Embrace Latin Color!

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Las Fabulosas: Beauty & Style

By Belén Aranda-Alvarado for Las Fabulosas

Spring is bursting on the scene in styles that look like they were taken from the most fashionable Latina’s closet. We spoke to Davis Carrasquillo, the New York City-based creative director and fashion editor of 1fashionproductions  to get our top picks of the bold, the ultra-feminine and the sexy staples that came from the runway.

Citrus
Citrus colors are the powerhouse trend, a favorite of ours because it makes bronzed skin look even more beautiful. The purest way to wear this trend is with a dress, like Selena Gomez does. For a budget-conscious option, try a blouse or simple tank in a saturated hue to put a pop of color in your look.

Bangles
Bracelets are accessory must-haves for lots of Latinas, and as Eva Longoria shows, bangles are back in a big way. “Use lots of different tones and textures -- they don’t have to match,” advises Carrasquillo.

’70s-inspired
No need to go over-the-top with frosty eyeshadow and frizzy hair. But if you are in the mood to really embrace a spring trend, then get yourself into some ’70s-inspired clothes, like one-sleeved tops and dresses. Jennifer Lopez gives us a great update with this beautiful dress that also brings in an additional seasonal trend: animal prints.

Ruffles
Ruffles are back on the scene, not just because of the flirty, youthful flare, but because now they are being styled in a grown, sexy way. You can go all-out like America Ferrara with her cape sleeves, or select a key piece, such as a skirt, to experiment with this look. Soft ruffles are more forgiving and flattering.

Shorts
Break out the heels and platform sandals if you are brave enough to try the shorts trend. The styles can range from super-short and casual, a lá Cameron Diaz, or longer and tailored for a work-appropriate look.

Patterns
These were also reigning the runway, but in softer chiffon fabrics that are easier to wear. Chiffon dresses are one option, says Carrasquillo, but even using a scarf can update your look.


Belén Aranda-Alvarado  lives in New York City with her husband and 9-year-old daughter. Her work has appeared in The Washington Post, The Washington Post Magazine and Latina magazine. Belen's articles have previously appeared in Las Fabulosas.



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Protecting Our Autoestima

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Las Fabulosas: Success

By Shirley Velásquez for Las Fabulosas

Throughout Rosie Molinary’s writing career, one question has consistently preoccupied her: How do Latinas reconcile the seemingly conflicting messages between mainstream America telling them to be themselves versus la familia telling them to strive toward beauty and femininity?

Molinary’s discoveries about living within two cultures appear in her critical books, Hijas Americanas: Beauty, Body Image, and Growing Up Latina and Beautiful You: A Daily Guide to Radical Self Acceptance, which are “empowerment guides” to help Latinas love and accept themselves.

“Women are hungering for affirmation of what they inherently know to be true, and guidance for letting that truth shine out,” says Molinary. Here, she shares four rocking body-image boosters:

1. Break negative pensamientos: “Our whole lives are affected by how we think and speak about our bodies,” says Rosie. “Find a bowl or piggy bank and deposit a quarter each time you knock yourself. Watch your self-awareness soar and your habits change.” Then treat yourself to a gift with the money or donate it.

2. Talk back: Do family or friends make jabs about your appearance or weight? Prepare a comeback, and practice it out loud. “Let that critical person know that your body is off limits for discussion,” says Rosie.

3. Make eye contact: “Much of our confidence is projected through our eyes,” explains Rosie. Avoiding eye contact communicates that you want to be invisible.

4. Stop body-checking: How often do you check yourself in mirrors or windows? Each time, “take a breath and change your focus,” says Rosie. By curtailing obsessive behavior, you train yourself to turn off [negative] tapes in your head.”


Photo: @iStockphoto.com/sdominick 

Shirley Velásquez  is an editor and writer at ELLE magazine. She has contributed to Woman’s Day, Glamour, InStyle, Latina, The New York Sun, and Border-line Personalities, an anthology of essays written by Latina writers. She is a frequent contributor to Las Fabulosas.



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Familia Values.

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Las Fabulosas: Home & Happiness

By Michelle Herrera Mulligan for Las Fabulosas

As children, we rolled our eyes when our padres demanded we speak fluent español and attend our neighbors’ quinceñeras. But in the process of acclimating to an American lifestyle, we may leave too much behind. Here are nine nuggets of Latino wisdom we should never forget, and how to incorporate them into our complicated modern lives:

1. Familia comes first. In good times and in bad, no one is there like the family. But it’s not just obligation that should compel you to put the ones closest to you first. After all, what’s more relaxing: reality TV drama or story time with your children?

