A seven-step guide to heartbreak

A seven-step guide to heartbreak

A seven-step guide to heartbreak

Cup of Jo editor Caroline and her long-time boyfriend recently broke up, and her heart was in a blender. Here are the seven sweet things she did next...Read More >

Cup of Jo editor Caroline and her long-time boyfriend recently broke up, and her heart was in a blender. Here are the seven sweet things she did next...Read More >

A seven-step guide to heartbreak

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Choosing a haircut

Choosing a haircut

Choosing a haircut

Cup of Jo editor Caroline has had the same hair for almost thirty years (see above). She and her boyfriend just broke up, so she's craving the classic Breakup Haircut—a fresh new look for a fresh start. But she isn't sure what to do. Will you help her decide? Here are the three choices...Read More >

Cup of Jo editor Caroline has had the same hair for almost thirty years (see above). She and her boyfriend just broke up, so she's craving the classic Breakup Haircut—a fresh new look for a fresh start. But she isn't sure what to do. Will you help her decide? Here are the three choices...Read More >

Choosing a haircut

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"Hello, Stranger!"

"Hello, Stranger!"

"Hello, Stranger!"

We've talked about taking vacations alone and living alone, but what about walking around town by yourself? When you're flying solo in public, do you talk to strangers or keep quiet? This week, just for fun, Cup of Jo editor Caroline—who generally stays mum—ventured outside of her comfort zone and chatted with various strangers around NYC. Here's Caroline's diary...Read More >

We've talked about taking vacations alone and living alone, but what about walking around town by yourself? When you're flying solo in public, do you talk to strangers or keep quiet? This week, just for fun, Cup of Jo editor Caroline—who generally stays mum—ventured outside of her comfort zone and chatted with various strangers around NYC. Here's Caroline's diary...Read More >

"Hello, Stranger!"

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Are you addicted to your smartphone?

Are you addicted to your smartphone?

Are you addicted to your smartphone?

This summer, I've been using my phone less, but Cup of Jo editor Caroline has been using her phone more. Here's a (wildly unofficial) quiz to see if you, too, are addicted to your smartphone...Read More >

This summer, I've been using my phone less, but Cup of Jo editor Caroline has been using her phone more. Here's a (wildly unofficial) quiz to see if you, too, are addicted to your smartphone...Read More >

Are you addicted to your smartphone?

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"Do I Smell Funny?" Natural Deodorant Challenge

"Do I Smell Funny?" Natural Deodorant Challenge

"Do I Smell Funny?" Natural Deodorant Challenge

This week, intrepid Cup of Jo editor Caroline was tasked with trying five natural deodorants and rating them on a scale of one to five. Here's her diary...
Let's face it: "Awesome Natural Deodorant" is basically an oxymoron. But many standard formulas contain harsh chemicals and potentially harmful ingredients. So this past week, I slathered on five natural formulas, then went about my life—in hot, humid NYC—to see what worked and what didn't...

Day 1: Tom's of Maine Wild Lavender
This doesn't work. It's a shame because the wild lavender scent smells so good. But after an hour, the lavender part goes away and it just smells wild. "Hi-don't-hug-me," I greeted my friend at dinner, taking great care not to get too close. Throughout the meal, I kept my upper arms glued to my sides, wielding cutlery with just forearms, like a tiny T-Rex. Oh, well. Now we know. Rating: One out of five stars

Day 2: Crystal Body Deodorant Stick
Pros: One salt crystal can last up to a year, which means less money spent on deodorant and less waste for the environment. Cons: The part where it doesn't actually deodorize. I've heard that salt crystals have legions of fans...who are you? (Really, I'd love to know.) I suspect this stuff may work for people who naturally smell fine. If that sounds like you, you're lucky! If not, you probably shouldn't buy this. Rating: Stars? What stars?

