Energizing Yoga Pose - Dr. Frank Lipman

Restorative Yoga Pose

Feel Better Already

When we were told a simple yoga pose could give us an instant happiness/energy boost, we signed up immediately (heck, why not?). Now it’s our go-to when we need a little lift (especially when we get home from work). All it takes is a few towels and a flat surface.

Want more? Check out our videos involving a DIY tennis ball foot massage, guided meditation, and healthy grocery shopping tips. For information about Dr. Frank Lipman, go to elevenelevenwellness.com.

Next Video: Every Inch Counts

Every Inch Counts

There’s a reason we all love the makeover episode of ANTM: Dramatic hair transformations are so damn fun to watch (tears and all).

So when the clip-in extension pros at Sunny’s Hair promised their strands were simple enough to attach in only a few minutes (no stylist required), we had to investigate. Will the hair look real? And, more importantly, will it really be DIY?

To find out, we asked three DailyCandy staffers to put in the extensions by themselves (after watching the how-tos on Sunny’s site) and captured their trial runs in today’s video.

It’s important to note the extensions aren’t for everyone (if your hair’s Mia Farrow ca. Rosemary’s Baby, there’s not enough to hide the clips). Sunny’s PR also said some customers might have to get their faux locks trimmed first, so they match existing layers (luckily, we didn’t).

But if you ask us, it’s well worth the drama.

Available online at sunnyshair.com. For free shipping, enter dailycandy1010 at checkout (expires November 20).

The chefs keep it black and white on tonight’s episode of Top Chef: Just Desserts, but judge — and DC editor-at-large — Dannielle Kyrillos has picked a rainbow of beautiful dishes to keep your table in living color.


	Up to 50% off Maloom Maloom’s sequin dresses, slip-inspired numbers, and flashy tops make any event a bit more festive — plus you’ll have cash left over to buy a lovely hostess gift since it’s all up to 50% off on Swirl.

Next Video: How to Go from Kinky to Straight Hair

How to Go from Kinky to Curly Hair

Georgia Salon Gives Us Some Tips

As the adage goes, a lot of work goes into looking effortless. And for African-American women, getting kinky hair curly — without harsh chemicals — is no small feat. So we’ll be the first to tell you this how-to is particularly ambitious.

Nevertheless, Sharntai Harris at the hip Georgia salon in downtown Manhattan has great tips for doing just that, including must-have products and step-by-steps to make styling easier. We’ll be honest: It takes practice and time — but once you’re finished, it’ll last for days.

If you’re truly feeling intimidated, we suggest trying it out with a friend. If nothing else, she can make you a cocktail while you’re drying and twisting.

If you’re in New York City, visit Georgia at 89a East Houston Street, between Elizabeth Street and Bowery ( or georgiany.com). Want more? Check out our video on going from kinky to straight hair and our gallery of the top ten hair trends for fall.


	Come spring, will you be wearing a python pillbox or a miniature cowboy? Hard to know unless you’re following our Fashion Week coverage. Check out our exclusive sneak peeks at spring 2011 styles.


	Up to 60% off Dolce Vita Italian designer Gastone Lucioli knows the young and the restless are all about the good life. His aptly named line delivers sexy prints (snake and leopard) with trendy twists — and it’s up to 60% off on Swirl.

Next Video: How to Create a Wedding-Day Chignon

How to Go from Kinky to Straight Hair

Georgia Salon Gives Us Some Tips

You’ve mastered au naturel and curly hair. Another style for your bag of tricks: the straight look.

In this video, stylist Liz Owusu shows her method for going from kinky to straight — using all-natural products. It takes awhile, so we suggest watching a movie while you’re straightening. The bonus: It’s a major arm workout.

If you’re in New York City, visit Georgia at 89a East Houston Street, between Elizabeth Street and Bowery (646-827-2428 or georgiany.com).

Next Video: How to Apply Fake Eyelashes

How to Create a Wedding-Day Chignon

An Easy DIY Updo with Stylist Michael Angelo

There are things you don’t want on your wedding day (rain, red wine stains). And things you really don’t want (bad shellfish, terrible hair).