2. Pool your resources. Saving in groups has helped Latin-Americans around the world to start businesses and buy homes. Combine energy with like-minded professionals by starting a Latino affinity group in your field.

3. Dinner is sacred. At least once a month, make a whole meal from scratch for a small group of close friends. The memory will last longer than a night at the movies.

4. Don’t spend what you don’t make. Immigrants don’t use credit cards, but we have to sometimes. Make sure to keep a careful log to justify each charge.

5. Never complain. This may be unrealistic, but do we really have to whine so much? Try cutting all negative comments for one week.

6. Invest in people, not things. Our families helped out the neighbors; we barely know who lives on our block. Create a sense of community by joining a local parent group, cultural organization or food coop.

7. Romance is king. Our abuelitos never quit dancing or date nights.

8. A little fat never killed anyone. Even research backs Mami up on this one: the body needs monounsaturated fats -- so bring on the guacamole and pepitas. (Skip the chips.)

9. Don’t bring work home. If you can’t pull this off, budget at least 30 task- and media- free minutes a day. You’ll be more relaxed and effective in the morning.


Michelle Herrera Mulligan is the managing editor of Las Fabulosas.




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Dress for Your Body Type.

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Las Fabulosas: Beauty & Style

By Jennifer Parris for Las Fabulosas

Your co-worker always looks fabulosa in her cocktail dress, no matter what she weighs. It’s not that she has a perfect shape; she simply knows how to dress for her body type. Figure out your type here, and find a dress style that will make you feel glamorous and beautiful on your big night out.

Hourglass Shape: Considered to be the most ideal body type, the hourglass shape boasts breast and hip measurements that are almost identical.

Dress: Although the hourglass’ best feature is her waist, don’t overemphasize it with a skin-tight slinky number, advises Barbosa. Instead, choose a flowy look and complete it with a belt to show off your small waist.

Pear or Spoon Shape: The pear shape is one of the most common body types -- especially for Latinas -- and features a more bountiful booty.

Dress: Choose a flattering empire cut that balances your bounty by featuring your upper half.

Apple Shape: Slightly bigger around the tummy, you’re lucky because you have skinny arms and legs, making it easy to camouflage your trouble spots.

Dress: It’s all about the structured look for you. A shift’s vertical lines will create a longer, leaner look.

Tube (Ruler) Shape: Often called “the boy shape,” the tube has minimal curves and is straight up and down.

Dress: Try a wrap or another style that is cinched or gathered at the waist to help create an hourglass figure.

Regardless of body type, you should ultimately shop for clothing that makes you feel beautiful. And remember to embrace your curves. After all, accepting (and loving!) your body is the first step in selecting clothes that will consistently fit and flatter.


Photo: @iStockphoto.com/quavondo


Jennifer Parris  is an award-winning writer and editor, whose articles have previously appeared in Las Fabulosas. She is the founder of Celebrity Parents Magazine and has written for publications such as Seventeen, Latina and Parenting.


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Spotlight on JoAnna Garcia Swisher.

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Las Fabulosas: Success

By Shirley Velásquez for Las Fabulosas


JoAnna Garcia Swisher’s star is rising. Landing the top role in an upcoming comedy pilot, the actress will lead a primetime show once again.

The Florida-born Latina got her first big break in high school when she was cast on Nickelodeon’s “Are You Afraid of the Dark?” Ever since then, she has starred in hit shows, such as “Reba,” “Privileged” and “Gossip Girl.” But it was playing Mia Putney, the lead in the hit comedy “Better With You,” that secured her place as a young comedic actress to watch.

If the 32-year-old’s work accomplishments impress, then her off-camera efforts inspire. Last June, Garcia Swisher teamed up with Merck to launch the Let’s Go There campaign, an initiative to encourage women to talk to their doctors about birth control options. “As the daughter of an OB/GYN, I learned from an early age the importance of educating myself to better understand my health options,” said Garcia Swisher last summer.

To top it off, last Thanksgiving, Garcia Swisher and her husband -- New York Yankees outfielder Nick Swisher -- finally took their overdue honeymoon (they married in December 2010) to Afghanistan. But this wasn’t just an adventurous trip to a rugged country. They were there to cheer on the troops. “I think we had about eight different Thanksgiving meals,” said Garcia Swisher afterward. “We’ve made friends for a lifetime.”

Photo:  Getty Images


Shirley Velásquez  is an editor and writer at ELLE magazine. She has contributed to Woman’s Day, Glamour, InStyle, Latina, The New York Sun, and Border-line Personalities, an anthology of essays written by Latina writers. She is a frequent contributor to Las Fabulosas.