Day 3: Dr. Hauschka Deodorant Fresh
The label says it's "refreshing and long-lasting." Only half of that is true. The roll-on liquid does indeed smell fresh, but only for an hour or two. I usually love Dr. Hauschka products, but this didn't stand up to a sweltering day. "Don't worry," said the boyfriend, "I like the way you smell." That was sweet, but I doubt anyone else would have agreed. While this might be fine for a chillier season, I wouldn't recommended it, unless you're willing to carry it everywhere and frequently reapply. Rating: Two out of five stars

Day 4: Nourish Organic Deodorant
When I was a freshman in college, I learned a new word: frowzy, which was how my roommate described her underarm condition when it was less than fresh. I thought of that word many times while sporting this deodorant. It didn't completely fail me, but I always felt, well, frowzy. I would wear this deodorant to read a book. I would not wear it on a run. Final verdict: Just okay. Rating: Three out of five stars

Day 5: LaVanila The Healthy Deodorant
By this point, I was about ready to reach for the clinical-strength Secret. Luckily, LaVanila swooped in to change my mind. It isn't 100% perfect, but let's be honest: what deodorant is? This was the winner of the pack, by far. I applied it in the morning and made it through the ENTIRE workday scent-free. I did need a quick touch-up before heading out in the evening, but this is New York in the summertime, so that's to be expected. So happy to say: Recommended! Rating: Four out of five stars

Do you wear natural deodorant? Do you have a great recommendation that we didn't try? If so, we'd love to hear!

P.S. How to get beachy waves and how to feel gorgeous on a date.

This week, intrepid Cup of Jo editor Caroline was tasked with trying five natural deodorants and rating them on a scale of one to five. Here's her diary...
Let's face it: "Awesome Natural Deodorant" is basically an oxymoron. But many standard formulas contain harsh chemicals and potentially harmful ingredients. So this past week, I slathered on five natural formulas, then went about my life—in hot, humid NYC—to see what worked and what didn't...

Day 1: Tom's of Maine Wild Lavender
This doesn't work. It's a shame because the wild lavender scent smells so good. But after an hour, the lavender part goes away and it just smells wild. "Hi-don't-hug-me," I greeted my friend at dinner, taking great care not to get too close. Throughout the meal, I kept my upper arms glued to my sides, wielding cutlery with just forearms, like a tiny T-Rex. Oh, well. Now we know. Rating: One out of five stars

Day 2: Crystal Body Deodorant Stick
Pros: One salt crystal can last up to a year, which means less money spent on deodorant and less waste for the environment. Cons: The part where it doesn't actually deodorize. I've heard that salt crystals have legions of fans...who are you? (Really, I'd love to know.) I suspect this stuff may work for people who naturally smell fine. If that sounds like you, you're lucky! If not, you probably shouldn't buy this. Rating: Stars? What stars?

Day 3: Dr. Hauschka Deodorant Fresh
The label says it's "refreshing and long-lasting." Only half of that is true. The roll-on liquid does indeed smell fresh, but only for an hour or two. I usually love Dr. Hauschka products, but this didn't stand up to a sweltering day. "Don't worry," said the boyfriend, "I like the way you smell." That was sweet, but I doubt anyone else would have agreed. While this might be fine for a chillier season, I wouldn't recommended it, unless you're willing to carry it everywhere and frequently reapply. Rating: Two out of five stars

Day 4: Nourish Organic Deodorant
When I was a freshman in college, I learned a new word: frowzy, which was how my roommate described her underarm condition when it was less than fresh. I thought of that word many times while sporting this deodorant. It didn't completely fail me, but I always felt, well, frowzy. I would wear this deodorant to read a book. I would not wear it on a run. Final verdict: Just okay. Rating: Three out of five stars

Day 5: LaVanila The Healthy Deodorant
By this point, I was about ready to reach for the clinical-strength Secret. Luckily, LaVanila swooped in to change my mind. It isn't 100% perfect, but let's be honest: what deodorant is? This was the winner of the pack, by far. I applied it in the morning and made it through the ENTIRE workday scent-free. I did need a quick touch-up before heading out in the evening, but this is New York in the summertime, so that's to be expected. So happy to say: Recommended! Rating: Four out of five stars

Do you wear natural deodorant? Do you have a great recommendation that we didn't try? If so, we'd love to hear!

P.S. How to get beachy waves and how to feel gorgeous on a date.

"Do I Smell Funny?" Natural Deodorant Challenge

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Lipstick Challenge: week four

Lipstick Challenge: week four

Lipstick Challenge: week four

Top row: Tarte Exposed, Rimmel by Kate Moss #08
Bottom row: Urban Decay Catfight, Lipstick Queen Medieval, Dolce & Gabbana Dahlia

This month, Cup of Jo editor Caroline accepted the challenge to wear a different lipstick every day—from red to blue to black. This week, per your suggestions, we took the photos in the same spot each day. The light varied slightly, depending on the hour of day, but hopefully you can compare the colors more easily! Here's her recap...

