the workplace when your co-workers can discern anything about your underwear. If you want to be taken seriously and judged for your work, not your wardrobe, then make good choices in proper undergarments."

"What you wear to the office in the summer should always be one step removed from what you wear to an after-work event such as a date or cocktail party," says Vance. "That means there should be something you either add, such as trendy accessories like jewelry or shoes, or something you can remove, like a jacket or sweater."

Along with the essential "Dos" come absolute "Don'ts." According to the fashion experts at The Art Institutes, one should follow these rules in the office, no matter how high the temperature climbs outside:

* No tube tops or halter tops.

* No flip-flops or gladiator sandals.

* Never go braless and be careful not to show too much cleavage.

* No minis: Skirts should fall at or below the knee.

* Don't go sleeveless -- cover bare arms with that cardigan.

* If you wear open toe-shoes, make sure you have a pedicure.

* And, men: Never go sockless.

"Make sure skirts are office-appropriate, which includes length," says Crockett. "Because women bare their legs in summer, skirts should be closer to the knee. In winter, skirts can be shorter because women wear dark hosiery underneath."

For men, there also are appropriate ways to transition to warm weather summer attire.

"Men obviously have fewer options than women when it comes to changing their wardrobe for summer time." Watson says. "But what they can do is change from dark, heavy clothes to light clothes. For more fashion-forward companies it is perfectly acceptable to wear short-sleeved European dress shirts to work."

Liddy adds, "If your office culture allows jeans, pair them with a lightweight blazer. Ties can also be worn more loosely to achieve a great summer look."

No matter what, both men and women should "resist the urge to dress down for summer," says Liddy. "Save the strappy sandals for evening and the sports sandals for the weekend."

To learn more about The Art Institutes system of schools, visit www.artinstitutes.edu/nz.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
www.artsacrossgeorgia.com
Arts Across Georgia

6 summer wardrobe essentials every woman needs

(ARA) - Are the warm rays of the sun inspiring your inner fashionista? Summer is the perfect season to jazz up your wardrobe with fun and fashionable items that make you look great. But how do you know where to start in a fashion world that offers endless possibilities?

When it comes down to it, there are some things that every woman should have in her wardrobe. Here are the top six items that will make you look like you stepped out of a fashion magazine this summer:

1. Sunglasses
A good set of shades is an essential that is fashionable and functional. Helping protect your eyes from the sun's harsh rays, sunglasses can also provide a fun summer look. What types never go out of style? Some options with fashion-longevity include aviator glasses (also known as pilot shades) that have metal frames and reflective lenses, as well as over-sized options often seen on celebrities.

2. Shawl
Having a fun colored wrap or shawl can serve multiple purposes throughout the summer. For example, pashmina-style shawls offer a look that is appropriate as a shoulder wrap at a wedding, but also could be tied around the waist as an impromptu cover-up at the beach. Are you chilled? It can add a bit of warmth. Is it too sunny? It provides protection from sunburn. Really, it provides style and function for just about any situation summer can throw at you, plus it's small enough to be stashed away in a bag if not needed.

3. Pearl necklace
Pearls are the quintessential summer accessory for many reasons. They remind us of the water and are produced by nature, plus, they are the traditional birth stone for June. The best part of having pearls in your wardrobe is their versatility -- they add style to your ribbed tank and jean outfit or jazz up your black dress for a night on the town. Want to truly add some summer pizzazz? PearlParadise.com notes that pearls in fun colors like pink, gold, blue and lavender are popular during the summer season, as well as unique shapes like baroque, drop and keshi Tahitian pearls.

4. Strappy sandals
Whether heeled or flat, show off those toes with a great pair of strappy sandals. Open shoes look great and help keep your body temperature down during hot summer days. Colored leather straps are popular and stylish during the summer season, but you can also find options in natural woven materials. Having a couple pair isn't a bad idea -- maybe one flat and one high-heel, or one casual and one dressier. Whatever route you go, you'll be sure to get use out of these the entire season.