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Pretty For Primavera.

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Las Fabulosas: Beauty & Style

By Belén Aranda-Alvarado for Las Fabulosas


“Pastels are really in this spring season,” says Ermahn Ospina, a Los Angeles–based makeup artist who has worked with celebrities like Rosario Dawson, Carla Gugino and Emmanuelle Chriqui. If you hear the word “pastels” and are thinking about Easter-egg shades of safe neutrals, think again. Pastels are packing a serious punch this spring, and the color range is broad enough that every woman can find a new tone to experiment with.




The top five shades to try if you want to update and warm up your color palette are:

1. Shimmery pale blue: Great for eyes. Stick to formulas that have subtle shimmer instead of heavy frost in the formula.

2. Golden-toned green: Think iridescent and bright, like vibrant lime instead of staid forest-green.

3. Medium-pigmented pinks: “Medium” being the key word: Try pops of vivid bubble-gum pink on the eyes, cheeks and lips.

4. Very soft violet: Apply a wash of light opalescent purple on the eyes or lips.

5. Natural nudes: This spring season, nude does not equal boring. Look for velvety peaches, shimmery taupes and glowing bronzes.

Feeling color-shy? Ospina urges those of you who can’t bear to part with your year-round makeup shades to get over your can’t-fail staples by focusing instead on one feature and experimenting with that. “The easiest way for a woman to update her spring makeup look would be to play with lip colors,” advises Ospina. Just changing up your lip gloss will show you the light that color brings to the whole face. Be bold and playful, urges Ospina. It is spring, after all.


Belén Aranda-Alvarado  
lives in New York City with her husband and 9-year-old daughter. Her work has appeared in The Washington Post, The Washington Post Magazine and Latina magazine. Belen's articles have previously appeared in Las Fabulosas.


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Get Inspired in No Time!

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Las Fabulosas: Success

By Shirley Velásquez for Las Fabulosas


It happens to all of us: We find a project or a goal we want to reach, and then we throw ourselves at it with loads of good intention and excitement. But somewhere down the road, we lose steam. And before we know it, we’ve lost our motivación completely. Life coach Monica Borbely tells us how to get it back.

Remember Your Great Moments
Thinking about the times when you felt at the top of your game helps to put you back in the zone. “These moments of triumph remind you of who you are and what you are about,” says Borbely. Those memories, she says, “connect you with that time when you felt most fulfilled, most stretched and most present.”

Remember That Each Day Is Precious
“When I’m not motivated to do what I know needs to be done,” says Borbely, “I remind myself that if I waste this opportunity, I’ll never get it back.” Borbely recommends building playtime into your schedule each week. “My minutes, hours and days come around one time. It’s up to me to live the life I want, right now.”

Dream Big
According to Borbely, you must allow yourself to be a big dreamer to be happy right down to the core of your being. Forget about caution. “Big dreams can fulfill you right down to the soul because you’ve sought out your true purpose in life,” she says. “Big dreams can push your limits and keep your life fresh.”


Shirley Velásquez is an editor and writer at ELLE magazine. She has contributed to Woman’s Day, Glamour, InStyle, Latina, The New York Sun, and Border-line Personalities, an anthology of essays written by Latina writers. She is a frequent contributor to Las Fabulosas.

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Get It: El Look de Las Celebridades

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Las Fabulosas: Beauty & Style

By Valeria Guston for Las Fabulosas


You don’t need to spend a fortune or hire a team of professionals to get your favorite celeb’s signature style. Looking like a star is all about confidence and attitude ... and of course, great hair and makeup. Here are some tips to make your skin glow like JLo’s as you arch a perfectly sculpted brow à la Camilla Belle.

JLo’s Glow
No matter what’s going on in her personal life, Jennifer Lopez always looks effortlessly radiant. The key to achieving her fabulous glow is a pared-down makeup palette and lots of shimmery highlights. Think luminous drama and lots of metallics. Go for gold, silver or neutral eye shadows and a soft nude lip color. Complete your look with an all-over luminizer to infuse your skin with a golden sheen.

Nicole’s Boho Glam
With her House of Harlow 1960 and Winter Kate fashion and accessory lines, we all have a backstage pass to Nicole Richie’s luxurious -- but easygoing and incredibly wearable -- style. Her cool boho look is all about mastering the art of done/undone. Start with a romantic ’do with face-framing tendrils and create foolproof smoldering eyes. Look for a 2-in-1 smoky eye stick that can shade and line, and is smudge proof.

