Uncertainties in the future will cause people to invest in various kinds of funds, metals, private equity, certificates of deposit, digital currencies, collectibles, and others.  But what really is investment?

Investment is a way of saving resources to generate profits that can be used in the future.  Investors commit their money or other resources to a venture with the hope of growing its value over time, thus providing a considerable income to them to achieve their financial plans in life.

Among jewelry pieces, watches have become one of the investment targets of individuals, and Rolex has become a popular choice for this.  So, why do people invest in this kind of watch?

Well, since Rolex is the most recognized luxury brand in the market, owning one means success and wealth.  Another thing, unlike other goods that depreciate their value as you use them, Rolex has a different story as it retains its value as time goes by.  Actually, Rolex’s limited edition and vintage pieces even appreciate their value over time.

These watches are also known for longevity, that is why they are usually handed down to the next generation, thus preserving their value.  The jewelry you bought decades ago can still be used today with the same precision.  People crave their classic and iconic designs that endure time and trends.

Submariner, Daytona, or GMT-Master II are very scarce models, so they make outstanding investment items, and the possibility of increasing their value in the future is high.  People can indeed preserve their investments even as inflation comes and goes.  Stock markets fluctuate, but Rolex retains its value better than stocks.

The collectibility of Rolex models is also one of the considerations when investing in this watch.  Many watch enthusiasts collect their vintage pieces, just like the Rolex Daytona  “Paul Newman” iconic models that have been sold for millions of dollars at auction.  Their other collectible models have attractive investment potential.

Rolex are highly liquid because they are easily sold at a high price, and there are many auction houses and even online marketplaces where people can trade watches.  Since the timepiece has a robust global fan base and high demand, it is easy to resell the item.

Investing in Rolex watches should be a gratifying experience, considering how this luxury brand offers motivations to do so.  But, it is still important to be well aware of the following considerations when investing in this type of chronometer:

• Research the model you want because not all Rolex watches are suitable for investment purposes.  Look for limited editions and vintage pieces because these have greater investment potential; look for Submariner, Daytona, GMT-Master II, and Datejust.
• Of course, you should prefer to buy a new one from an authorized seller instead of resale to have a better chance of acquiring an authentic one.  You must also be patient because you may become one of the wait-listed buyers.  But if you are considering a resale, have it checked for its condition because its original parts may have been replaced already, or you may also fall into fake purchases.
• Keeping the original box and all the necessary documents and accessories for a Rolex watch purchase is mandatory.  Why?  Investors require them as proof of an authentic timer.
• Check out the buy and sell trends to maximize returns of investment.  Grab the chance to sell the model when it is scarce, for the price may spike at this time.   However, it is also good to invest in popular models because of their liquidity.
• The watch needs regular maintenance, so a regular visit to an authorized Rolex service center can increase the value of the timer.  Avoid unofficial servicing that may bring you problems later on.
• Since they are luxury items, they must be protected, so insure your investment against theft, damage, and loss.
• Understand how an auction works, including fees, taxes, biddings, and other processes.  Selling and purchasing prestige watches are frequently done in auction houses.
• Several Rolex models have a long waiting list lasting months or even years.  This factor forces the prices in the secondary market to move up quickly.
• When there’s inflation, people look for alternatives to cash and stock, so that Rolex watches may become one of the answers.  However, during serious economic downturns, its short-term value may decrease.
• If you’re interested in short-term investment, be selective of the model that quickly increases its value and be alert to market conditions.  In contrast, if you’re more occupied with long-term investment, keep your vintage and limited edition watches and expect them to yield greater profits several years later.

Be an informed investor and make the most of your Rolex investment.

The post Investing in Rolex Watches: What You Need to Know appeared first on 12thBLOG.

The primary purpose for altering one’s hair color is entirely cosmetic, ranging from concealing undesirable gray hairs to making a daring fashion statement.

Hair coloring is an ancient skill, but changing your hair color into vivid, neon colours is now more fashionable than ever.

Milla Jovovich

In “The Fifth Element”

Scarlett Johansson

In “Lost in Translation”

Ruby Rose

In “xXx: The Return of Xander Cage”

Kirsten Dunst

In “Marie Antoinette”

Kate Winslet

In “Eternal Sunshine for the Spotless Mind”

And when her hair was blue…

And when it was orange….