1. Tarte LipSurgence Matte Lip Tint in Exposed
This line promises to make your lips "6000% more moisturized in 28 days." That sounded like crazy talk to me, but it did make my lips appear fuller. I wore this to dinner at our favorite local spot, where I hoped I looked gamine in the flickering tea lights. "That color doesn't really look like anything," said the boyfriend, who quickly added, "and that's not a bad thing." I loved the super matte finish, which made my face feel polished.

2. Rimmel Lasting Finish by Kate Moss #08
I wore this lipstick on a day with nothing special planned, yet it elevated my everyday look and made buying groceries and walking the dog feel sort of glamorous. The dusty rose color is perfect for times when you want to look effortlessly sexy (like you didn't try too hard—or even better, like you didn't try at all). I felt like I was channeling the lipstick's namesake supermodel, who seemingly rolls out of bed looking great. Incredibly, this lipstick is UNDER FIVE DOLLARS. But pretending to be Kate Moss is priceless.

3. Urban Decay Revolution Lipstick in Catfight
Confession: Despite its not-so-pretty name, this bright pink lipstick made me feel...pretty! (I almost broke into the song from West Side Story, but controlled myself because, you know, social expectations.) This was my lipstick of choice for grabbing drinks with old college friends (when I wanted to look like I'd improved with age). More important, I felt great wearing it since all Revolution lipsticks are not just gorgeously pigmented, but vegan and cruelty-free. After all, kindness trumps prettiness any day.

4. Lipstick Queen in Medieval
During the day, I was stopped by not one, not two, but three strangers (three strangers!) who asked what lipstick I was wearing. Fascinating fact: This sheer red was inspired by women in medieval times, who would stain their lips with lemons, since wearing lipstick was considered a sin. The color wears off fairly easily, so you'll need to reapply. But if you want dewy, rosy lips (and, really, who doesn't?), I'd highly recommend it.

5. Dolce & Gabbana Classic Cream Lipstick in Dahlia
"That's intense!" said Joanna, the moment she saw me. But intensity is good, right? These new lipsticks contain fifty percent emollients, which is a fancy way of saying they won't dry out your lips. But what I REALLY love about Dolce & Gabbana lipsticks are their bold, dramatic colors. This dark orchid shade made me walk a little taller and put a little more swagger in my step. I'll definitely wear this whenever I want to feel like a femme fatale (which may or may not be embarrassingly often).

...And that concludes the lipstick challenge! If you missed them, here are weeks one, two, and three. In the end, my favorites were the versatile NARS Manhunt and my everyday staple, Laura Mercier Healthy Lips. Thanks again for all of your amazing comments and suggestions these past few weeks! Please stay tuned for more fun challenges, coming up soon...

P.S. Hair tutorials and how to get rid of a pimple.

Top row: Tarte Exposed, Rimmel by Kate Moss #08
Bottom row: Urban Decay Catfight, Lipstick Queen Medieval, Dolce & Gabbana Dahlia

This month, Cup of Jo editor Caroline accepted the challenge to wear a different lipstick every day—from red to blue to black. This week, per your suggestions, we took the photos in the same spot each day. The light varied slightly, depending on the hour of day, but hopefully you can compare the colors more easily! Here's her recap...

1. Tarte LipSurgence Matte Lip Tint in Exposed
This line promises to make your lips "6000% more moisturized in 28 days." That sounded like crazy talk to me, but it did make my lips appear fuller. I wore this to dinner at our favorite local spot, where I hoped I looked gamine in the flickering tea lights. "That color doesn't really look like anything," said the boyfriend, who quickly added, "and that's not a bad thing." I loved the super matte finish, which made my face feel polished.

2. Rimmel Lasting Finish by Kate Moss #08
I wore this lipstick on a day with nothing special planned, yet it elevated my everyday look and made buying groceries and walking the dog feel sort of glamorous. The dusty rose color is perfect for times when you want to look effortlessly sexy (like you didn't try too hard—or even better, like you didn't try at all). I felt like I was channeling the lipstick's namesake supermodel, who seemingly rolls out of bed looking great. Incredibly, this lipstick is UNDER FIVE DOLLARS. But pretending to be Kate Moss is priceless.

