BEAUTY

The palate this 2008 Spring/Summer season is primarily soft. Lighter shadows, pinker blushes, pink or bronze-colored lips, and the illumination and sun-kissed look of a good bronzing powder. Smoky eyes are also highly touted, however, unless you can wield a very good brush you’ll wind up looking like you went a few rounds with Laila Ali and forgot to bob and weave!

If I had to list the absolute essentials in every woman’s arsenal, they should include; concealer, a light, airy foundation with good coverage and SPF, mascara, eyeshadow, eye pencil or eyeliner, blush, lipstick and gloss, bronzer, and the best make-up brushes you can afford. That said, if you don’t have time for the "full monty," fast forward to concealer, blush, lipstick or gloss and out the door you go.

FASHION

What are the spring/summer season’s hottest looks for 2008? After gleaning through a multitude of print publications and watching the denizens of the fashion industry display their hottest trends on the tube, I’ve come up with a few VERY practical ways to add some punch to your wardrobe.

Color is everywhere, getting it’s hint from a ‘garden-type’ palate. Think "Sweet Tarts" candy, and you’ve got the vision. Grounded with either black or white, you’ll look fresh. Just keep it toned down, or you’ll look like an Easter egg with heels.

The Tribal look is everywhere. Again, unless you want to look like ‘Safari Gone Bad’ I’d keep it to perhaps a beaded necklace or a few (preferably 3) wood bangles.

One of the least expensive ways to pump your wardrobe is with patent leather, either shoes or bag.

Proving the old adage "everything old is new again" prompts the vision for evening looks. It all goes back to the heyday of Forties glam. If you’re not old enough to remember, rent a movie, preferably something with Rita Hayworth, Jean Harlow, Marlene Dietrich, or any of those forties goddesses. Your little black dress adorned with a paste (rhinestone or equivalent) necklace and earrings is typical of ‘the look’ here.

Graphic prints are also making a big splash. Just keep it down to perhaps a scarf or blouse. You don’t want to look like you’re a walking Picasso in jersey knit.

Again, ladies, common sense is key here. Some of us may be fashionistas, but none of us want to be fashion victims. So head out to your favorite concrete emporium and don’t forget the superstores, where many well-known designers have come up with affordable alternatives for us.