Zoe Saldana

In “Guardians of the Galaxy”

Margot Robbie

In “Suicide Squad”

Franka Potente

In “Run Lola Run”

Mary Elizabeth Winstead

In “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World”

And when her hair was blue…

Natalie Portman

In “Closer”

Elizabeth Banks

In “The Hunger Games”

Milla Jovovich

In “Ultraviolet”

The post The Sexiest Actresses That Sported Brightly Colored Hair For A Role appeared first on 12thBLOG.

The first aspect each woman must pay attention to while choosing a new set is the manufacturer. You may think it makes no sense, but it really makes. Well, if you want to have leather lingerie or harness lingerie set, you’d better buy it from a well-known brand like MarieMur. The philosophy of Marie Mur focuses on womens beauty. Each female is beautiful in her way, and lingerie from MarieMur.com is another way to emphasize this natural beauty.

If you haven’t seen harness lingerie manufactured by MarieMur.com, you haven’t seen beautiful lingerie at all. Well, choosing a reputable brand is important, but it’s not the only step to choosing a suitable set of lingerie.

A Few Tips On How to Choose an Amazing Lingerie Set

Womens leather lingerie is a collective name for a variety of different items. We know that most women associate lingerie with bra and pants, but it’s only a basic set. It seems like you wanted to purchase lingerie to make your body look stunning, right? Then bra and pants won’t be enough. Let’s take MarieMur.com as an example. This brand lets you create a leather set consisting of the following items:

• Choker for your elegant neck;
• Garters to emphasize your long and beautiful legs;
• Bodysuit to be the basis of your look:
• Full body harness to make your body look amazing.

A lot of these accessories should perfectly fit you, so the next important aspect is the size. Sometimes it’s very hard to find a perfect size: our bodies are different but still beautiful. You may order hand-made custom lingerie from any brand or any seamstress you know  — these two ways guarantee that the bra or corset will be comfortable for you.

When it comes to buying leather lingerie like body harness or leg garter, the best solution is to find a brand that offers custom-sized harnesses. Adjust each part of the harness so that it doesn’t constrict your movements, and wear it even every day without feeling that leather rubs your gentle skin. We clarified the most important aspects of choosing a good set of lingerie, and it may seem that it’s everything a woman should know, but it’s not.

Do you know what body shape you get? If no, you may easily choose the wrong cut that won’t help you boost your self-confidence and feel stunning. Each shape has different strengths: hourglass bodies can boast of a thin waist and beautiful hips emphasized by garters and corsets. By the way, the latter one can help athletics girls whose waist isn’t as thin. Pear-shaped ladies must choose bras that’ll make their bodies look proportional. Well, you understood the principle.

You must learn how to identify your body shape’s strengths and weaknesses and know how to present yourself in a positive light. We all aren’t ideal, and it doesn’t prevent us from being beautiful and stunning. If you have difficulties building healthy self-esteem, a set of leather lingerie is what you need to deal with this problem. Fall in love with yourself, and you’ll notice how people’s attitude towards you changes.

The post How to Choose Lingerie for Your Body To Look Stunning appeared first on 12thBLOG.

1. Lavender Bath Bombs

via apumpkinandaprincess.com

For these bath bombs you need the following supplies: 1 cup baking soda, 1/2 cup Citric Acid, 1/2 cup cornstarch, 3 tablespoons epsom salt, 2 teaspoons sweet almond oil, 3/4 teaspoon water, 15 drops lavender oil, few tablespoons of dried organic lavender flowers and plastic ornament or silicone mold. First combine baking soda, citric acid, cornstarch, epsom salt and dried lavender, then in a small bowl combine almond oil, water, and essential oil. Mix these two together until all the ingredients are well combined. Don’t put too much water or it won’t form into a ball correctly. Freeze for at least two hours and let dry overnight.

2. Tie – Dye Bath Bombs

via lorannoils.com

These colorful bath bombs surely look like small planets! For these ones you need 1 cup citric acid, 2 cups baking soda, 1 cup cornstarch, powdered food color, 10 – 20 drops total of cosmetic grade fragrance oil or essential oil, 1 tsp sweet almond oil, spray bottle filled with water and 3D Round Ball Mold. These bath bombs are going to be the perfect gift for anyone, especially for children. They will look toy alike to them because of the colorfulness and if you have problems getting your kid to bath, maybe this will help!

