Kristin van Ogtrop's Blog, page 32
May 7, 2014
Wednesday Trivia: New-Baby Smell
It’s not the powder or the laundry detergent. New-baby smell is real—and it’s irresistible. In a recent study published in Frontiers in Psychology, researchers monitored the brain activity of 30 women who were asked to sniff pajamas worn by newborns. Half the women were new moms and half hadn’t had children, but in every case the brain’s reward center lit […]
4 Universally-Flattering Colors
The promised May flowers are here, the sun is shining, and your wardrobe is (finally!) coming out of hibernation. But packing away your all-black outfits can be tricky if you’re uncomfortable adding color to your warm-weather attire. Luckily, it’s easier than you think to get out of your style rut. Leatrice Eiseman, the author of More Alive With Color ($13, […]
Overcome a Bad Hair Day
Can limp locks, frizz, or other symptoms of a bad hair day affect more than just your style factor? According to an online survey by StyleSeat, an app and website that helps you find and book beauty appointments, 91 percent of women surveyed said having a good hair day makes them feel more confident. Even more reason to tame your tresses? Approximately 19 percent of women surveyed said they're more productive at work when they experience a good hair day. Another 18 percent are nicer to others. 
Today’s Thought
Get the daily thought in your inbox. See more inspiring quotes on our Pinterest board. What’s Hot on RealSimple.com How to Compost How to Clean Your Gadgets 13 Foods That Help You Stay HealthyFiled under: Daily Thought
May 6, 2014
Let Real Simple Plan Your Meals
Tired of the question, “What’s for dinner?” Let us help you take the task of organizing your family’s dinners off your plate. We’re excited to introduce the Real Simple Weeknight Meal Planner: Get a complete dinner plan for the week carefully hand-picked by our very own editors, plus grocery lists. For more info and a free one-week sample, click here.Filed under: […]
New Uses for a Mascara Wand
Here at Real Simple, we’re very fond of New Uses for Old Things. And why not? New Uses for Old Things are ingenious solutions that quite often save you money, too. So you can imagine my thrill over seeing the humble mascara wand used in myriad ways over the last few weeks. Mind you, I’m talking about a clean mascara […]
3 Ways to Wear Bold, Bright Tangerine from PopSugar
Ready to shed that heavy winter wardrobe? Consider adopting some color this spring with one of these bright tangerine outfits put together by our friends at PopSugar.com. Whether you’re on a budget or willing to splurge, these colorful ensembles are sure to spice up your everyday spring look. To see the full post on PopSugar.com, click here. More from RealSimple.com: […]
Today’s Thought
Get the daily thought in your inbox. See more inspiring quotes on our Pinterest board. What’s Hot on RealSimple.com 9 Cute Umbrellas Cut Your Energy Costs 4 Steps to a Last-Minute GetawayFiled under: Daily Thought
May 5, 2014
Worn-Out Lining? Here’s What to Do.
Your coat, skirt, or handbag may be in top shape from the outside, but if the inner lining is falling apart, you could be in trouble… unless you call in a pro. Yes, a small tear in a dress lining can usually be fixed for less than $10 (yay!), but if the entire interior needs a restoration, replacing it can […]
A Clutter-Busting Kitchen Tip
When I open up the cabinet adjacent to my stove's hood, the spices all but fly out at me. At times, they really do come crashing out, forcing a slight pause on dinner prep. Sound familiar? 