Safeguard against the latter by doing your hair yourself. (Yes, we’re serious.)

In today’s video, Michael Angelo, founder/owner of Wonderland Beauty Parlor in NYC, creates an elegant chignon that you (or your mom) can easily DIY. All you need are bobby pins, a rubber band, a curling iron, and some sculpting product. Add a special touch with clips or flowers.

What’s the appeal? You’ll look more natural — and the hairstylist is with you the entire reception should any strands fall. Not to mention, more money for the things you do want (expensive booze).

Want more great wedding advice? Be sure to watch our videos on dress shopping dos and don’ts, finding the right gown for your body type, and selecting a veil.

Don’t forget to adorn your do with one of these stylish hair accessories.


	Up to 65% off Alisha Levine With a model for a mom and a past as a Hollywood stylist, Alisha Levine is fashion royalty. Her thoughtful silk pieces (think flowy jewel-tone tanks and rompers with ruffles) fit any wardrobe — especially at up to 65% off on Swirl.

Next Video: How to Do a Salon-Quality Blowout at Home

How to Apply Fake Eyelashes

A Quick Fake Eyelash Tutorial

In this video, makeup artist Ashley Kucich (whose work has graced the faces of Swirl) gives us useful pointers for applying faux lashes. We’ve also got a handy list of the items she uses: Shu Uemura eyelash curler ($19), DuraLash by Ardell black flare mini eyelashes ($4), and eyelash glue ($3).

Something you’re dying to DIY? Send your video suggestions to easydoesit@dailycandy.com.

Next Video: Tips for Growing Plants in an NYC Apartment

How to Do a Salon-Quality Blowout at Home

Hairstylist Julie Dickson Shares a Secret

The perfect blowout — one that leaves your hair silky, shiny, immune to humidity, and lasts, if you’re careful, three days — is magic. And the stylists in salons are magicians, guarding their secrets like the cure to baldness itself.

Until now. Here, Julie Dickson, owner of New York’s Fox & Boy salon (and star of other great hair how-tos, including the perfect messy side bun and cutting your own bangs) demystifies the whole process, from which brushes and hair dryers yield the best results to the all-important “how to make the back of my head look good when I can’t see it” dilemma. We did what she told us, and the results are pretty enchanting. If we do say so ourselves.

Something you’re dying to DIY? Send your video suggestions to easydoesit@dailycandy.com. For more information about Fox & Boy, go to foxandboy.com.

Check out our gallery of thirteen potions, serums, and powders for flawless hair.


	Up to 50% off Mercedes Salazar Mercedes Salazar claims her jewelry will “connect you to the universe.” Even if it doesn’t, the beaded pieces, crafted with ancestral techniques and finished with angel, star, and hamsa charms, are heavenly at up to 50% off on Swirl.

Next Video: The Perfect Way to Put Your Hair Up

Tips for Growing Plants in an NYC Apartment

Advice from the Experts at Verdant Gardens Design

In Craigslistspeak, a “garden apartment” can refer to a lush, grassy enclave or a sad Charlie Brown pine visible from your window. (Brokers have a creative way with language.)

But those who’ve been cheated of a true garden should consider houseplants — an easy, affordable way to see green every day. (That’s right, black-thumbed naysayers, we said easy.)

In today’s video, Peter Couchman of Verdant Gardens Design offers tips on getting plants to flourish, including advice for lazy gardeners and steering clear of lethal mistakes.

Couchman also helped us assemble a gallery of flora conducive to different degrees of sun exposure. Sadly, if you’ve got zero natural light, it’ll be tough to grow anything.

But take that up with your broker.

For more information about Verdant Gardens Design, go to verdantgardens.com.

Next Video: How to Pose for a Picture

The Perfect Way to Put Your Hair Up

The Heidi look, updated

Wearing your hair down in this humidity guarantees you’ll look like a frazzled poodle by midmorning.

