The Eight Myths of Becoming a Model

1) You have to be really pretty or beautiful.

The best way to put this is that a person cannot be unattractive. That means you generally cannot have; bad skin, asymmetrical or odd facial features, or weirdly colored or cut hair. It is not unusual for a model to walk in their agency on a off day, in casual clothing and no makeup, only to be told by the receptionist that the open call for new models is later in the week.

2) You must be tall to model.

If you are going to be a runway model then the answer is yes. However, most modeling is not runway or fashion show. Most print models can start at 5'6". There is always petite modeling which goes from 5'1" to 5'4". Then there is promotional modeling that has no height requirement at all.

3) If an agent or agency really wants you they will pay for everything.

If you are one of the handful of models that the big worldwide agencies bid for each year the answer is yes. If you are one of the other 99% then the answer is no. Agencies generally do not pay for your pictures, comp cards, or digitization and image enhancement costs. They may even lend you the money only to take it back when you start making money.

4) Modeling is really hard work.

Although mostly a myth there is some truth to this statement. It is true that models make $25 to $150 an hour for basically standing around looking good, either to be photographed, walk a ramp, or talk to people. Anyway you cut it it's not so hard. The hard part is going out on all the auditions to get the modeling job in the first place. A model may have to go out on 3 auditions for every one they land. That is not fun.

5) Models make a lot of money.

Yes, it's true that Gisele Bundchen made around 33 million dollars last year. However even in the top 10 top model money earners the amount fell into the measly 7 figures. Now that is in the entire world! Outside of the major modeling markets like New York and Los Angeles the vast majority of models work part time, and must supplement their model earnings with another job.

6) Models must be skinny.

For most print and runway models this may be true. However, there is always plus size models, (sizes 14 -20). In addition, it is not unusual for female models to be size 6-8, hardly considered skinny by most people. Today it is much more important to have a toned body, where a person looks healthy with no flabby parts.

7) You have to know about posing, putting on makeup, and being in front of the camera.

If you have the look the photographer or agent wants, they will figure out the rest.

8) You need professional pictures to send to an agency.

Any new face agent should be able to tell you whether they want you with simple digital pictures you or a friend take of you. The best idea is a plan a photo shoot where you have alot of clothing and makeup changes, making sure you take lots, (maybe like 100), of pictures, then simply picking out the best 4 or 5 to send in to the agencies you want to apply to.

By Fred Sweet

Girl Power (Know Your Worth, Be Empowered)

(One woman to the rest)

If we know we're worth more and we are, we know we deserve better. If we know our value, we won't settle for less or be less. So be it...

1. We are not sex objects - We are to be loved, respected and taken care of, not items to be used to gratify the lustful desires of the opposite gender. Any man who thinks of us otherwise is not worthy of us nor is he worth anything at all.

2. We're not inferior to men - We were originally created as a helpmate but that doesn't mean lower or second-class. It just means we're a necessity. Men can't simply do without us. They need our help. No competition there but partnership. Our worth and power, and influence is in being simply "FEMININE". We don't need to prove we can do what the men can do because obviously we can do something they can't, conceive and bear children.

3. We are beautiful and complex -- Whether fair skinned, brown, or black (unless you're yellowish, in that case you better consult a doctor right away), women are beautiful. Endowed with curves and softer, smoother skin. And we do smell better. Aging may change all that but the awesome and complex (part of our charm) person we are inside will never be ebbed away by years and this is the most important part of us that we ought to pay more attention to than shampoo commercials.

4. We are emotional creatures - Soft, and fragile and should be treated with gentleness. This is also why we often can't make up our minds, because we base our decisions mainly from how we feel (and our emotion's like a roller coaster - not to mention, we have 'that' time of the month) rather than how we think about something or the logic of it. Men on the other hand are often not in touch with their emotions (because they look at everything at a logical point, sometimes, too much). So God made us for the things they're not good at. Hehe

By Theresa Flores

Five Sizzling Beach Styles For the Summer

Summer may just be starting, and you might just be beginning to think about testing the waters, but in many parts of the country the beaches are sizzling. With temperatures soaring into the triple digits, beach goers that want to make a splash should be prepared before hitting the sand.

Summer fun can be easy, with a few cool summer styles to start you off.

Beat the heat with a funky new beach bag. Beach bags are hot, hot, hot, this summer and designer inspired over-sized bags at a reasonable price can be found almost anywhere near the beach.

They're big enough to carry an extra swimsuit, cover-up, sunscreen and water bottle. And this year they are wild. Floral and glitter are the rage, turning the beach into a sandy runway. Experiment. Let your inner diva free...

