Kristin van Ogtrop's Blog, page 80
November 18, 2013
How to Salvage a Too-Long Belt
A stylish thin belt that fits just right with trousers may be too big to wear at your waist over a dress or cardigan—but that doesn’t mean you have to buy the often-pricey accessory in two different sizes. Instead, try this trick from celebrity stylist Kimmy Erin: Slide your belt through the buckle, past the holes. Then, move the prong […]
Why You Should Reverse Your Ceiling Fan
When the temperature drops, most people probably leave the switch to their ceiling fan untouched but running your fan during the winter can actually help you save on heating costs.
Decorative Wedding Ceremony Idea from Loverly
[Photo by Birds of a Feather Photography on Wedding Chicks] At this Maryland ceremony, the floral designer made a gorgeous decorative decision to hang floral wreaths from the branches of the tree where the couple would be exchanging their vows. What catches my eye: The simplicity of each wreath’s design, and how the trio—each a different size—created one romantic masterpiece. […]
Today’s Thought
Get the daily thought in your inbox. See more inspiring quotes on our Pinterest board. What’s Hot on RealSimple.com 7 Fun Flats for Fall Etiquette Help for the Holidays How to Prepare for a Phone InterviewFiled under: Daily Thought
November 15, 2013
A Money-Saving Refrigerator Maintenance Trick
Fun fact: Today, November 15, is National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day! With the holidays approaching, lots of cooking means relying heavily on yours. As you start to stock up, use this trick to keeping your appliance in good condition: Fill it up Yes, this may seem like an easy thing to do leading up to a big feast, but […]
How to Take a Better Holiday Card Photo
Do you love the annual flurry of holiday greetings, but stress about which photo puts your family’s best face forward? With a little advice from the experts, it’s possible (dare we say… easy?) to take a great snapshot. Keep it simple. Get in close, and minimize noise (so nix the roaring fireplace and brightly patterned clothing). Light it right. Inside or out, […]
A Stress-Busting Idea for Traveling With Kids
As if travelling with children isn’t difficult enough, the people who sit next to you for long trips on trains or planes may not always treat you with holiday cheer. To get off on the right foot with your nearby passengers, Mauria Finley, CEO Citrus Lane, recommends befriending would-be Scrooges before takeoff (and temper tantrums): “I once showed up with […]
Today’s Thought
Get the daily thought in your inbox. See more inspiring quotes on our Pinterest board. What’s Hot on RealSimple.com 10 Ways to Cope With Anxiety 10 Party Dips 10 Healthy Breakfast FoodsFiled under: Daily Thought
November 14, 2013
On Paying Attention
[Note: A version of this article first appeared in the November 2013 issue of Real Simple.] The other night I saw the documentary Deceptive Practice, about the life and work of Ricky Jay. In one scene, the magician describes spending a hot California afternoon on a bench with one of his mentors observing men who were about to enter a […]
3 Easy Ways to Heat Tortillas
Tacos and burritos taste much better when the tortillas they’re wrapped in are warm and toasty. Plus, a warm tortilla is more pliable, making it easier to work with. When I just need a handful, I like to toast them directly over a low flame on my gas stovetop for a few seconds (don’t forget to use tongs!). The flame […]