Sofia’s Sexy Cat Eye
Sofia Vergara oozes flirty sex-kitten appeal. You can bring out your inner vixen by using a liquid liner to create a subtle cat-eye. Add a few extra coats of volumizing mascara so everyone takes note when you bat your lashes. Choose a soft pink, glossy lip color if you’re feeling coquettish, or vamp it up with a rich crimson.

Eva’s Ladylike Sophistication
With strong features, a put-together ladylike style and sleek retro waves, Eva Mendes always exudes old-school Hollywood glamour with a thoroughly modern edge. To achieve Eva’s polished perfection, keep your hair in top condition with a deep-moisturizing treatment. Tame the flyaways and get great shine with a smoothing cream.

Camilla’s Killer Brows
Camilla Belle’s fresh, modern style -- bold, perfectly sculpted brows and red lips -- makes her a standout on any red carpet. With careful tweezing and a little strategic eyebrow pencil, you’ll be a standout too. Look for a brow-shaping kit that makes this a snap, even for the tweezing-challenged.


Photo: Getty Images


Valeria Guston  Valeria Guston has ghostwritten style and beauty books for Hyperion and HarperCollins Publishers. She is also a regular contributor to Mamiverse.com. This is her first article for Las Fabulosas.

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Winter Makeup.

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Las Fabulosas: Beauty & Style

By Valeria Guston for Las Fabulosas


As the temperature drops, don’t waste time mourning the passing of your sun-kissed summer glow. Instead, take the opportunity to give yourself a winter makeover! These beauty trends will have you looking radiant for all the upcoming holiday festivities.

Go Nude
The no-makeup look never really goes out of style with its fresh, modern and totally pulled-together vibe. A perfectly even skin tone is the key to pulling this off. If, like most of us, you don’t wake up with a naturally flawless complexion, there are lots of great products to enhance your glow. Look for foundations that smoothen and hydrate your skin and contain at least SPF 15, like Prescriptives Flawless Skin Total Protection Makeup SPF 15. Whether you go for concealer, mineral powder or liquid foundation, choose one that’s a shade or two lighter than your summer hue. To ensure a perfect match, test a strip on your cheek in daylight; it should virtually disappear against your skin.

Bold Brows and Ruby Lips
Latinas everywhere, rejoice: Bold brows are back! Emphasize your beautiful features with a well-defined arch and crimson lips for a strong, sexy and ultra-polished look. The Nuance Salma Hayek Shape & Define Brow Kit makes it a snap. For lips, as long as you choose a shade that complements and enhances your skin tone, rich red lips can brighten your whole face. If you have golden/yellow undertones, go for warm orange or brownish lip colors. If you have pink undertones, go for cool pink or bluish hues. A moisturizing formula like COVERGIRL LipPerfection Lipcolor wards off the elements and keeps your lips silky smooth.

Navy Liner and Lashes for Days
Set aside your summer pastels, laid-back neutrals and beachy corals. Go for smoldering winter drama with smoky navy eye shadow and liner. Navy adds gorgeous depth to brown eyes and makes blue eyes pop, plus it’s a lovely alternative to basic black. Create long, luxurious lashes with lengthening mascara -- like Maybelline’s The Falsies Volum’ Express -- to really amp up the intensity.

Photo Credit: @iStockphoto.com/JohnnyH5


Valeria Guston  Valeria Guston has ghostwritten style and beauty books for Hyperion and HarperCollins Publishers. She is also a regular contributor to Mamiverse.com. This is her first article for Las Fabulosas.








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Thanksgiving With a Latino Twist!

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Las Fabulosas: Home & Happiness

By Letisha Marrero for Las Fabulosas




Let’s face it: Unless your mezcla is part Pequot, Canarsee or Wampanoag, the tales of Puritan pilgrim settlers may not resonate. What we can relate to, however, is food and familia.

Still, if you think about it, some of the staple ingredients on a Thanksgiving menu -- corn, potatoes, calabazas -- are all inherently Latin. And the spices -- cinnamon, paprika, cilantro, vanilla and chiles -- all add distinctive sabor. Carolina Buia, co-author of the book Latin Chic, shares some quick tips on how to spice up your Thanksgiving feast, Latin-style.

Decorations
Fill you home with giant Mexican paper flowers, which you can pick up at most craft stores. They don’t just add a pop of festive color; they’re also reusable and will stay beautiful all year long. Use a plain white tablecloth with colorful runners. Check Etsy.com for beautifully handcrafted ideas.

