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Now, for the main event…

Images via Glamour.com

How can we incorporate these trends into our beauty routine? Sometimes, all it takes is switching a few new products into your cosmetic collection in order to make some big changes. “Maybe we can’t afford a 500 dollar purse, or a pair of Christian Louboutins, but you can spend 30 dollars on a lipstick for a little piece of luxury and enjoy it every day,” says Orr, always a true believer in the magic of make up! Thanks to Orr’s expertise we can now confidently put our best face forward, knowing which luxe beauty items are splurge-worthy for 2012.

Best Beauty Splurges for Spring 2012

Splurge: Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

Why you want it: “Winged, black eyeliner is something we’ll see a lot of this spring. It really does stay all day! You can even wash your face and it won’t come off. Once it dries, it’s there for good. It also has a very thin felt tip so it makes for fantastic precision if you’re creating a cat-eye look.”

Splurge: Alterna 1 Night Highlights

Why you want it: “On the runways, we saw a lot of color streaks. If you want to translate that look to everyday wear, the 1 Night Highlights are perfect because they wash right out. You don’t have to commit! They come in caramel, blonde and red, and they’re great for going out…especially when you’re feeling a little bit funky. Also, Alterna is a natural hair care brand so all of their products are on the organic side, and a little healthier for your hair.”

Splurge: Guerlin Rouge G Lipstick in #21

Why you want it: “Red is in! #21 is a true, classic red, which is great if you can’t decide whether you want to try an orange-red or purple-red lip color. Guerlin is one of the oldest luxury brands around, their products are amazing. Not only do they have beautiful rich colors, but this product also has a built-in primer so it lasts all day.”

Splurge: Aveda Light Elements Smoothing Fluid

Why you want it: “On the spring 2012 runways we saw a lot of hair gel, creating a wet-look. I think the best way to make this a wearable trend is to add shiny, loose, natural waves into your beauty routine. Also, all kinds of ponytails (high, low, loose, or tight) are going to be popular. This Aveda smoothing fluid gives a lot of shine, and can be used on dry or wet hair, whether it’s worn up or down.”

Splurge: Amore Pacific Tinted Moisturizer

Why you want it: “Good skin is always in. The Amore Pacific Tinted Moisturizer can be expensive as far as luxe products are concerned, but it’s amazing because Amore is a waterless line, it actually helps skin retain more moisture. This is one of the only moisturizers where you can actually get skin care benefits. This product is great because it’s one step, the bamboo sap provides antioxidants, it helps fight aging, and it’s oil-free and paraben-free.”

Splurge: Bare Essentials Touch Up Mineral Veil

Why you want it: “This product is great for creating an ethereal illuminated look that’s so popular right now. The important thing about the Touch Up Mineral Veil is that it’s the first pressed powder from Bare Essentials. This is a big step for this brand! Mineral Veil has always been one of their staple items, and now it’s easier to transport. This product gives a flawless finish. And, speaking of upcoming trends, you might want to keep your eye out for more pressed foundation powders from Bare Essentials as well.”

Splurge: Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette

Why you want it: “This is going to be huge. Urban Decay’s Naked 1 palette was in such high demand that beauty stores couldn’t keep it on the shelves. Naked 2 is the palette to look out for because it comes with a double ended brush and a lip gloss. Also, the colors are cooler tones this time around, and in my opinion Naked 2 has a better variety of light colors and highlights. Perfect for creating a peach, shimmery eye shadow look that is going to be a big trend this spring.”

Splurge: Lancome “La Roserie” Illuminating powder

Why you want it: “This powder is really pretty to use on temples and cheekbones to give a natural glow. Rose colors will be big this spring, and La Roserie is perfect to achieve a blushy, fresh-faced look.”

Splurge: Clarisonic Mia 2

Why you want it: “The Clarisonic Mia 2 does the same thing as the original Clarisonic brush, except it’s less expensive. It’s the best thing you can do to your skin. Not only is it a gentle cleansing system that drives cleanser deep into the skin, but it also allows for a deeper clean, and helps products to work on your skin better. You’re going to see a smoother texture in your skin, just like what we saw on the runway for spring 2012!”

Q. So first of all, explain to me how you got into this line of work?

A. Social psychology was always one of my favorite subjects. I always analyze and interpret the “why?” in everyday interactions. On top of that, I have had a lot of experience in the dating world, which includes tons of failures and successes. I always found myself helping my friends and family in their dating lives and was the go-to person when it came to advice. It became a hobby. I ended up starting a podcast with my friend called, Dudes Talking About Chicks, where we gave dating advice to strangers who called into the show. The feedback was outstanding. We were helping people all over the country become successful in their love and dating lives. I realized that this was my calling. I started my company called Tripp Advice about a year ago, and have been helping men and women ever since.

