3 Priceless Christmas Gifts That Cost Less Than $ 10

Before you spend a fortune on Christmas gifts this year, have you thought of DIY alternatives? You see, though the holiday season is a time for giving and receiving material gifts, there are far more important things than designer clothes, expensive bags and sky-high wedge boots. And many of us tend to forget about this fact when the Christmas season rolls around.

Here are 3 of the sweetest personalized Christmas gift ideas that you should try this year. Get your special gift to stand out in the piles of gifts under the holiday tree by being different, original and free. Let me know what you think of these ideas by leaving me a comment below.

Sweet Christmas Gift Alternative # 1 Letters, Post-it notes and greeting cards. When was the last time you wrote your family and friends a personal note? I bet it’s been a while but it’s not too late to get back at it again. Handwritten letters may seem pretty old school but I love receiving them. It makes me feel that the person who gave it to me really went out of his or her way just to write me a message despite the convenience of just sending me an SMS or a message on Facebook.

Remember that Christmas is not about the material gifts that we can give or receive. We should be more concerned about spreading love, goodness and tons of holiday cheers. Letters that express well wishes are worth more than expensive handbags and designer boots. These seemingly simple letters are gems that can be kept and treasured for a lifetime. Always remember that your kind words can do wonders in uplifting a sad and broken soul.

Sweet Christmas Gift Alternative # 2 Scrapbook of special memories. Photographs are simple mementos that are surely worth keeping. As the popular saying goes, pictures can paint a thousand words. And it always does. Whether you are a professional photographer or not, make it a habit to take snapshots of the moments that you share with your family, friends, partner or anyone who means anything to you.

Keep in mind that life is short and every moment is fleeting. Nothing may ever happen again so capture each moment through a photograph. Gone are the days when we have to lug around huge cameras just to take pictures. Today, every Smartphone and even mobile phones have a decent camera that allows us to relieve the moments.

If you’re not the artsy type of individual, you don’t have to worry about decorating your scrapbook. The simplest way to showcase photographs in a book form is to place them in and add little captions and speech bubbles that could bring the moment to life. You can also add ready-made stickers and decorations to make your book of memories fun.

Sweet Christmas Gift Alternative # 3 Coupons of things that you’d like to do for them. This is a cool DIY gift idea that I read from a magazine a couple of years back. The idea of this present is to give that very important person a set of coupons that contain simple or elaborate acts of love that you are willing to do for them. Your coupons may include free hugs, washing the dishes and taking the pup out for a walk.

The trick here is to include activities that the recipient would enjoy. This is cost-efficient Christmas gift alternative is very easy to make. Not to mention the tons of thoughtfulness that it brings with it.

oh! since it is a gift why not check out HOW TO WRAP JEWELRY IN THE LAST MINUTE instead of waiting in line on th egift wrapping section.

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Shoes and Lace

Are you thinking of fun and easy ways to spruce up your Bamboo shoes? Then this do-it-your-way project is perfect for you!

The other day, I almost threw out a pair of ballet flats. It was already well worn and I don’t know what else to do with it so I thought of finding the perfect do-it-your-way project to reinvent my shoes. I came across this do-it-your-way project from Nik of LHDCtv.com – and it’s just so pretty! What I love about putting lace on my shoes is that it’s very easy. Now, my ballet flats are still usable and in fashion.

Photo Credits:LHDCtv.com

Here’s what you’ll need for the project:

• A pair of plain shoes.
• You can use ballet flats, wedge boots or Oxfords depending on your preference
• Fabric glue
• Flat paint brush
• Lace fabric in any color
• Newspapers or mat

What to Do:

1. Line your work area with newspaper or mat to serve as protection while doing the project.
2. Put a small amount of glue on the surface of the shoe.
3. Use the flat paint brush to spread fabric glue all over the shoe.
4. Once you've spread the glue all over the shoes, cover it with lace cloth. Remember to allow about half an inch of excess cloth at the bottom of your shoe. This excess cloth will be used to make sure that the shoe is fully covered in lace.
5. Press the lace on the shoe to make sure that it’s glued well. 
6. From the middle of the shoe hole, cut the lace so that you’ll be able to insert your foot again. Make sure to allow at least half an inch of lace to help you even out the top design. 
7. Then, brush a light coat of fabric glue on the inside of your shoes. 
8. Fold the excess lace inside your shoes and press it against the glue. 
9. Set it aside and repeat steps 1 to 8 for the other foot of your shoes.
10.  Let the pair dry before using it.