3. Sakura Green Tea Bath Bombs

via thirstyfortea.com

Yes, you can even use tea as your ingredient. In this case, you will need large mixing bowl, spoon, 16 oz. baking soda, 8 oz. anhydrous citric acid, 8 oz cornstarch, 8 oz. epsom salt, 1/4 cup powdered green tea, 2 Tbsp avocado oil, 2 Tbsp water, 2 tsp cherry blossom fragrance oil or essential oil, 4 large, hollow plastic ornaments and 4 pink flower icing decorations. Considering the fact that the green tea is one of the most healthiest beverages, it’s good to include it even in your bath routine. The cherry blossom fragrance oil will give the most wonderful scent that will make you feel as if you made a small piece straight from Japan.

4. Hot Cocoa Bath Bombs

via lovelygreens.com

A bath bomb with the scent of a chocolate and the look of a truffle – except that it’s not a dessert. If you use it for your kids, make sure they don’t mistake it for food! To prepare them, you need 1/2 cup/110 g Citric Acid, 1 cup/300 g baking soda, 1 Tbsp/7 g Kaolin White Clay, 2 tsp/8 g organic cacao powder, witch hazel, 1/4oz/8 ml chocolate fragrance oil or cacao (chocolate) essential oil. You can also use ordinary cacao powder instead organic and when it comes to the chocolate part, the fragrance oil is less expensive and is a perfume, while the essential oil is natural.

5. Pink Bath Bombs

via abeautifulmess.com

The following recipe is only for the bath bombs, so if you want more you can easy double the ingredients: 4 oz. baking soda, 2 oz. corn starch, 2 oz. citric acid , 2 oz. Epsom salt, 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons water, 1 teaspoon essential oil , 1 1/4 teaspoon oil (coconut or olive oil) and 1-2 drops food coloring, but this is optional. There are three flavors included – lavender, lemongrass, and peppermint. If you want a two – tone bath bomb, just mix the batter in separate bowls and then in only one add food coloring.

6. Bath Bombs with Dried Rose

via aprilathena7.com

Aren’t these bath bombs the perfect pink thing? It’s impossible not to simply want at least one for your bath. If you want to make it, make sure you have these: bath bomb mold, 1/2 cup baking soda, 1/4 cup citric acid, 1/4 cup corn starch, 1/2 cup epsom salt , 1 teaspoon water, 2 teaspoons vitamin e oil, 3+ drops of food coloring, 3+ drops of essential oil, dried up roses or other flowers, whisk, large bowl, measuring cups and measuring spoons. The dried up roses make the bath ball look amazing, plus with essential oil they give away such nice scent.

7. Rose Bath Bombs

via themercurialmagpie.com

Another rose bath bombs, if the previous weren’t enough. Just go to your local store and buy these ingredients: 1 cup baking soda, 1/2 cup cornstarch, 1/2 cup citric acid,1/2 cup salts (I used 1/4 cup of Epsom Salts and 1/4 cup Sea Salt), 2 teaspoons essential oil by your choice, 2-4 tablespoons oil of your preference (start with 2 tablespoons of oil and add more into the mixture if it’s not well – combined in the circular molds) and a few drops of food coloring (optional). You will also need a spray bottle filled with water, silicone or candy mold of your choice, dried rose petals (optional), towel and parchment paper.

8. Peppermint Candy Bath Bombs

via soapqueen.com

Candy look alike bath bombs aren’t something you see every day! Because of their similar look to candy, they will look as such fun and interesting gift to get. So, next time when you’re going on a birthday of a close person who likes diy projects, consider these bath bombs. They are made of 2 cups baking soda, 1 cup citric acid, 4 ml peppermint essential oil, 1st distill, 3 ml vanilla non-discoloring fragrance oil, .3 oz. argan oil, .3 oz. polysorbate 80 (optional), witch hazel, shamrock mica, Merlot Sparkle mica, Cellini Red Mica and 99% Isopropyl Alcohol.

9. Macaron Bath Bomb

via ellesees.net

They look so French, so pink, and so adorable – except that they’re not real macarons. But, it’s worth making them! You need 1c baking soda, 1/2c citric acid, 1/2c cornstarch, 2 tablespoons sweet almond oil, 2 tablespoons witch hazel or water, 5 drops almond essential oil and 10+ drops of soap colorant. You should use half circle molds, because regular maracon molds won’t be helpful. Also, be aware that if you’re experiencing any skin conditions, it’s better to consult a doctor before using homemade treatment.

