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With the hustle and bustle this time of year, you probably pay more attention to holiday shopping and cooking than the latest beauty trends and fashion. The holidays are just around the corner and since you'll most likely be spending the majority of your time with friends and family, you'll want to look your best.

It's still a few weeks until Christmas and New Year's, so you've got time to pamper yourself and look better for the holidays. Take these simple steps to self-improvement and look stunning for the festivities!

Update Your Haircut - Are you current with your hairstyle? Take the time to get into a salon and find a hair cut that flatters your face. At the same time, make an appointment for hair color or some highlights. Your hair will be easier to manage and you won't have to fuss with it at the last minute.

Try New Make-up - We all need a change now and then, especially for the holiday season. Add some pizzazz to your face for those special holiday parties and New Year's Eve. Crème eye shadows, bronzing powder and glitter will add a festive touch to your appearance.

Get a Manicure - Your hands are one of the most visible parts of your body. You may not look at them much, but other people notice them. Treat yourself to a professional manicure. A French manicure is classic, or try those dazzling glitter nail polishes in a variety of colors. If you're the trendy type, look for holiday nail decals to complete the look.

Tone Your Arms - Many holiday fashions are sleeveless so you need your arms to be in tip-top shape. Invest in some simple 2-3 lb. hand weights and use them when you're watching TV or talking on the phone. Keep at it and you'll notice an improvement in as little as two weeks.

Avoid Weight Gain - 'Tis the season for calorie-packed meals, goodies, candy and treats. Most of us want to enjoy the holiday meals - but we also want to look good for parties and get-togethers with friends and family.

The best strategy is simply to maintain your current weight and stay healthy. Save any plans for losing weight for a New Year's resolution and focus on keeping off additional pounds that have a tendency to creep up on us during the holidays. Just be prepared. Before you head off to a holiday party, take the time to eat a healthy snack such as a piece of fruit, low-fat crackers or lean sandwich. You'll be less likely to indulge in the high-calorie foods available at the food table.

Check Your Undergarments - Many women buy new clothes and forget what's happening behind the scenes. Avoid evident bra and panty lines. Make sure your bras fit properly and don't ride up your back. Take the opportunity to buy new panties that fit well and make you feel sexy. If you need to hide some of those bulges, especially in the stomach area, there are lots of comfortable and slimming undergarments and apparel including footless and regular pantyhose and tights, bodyshapers and more.

Relieve stress - Everyday stress shows in your skin, face and manner. For many people, the holidays are the most stressful time of the year. Take a time out, put on some music, light some candles - and coddle yourself with a relaxing, warm bath.

 
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