Kristin van Ogtrop's Blog, page 134

Spring Wedding Color Combo from Loverly

[Photo by Twila&039s Photography] Some brides-to-be have their wedding colors picked out long before they’ve created their guest list or settled on a venue. Some do not. If you’re on the hunt for a fresh, unexpected, and pretty palette, this mint green + pale pink + gold combo is definitely worth stealing. What are your favorite wedding colors? Find even […]

Improve Your Memory While Brushing Your Teeth

Did you know that you can improve your memory just by making a change to how you brush your teeth? Tonight, try using your non-dominant hand (the one you don’t write with) to clean those pearly whites. That simple act can stimulate nerve cells on the side of the brain that you don’t typically exercise, which will help keep you sharp. […]

How to Make Guacamole with Hard Avocados

Finding ripe avocados isn’t always easy. So when you’re stuck with the hard-as-rock variety—and you don’t have any time to let them soften—try this trick from California avocado grower Carol Steed: Place 2 peeled, pitted avocados in a blender with 1 cup peas (fresh, or frozen and thawed), and then pulse until smooth. The peas will help soften the consistency […]

30-Second Updo

Literally, that’s how long it took makeup artist Melissa Silver to twist up her hair into this cute bun when the elements (unusually warm temperatures, high humidity) conspired against her on the day of a RealSimple.com beauty shoot. Here’s how to re-create her go-to do for bad-hair days: • Gather your hair as if you’re going to make a high […]

Today’s Thought

Get the daily thought in your inbox. See more inspiring quotes on our Pinterest board. What’s Hot on RealSimple.com 25 Favorite Pasta Recipes on Pinterest Bright Color-Block Clothing 4 Fun Travel Games Filed under: Daily Thought

Clean Your Patio Furniture Fast

The sun is finally shining here on the East Coast, and Memorial Day will be here before we know it. That means it’s time to haul out your outdoor furniture, and get it looking spiffy before company comes calling. Just remember: You’re not aiming for perfectly clean. Pretty clean is just fine when you’re tidying up in the outdoors! Here […]

Why You Should Shop in the Juniors’ Department

Next time you hit the mall or the department store, make sure to stop by the juniors’ department. True, you may not want to sport a midriff-baring crop top, and those studded neon jeans may not be to your taste, but do take some time to peruse the accessories. You’ll find a veritable treasure trove of stylish scarves, costume jewelry, […]

How to Get a Free Room Upgrade

Have you ever been tempted to shell out some extra dough for a bigger hotel room, but couldn't justify the cost? Good news: Getting the upgrade you've been dreaming about can be as easy as asking for it. According to Consumer Reports, 78 percent of people who asked for a better room were granted either a lower rate or a free upgrade.

Today’s Thought

Get the daily thought in your inbox. See more inspiring quotes on our Pinterest board. What’s Hot on RealSimple.com 6 Simple Energy-Saving Home Fixes Get Organized With Everyday Items 6 Ways to Stop Snoring Filed under: Daily Thought

How to Prevent Makeup Stains

When you're trying to get out of the house in a hurry, there's few things more frustrating than spilling makeup on your freshly laundered blouse. Hopefully this trick will keep you from sending your shirt right back to the dry cleaner and running to the closet for an impromptu change.