3. Urban Decay Revolution Lipstick in Catfight
Confession: Despite its not-so-pretty name, this bright pink lipstick made me feel...pretty! (I almost broke into the song from West Side Story, but controlled myself because, you know, social expectations.) This was my lipstick of choice for grabbing drinks with old college friends (when I wanted to look like I'd improved with age). More important, I felt great wearing it since all Revolution lipsticks are not just gorgeously pigmented, but vegan and cruelty-free. After all, kindness trumps prettiness any day.

4. Lipstick Queen in Medieval
During the day, I was stopped by not one, not two, but three strangers (three strangers!) who asked what lipstick I was wearing. Fascinating fact: This sheer red was inspired by women in medieval times, who would stain their lips with lemons, since wearing lipstick was considered a sin. The color wears off fairly easily, so you'll need to reapply. But if you want dewy, rosy lips (and, really, who doesn't?), I'd highly recommend it.

5. Dolce & Gabbana Classic Cream Lipstick in Dahlia
"That's intense!" said Joanna, the moment she saw me. But intensity is good, right? These new lipsticks contain fifty percent emollients, which is a fancy way of saying they won't dry out your lips. But what I REALLY love about Dolce & Gabbana lipsticks are their bold, dramatic colors. This dark orchid shade made me walk a little taller and put a little more swagger in my step. I'll definitely wear this whenever I want to feel like a femme fatale (which may or may not be embarrassingly often).

...And that concludes the lipstick challenge! If you missed them, here are weeks one, two, and three. In the end, my favorites were the versatile NARS Manhunt and my everyday staple, Laura Mercier Healthy Lips. Thanks again for all of your amazing comments and suggestions these past few weeks! Please stay tuned for more fun challenges, coming up soon...

P.S. Hair tutorials and how to get rid of a pimple.

Lipstick Challenge: week four

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Lipstick Challenge: week three

Lipstick Challenge: week three

Lipstick Challenge: week three

Top: Hourglass Nude No. 4, Revlon Colorburst Balm Unapologetic
Bottom: Chanel La Fascinante, Obsessive Compulsive Lip Tar, Fran Wilson MoodMatcher

My brave editor Caroline is wearing a different lipstick every day for the month of May. This week, she tackled colors like bright red, nude and...black. (I admit, I did a double-take when she walked into the office!) Here's her diary...

1. Hourglass Femme Nude No. 4
Finding the right nude can be surprisingly hard. I tried on color after color, but they all washed out my face. "You look dead!" shrieked the guy at Sephora, as he swooped in to help. He taught me this trick: Choose a shade very close to your natural lip color, with peach or pink undertones (as opposed to beige, which can look washed out). The creamy Hourglass nudes are especially flattering. Paired with bolder eye makeup, the color feels understated and kissable, and your lips appear sexy and full. (In case it's not clear: This is love.)

2. Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm in Unapologetic
This drugstore lipstick/balm hybrid delivered a bright burst of hot pink. I wasn't crazy about the color, but everyone else was! My friend liked it so much, she asked to try it on. I love how the crayon tip lets you draw right on your lips, without the need for liner. The subtle peppermint flavor made my lips tingle. This is easily one of the best new options at the drugstore.

3. Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet Lipstick in La Fascinante
This bold red brightened up my whole face (without any other makeup)—a welcome pick-me-up during a week riddled with allergies (bleh). The black and gold packaging with its interlocking C's made me feel fancy each time I applied it. I wore this out to dinner, where the boyfriend proclaimed the whole look "cuteness." All right with me.

4. Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Tar in Tarred
Pros: It's lightweight, long-lasting and vegan. Cons: The part where it's pitch black. This look was so unlike me that I (half) joked I should wear a sign declaring "I'm wearing this for work." I kept wondering what strangers were gawking at before remembering the scary state of my mouth. An officemate said it looked "kind of silvery, actually," and as the day wore on, it faded into an underworldly grey. This would be excellent to darken other colors, but on its own it's downright terrifying.

5. Fran Wilson MoodMatcher Lipstick
Does anyone else remember these from the early '90s? They're now back in stores and I couldn't be happier. MoodMatchers come in every color of the rainbow, but don't let the weird hues fool you: These lipsticks stain your mouth a pretty fuchsia that will NEVER FADE. The 12-hour color morphs into a "personalized shade according to your complexion and mood." This is clearly suspect, as my mood isn't always bright pink. But it looks nice regardless. Worth noting: I got a record-number of cat calls from sketchy dudes on the street. Eh, I guess that's positive?

