How to create relaxed waves...and then transform them into two totally different looks in just seconds.

The only problem with a French manicure like this pale beige and navy one (my new favorite combo): it’s labor-intensive enough that I’d really like it to stay put in perfect(ish) condition for at least a few days without even a hint of chipping.

But making your manicure last is possible, so long as you avoid the major offenders (like washing dirty dishes without wearing gloves) and follow a few simple guidelines during the application process.

My default look during the holiday season: relaxed waves. Mostly because they look pretty as is, but can also be easily transformed into a ton of different looks…so I can switch up my hairstyle from event to event without spending a ton of time fussing around in front of the mirror.

Here’s the starting look, which I think is perfect for anything from a cocktail party to a dinner with friends to Christmas Eve.

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There was a time in my life when I went to parties wearing things like clip-in hair extensions and eyeshadow with enormous glitter-flecks in it. Heels that I couldn't walk in, because if I fell it didn't really matter (because I probably wasn't carrying a child). No coat, because I would rather freeze while waiting for a cab than deal with checking it.

That time in my life is more or less over; even on a big night out, I still want to be...you know...kind of comfortable. I'd like to look like me; just a slightly more dialed-up version of me. And I'd rather not spend more than about fifteen minutes on the whole getting-ready process; I'd like to just get there, please, because mama wants to dance.

Oh, adorable.

I'm obsessed with Vaseline's new Rosy Lips shade, which has been available in the U.K. for years but is only now arriving in the U.S. It feels like the old standby, but adds a tiny hint of color and flavor to your lips (sort of like Smith's Rosebud Salve, another favorite of mine) and comes in the cutest little (very little) container.

It's still pretty tough to find online in its U.S. incarnation (the British version comes in a tin) - I couldn't find it, at least - but it's starting to pop up at drugstores around the country, so if you manage to get your hands on one, let me know!