Learn how to add lace on your shoes through the instructional video HERE.

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Foot Care Tips to Keep your Style when wearing Wedge Boots

What happens when you combine the active style of sneakers with the smooth looks of booties? Well, you get an edgy and refreshing style. These past few months, I've seen dozens of sneaker wedge boots in eye-catching designs. Each pair just creates a fearless and exciting vibe. I can’t wait to get a pair so I can start painting the town.

But like every other high-heeled shoes, sneaker booties could also cause strain at one point. To get you through this, my dear ladies, I have 10 effective tips that could give instant soothing to your soles.

1. Clean them well. Always remember to wash your feet with soap and water when you shower to get rid of any bacteria that might have developed from wearing closed shoes.

2. Dry your feet. This is very important when you are wearing closed shoes more so with socks. After taking a bath, make sure that your feet is properly dried before wearing any pair of shoes. Doing so avoids athlete’s foot and other fungal development. Drying your feet can also be beneficial when you remove your shoes after long hours of wearing them.

3. Exfoliate your feet from time to time using a pumice stone to get rid of skin that may harden over time. When not removed, dead skin turn into calluses and corns.

4. Foot creams with lactic acid as an active ingredient can help hydrate your feet.

5. Let your feet rest. Trade your stilettos for ballet flats or booties to get some break from the strains of wearing high heels.

6. Make it a habit to massage your feet when you get home and relax. Aside from soothing the pressure points you got from wearing shoes, this can also improve blood flow.

7. Simple foot exercises can make a big difference. It’s not only your arms and legs that need a little flexing every now and then. Your ankles could benefit from it too. Rotating your ankles is the simplest form of exercise that could help you avoid sprains.

8. You gotta love pedis (and manis). Having your nails cut and groomed reduces your chances of getting foot sores from ill fitting shoes. Shorter nails also mean better fitting footwear.

9. Be Cinderella. Finding the right pair of booties is like a fairy tale. You are not only looking for your handsome prince charming (in this case, a pretty pair of shoes) but you also need to find the perfect match. Make sure that you get the right size and you allow some space for your feet to feel comfortable.

10. Nothing is too small to deserve your attention. At the first sign of excessive dryness or sweating, itching as well as inflammation, visit your doctor to get proper advice on treatment and medication. This is especially important if you've been diagnosed with diabetes.

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Snatching Reese Witherspoon’s Ankle Boots Style

Reese Witherspoon is one stylish Hollywood celebrity. All of us have surely seen her grow in front of the movie and TV screens. Of late, according to EOnline, the This Means Wars actress has been strutting down the streets wearing a Rag & Bone’s Harrow booties. Reese Witherspoon looked cool in ankle boots despite giving birth awhile back.

Reese was recently spotted at the opening of the Rag & Bone flagship store in Los Angeles late October. Snatch Reese’s comfy, effortless and polished look with these 5 foolproof style tips to get her look:

Reese Style Rule # 1 Embrace your feminine side with skirts and dresses

She may not be the ultimate girly-girl but Reese certainly knows how to play her female charm. Usually photographed in laid-back skirts and dresses, she never fails to mix style and comfort by pairing these bottoms with classic flats and sandals.

Skirts can easily take on a flirty vibe nowadays. To solve this possible image issue, just make sure that you get the right length. Reese is always seen wearing skirts that fall mid-length of the upper thigh. This length will work well for every lady especially the petite ones since they can use a little few inches to the height.