Meal
For the turkey, first brine the pavochón, then add an adobo rub or salsa valentina, a Mexican hot sauce. For a stuffing with mofongo-style dressing, add some green plaintains, garlic, salchicha and nuts to your recipe. Instead of mashed potatoes, serve boiled yucca with garlic mojo sauce. Or, go the rice route with some arroz con gandules and sofrito.

Dessert
Whip up a tres leches cake, which is very festive and kid-approved. Or, substitute a creamy flan de calabazas for pumpkin pie.

Beverages

• Kid-friendly: Make a batch of tropical batidas of either guava, piña or passion fruit. Or, serve Jarritos instead of soda. These yummy Mexican sodas are made with real sugar instead of high-fructose corn syrup.
• Adult beverages: “Latin eggnog,” “coquito” and “ponche crema” are all different names for the same deliciously wicked rum drink. Buia recommends that you serve high-quality rum after dinner.

Kid Activities
Let them celebrate and get their ya-yas out by whacking a piñata that’s filled with Spanish dulces. LatinBag.com sells authentic sweets to cater to all your nostalgic Latin cravings. LatinBag’s Luchador piñata is particularly awesome.

China
Don’t worry about having everything matchy-matchy. If you’re having a large party but don’t have enough plates, places like HomeGoods have plain white everyday dishware for only $1.50 per plate. They’re nicer-looking than plastic or paper, and you can reuse them for the next fiesta!


Letisha Marrero: Letisha Marrero has contributed to Latina, The Source, iVillage.com, ParentsConnect.com and MomsLikeMe.com. She is also a contributing author to Border-line Personalities: A New Generation of Latinas Dishes on Sex, Sass, and Cultural Shifting.





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Spanish Friday - Revisión De Kat Von D's Lápiz De Labios Set.

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Hacen dos semanas que no he participado en Spanish Friday porque he estado ocupada con la vida, pero aquí estoy otra vez! No hace mucho mi hija compró un set de lápiz de labios de Kat Von D llamado Painted Love y Foiled lipstick set en Sephora. Lo cual me encantó porque hace mucho tiempo que he querido tratar sus cosméticos. Lo bueno es que mi hija y yo tenemos los mismos gustos en muchas cosas incluyendo maquillaje. Aunque tengo cuarenta y pico de años mentalmente me siento en mis treintas, lol.

El set trae seis mini lápiz de labios en mate y metálicos con colores como Hellbent y Whiskey Woman. Me encantan los nombres, lol. Los colores son bellos aunque se ven más oscuros de lo que son en el la página de Sephora y en la parte de atrás de la caja. Por ejemplo, Celebutard es mucho más claro como pueden ver en la foto. A mí me gustaron los colores más oscuros especialmente, pienso que me quedan mejor. Yo pensé que como tienen ingredientes emolientes iban a ser grasosos pero para mi sorpresa no lo son. Tanto pronto me lo puse me dí de cuenta que tienen buena textura. Los colores tienen alta pigmentación y duran casi todo el día. Tres cosas que son bien importantes para mí ya que tengo piel grasosa y el maquillaje se me derrite en una hora, media hora si el clima está húmedo.

Para personas que los vayan a usar con mucha frecuencia el tamaño les parecerá muy pequeño pero para mí es suficiente. Además como son pequeños los puedes llevar en tu cartera, en un bolsillo de tu blusa o en tus jeans. Este set es edición limitada, no sé hasta cuando va a estar disponible. El set cuesta $28.00 y lo puedes comprar en Sephora.

Si quieres participar en Spanish Friday sigue el enlace/link o haz clic en la imagen de Spanish Friday a la parte de arriba.


Nota: Este post estaba supuesto a subir ayer pero puse la fecha equivocada porque tenía sueño cuando lo escribí, lol. No me juzgues!



English version of the Spanish Friday post below.


It has been two weeks that I haven't participated in Spanish Friday because I have been busy with life, but here I am again. Not too long my daughter purchased a set of lipsticks from Kat Von D called Painted Love & Foiled lipstick set at Sephora. Which I loved because I have been wanting to try her cosmetics for a long time. The good thing is that my daughter and I have the same taste in a lot of things including makeup. Even though I'm forty something years old, mentally I feel I'm in my thirties, lol.

The set brings six mini lipsticks with matte and foiled colors like Hellbent and Whiskey Woman. Love the names, lol. The colors are beautiful although they look darker than they really are in Sephora's page and in back of the box. For example, Celebutard is a lot lighter as you can see in the photo. I liked the darker colors especially, I think they look better on me. I thought that because they have emollients ingredients they would be greasy but to my surprise they are not. As soon as I put it on I noticed the good texture. The colors have high pigmentation and last almost all day. Three things that are very important to me because I have oily skin and the makeup melts away in an hour, half hour if the climate is humid.