Summer scarves are making a comeback and not just for accenting your wardrobe. Beach trotting fashionistas can be spotted sporting colorful floral scarves. Worn as an accessory to protect and keep your hair under control or as a swimwear cover-up, scarves are making waves this season. And they can be worn in a number of ways to keep you looking sleek and chic even on the hottest of days.

Glam it up with a pair of over-sized sunglasses. This summer's cool shades will protect your eyes in a variety of fun and funky colors, but spend some time and find the right fit for your face. And once you do, make a bold statement with a colorful pair and heads will snap in your direction. Who knows...you just might have someone ask you for your autograph.

Find your summer sole mate and step onto the sand with a sexy pair of thong sandals. You'll be the envy of every girl on the beach. So go get your pedicure now ladies and show off those pretty painted toes in a comfortable pair of trendy sling backs.

Look like a celeb and nurture your skin. Tinted moisturizer will keep your skin smooth and protected while giving you that healthy sun-kissed glow. Find an oil free brand that still hydrates your skin and you'll look morning fresh while knowing you're being good to yourself. So enjoy the summer under a beachside umbrella or big floppy hat and still look as if you're a true sun goddess.

By Juanita McClellan

Vanessa Williams Admits to Botox

When it comes to cosmetic procedures, it is often a guessing game to try to determine what celebrities have had anything done.

Few celebrities will admit to having cosmetic procedures, even though most admit that everyone seems to be doing it.

Because of this, it is always a bit exciting when a celebrity openly reveals that they use cosmetic procedures to attain that perfect television look.

Vanessa Williams, former pageant winner and singer and current co-star on the hit television series Ugly Betty recently admitted to journalist Barbara Walters that she frequently undergoes Botox injections.

Williams calls the injections a miracle drug, marvelling at how impressive the results are without the need for cutting or surgery. She is quick to state that she loves the drug.

In truth, what is not to love? Williams is as beautiful as ever and certainly looks nowhere near her forty plus years of age. She is talented, successful, and one of the most beautiful women in the business.

While many women in Hollywood are denying having work done and sneaking through the back door of the surgeons office in remote locations, Williams sits comfortably at home, basking in the astonishing results of her injections.

She is among a very small group of celebrities who will admit to cosmetic procedures, though she is only a small part of the group of celebrities who have them.

Many women take inspiration from people like Williams. Rather than denying that she ages like everyone else, she embraces that fact and admits fully to having injections to fight wrinkles.

Many people have an unrealistic image of celebrities, feeling that they wake up every day of their lives looking as beautiful as they did while in their twenties. That perception is perpetuated by many celebrities' blatant refusal to admit to cosmetic work.

Vanessa Williams is a great example of the result of Botox. When performed properly by a licensed cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist, Botox is a safe way to eliminate wrinkles and to highlight the face.

Williams has certainly done a great service by admitting to the injections and has helped people see that proper Botox can improve the skin without paralyzing the entire face. Many people have a skewed view of Botox because they only hear about people who have had the procedure done improperly, and Williams is helping to show the true face of excellent Botox injections.

By Leonard Dawson

Street Smarts Tips For Women

By Liza C

Women can be vulnerable in different instances. Sometimes, emotions can trigger their alertness and confidence on streets. Thus, susceptible women may be subject as the next target of people with bad intentions and a victim of street accidents.

While women can be considered street smarts, they can still sometimes fall in traps. The next important travel safety tips are dedicated to all travelers, particularly women. The tips can be categorized as part of the common sense, women's intuitions and a general idea on how to be safe on streets.

1. Dress up properly. If you are new in a place, make sure that you are dressed appropriately. You do not want to stand out in the crowd and attract significant attention from robbers. You should not also wear expensive and even fake pieces of jewelry and carry big bags as those may also compromise your safety. More often, wearing a wedding ring makes sense.

2. Study the place. Before you go out for a walk, make sure that you have studied your destination's map. Holding a map while walking on streets can give thieves a hint that you are new in the place. After studying, you can just bring a small organizer or pocket note with your listed important landmarks. You may also want to ask your hotel's concierge for the places that should be avoided. Walking during the day is also safer than at night.

3. Carrying your valuables. Money, documents and cellular phones are just some of the important things that must be with you when traveling. It is better to carry a small bag where your body can wrap around it or a belt bag that you should wear tightly around your waist. If possible, bring only one credit card, identification ID and photocopies of your travel documents. You must also familiarize yourself with the foreign currency before using it.

4. When you are astray. Consider asking directions to a family or women with children. This will make you safer and free from robbers or stalkers. You may ask for directions or the landmark of the place and say that you will meet somebody there so they will not suspect that you are alone.

5. If something bad happens. Remember that thieves attack at times that we do not expect so make sure to run, fight and yell as loud as you can to catch attention from other people.