10. Colorful Bath Bombs

via brit.co

Last, but not least – these colorful bath bombs prove what a good gift they can be. Make sure you have 1 cup baking soda,  1/2 cup cornstarch, 1/2 cup citric acid, 1/2 cup epsom salt, 3 teaspoons water, 3 teaspoons coconut oil (melted), essential oils, food coloring, dried flowers or dried lavender and bath bomb mold. Once the bath bomb is well – dried, you can use baker’s twine to tie them around and give them to someone special.

The post DIY Natural Bath Bombs appeared first on 12thBLOG.

Bright colors stimulate the part of our brain that is responsible for creativity, for thinking up new ideas. Without a doubt the color schemes in our kitchens play a role in our lives. You will find brightly colored kitchens where the relationships are strong and warm, where all members of the household have a good sense of humor, express a positive attitude, and are active and friendly.

The combination of bright colors not only creates a special atmosphere in your kitchen, but also reveals the host’s character. Even though the use of intense colors demands not only stretching of one’s imagination but also exhibiting a prudent, cultured approach. But above all don’t be afraid to try bold experiments!

1. Rainbow colors
Enthusiastic eccentric and daring personalities will adore bold colors. Combining all colors of the rainbow into the kitchen cabinet veneers, accessories and even walls will come together so nicely. This design approach would suit perfectly well-lit rooms with less furniture/clutter; spaciousness is the key for this scheme to work perfectly. To finish the image it is best to use an area lighting scheme.

2. Make an accent
For those who are the “Type-A”, always-in-control person as regards major decisions but are not into flamboyant design, I would advice to make more subtle accents on just one or two of the walls. You may either paint or wallpaper. Still there are other possible ways for wall decorations. You can choose between posters, amazing wall decals, stickers for kitchen furniture and colorful wall murals. The open shelves on walls instead of traditional wall hung kitchen cabinets with doors, will highlight your ingenuity and imagination as well.

3. Bright Floor
In kitchens where light walls must dominate and you have more subdued furniture, try adding zest to the environment by installing a mosaic or solid color tile floor that will enhance the room ambiance and yet be a nice complement to the rest of the decor. Other options can be splashy linoleum or wood or imitation wood laminates that can offer amazing contrast to the subdued walls. There is a wide choice of floor materials nowadays. You will want to consultant with flooring professionals about the pros and cons, taking into account the general age of the building and the current condition of the kitchen floor. After choosing the material (tile, wood, linoleum, etc.), look through the different manufacturers. They offer wide range of colors, styles and grades of material. These days all of your wildest ideas can be brought to life.

4. It’s all about accessories!
Plates, cups, glasses, hot pads, vases, flowerpots, books, spoons, scales, clocks, figurines, bottles, napkins, etc., all can do amazing things to colorize a room. Bold details will help to change the mood of interior design especially if you are still not determined about the color. You can easily change them any time not wasting too much money and they will help you define appropriate color.

5. Go green!
The green color in your kitchen design will create a positive mood and atmosphere. It is a color of nature, harmony, relaxation and evenness – not humdrum but alive yet tranquil. And know that it always stays in style. If you are eager to make your kitchen more creative use different shades of green. If you are afraid it will be too much, just combine green with another color. But trust me, there cannot be too much or too little of this color. In addition, scientists believe that light green shades and colors in eating area allow you to eat right and you will be full after small portions.

6. Make a contrast
Using a combination of contrasting colors in the interior of the kitchen, you need to be extremely cautious. For in this case, you risk making the kitchen design too aggressive or not in the best taste, where it becomes garish and out of control due to “over-coloring” In this case the room is not bright and interesting but is causes visual overload for all who come into the room. So avoid the flashy over-colorizing.
As in relationships where opposites attract, the combination of opposite colors in the spectrum can be a great decorating idea. This kind of high-contrast kitchen decor looks stylish and fashionable. The point of reference when modeling the kitchen design should be furniture. It has to be darker than the walls and lighter than the floor.

7. Gadgets
Still not ready for bold decisions? Not a problem! Give zest to your kitchen with the help of stunning accessories (the toaster, the blender, the coffee maker or kettle) can be matched to achieve something amazing to the eye. Nowadays famous brands provide wide range of colorful appliances.