For people who are going to use them frequently the size might seem too small but for me it's enough. Besides since they are small you can carry them in your purse, the pocket of your blouse or in your jeans. This set is limited edition, I don't know until when it will be available. This set costs $28.00 and you can purchase it at Sephora.

If you would like to participate in Spanish Friday follow the link or click on the Spanish Friday image on top.


Note: This post was supposed go up yesterday but I put the wrong date because I was sleepy when I wrote it, lol. Don't judge me!

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Boost Your Happiness & Health With Latin Dance!

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Las Fabulosas: Home & Happiness

By Shirley Velásquez for Las Fabulosas

Yes, we know your Latina blood gives you natural rhythm. But are you getting the most out of your girls’ nights out? It’s time to shake up your half-hearted merengue routine and sign up for a class. The health benefits of regular vigorous dance sessions, such as Zumba aerobics and Brazilian capoeira, are vast. In addition to strengthening bones, toning muscles and boosting heart health, hooking up with comadres for regular dance-offs will also make you happier and smarter. Science shows that exercise, especially in groups, can work as an instant antidepressant. Here are three ways to add a dash of sexy to your summer exercise routine:

1. Zumba Aerobics. This workout originated in Colombia, but it takes Latin dance moves from everywhere: salsa, merengue, reggaeton, hip-hop, pop and more. Unlike typical aerobics routines that focus on counting out loud, Zumba sessions are high-energy parties where you dance to the beat and burn between 400 and 600 calories. The high levels of feel-good hormones you will release help lower stress, avoid hypertension and keep your heart healthy.

2. Brazilian Capoeira. A combination of martial arts and music, this art form originated in the quilombos -- or slave settlements -- of South America. The practice was both a way for slaves to entertain themselves and a cunning way for them to practice self-protection moves in case of an attack. Today, this “dance-fight” is practiced around the world. It can be a lethal workout on the dance floor, burning as many as 500 to 700 calories per hour. The best part? You will be using your entire body -- head, arms, legs, and feet -- to kick, cartwheel and do handstands. You’ll have incredible flexibility.

3. Argentine Tango. This well-known dance is best described as a combination of walking and gymnastics. Though it can burn anywhere from 200 to 400 calories per hour, the dance’s powerful workout is often overlooked. Those slow, deep lunges are amazing for improving coordination and toning legs. And its sharp turns require a strong, wide upper body frame, which in turn improves posture.


Shirley Velásquez  is an editor and writer at ELLE magazine. She has contributed to Woman’s Day, Glamour, InStyle, Latina, The New York Sun, and Border-line Personalities, an anthology of essays written by Latina writers.

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Que Dramatic!

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My son makes me laugh a lot with the things he says or does. When my cable was fixed not too long ago I had to check that all channels were working. Of course I did this after the tech had left. My son was sitting next to me when I tuned in into a Spanish channel, can't remember which one. There were airing a novela (Soap Opera) at the time. I was curious so I left it there for a bit, then my son says out of the blue, that's how you act. I burst out laughing saying what do you mean? He said that's how you act sometimes. I said to him mentiroso (liar) while laughing so hard I could barely talk. What he meant was that women can be overly dramatic sometimes, especially if we know we are right! I recorded the part, thanks to my DVR because I wanted to share it. Now, I'm in no way bashing women or Latinas here. Want to make that clear, just thought it was funny...

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Latina Resilience.

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Las Fabulosas: Home & Happiness

By Marissa Matteo for Las Fabulosas


In her groundbreaking memoir, When I Was Puerto Rican, Esmeralda Santiago wrote of her journey from the barrios of Puerto Rico to the halls of Harvard University. The book, published in 1994, opened up a dialogue on cultural identity, immigration and assimilation. Her recent novel, Conquistadora, continues the conversation, exploring class, survival and romance in untamed Puerto Rico.

Las Fabulosas: During your research for your novel, you read about the history of Puerto Rico in the face of so much adversity -- slave insurrections, a cholera epidemic and hurricanes. What was the universal response to each of these catastrophes, as a people?

Esmeralda Santiago: People picked themselves up and started over with an unbelievable optimism. As I read, I was thinking, “My God, I cannot imagine going through all these things and having the strength to go on.” But that is very much a part of our people. There’s an attitude of, “Well that happened, and I’m alive, and I’m just going to do what I have to do. Fix things and keep going.” And it’s not like they just fixed their own house. They helped one another. There was this willingness to give the next person the shirt off of your back, literally.