Tune in next week for the fourth (and final) installment of the lipstick challenge (here's week one and week two). Your lipstick suggestions have been wonderful so far! Thank you so much.

P.S. Hair tutorials and a first-date beauty trick.

Top: Hourglass Nude No. 4, Revlon Colorburst Balm Unapologetic
Bottom: Chanel La Fascinante, Obsessive Compulsive Lip Tar, Fran Wilson MoodMatcher

My brave editor Caroline is wearing a different lipstick every day for the month of May. This week, she tackled colors like bright red, nude and...black. (I admit, I did a double-take when she walked into the office!) Here's her diary...

1. Hourglass Femme Nude No. 4
Finding the right nude can be surprisingly hard. I tried on color after color, but they all washed out my face. "You look dead!" shrieked the guy at Sephora, as he swooped in to help. He taught me this trick: Choose a shade very close to your natural lip color, with peach or pink undertones (as opposed to beige, which can look washed out). The creamy Hourglass nudes are especially flattering. Paired with bolder eye makeup, the color feels understated and kissable, and your lips appear sexy and full. (In case it's not clear: This is love.)

2. Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm in Unapologetic
This drugstore lipstick/balm hybrid delivered a bright burst of hot pink. I wasn't crazy about the color, but everyone else was! My friend liked it so much, she asked to try it on. I love how the crayon tip lets you draw right on your lips, without the need for liner. The subtle peppermint flavor made my lips tingle. This is easily one of the best new options at the drugstore.

3. Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet Lipstick in La Fascinante
This bold red brightened up my whole face (without any other makeup)—a welcome pick-me-up during a week riddled with allergies (bleh). The black and gold packaging with its interlocking C's made me feel fancy each time I applied it. I wore this out to dinner, where the boyfriend proclaimed the whole look "cuteness." All right with me.

4. Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Tar in Tarred
Pros: It's lightweight, long-lasting and vegan. Cons: The part where it's pitch black. This look was so unlike me that I (half) joked I should wear a sign declaring "I'm wearing this for work." I kept wondering what strangers were gawking at before remembering the scary state of my mouth. An officemate said it looked "kind of silvery, actually," and as the day wore on, it faded into an underworldly grey. This would be excellent to darken other colors, but on its own it's downright terrifying.

5. Fran Wilson MoodMatcher Lipstick
Does anyone else remember these from the early '90s? They're now back in stores and I couldn't be happier. MoodMatchers come in every color of the rainbow, but don't let the weird hues fool you: These lipsticks stain your mouth a pretty fuchsia that will NEVER FADE. The 12-hour color morphs into a "personalized shade according to your complexion and mood." This is clearly suspect, as my mood isn't always bright pink. But it looks nice regardless. Worth noting: I got a record-number of cat calls from sketchy dudes on the street. Eh, I guess that's positive?

Tune in next week for the fourth (and final) installment of the lipstick challenge (here's week one and week two). Your lipstick suggestions have been wonderful so far! Thank you so much.

P.S. Hair tutorials and a first-date beauty trick.

Lipstick Challenge: week three

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Lipstick Challenge: week two

Lipstick Challenge: week two

Lipstick Challenge: week two

Top row: Revlon Choco-Licious, NARS lipstick in Manhunt
Bottom row: Maybelline Coral Crush, Clinique Mighty Mimosa , Lipstick Queen Hello Sailor

My intrepid new editor Caroline has accepted the challenge to wear different lipsticks every day during the month of May. (Here's last week's diary.) This week, she tried five more colors. Here's what happened...

1. Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Choco-Licious
Well now. Here's a "challenge" color if ever I've worn one. Never in a million years (or, at least, since the late '90s) would I have expected to wear a deep brown lipstick all over town. When applied with a heavy hand, the lipstick made it seem like I'd gotten into an unfortunate situation with a rich chocolate cake. But when dabbed on lightly and blended with my finger, it left my mouth a sexy, earthy color that was flattering and long lasting. And I liked it! Who knew?

