Kristin van Ogtrop's Blog, page 51
March 4, 2014
Is Your Purse Too Heavy?
The superfluous contents of your purse may be a running joke at this point—even we Real Simple staffers giggled at our over-stuffing—but a too-heavy bag is no laughing matter. If you find yourself toting around everything from makeup to gym shoes to heavy electronics, remember that the extra weight can lead to neck and shoulder pain. Consider this advice from Heidi Prather, […]
Truth In Beauty: A Take on the Oscars
As I sit in my office typing this, my mother Estela, age 70, is sitting with me. She stopped by for a visit and we started discussing—what else?—Oscars beauty. My take is that there was a certain sameness, and safeness, about most people’s beauty and fashion choices. Mom agrees. A lot of nude makeup looks (Amy Adams, Cate Blanchett, Julia […]
6 Big Home Trends From the 1990s (That Just Might Return) from Apartment Therapy
What do the Backstreet Boys, plaid, and carpeted floors have in common? They were all popular in the ’90s and seem to be making a comeback. That’s right—according to Apartment Therapy, there are several home décor trends from 20 years ago that might also be resurfacing in the near future… and who doesn’t love nostalgia!? To check out the full […]
Today’s Thought
Get the daily thought in your inbox. See more inspiring quotes on our Pinterest board. What’s Hot on RealSimple.com Kicking the Takeout Habit How the Experts Care for Their Skin 16 Fun Ideas for Hosting a Game NightFiled under: Daily Thought
March 3, 2014
Easy Recipes for Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras—also known as Fat Tuesday—starts tomorrow, March 4. In the mood to celebrate? Try these easy recipes inspired by New Orleans, Cajun, and creole cuisine. Cajun Chicken and Rice Slow-Cooker White Bean Soup With Andouille and Collards Shrimp and Sausage With Saffron Rice Tilapia Po’ Boys Cajun Fish With Cabbage and Bacon Sauté Pasta with Andouille, Peppers, and Tomatoes […]
How To Store Sweaters
It may be wishful thinking (the groundhog did see his shadow, right?), but with spring weather on the horizon, it’s time to start thinking about storing your winter wardrobe. We asked Katherine Carpenter, the Design Director for Autumn Cashmere, how to best store sweaters to keep them wrinkle-free and in top shape until next winter rolls around. Here are her […]
How to Dry Clothes Faster
Ah, laundry day. If you've put off the chore until the last minute, use these two tips to make sure your clothes are dry by the time you have to be out the door. 
Today’s Thought
Get the daily thought in your inbox. See more inspiring quotes on our Pinterest board. What’s Hot on RealSimple.com Outdated Relationship Advice A Step-by-Step Guide to Caring for Your Skin 10 Best Spaghetti RecipesFiled under: Daily Thought
February 28, 2014
I Could Have Been Kerry Kennedy
Not because my dad ever ran for president or, thank God, died when I was young. (My own father is very much alive and well and trying to boss me around every chance he gets. For which I am grateful. After all, consider the alternative.) Or because I had 38 siblings, which would have been fun. Or was married to […]
A Strategy for Cleaning Sentimental Clutter
We all deal with sentimental clutter: A broken memento from a loved one; your now-grown child’s toy that’s been gathering dust for years; or even a well-intentioned gift that you never use, but feel guilty for giving away. It can be hard to get rid of such beloved items—but when you feel it’s time to clean, organize, and purge your […]