Reese Style Rule # 2 Put on a pair of sunnies

It’s very rare to see Reese out and about without a pair of sunglasses. This could be a Hollywood thing that celebrities enjoy doing when the paparazzi are lurking around but she has managed to stamp this style as her own. Reese often wears dark oversized sunnies in different shapes.

Sunglasses never go out of style. This means that you can wear a pair in any season as long as the sun is shining. In choosing a pair, make sure that it flatters your face shape and highlights your best facial features. Keep in mind that sunglasses are not just accessories but they can also protect your eyesight. Make an effort to find a pair that suits your features and provides protection.

Reese Style Rule # 3 Oversized cover-ups are sexy and comfy

With clothing pieces getting more complicated and skimpier day by day, Reese stands out from the crowd with her effortless look. She has given the slouchy sweater a new image – baggy clothes are not tasteless after all.

In wearing the oversized style, make sure that the other pieces in your look fit well. This style works well when you wear tight jeans or body hugging dresses. Big sweaters and cardigans keep your look modest and effortless. Adding on statement accessories like necklaces and cocktail ring can add fun to your look.

Reese Style Rule # 4 Spruce up your outfit with a scarf

Livening up your outfit is not only about adding a couple of bling over here and there. Other clothing pieces like cardigans, vests, jackets and scarves can kick your look up a notch. As for Reese, she’s great at spinning her plain looking attire by putting on scarves with interesting patters, colors and designs.

When shopping for a scarf, make sure to take a look at the material as well. Keep in mind that there are ones made from light materials while the others are made from thicker ones. Light scarves like sarongs are great for summer and spring while scarves made from heavy materials like wool are best used when the weather is extremely cold.

Reese Style Rule # 5 Denims never go out of style

Reese proves that she’s surely a southern babe with her collection of denims which is not only limited to pairs of jeans. She has been seen around in chic denim dress and comfy button down tops among other styles.

Soften denim pieces by pairing them with feminine footwear styles like wedges, sandals and ballet flats. Skip the boots if don’t want a cowboy look.

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Chriselle Lim on Finding the Booties For Your Body Shape

Styling your boots with your body type never seem to get the right wedge boots for you? You’ve probably been disregarding the shape of your body when looking for trendy pairs booties. Contrary to what many of us believe, mastering your body is not only necessary when picking dresses, tops and jeans. Knowing your shape also makes your the lovely Cinderella in a perfect pair of booties.

Chriselle Lim of TheChriselleFacor has 15 tips on how to wear booties in physique-flaunting says:

1. Picking a pair boots with a pop of color instantly makes any pair of classic boots look modern. Get this through a patterned design or elastic sides
2. A little bit of heels gives your calves a slimmer look. Not to mention they make you a few inches taller b
3. A tapered shaft elongates your legs in a wonderful manner
4. Pointy or narrow-edged shoes create a streamlined look
5.When wearing minis with ankle boots, make sure to get the right skirt length. It’s all about proportions. Keep your skirt above the knee to continue the length of your legs
6. Wearing fitted bottoms with ankle boots are great for curvaceous babes. Skinny jeans and fitted pants create a streamlined look. They work wonders in blending your look into one
7. Boots with thick and sturdy heels are a must for ladies with an hourglass body type. This footwear balances your feminine curves with a tougher feel
8. Putting on a pair of statement boots is the easiest way to spruce up an outfit whether it's in a basic color or a plain ensemble
9. Vertical zippers make your legs appear longer
10. A two-tone pair will give your shoe an ample amount of dimension
11. Get a pair of boots with an arch at the ankle. This seemingly unnoticeable feature actually allows your legs to create a continuous line
12. A cone-shaped heel is feminine. Look for this in masculine-styled boots to soften it up
13. Getting the right height of a knee-high boot is the ultimate key to pulling off the look
14. Look for booties that are tighter around the ankle to bring out your shape
15. When tucking in pants into your boots, it is best to wear skinny jeans to highlight the shape of your lower body and do away with a sloppy look

BONUS TIP: Like a little black dress, a black pair of booties is essential for every chic lady

Dressing well and looking good is not as hard as you think. Gaining a personal consciousness of your body is the key to being comfortable in any outfit. Love your body by wearing pieces that salutes your style and individuality.