8. Enduring Designs
One of the most fashionable and tasteful designs over the years has been the French Country Kitchen and speaks to all the facets of designing a beautiful kitchen. It is all about color that will make your time spent in the kitchen among the happiest. This style of kitchen is all about open cupboards, high contrasting color and unbelievable style where your imagination can run wild as these two examples illustrate.

9.Coordinating/Matching Colors
White – combines the best with blue, red and black
Beige – Fits blue, brown and white
Gray – boring color that nevertheless, is the perfect base. It goes well with dark pink, red, purple and bright blue
Pink – this color suits brown, white, olive, gray, turquoise
Red – blends perfectly with the yellow, white, green, blue, gray and black
Brown – with bright blue, cream, pink, green, beige
Orange – with purple, blue, dark blue, violet
Yellow – blue, dark blue, purple, black, gray
Green – comes with a golden brown, yellow, black, light beige
Blue – with white, red, gray, yellow, orange, pink,
Dark blue – suits the purple, red , green, orange, yellow
Black – universal elegant color. Looks good with all the colors. Best combines with orange, pink, green, white, red and yellow.

The post Bright colors in kitchen design appeared first on 12thBLOG.

Goth culture may appear macabre, but it’s a celebration of everything that’s NOT mainstream. With this concept its fashion makes complete sense. Tayln provocatively makes that eyepatch look as natural as wearing a pair of specs!

Cherry Amber shares her name with what is a prized fossilized tree resin. Known as a popular fashionista on LOOKBOOK, she has amazing hairstyling tips and shares how to DYI it all on YouTube. “Lolita Goth” is just one of her many looks!

We’ve been noticing goth fashion utilizes crafty knick-knacks from the sewing store to create “strappy hairdos”. Sometimes long zippers get thrown in too alongside leather belts! One thing is for certain, goth girls are clever!

The German native from Berlin has a super cool blog and spread on LOOKBOOK. She travels around Europe and photographs street fashion in major cities. Additionally, doesn’t she make an intriguing goth fashion subject herself? Yes!

Being goth is actually a lifestyle, it doesn’t just mean you simply start wearing dark clothing. The culture revels a particular taste in music, aesthetics, and philosophy. This fair-haired gal is a poster child for the movement: mysterious, alluring, exotic and somber.

Almost.. Notice a resemblance to Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride? It must be those extra large gorgeous brown eyes. Everything is amazing here, the hair, piercings and makeup. Perfect!

The blue eyed beauty is a Russian native. A quick look into her Model Mayhem profile will reveal an impressive profile specializing in goth fashions. She also does the Victorian era, but of the gothic horror genre.

No one knows Apnea’s real name, but she’s an American “pin up” model solely photographed by her husband, Lithium Picnic. The term apnea means to “hold one’s breath”. Could that be what she’s doing here, or is it a baby pacifier?

Could this lovely vixen be hanging at an underground club? Did you know there’s a guidebook to Goth culture? It’s titled: GOTHUS, ‘The Ultimate Goth Guide’. It covers goth history and answers questions on everything goth!

Cupcake is doing her lovely pastel goth outfit proud and we’re also spying on the awesome tattoos and hairstyle! She’s a perky goth who doesn’t brood. She likes to have fun!

It’s brilliant how Goths turn traditional beauty on its head and yet end up so alluring! Makeup and fashion are effective ways to express your personality and taste. Goths are not stereotypically glam, but that’s what makes them rock!

Gorgeous Alfiya is a Russian native and digital artist. She does incredible work revolving around the world of darkness and the sublime! We especially love her boots. Perfect for the dance move, “Gothic Slide”.

The basic ideology of the goth subculture is its emphasis on individualism and creativity. There are so many influences here: military, industrialism, fetish, Frankenstein horror and femininity. Do you recognize her? She’s Mira Nox.

Wow, Cat Woman would be so jealous! This bondage babe is looking amazing in her shiny latex jumpsuit. That said, we wouldn’t want to mess with her!

The effect of her hair is marvelous with gothic Victorian and industrial touches! Although the attitude and philosophy of what is goth remains constant, it still is indefinable and filled with delightful surprises! Lovely.

Steampunk can fit in both genres of punk and goth. Either way this mistress is divine with her Victorian gown! Wearing the color purple with a corset, she could be straight out of James Joyce’s 1914 story, ‘Araby’!

Goths are so lucky because everyday is Halloween! How much fun is that?! Upon closer inspection of the “strappy hairdo”, we see it’s actually more like a Medusa head-dress. Very cool!