5. Earrings
Earrings bring focus to the face and enhance a person's eyes. That's why so many people feel "naked" if they don't have earrings on. For summer, opt for pearl or stone earrings -- or better yet, a combo of both. According to Pearl-Guide.com, Akoya Pearls are very popular for use in jewelry because of their consistently round shape. Studs, drop-downs and drop-downs with diamond accents are all great summertime options. When the sun hits them, your face will sparkle with true style.

6. Wide-brim hat
A good hat can be a great addition to your favorite summer dress and also be your best friend on a sunny day at the beach. Wide-brimmed hats are popular during the summer time because of their style and how they protect the face from wrinkle-inducing rays. A straight, stiff brim often made from natural fibers like raffia or straw provides a more formal, tailored look. Flexible, shapeable brims often made of cotton or linen have a more casual feel.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Top 5 must-have summer beauty essentials

(ARA) - Summer means making memories with friends and loved ones. There are more cameras at summer events than there are at a movie premiere, and you’ll want to look your best while you beat the heat.

Fortunately, a handful of products that should have a spot in your beauty bag can protect your skin while giving it a sun-kissed glow. Here are the top five affordable luxuries you should have in your makeup kit this summer to keep skin looking healthy, glowing and gorgeous:

1. Bronzed beauty
Just a few years ago, women spent hours soaking up the sun without the protection of sunscreen. Today, we know the dangers of the sun’s UVA and UVB rays and their potential to seriously damage skin. Instead, try Bronzing Powder from The Body Shop in a shade to match your skin tone. Each shade contains the antioxidant vitamin E to protect your skin and Community Trade marula oil, a highly effective moisturizer. Apply bronzing powder over foundation or add shimmer by wearing alone on the face and cheeks.

2. Mascara that stands up to summer
The heat of summer can lead to less-than-beautiful raccoon eyes, so it’s important to have a good waterproof mascara in your toolkit that can stand up to the ocean, the pool and even an afternoon running through the sprinkler.

3. Bright eyes for hot nights
One of the most affordable ways to update your summer look is with eye color and this season’s hottest shades are intense. Celebrity makeup artist Chase Aston recommends Hot Brights Eye Color (available at BodyShop-USA.com). His favorite color combinations? Violet Sunset -- a flirty pairing of dusky pink with rich mauve and Pearly Sky – a vibrant deep aqua combined with earthy cream..

“Violet Sunset is the perfect color palette for summer smoky eyes. For both the day and night, smudge this intoxicating color palette around the eyes,” says Aston. “These satin soft shades in Pearly Sky glide onto the eyes, creating a burst of color that shimmers in the sun for fresh, flirty hues for those hot summer days.”

4. Cool and refreshing
Whether you spent your day at a barbecue or the beach, it’s likely you’ll need a quick cool down at dusk. The Body Shop’s Peppermint Cooling foot spray refreshes and revives hot and tired feet and legs in seconds with Community Trade peppermint from England.

5. Vacation beauty
If a vacation or quick weekend getaway is in the cards, make sure your travel kit is packed with travel-sized essentials like mini body butters, scrubs and skincare travel kits from The Body Shop. They save room in your suitcase and provide a beautiful summer glow no matter where you jet off to.

With your summer beauty bag packed, make sure you’ve got other essentials covered. Rock the retro look with a pair of candy-colored, 80’s inspired sunglasses. A stylish and oversized black straw hat looks at home on the runway or shading out the sun and a brightly colored sarong that can go from beach cover-up to casual dinner wear will having you feeling like a gilded goddess.