How to Get Rid of Feminine Odor Fast

By Michelle Jacobs

Although it is natural for a woman's body to produce a certain scent, it is not natural for it to be strong and have a fishy smell to it. If you are experiencing this bad feminine odor, then you need a remedy.

A lot of women who have feminine odor just live life with it and try to ignore it but those are the wrong ways to go about things. The reason that your body is producing this scent is because something is wrong. The most common reason is that you have an infection known as bacterial vaginosis. If you are experiencing the bad odor followed by a thick, white discharge then this isn't normal.

If you have bad vaginal odor, then you can get rid of it in the comfort of your own home. You don't need to go to a doctor's and get a prescription. All you would get is a pill you'd never remember to take or a messy cream that would just make you feel even worse about your body. You want something that is inexpensive, effective and most important, something that will work fast.

If you want to get rid of feminine odor fast, then there are some ways that can help. Try taking a bath in piping hot water filled with Epson salt. The hot water will work to soothe any irritation that you might be experiencing while the salt will kill the infection. Plus, taking a hot bath will definitely get rid of the smell and make you feel refreshed and confident.

Beautiful, Big and Bridal

By Frances Brown

Every girl dreams of having a spectacular wedding, to be walking down the aisle, as stunningly dressed as a princess. Just because you maybe a plus-sized lady there is no excuse for not making your fantasy wedding a reality.

The most important decision that you will have to make is in the choice of your wedding dress. Your memories that you will cherish in the future will begin with what you choose to wear today.

No matter what your size is, your wedding dress can look fabulous on you and emphasis your unique style. The secret is in finding a retailer who is supportive and co-operative, Having a solid repartee with whoever you choose is crucial.

The most flattering style for a plus-sized bride to be is the A-line. This classically beautiful design cut is simple, sophisticated and stylish.

Another favourite style is the Empire waisted gown. With this design, the fabric flows freely from just under your bustline, to create a soft, natural look.

As a plus-sized goddess, one of your greatest assets is a well endowed bust. By wearing a very supportive bra or a one-piece corset the effect can be truly breathtaking.

Team a well cradled bust with a V-neck or scoop neck gown and the result is spectacular. A gown made from light satins, chiffons and silks are going to be the most flattering.

Your personal size will not become an issue as long as you emphasis your physical strengths and cover your weaknesses. If you are wearing a dress that fits you well and suits your body shape, you'll be able to present yourself with style and grace, feeling radiant and confident.

Don't forget to surprise your groom with some romantic and sexy lingerie. Nothing makes a woman feel attractive and desirable as much as wearing sensual and alluring lingerie.

The range now-a-days of larger size intimate apparel is staggering. Lovely lace chemises or baby-doll sets flatter a fuller figure, while making you feel seductive and beautiful.

The choice of what to wear is only restricted by how adventurously sexy and daring you wish to go.

T Shirts For Confident Women

By Karl Hopkins

When it comes to being funny, tradition says that men are normally funnier than women. Although one way for women to combat this tradition is by wearing funny t shirts.

It is a good way to connect to men and let them know that you can be just as funny as them. Not only will they find you amusing, they also will respect you for having such a great sense of humour.

Wearing this type of fashion statement also shows your sarcastic side and lets people know that you appreciate a lighter side of fashion and life style.

Wearing funny t-shirts is always a good idea for women who want to show off their comical side. Whether this is outright funny or more satirical, it lets people know that you appreciate a humour, and enough to show this to the world.

Most people think women's fashion views revolve around great dresses and accessories. What many women want though is a comfortable yet stylish top. They find both in these humourous shirts. What is even better about these tops is that you can dress them easily with a nice pair of jeans and some nice accessories. You do not have to look like a slouch in a t shirt anymore.

Men differ from women in the realm of fashion. Both men and women know this, which is why most men prefer to shop alone. They know what they like when it comes to clothing and they do not want a woman to change their fashion or style sense.

When you wear funny t-shirts with accessories, people will be even more impressed with your fashion sense than if you were to wear a regular top, as they will see you are willing to take risks with your wardrobe because you are a confident person.

Confidence and a great sense of humour is the key to great fashion sense. People will find you funny if you are confident in your delivery. T shirts show off that confidence because it lets people know that you are not afraid to express yourself through your attire.

Another reason why funny t-shirts are such a good fashion choice for women is because they can be worn with so many different things. You can use them to dress down an outfit and show off your funny side while you are working out.

You also can be funny and make people laugh while doing something such as shopping, taking a walk. If you are creative enough, your possibilities are endless when it comes to wearing funny shirts.

Women love to send messages, so it is even better when that message can be with her t-shirt.