Fashion designers have emulated goths since their beginnings alongside the early ’80s British post-Punk era. Bibian Blue is a designer out of Barcelona specializing in beautiful corsets and glamour couture. Check out their amazing online shop!

Although this beauty is dark haired, she looks to be of Irving’s, ‘The Legend of Sleepy Hollow’! She’s elegant, wealthy and refined, but perhaps like Lady Van Tassel, she is not without darkness. The “bat” accessories gives her away.

The post Goth Girls Look Great appeared first on 12thBLOG.

We bet you’ve never seen this unique take on a ‘cat’s eye’ before! Makeup artist Tal Peleg is famous for her crazy eye makeup designs.

#2 Anne
For this amazingly detailed look, makeup artist Tal Peleg was inspired by Anne Frank’s quote, “Think of all the beauty still left around you and be happy.” Very inspiring!

#3 Counting Sheep
If this eye makeup design wasn’t so awesome, all of those jumping sheep would be enough to send any insomniac to sleep!

#4 The Land Of Tears
This impressive eye makeup design is titled ‘The Land of Tears’, and we think the detail is incredibly realistic. The makeup artist was inspired by the story, The Little Prince.

#5 The Princess & The Frog
Tal Peleg celebrates another Disney classic with this Princess and the Frog-inspired look. The clever makeup artist even transforms her eyebrow into the Princess’s hair!

#6 Christmas Spirit

Fancy donning this eye makeup to your upcoming Christmas party? We love how the eyebrow also serves as the reindeer’s antlers!

#7 The Ugly Duckling

Tal Peleg’s Ugly Duckling-inspired eye makeup shows the transformation of the small duckling into a stunning swan. We love it!

#8 Eye See Sushi

Here’s one for all of you sushi lovers out there! Let’s just hope none of that wasabi sauce gets into her eye…Ouch!

#9 The Princess & The Pea

We love this clever fairytale-inspired look, with the green eye acting as the pea in the famous story, The Princess and the Pea.

#10 Steampunk

Tal Peleg incorporates the Steampunk look into her eye makeup designs, and the result is amazing – Just look at that detail!

The post Look At This Crazy Eye Makeup Right Now appeared first on 12thBLOG.

One of my favorite things about the boot-scootin’ genre is that its really good at making you feel things. It could make you feel sad, nostalgic, or like all you need is a beer and truck to make you happy. There are also some great love songs from the genre — and not just about being in love, but makin’ love (that’s what you call it in country speak). So if you’re gonna take a roll in the hay with someone, serious or not, here are the country songs that’ll get you in the mood:

1. “Must Be Doin’ Somethin’ Right,” Billy Currington
2. “Come a Little Closer,” Dierks Bentley
3. “Your Man,” Josh Turner
4. “Let’s Make Love,” Faith Hill and Tim McGraw
5. “Come to Bed,” Gretchen Wilson
6. “Raining on Sunday,” Keith Urban
7. “You Shouldn’t Kiss Me Like This,” Toby Keith
8. “Don’t You Wanna Stay,” Jason Aldean and Kelly Clarkson
9. “I Melt,” Rascal Flatts
10. “Breathe,” Faith Hill
11. “Need You Now,” Lady Antebellum
12. “Come Over,” Kenny Chesney
13. “Alone With You,” Jake Owen
14. “I May Hate Myself in the Morning,” Lee Ann Womack
15. “Gettin’ You Home,” Chris Young
16. “I Don’t Want This Night to End,” Luke Bryan
17. “Crazy One More Time,” Kip Moore
18. “Keep Me Up All Night,” Julie Roberts
19. “I’d Love to Be Your Last,” Gretchen Wilson
20. “Let Me Touch You For Awhile,” Alison Krauss and Union Station
21. “Over,” Blake Shelton
22. “Look at Me,” Carrie Underwood
23. “Nothing on but the Radio,” Gary Allen
24. “Amazed,” Lonestar
25. “Strawberry Wine,” Deana Carter

The post 25 Sexy Country Songs For Doin’ It Cowgirl Style appeared first on 12thBLOG.

You’ve seen them before: the super awkward, cringe-worthy, “OMG, did they seriously wear that?” engagement photos. And then you’ve also seen the ones that simply take your breath away. So how do you make sure yours fall under the breathtaking category? Well, aside from hiring an amazing photographer, it’s all in what you don’t wear, brides-to-be.