For more information on summer beauty essentials, visit www.theBodyShop-USA.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

A Parent’s Tips For A Head Lice-Free Summer

NAPSI-Lice can strike at any time of the year. But as summer camp season draws near and children spend more time in close quarters, the odds of our little ones becoming infested with lice tend to increase. To prevent lice from ruining your summer and that of your child, Leanne Preston, mom and CEO of Wild Child, maker of Quit Nits, shares some of her tips for a head lice-free summer:

The Facts of Lice: Essential Head Lice Tips for Parents

1. Start from scratch. Before camp begins, check your child for lice and nits.

If your child has lice, a close examination of his or her hair and scalp will reveal white or grayish crawling forms, about the size of a sesame seed with legs (lice), and yellowish-white eggs (nits) attached to the hair shafts close to the scalp. The eggs can sometimes be mistaken for dandruff or shampoo residue that will not wash off. However, unlike dandruff, which moves when touched, nits and lice will stick to hair. You may also see red bite or scratch marks on the back of the neck.

2. If you find lice, don’t panic!

• Wash your hands and child’s hands and nails thoroughly, getting under the nails, as some lice may be found there due to scratching.

• Treat infested family members at the same time. There are many treatment options; however, it is important to know that the current leading lice treatments contain toxic chemicals that can be potentially harmful. Wild Child’s Quit Nits is a safe treatment that has been found to be more effective than most other treatments. Quit Nits is so gentle it can even be used on pregnant and nursing moms.* The Quit Nits Complete Lice Kit includes everything you need-two tubes of Lice Treatment Cream to treat your child’s infestation and one Everyday Lice Preventative Spray to help prevent infestation and reinfestation.

• Prevent reinfestation. To prevent the spread of head lice, you should ask your child to not share personal items such as combs, brushes and hair accessories, and to not try on hats that belong to other children. In addition, Quit Nits Everyday Lice Preventative Spray, the first of its kind, is a spray that prevents infestation and reinfestation by creating an unfriendly environment for lice.

• Inform the camp director that you have treated your child for lice.

3. If you don’t find any lice, keep them away by telling your child not to share the following personal items and make sure you pack:

• A personal brush or comb

• Your child’s hat

• Quit Nits Everyday Lice Preventative Spray.

• If the camp includes sleepaways, also pack a personal sleeping bag/blanket, pillow and pillowcase, towels and washcloths.

The Wild Child Story

Ten years ago, following the unpleasant discovery that her youngest daughter had head lice, Leanne Preston was horrified to learn that the most-common treatment for head lice was a shampoo containing toxic chemicals that can be harmful.

After a period of intensive research, Wild Child developed a safe, nontoxic and scientifically proven head lice treatment made from natural actives from the Australian outback. The treatment does not require painful combing, which is a big relief for both parents and children. Today, Quit Nits is a best seller in Australia and Europe. And now this product is available in the U.S., over the counter at CVS/ pharmacy nationwide. Learn more at www.quitnits.com.

*People with a history of allergy to essential oils should consult a physician prior to use.

Leanne Preston, CEO and founder of Wild Child, began her quest to find a natural alternative to the current toxic head lice treatments 10 years ago.

Summerize Your Skin

(NAPSI)-No woman wants to waste precious time on beauty routines during the warmer months. That’s why Ladies’ Home Journal, celebrating its 125th anniversary this year, shares quick tips to make you look and feel prettier this summer.

• Feeling hot and sticky from too much time in the sun? Feet dusty from wearing sandals? Pack portable mists, cleaning wipes and cooling gels to create a mini oasis.

• Want smoother, firmer, sexier skin fast? Bring radiance to arms, shoulders and décolletage with a grainy scrub during your shower routine.

• Need sun protection? Besides moisturizers with SPF, consider a T-shirt or hat that screens out the sun and check the fabric’s ultraviolet protection factor. You can also wash clothes with additives that boost UPF.

• Feeling not-so-fresh with summer sweat? Wash daily with anti-bacterial soap, wear natural fibers, and opt for solid antiperspirant deodorant applied to dry skin.

For more tips to make every season more beautiful, visit www.lhj.com.

More beauty tips can be found in the June issue of the magazine or at LHJ.com.