2. NARS Lipstick in Manhunt
In a word: Obsessed. It's hard for me to describe this lipstick's color, which can be worn to look either subtle or bright. It appears very red in the tube, but don't be misled: A light coat creates a pinky coral sheen, while a heavier application turns lips a sheer strawberry hue. This is a great everyday lipstick, especially for those who want to babystep into the world of reds. The incredibly flattering color will have a permanent spot in my bag this summer, for everything from weddings to BBQs to the beach.

3. Maybelline Coral Crush
I'd heard good things about this lipstick, but I have to say, it wasn't my favorite. The bold coral hue felt too girly and slightly reminiscent of the Golden Girls' Miami home. (Don't get me wrong, I love the Golden Girls. Just not on my lips.) The bright color appeared uneven throughout the day, and even prompted a conversation in which a male officemate remarked that he "doesn't understand lipstick" and "hates when women wear it." Hmm, not a resounding endorsement.

4. Clinique Chubby Stick in Mighty Mimosa
This moisturizing color balm is PERFECT for travel, since it's a lipstick and lip balm in one. The color of Mighty Mimosa is less than mighty (Wimpy mimosa? Skimpy mimosa?), but it gave my lips a subtle pink shimmer AND left them feeling soft. This shade is a gorgeous choice for the beach, when your bronzer (and sun hat!) take center stage. Plus, the natural color is boyfriend-approved.

5. Lipstick Queen in Hello Sailor
This looks terrifyingly BLUE in the tube—but not the least bit scary on your lips. It actually imparts a subtle berry sheen—and it's genius for layering over other colors to make them appear deeper and cooler. I loved how dewy my lips looked! Another major bonus: It makes teeth look WHITE. But what stood out to me most was how it was completely devoid of fragrance. It didn't taste flowery, minty or like a strange chemical I couldn't put my finger on. This made me want to reapply it all day long. And I did.

Last but not least, a huge thank you to everyone for your sweet comments and great lipstick suggestions from last week! They were so lovely and helpful. If you have any other requests or favorites, we'd love to hear. Thanks so much!

P.S. Hair tutorials, and the pastel trend.

Top row: Revlon Choco-Licious, NARS lipstick in Manhunt
Bottom row: Maybelline Coral Crush, Clinique Mighty Mimosa , Lipstick Queen Hello Sailor

My intrepid new editor Caroline has accepted the challenge to wear different lipsticks every day during the month of May. (Here's last week's diary.) This week, she tried five more colors. Here's what happened...

1. Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Choco-Licious
Well now. Here's a "challenge" color if ever I've worn one. Never in a million years (or, at least, since the late '90s) would I have expected to wear a deep brown lipstick all over town. When applied with a heavy hand, the lipstick made it seem like I'd gotten into an unfortunate situation with a rich chocolate cake. But when dabbed on lightly and blended with my finger, it left my mouth a sexy, earthy color that was flattering and long lasting. And I liked it! Who knew?

2. NARS Lipstick in Manhunt
In a word: Obsessed. It's hard for me to describe this lipstick's color, which can be worn to look either subtle or bright. It appears very red in the tube, but don't be misled: A light coat creates a pinky coral sheen, while a heavier application turns lips a sheer strawberry hue. This is a great everyday lipstick, especially for those who want to babystep into the world of reds. The incredibly flattering color will have a permanent spot in my bag this summer, for everything from weddings to BBQs to the beach.

3. Maybelline Coral Crush
I'd heard good things about this lipstick, but I have to say, it wasn't my favorite. The bold coral hue felt too girly and slightly reminiscent of the Golden Girls' Miami home. (Don't get me wrong, I love the Golden Girls. Just not on my lips.) The bright color appeared uneven throughout the day, and even prompted a conversation in which a male officemate remarked that he "doesn't understand lipstick" and "hates when women wear it." Hmm, not a resounding endorsement.

4. Clinique Chubby Stick in Mighty Mimosa
This moisturizing color balm is PERFECT for travel, since it's a lipstick and lip balm in one. The color of Mighty Mimosa is less than mighty (Wimpy mimosa? Skimpy mimosa?), but it gave my lips a subtle pink shimmer AND left them feeling soft. This shade is a gorgeous choice for the beach, when your bronzer (and sun hat!) take center stage. Plus, the natural color is boyfriend-approved.