LF: What is the best advice you ever heard from your relatives about making do when money is tight?

E.S.: My mom raised 11 children as a single mother, and the thing she is very proud of is that we always ate well. And she did it by being creative. If there was no milk, she made almond milk. If there were no almonds, she made rice milk. If there was no rice, she made oat milk. I remember her saying, “So long as I’m upright, I will work to make sure that I will take care of my family.” When she wasn’t able to work as a seamstress, she worked as a maid or she made alterations at the laundry, or she cooked for men who didn’t have families. This attitude is ingrained in my family.

LF: What is the best advice your mother gave you about finding true love?

E.S.: My mother’s attitude about true love is, “It’s great to fall in love, but if he doesn’t treat you right, there are plenty of men.” She had five husbands, and at 81, she still tells this to her granddaughters and great-granddaughters.

LF: What has your family taught you about what makes life meaningful?

E.S.: I think for us, it is the sense of closeness and unity. We are not physically close, because we live scattered over the United States and Puerto Rico, but we are close in the sense that if any one member needs help, the whole family goes into action. The sense of unity is very, very important to us. I always know that if I need them, my sisters and brothers will be there. And that is an incredible comfort.



Marissa Matteo  is a ghostwriter for HarperCollins, Simon & Schuster and Penguin Group. Her work has appeared on The New York Times bestseller list. She is currently at work on a seventh celebrity memoir and a semiautobiographical novel.









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Make Your Home a Sanctuary.

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Las Fabulosas: Home & Happiness

By Shirley Velásquez for Las Fabulosas




Everyday hustle often makes it difficult to relax, even during downtime at home. Finding just a few minutes during the week to enjoy some solitude and explore your thoughts can reap countless benefits. Fortunately, it’s easier than you think to create zones of Zen within your personal space.

Create a Home Baño Spa
Take a cue from the ancient Romans, who built bathhouses across the empire when they discovered water’s therapeutic properties. Prepare a warm bath and add droplets of essential oils, such as stress-melting lavender, mind-clearing spearmint or cramp-relieving anise. After your rejuvenating bath, linger for several minutes wrapped in your towel. Finally, make sure to hydrate your skin with an enriched cream, such as cocoa butter.

Listen to the Sound of Music
Nothing soothes the soul like listening to your favorite tunes. Each night after work, fill your home’s airwaves with some of your much-loved songs. Instead of starting up the night’s chores right away, sit back for a few minutes to relish in the pleasant memories. Love nature? Play the sounds of gentle ocean waves, bird whistles or whales songs.

Set the Mood With Lighting
Humans respond to light; its presence can get you going in the morning, and its absence helps us fall asleep. Give your home a romantic or quiet mood by replacing artificial light with candles. Dinner over candlelight, for example, enhances the meal experience. Another option is to set tea light candles in one space in your home where you can linger and unwind after a long day.

Make a Hotel Bedroom 
One reason hotel rooms have a calming effect on guests is that there’s little in them demanding to be taken care of, rearranged or put away. Create this effect in your own room by de-cluttering it of items that haven’t been used in the past six months. Make your bed every morning and add tokens throughout the space of visual and sensory comfort, such as fresh flowers, cedar chips or a soft blanket.



Shirley Velásquez  is an editor and writer at ELLE magazine. She has contributed to Woman’s Day, Glamour, InStyle, Latina, The New York Sun, and Border-line Personalities, an anthology of essays written by Latina writers.




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Spanish Friday - Dulces

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It's time for another Latinaish's Spanish Friday. This post is in Spanish. If you would like a translation you can use the translate widget on the sidebar.

He estado leyendo el Blog Life in the Armpit en donde puedes leer acerca del El Salvador y la vida cotidiana de la autora y su familia. Lo cual me ha hecho sentir nostalgia for la comida y dulces de mi país, Puerto Rico. Anoche fuí a la bodega a comprar leche y pan. Pero terminé comprando más de lo que necesitaba como pueden ver en la fotos. Compré unos dulces y aunque no dicen que son hechos en Puerto Rico, son hechos por latinos y eso para mí es suficiente, lol. Aunque con el nombre El Faro Bakery creo que los dueños si son Puertorriqueños. 

Todos me gustaron, pero el más que me gustó fue el de la etiqueta blanca. Con la consistencia más suave y con el sabor más dulce. Rico! Se ven grande en las fotos pero no lo son. Son pequeños y cada uno cuesta 89¢ (en los tiempos de antes costaban 5¢).  Pero como dicen en Puerto Rico, perfume bueno viene en frasco pequeño. Ya que son tan dulce con comerse uno es suficiente para calmar los deseos!