1. Anything that makes you uncomfortable
Boston-based award winning photographer Kristin Griffin says her biggest piece of advice to brides-to-be is to dress in something comfy. “I see so many women wearing short skirts and heels that clearly don’t wear them on a regular basis,” she explains. “Their faces show discomfort, they don’t enjoy walking around (and we generally do a lot of walking on engagement shoots), plus they are constantly pulling at their clothing.” On top of all that, you won’t really look like yourselves in the photos either.

2. Matching outfits
Coordinating colors can be cute, but matching white tees and jeans? Err, not so much. It’s overdone, points out Griffin. “You’ll look like the generic beach family in the frames you buy at the store.” Instead, she recommends choosing colors in the same family, as they’ll complement each other and photograph well. “Think purple with yellow, blue with orange, black with gray or white with possibly a splash of color.”

3. Lots of logos and loud patterns
For obvious reasons, logos are a huge no-no when it comes to your engagement photos. After all, you don’t want to be a walking advertisement, warns Griffin. However, busy patterns can be just as bad, as they not only draw attention away from you, but they also age your pics once the pattern goes out of style, notes seasoned photographer Marc Nathan of Marc Nathan Photographers, Inc. in Houston, Texas. “If you’re simply dying to sport a patterned shirt or scarf, a nice way for your partner to incorporate pattern subtly would be to have it peaking out from underneath a solid sweater,” advises NJ-based portrait photographer Danielle Hark.

4. Neon colors
As trendy as they are right now, neon colors tend to be extremely luminous and create a weird color cast on your skin, cautions Dana Cubbage, a destination wedding and engagement photographer based in Charleston, SC. “In my experience, it’s very hard to correct my clients’ skin tones when there is a neon glow from their clothing present.”

5. Anything that’s too tight or loose
Unfortunately, the camera captures every little curve and bulge, plus too tight pants can result in the dreaded muffin top, points out Nathan. Baggy clothes, on the other hand, might make you look larger than you actually are in pics. “A good, comfortable fit in a solid color that flatters both skin tones is best,” he says.

The post What Not to Wear For Your Engagement Photos appeared first on 12thBLOG.

I am turning 25 next week (Libras, represent!). A lot of my friends say you’re not an adult until you turn 25 years old, which is when your brain (allegedly) fully forms. It’s also when you’ve typically settled into adolescence with some kind of job or some kind of direction. On most days I lament getting older. Today I figured why not count some of the things that are actually great about not feeling like a kid who doesn’t know her butt from her brain.

1. No homework.

2. Ice cream for dinner but the flavor you wanted and not the generic Neapolitan your mama would buy because she had a coupon (although that’s delicious too).

3. A self-imposed bed time that feels so delicious. As a kid going to sleep at a reasonable hour was dreadful, as a grownup it feels like a reward for dealing with LIFE.

4. You can buy the things you want. (Suffer the swag or the consequences.)

5. You don’t have to sneak into r-rated movies.

6. You can watch as much porn as you like, ladies.

7. You’re more articulate.

8. You’re more confident than you were when you were a frumpy, naive freshman.

9. You’re more at peace with not having all the answers instead of mentally festering about every existential crisis.

10. Better shoes. I swear it’s true. They look nice and are comfortable.

11. Your tolerance for bullshit gets slowly eroded and thus all the problematic people in your life seem to fade away.

12. You gossip less. You kinda start to realize that judging others is kind of just another way of judging yourself and that you want to feel good about yourself and feeling good about others is a really effective way to do that.

13. Your parents seem reasonable enough for you to not cringe whenever they try to contact you.

14. You have more quality friends.

15. You have more quality conversations.

16. You’re not only more willing to standup for yourself, you’re more capable. You’re better at expressing yourself and understanding that you’re worthy of respect.

17. You know when to shut up. (It’s true.)

18. You can add wine to any boring situation to make it better.

19. You slowly become more politically active and aware which makes you realize suddenly why it’s usually only the “old people” that vote.

20. Better sandwiches. With that good bread. With that good cheese.

21. Better coffee.

22. You own less stuff because you need less stuff to make you feel good.

23. You’re better with money (sort of. sort of.)

24. You can still enjoy all the sweet stuff about being a kid but you get to stay up late and eat ice cream doing it.

25. You have the option—and I am just putting this out there—of owning a puppy.

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