5. Lipstick Queen in Hello Sailor
This looks terrifyingly BLUE in the tube—but not the least bit scary on your lips. It actually imparts a subtle berry sheen—and it's genius for layering over other colors to make them appear deeper and cooler. I loved how dewy my lips looked! Another major bonus: It makes teeth look WHITE. But what stood out to me most was how it was completely devoid of fragrance. It didn't taste flowery, minty or like a strange chemical I couldn't put my finger on. This made me want to reapply it all day long. And I did.

Last but not least, a huge thank you to everyone for your sweet comments and great lipstick suggestions from last week! They were so lovely and helpful. If you have any other requests or favorites, we'd love to hear. Thanks so much!

P.S. Hair tutorials, and the pastel trend.

Lipstick Challenge: week two

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Lipstick Challenge: week one

Lipstick Challenge: week one

Lipstick Challenge: week one

Top row: BITE Moscato, Revlon Orange Flip
Bottom row: Laura Mercier Healthy Lips, Bare Minerals Lead the Way, MAC Ruby Woo

My new editor Caroline loves lipsticks and wears a different one pretty much each day. So for the month of May, we challenged her to try out a different shade every work day. Here's her diary so far...

1. BITE Beauty Cashmere Lip Cream in Moscato
Confession: This hot pink matte lipstick made me feel much cooler than I am. While not a marathon formula (i.e. it will wear off if you eat a sandwich), it only required minimal touch-ups throughout the day. Plus, I love that this brand uses natural and organic ingredients.

2. Revlon Moon Drops in Orange Flip
This is the color I'd be least likely to wear in my everyday life. Orange lipstick looks pretty on other people, but makes me feel washed out. Yet amazingly, this is the shade I got the most compliments on. (Not just from Joanna and my boyfriend, but strangers, too!) I guess it goes to show, it pays to experiment. I liked the moisturizing formula—and the drugstore price tag.

3. Laura Mercier Sheer Lip Color in Healthy Lips
Bold statement: If I could wear only one lipstick for the rest of my life, this is what I'd choose. It's lightweight, hydrating and a very flattering shade of pink. It even works as blush! (Is that gross? I'm not sure, but it looks nice.) My boyfriend repeatedly remarked that I looked "really pretty," but I could tell he had no idea I was wearing make-up. Bonus for busy ladies: It's such a natural color, you can apply it without a mirror.

4. Bare Minerals Marvelous Moxie lipstick in Lead the Way
I was the most excited to try this gorgeous purple shade. But then the guy at the coffee shop greeted me with a quizzical look, along with every other human I encountered for the rest of the day. Perhaps the color is too vampy to wear in broad daylight? I loved the lipstick's subtle vanilla-mint scent, but the glossy formula wound up all over my teeth (and my cup and my straw and even parts of my face...) and made it look like I'd been glugging red wine. Two words of advice: Blot often.

5. MAC Lipstick in Ruby Woo
Ruby Woo is a classic red with incredible longevity. (Seriously, it lasted me through an entire spaghetti dinner. With bread.) As soon as I put this on, I felt like I was wearing armor—as if everything I said had weight and importance simply because the words were coming from lips THIS RED. The boyfriend said, "Wow. Your lips are really red." Hmm, not quite a compliment, but I'll take it. ;) Beware, though, the ultra-matte formula is drying, so keep a balm handy. Bonus: It makes your teeth look super white.

Stay tuned for next week, when I'll be test driving five more shades...Do you have any requests? Or any favorites you'd recommend?

P.S. Spring nails, and cool sunglasses.

Top row: BITE Moscato, Revlon Orange Flip
Bottom row: Laura Mercier Healthy Lips, Bare Minerals Lead the Way, MAC Ruby Woo

My new editor Caroline loves lipsticks and wears a different one pretty much each day. So for the month of May, we challenged her to try out a different shade every work day. Here's her diary so far...

1. BITE Beauty Cashmere Lip Cream in Moscato
Confession: This hot pink matte lipstick made me feel much cooler than I am. While not a marathon formula (i.e. it will wear off if you eat a sandwich), it only required minimal touch-ups throughout the day. Plus, I love that this brand uses natural and organic ingredients.

2. Revlon Moon Drops in Orange Flip
This is the color I'd be least likely to wear in my everyday life. Orange lipstick looks pretty on other people, but makes me feel washed out. Yet amazingly, this is the shade I got the most compliments on. (Not just from Joanna and my boyfriend, but strangers, too!) I guess it goes to show, it pays to experiment. I liked the moisturizing formula—and the drugstore price tag.