Check out Chriselle Lim on Finding the Booties For Your Body Shape video HERE:

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Rihanna Surprise: Catch It Soon!

I’m sure you all know Rihanna. Wait, who doesn’t? This sensational pop star is known around the globe for her talent and unique fashion sense. From setting a trend to changing her hair color for bold looks, Rihanna has done it all. Despite making a few eyebrow twitching and hair raising choices, she has established her placed as one of the fashion icons of our time. We have known her to wear many hats over the years, and now she’s wearing a different one so I have very exciting news for all you fashion and Rihanna out there! This got me jumping up and down in my color block ankle boots – I’m just as excited as you are! I won’t keep you waiting so here goes the big news…

THE first promo teaser of Rihanna’s new show Styled To Rock can already be previewed over at YouTube. Ri-Ri is the executive producer of this UK-based reality TV show. The 10-week program will follow the journey of 12 contenders as they battle it out to get the most coveted price. With Nicola Roberts, Lysa Cooper and Henry Holland onboard as judges, I’m sure each contestant had to on top of their game every single moment.

Styled to Rock is out to seek an up-and-coming fashion designer who will get the chance of a life time to dress Rihanna for London’s Wireless music festival – her biggest English music gig for this year.

According to some news articles, the festival took place a couple of days ago. Rihanna really rocked her outfit but I’m not sure if that’s the output of the show. I’d just stay tuned to Styled To Rock which will air starting August.

US airing date and time? Not yet sure! I’ll keep you posted so we could all get to watch the 12 contenders as they dress one music icon after another each week. I’m so excited to know who will dress Rihanna for this year’s London Wireless music festival!

I’m just overly excited for this show! I have high hopes for it as it is a different reality TV. I think it’s like the Project Runway for music icons. Did I already mention that the contestants will get to dress a music artist after another for their weekly challenges?

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Free Your Style: Tips in Finding the Perfect Summer Dress

Hi there! I’m really excited to write this post because what happened is still very fresh in my head. Well, what happened was not much of a biggie but I got really inspired with it so here goes.

I was very excited to hit the mall this morning because I just got this really cute flat ankle boots which are perfect for the summer. Since I was feeling a laid-back vide for today, I just tossed in a loose crop top and some colored skinnies then I’m good to go.

After a short drive, I arrived at the mall and I’m just so ready to go shopping for summer dresses. You see, I’ve just been so obsessed with dresses lately. I don’t know why but I’m starting to love feminine looks. I’m digging skirts as well but I guess dresses are just the perfect go to outfit during summer.

So anyway, I did a lot of research on how to find the perfect dress. I mean I went through one fashion blog to another and flipped dozens of magazine just to get myself ready for the shopping trip. Don’t get me wrong, I really got good tips and advices but somehow – somewhere along the way these tips and tricks that gathered for about a week fell apart.

You see, my heart was snatched by a floral tube peplum dress. My stomach flipped as soon as my eyes set on that wonderful piece of clothing. Believe me – If I knew how, I could have done eight summersaults right then and there. I just had to try it on.

You know that sick feeling when you see clothes and they just hung there looking all good and pretty by themselves then when you try them on, you just look like hobo in a trash bag – yeah that feeling? I felt it with that amazing dress. It’s so unfair.

Well I surely got a taste of my own medicine. Some fashion forward gals would just rave about the latest trends and stack up on those styles. But at the end of the day, I say it should still be about the way the outfit makes you feel. No one should ever hide behind their skimpy or oversized clothes – it just should make them standout with oozing confidence.

I’m still puzzled at how that dress betrayed me. Is it really the dress? Or it’s just me? Oh well, I’ll look for an alternative. I am pretty sure there are tons out there, and I am certain that I will get one that perfectly fits me.

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