Q. We all have tons of questions on the “what’s” and “how’s” when it comes to approaching someone you’re interested in, but what are some of your best tips on what not do?

A. Don’t be scared! That’s the biggest thing. Most people don’t want to approach someone they like or find attractive. They are scared of rejection. It’s hard for people to handle because it messes with their ego. Nobody wants to be told “no.” Especially when it’s something you want. So I tell my clients to remember that the word “no” is just a word. It won’t hurt you. That’s the absolute worst and it’s not so bad. Why? Because there are millions and millions of people you will be interested in and find attractive. If you aren’t scared then you can approach as many as you want and eventually you will get what are going after.

Q. We’ve all heard the saying “first impressions last a lifetime.” But what if you fail at making a good first impression? Is there any hope for recovery?

A. There is definitely hope for recovery. Almost all failed first impressions come from being dishonest. People aren’t dumb. They can see when someone isn’t being their true self. If you make a bad first impression it’s because you were doing something inconsistent with whom you are as a person. The best way to recover is to tell the person you were trying to “impress” why you weren’t being yourself. It’s a way of starting over. If they don’t give you a second chance then they weren’t worth it from the beginning.

Q. What are some signs to look for to see if your date is into you?

A. An acronym I like to use is B.I.T.E. This stands for body language, interest, tonality, and eye contact. These are all signs you should look for on a date.

Body Language: Are they moving closer to you? Are they touching you? Are they facing you in conversation?
Interest: Are they asking you questions? Do they seem intrigued in the things you are saying? Is conversation flowing smoothly?
Tonality: Does the tone of their voice sound excited? Angry? Bored? Monotone?
Eye Contact: Are they keeping eye contact with you (interested)? Are they staring off into the distance (bored)?

Q. What’s the worst thing a person could possibly do on a first date?

A. Be boring. It’s hard to make up for being boring. If the date doesn’t create even the slightest of a memory, then he or she will forget you. Why would anyone want to hang out with someone again if they didn’t have a good time? They wouldn’t. You want to bring your most interesting self. Beyond that, one should make the date interesting. Instead of a dinner, go on an adventure. Being fun in a fun place is your key to a second date. That simple.

Q. What’s your stance on hooking up on the first date?

A. Every situation is unique. I cannot say that it is good or bad. Some great relationships have started from hooking up on the first date. What I tell men and women is that if you try to do it, you are at risk of presenting yourself in a different light. For example, if you try and hook up on the first date (man or woman) you may be telling the other person that you are only interested in them sexually. While that is true or not, it’s a risk. So, if you both are feeling the heat and have an intense sexual attraction, go for it! But, if you are unsure and want to play it safe, it’s better to be more prudent and wait a few dates.

Q. Here’s a question from one of my Twitter followers: When it comes to dating, do nice guys finish last?

A. I love this cliché and always thought it was true. But it’s not. One day, a girlfriend told me something that I would never forget. She said, “nice guys don’t finish last, boring guys finish last”. That has resonated with me forever, because it’s absolutely true. A lot of people associate nice with boring. But, they aren’t the same thing. You can be nice and have an edge. People always ask me, “Why do women always date assholes?” It’s because assholes have an edge and women love that . It’s that simple. I tell my clients, in order to get a woman, you need to be more than nice. Anyone can be nice. That’s easy. But, having passion behind the things you’re interested in (whatever that may be), being adventurous, trying new things, not being afraid…these are the kind of qualities that makes you attractive and have an edge. And this doesn’t mean you have to be an asshole.

Q. What’s the best way to break up with someone, seeing as break ups are usually pretty messy.

A. Honesty. No matter what happens, the person you break up with is going to be upset. There is no way around that. The least you can do is be up front with them and let them know why the relationship isn’t working out. It will hurt the other person to hear the reasons, but maybe they can use it to avoid such future break ups. Also, don’t do it over email.

Q. It’s an age-old question, that nobody seems to know the answer to: Can men and women really be friends?

A. Yes, definitely. I have plenty of women friends and we don’t want to sleep with each other. On the other hand, it’s natural to be attracted to someone of the opposite sex that you’re also friends with. Even if you aren’t physically attracted to them, there is something about their personalities that still make you attracted. But, it’s not impossible to look over all of that.

Q. What’s the piece of advice you find yourself giving most often?

A. Get out of your head. Stop giving a s—. Stop over analyzing. Live in the moment. These are all different ways of saying the exact same thing. If you keep on thinking about the “what-ifs” you will never be able to move forward with anything. This is what keeps anyone from accomplishing their goals. Time is precious and I believe that every second counts. You can sit around being scared to date, approach new people, try new things, but then you will never know what it’s like. The only way to get rid of fear is to create action. Trying to psyche yourself out is a start, but over thinking will get you nowhere. Doing what you’re afraid of makes you familiar and therefore less scared every time you do it. It’s one of the hardest things to do, not give a s—, which is why it’s my biggest piece of advice. But, once you reach that point, you can live a truly free life.