3. Laura Mercier Sheer Lip Color in Healthy Lips
Bold statement: If I could wear only one lipstick for the rest of my life, this is what I'd choose. It's lightweight, hydrating and a very flattering shade of pink. It even works as blush! (Is that gross? I'm not sure, but it looks nice.) My boyfriend repeatedly remarked that I looked "really pretty," but I could tell he had no idea I was wearing make-up. Bonus for busy ladies: It's such a natural color, you can apply it without a mirror.

4. Bare Minerals Marvelous Moxie lipstick in Lead the Way
I was the most excited to try this gorgeous purple shade. But then the guy at the coffee shop greeted me with a quizzical look, along with every other human I encountered for the rest of the day. Perhaps the color is too vampy to wear in broad daylight? I loved the lipstick's subtle vanilla-mint scent, but the glossy formula wound up all over my teeth (and my cup and my straw and even parts of my face...) and made it look like I'd been glugging red wine. Two words of advice: Blot often.

5. MAC Lipstick in Ruby Woo
Ruby Woo is a classic red with incredible longevity. (Seriously, it lasted me through an entire spaghetti dinner. With bread.) As soon as I put this on, I felt like I was wearing armor—as if everything I said had weight and importance simply because the words were coming from lips THIS RED. The boyfriend said, "Wow. Your lips are really red." Hmm, not quite a compliment, but I'll take it. ;) Beware, though, the ultra-matte formula is drying, so keep a balm handy. Bonus: It makes your teeth look super white.

Stay tuned for next week, when I'll be test driving five more shades...Do you have any requests? Or any favorites you'd recommend?

P.S. Spring nails, and cool sunglasses.

Lipstick Challenge: week one

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A hair trick

A hair trick

A hair trick

Every morning when Caroline comes in to work, our conversation goes something like this:

Me: "Did you get your hair cut?"
Caroline: "No."
Me: "Did you get a blowout?"
Caroline: "No."
Me: "It looks really great."
Caroline: "Thanks!"

Finally, yesterday, she revealed her secret: A hot air brush. "It's a round brush that blows hot air out of it, and it's been my styling trick since high school," she explained. "Once you get the hang of it, it's really easy to attain a smooth blow dry at home (even if you're not ambidextrous, hyper-coordinated or a professional stylist). You can create a sleek look or soft, bouncy waves. I don't know why everyone doesn't use one."

Have you ever used a hot air brush? Mine is in the mail:) Thanks, Caroline!

P.S. 16 hair tutorials.

Every morning when Caroline comes in to work, our conversation goes something like this:

Me: "Did you get your hair cut?"
Caroline: "No."
Me: "Did you get a blowout?"
Caroline: "No."
Me: "It looks really great."
Caroline: "Thanks!"

Finally, yesterday, she revealed her secret: A hot air brush. "It's a round brush that blows hot air out of it, and it's been my styling trick since high school," she explained. "Once you get the hang of it, it's really easy to attain a smooth blow dry at home (even if you're not ambidextrous, hyper-coordinated or a professional stylist). You can create a sleek look or soft, bouncy waves. I don't know why everyone doesn't use one."

Have you ever used a hot air brush? Mine is in the mail:) Thanks, Caroline!

P.S. 16 hair tutorials.

A hair trick

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Welcome, Caroline!

Welcome, Caroline!

Welcome, Caroline!

As you may know, I have been looking for an editor to work alongside me, and I've found her! I'd love to introduce Caroline. She was a book editor at Penguin before jumping ship to come to Cup of Jo, and I'm thrilled to have her here.

Here's the backstory, if you're interested...Read More >

As you may know, I have been looking for an editor to work alongside me, and I've found her! I'd love to introduce Caroline. She was a book editor at Penguin before jumping ship to come to Cup of Jo, and I'm thrilled to have her here.

Here's the backstory, if you're interested...Read More >

Welcome, Caroline!

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAXEQqOSN8aM7ImzL3YmsU9cWf1aOMtG8H24e11KngqnLaA4c1pdrNa42HERF02KfoQKQWgh77KEBhZf51gxbfcVvV5-bsgSDG5w7jy59zk6J3vjHFRHANKnGbnXt0bMaa04wR5jGhNcVv/s72-c/caroline-donofrio-and-joanna-goddard.jpg