Si quieren participar en Spanish Friday hagan clic en el enlace/link o en la imagen de Spanish Friday. Que tengan un buen fin de semana, mi gente!♥

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Fall Fashions: How to Wear Them.

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Las Fabulosas: Beauty & Style

By Julie D. Andrews for Las Fabulosas



This fall is all about the bold look -- from eye-catching geometric patterns to day-glow neons.

Celebrity stylist Anita Patrickson has helped celebs such as Jennifer Lopez, Katherine Heigl and Britney Spears sport the latest looks everywhere -- from glossy magazine covers to the red carpet. “My biggest tip is to own it,” says Patrickson. “Wear your fabulous new looks with confidence!” Here are her rules for rocking this season’s wildest trends:



Study your keywords. When you’re updating your personal style with the season’s trends, keep in mind Patrickson’s red-hot vocabulary: bright, colorful, vintage and ethereal.

Pair accordingly. Patrickson tells us this fall is all about pieces in Bordeaux-inspired shades, black lace, fur accents, gauzy fabrics and neon. But it’s a tad tricky throwing ensembles together. Match an over-the-top piece with something understated that’s simple and has clean lines, says Patrickson. Are you dying to don some bright Victorian ruffles at your next office meeting? Couple them with a structured blazer or a sleek pair of pants.

Focus the look. Bold geometric patterns are trending this fall, especially Native American styles. Select one item, such as a scarf, to be the focus of your look when you go for this. Pair a bold dress with one-tone tights and shearling booties, advises Patrickson, or dress up a basic crewneck sweater and pants with an attractive “glamazon” geometric necklace or earrings.

Fashion for weekends. “Weekend casual for me is all about great knits,” says Patrickson. “Graphic color-blocked retro prints will keep you on trend, even on your days away from the office.”

Style on a shoestring. If your wardrobe funds have shriveled up this season, don’t fret. “Accessorize,” says Patrickson. “Find a fabulously bold cocktail ring or a striking, colorful clutch to shake up your look.” Or spice up your wardrobe with fiery red: Try red jeans (yes, we’re full-on loving them too!) or a red mod coat that you’ll get to throw on nearly every day of the fall season. And don’t forget the new Missoni line for Target. If you’ve never before been able to afford that enviable zigzag print, now is your chance.”
Photo: Getty Images


Julie D. Andrews  is a writer based in New York City.
Her articles have appeared in print and on the websites of Prevention, SHAPE and Glamour, as well as on Yahoo.com, YourTango.com and MSN.com.






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Speed up Your Morning Routine.

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Las Fabulosas: Beauty & Style


By Michelle Goodman for Las Fabulosas

Busy juggling your kids’ routine, your work emails and countless other to-dos every morning? You probably don’t have time to glam up on your way out the door. The right products and a little preparation can shave an hour off your busy schedule.


Skin
For glowing, killer skin, pamper your cutis the night before, says Jackie Cioffa, celebrity makeup artist and author of the blog Make up to Model Citi Zen. Apply a regenerating serum that’s packed with antioxidants to help protect against photoaging. Then, apply a night cream on your skin and an anti-aging cream under your eyes. Rinse your face and apply a light moisturizer. When you get up in the morning, your skin will be fresh and ready to go.


Lips
Right after you finish brushing your teeth, brush your lips with a wet, rinsed-off toothbrush to remove any dry flakes from chapped lips. Next, apply a moisturizing lip balm. Look for one that isn’t sticky and is full of antioxidants. Then add some color to your lips with a lip stain in a berry color.


Makeup
For a golden glow, mix a liquid bronzer with moisturizer to avoid any shading, and then blend with a brush. It will leave your skin looking fresh and glowing. Next, use a lash curler for an eye-opening lift, says Cioffa. Apply volumizing mascara in your color of choice.


Take a cream-based shadow and sweep it once over your eyelids. Finally, with a synthetic brush, apply concealer under your eyes.


Hair
If you have oily hair but no time for washing and styling, use a dry shampoo, says Rafael Nieves, owner of The Heights Salon of Brooklyn. It will refresh hair and make it look and feel cleaner.


If your tresses are dry, mix a bit of leave-in-conditioner with water in a spray bottle. Shake, spray your hair, shape with your fingers and allow to air dry.


Straight-haired gals: Wrap your hair around your head and cover it with a silk hair wrap overnight. This will prevent tangles in the morning. Remove the silk wrap, brush and you will be ready to go.



Michelle Goodman is a freelance writer and editor who specializes in beauty and health issues.







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