Mission Midnight Kiss

2000 Hours: Reconnaissance.

No military expert would launch a mission of any kind without first embarking on a preliminary survey to gain information, and neither should you, my single friends. Tonight, your mission is to be on high alert for potential victims and opportunities. Take an observational lap or two, scouting out potentials and weeding out whoever is obviously taken. This is also a good time for S.L.S. Strategic location scouting, which is best described by placing yourself in or around high traffic areas where you can people watch (AKA casually stalk) all of the party patrons.

2100 Hours: What Was Your Name Again?

It’s always worth making the effort to remember people’s names, especially when you’re going to pretend that they’re the most interesting person in the room in a few hours. When mingling over appetizers and cocktails, make an effort to meet the people you noticed while executing your initial reconnaissance. Remember names, interests, pets, and any other possible topics of conversation. This will come in handy at 2200 hours.

2200 Hours: Feigning Interest

Flirting is often characterized by lots of smiling, laughing, subtle touching and feigning interest in the droll hobbies of the object of your affection. Any man who’s ever heard a woman say she loves Call Of Duty, and any woman who’s ever heard a man say he likes the new Adele record have fallen victim of this. Is this morally wrong? Probably. But it certainly helps establish instant rapport, and will put you ahead of the game on your mission. If you’re terrible socially awkward and all else fails, skip to the steps detailed below.

2300 Hours: Booze

What new year’s magic isn’t made a little more magical with a glass of champagne? Plus, let’s be honest…you’re desperate and attending a New Year’s Eve party alone. You probably need the additional confidence boost.

2400 Hours: Mission Completed

You’ve done your homework, put in the leg work, and now it’s time to go in for the kill. Be sure you’re equipped with breath mints! Best of luck.

Hear ye, hear ye, all you ill-prepared shoppers! The list of the following last minute gift ideas is conveniently divided into three categories: I Have A Day, I Have A Few Hours, and Last Ditch Effort, for the most desperate of individuals. Good luck.

Pop Culture Trends To Be Unthankful For In 2011

1. Man Leggings

Thanks to LMFAO and one ”sexy” music video, a disturbing fashion statement has suddenly become mainstream: Dudes stuffing their junk into a pair of leggings. Newsflash. Leggings are not a substitute for pants. And, gentlemen, if the “pants” you’re wearing are so tight that the outline of your you-know-what is clearly visible, it’s time to invest in a pair of jeans. Nobody wants to see your lower half squeezed into leggings of any kind, and just because they’re zebra print doesn’t make it acceptable. You look like an idiot. Somebody please stop the male leggings epidemic from spreading before LMFAO turns my peers into a generation of sex offenders! The only place leggings belong are in a dance class so unless you’re practicing plies and pirouettes, do society a favor and put some real clothes on.

2. Over-Hyped Weddings

The hyped up weddings of Will & Kate, Kim & Kris, and even the fictional union of Twilight characters Bella & Edward proved that celebrity obsession is not just a problem in America. When it comes to celebrities walking down the aisle, it’s official…The whole world is out of control. Over-zealous media coverage on every inane detail from the toilet paper used in the venue, to the price of custom-made napkin holders were suddenly deemed “important news.” But don’t blame the celebs, they’re just living out their dreams of a white wedding while the rest of us waste our time watching it happen. A concept we’re finally starting to grasp after eagerly tuning into E!’s 2-day Kardashian wedding special, only to hear news of the pending divorce just a few weeks after. The lesson learned? Even an extravagant wedding isn’t always what it seems.

3. TV Talent Competitions Overkill 

As if American Idol, So You Think You Can Dance, Dancing With The Stars, and America’s Got Talent weren’t enough, two new reality talent competitions, The Voice and the X-Factor, were added to the roster in 2011. It’s enough to make one wonder, are there even that many talented people in this country? Furthermore, do we really need more TV talent competitions when runners-up and winners alike fade into obscurity soon after the season finale? The answer is no.

4. Celebrity Sex/Cheating Scandals

Ashton Kutcher. Arnold Schwarzenegger. Even Justin Bieber? Sex scandals have become a growing trend in the celebrity world, much to every famous man-whore’s dismay. In an age where TMZ pushes out stories like Nadya Suleman pushes newborns through her birth canal, it’s virtually impossible for celebs to have clandestine affairs. Ironically, while the gossip blogs get more savvy, celebs don’t seem to be getting any wiser. Calling all celebrities: When in doubt, refrain from participating in sex tapes, impromptu nude photoshoots, and sexting pictures of your wang to a stranger. Better safe than sorry.