This pretty wraparound braid, on the other hand, stays put even after absorbing drips from every AC unit in a twenty-block radius. In today’s video, hairstylist Jamie Cook of Whittemore House provides a step-by-step tutorial.

It may not be the easiest, and you might need an assistant to hand you bobby pins and stray locks the first time you do it. But we’re proof that anybody can DIY. (Even some of our shorter-haired coworkers have pulled it off.)

A little unruliness actually complements this style. But if you’re really all thumbs, there are the messy side bun and asymmetrical ponytail options. And if you’re still worried about frizz, check out our gallery of summer-proof hair products.

Or put your locks in expert hands: Whittemore House is offering 20 percent off all salon services through August 11. Mention DailyCandy when booking and make an appointment for no later than August 11 to receive the deal.

Something you’re dying to DIY? Send your questions to easydoesit@dailycandy.com.

Next Video: How to Create the Perfect Messy Side Bun

How to Pose for a Picture

Expert Tips for Looking Good in Photos

Shiny forehead, freak grimace, bulging eyes — you’ve got an uncanny ability to ruin a photo. And thanks to Facebook tagging, the entire world can witness your awkward mugging until the end of time.

You could avoid cameras altogether. Or you could just watch today’s video, with its simple tips for looking great in pictures.

Our expert, Sardi Klein, longtime NYC photographer and professor at The School of Visual Arts and Pratt, has seen it all, from mothers of the bride who peer skyward to avoid double chins to businessmen whose phony smiles turn head shots into mug shots.

Follow her advice, and the next time someone tags you in a photo, you might just share instead of hide.

Is there something you want to learn to do? Submit ideas to easydoesit@dailycandy.com.

Let’s be friends — on Facebook.

Up to 55% off Coralia Leets
Jewelry designer Coralia Leets knows about staying power. Made of chunky stones and hammered metal, her necklaces and earrings are modern heirlooms. And since they’re up to 55% off on our sample site (with free shipping through July 5), they’re pretty and practical.

Next Video: A Cool Variation on the Ponytail

How to Create the Perfect Messy Side Bun

Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow

Tonight will probably be filled with bad decisions (that last glass of champers, for starters).

Ring in 2011 with at least a little dignity by avoiding the drunken late-night ponytail. You can stay classy all night long with the perfect messy bun, courtesy of NYC’s Fox & Boy salon (and one of our favorite how-to videos of the year).

Because even if you want to be a hot mess, your hair doesn’t have to be.

Not feeling the messy bun? Try out the around-the-head French braid, modern beehive, or pinned-up curls (for shorter hair).

Next Video: Yoga Moves That'll Help You Sleep and Wake Up

A Cool Variation on the Ponytail

Easy Updos with Fox & Boy Salon

If you’re like us, you left side ponytails the same place you left The Baby-Sitters Club and Debbie Gibson: the ’80s. Modernize the asymmetrical style in seven steps, with help from Heather Olexa of Fox & Boy in Manhattan.

Is there something you want to learn to do? Submit ideas to easydoesit@dailycandy.com.

Next Video: Yoga Moves You Can Do in a Taxi

Yoga Moves That'll Help You Sleep and Wake Up

Tips from Instructor Tara Stiles

Insomnia is a killer. You can’t get to sleep. Then you can’t wake up. Then you need too much coffee. Which is really the last thing you need.

Cut down on the tossing/turning with help from Deepak Chopra’s personal yoga instructor, Tara Stiles. In today’s video, she demonstrates simple moves to help get your body relaxed and ready for bed, followed by a few to get you out of it the next day.

If you want to see more of Stiles, check out our video of yoga you can do in a taxi. And now that you’re all limber and rested, head to her new studio, Strala Yoga, where classes are only $10 (!). The 7:30 a.m. session has your name on it.

Strala Yoga, 623 Broadway, between Bleecker and Houston Streets, fourth floor (917-488-7195 or stralayoga.com).

Special thanks to: Crosby Street Hotel

this week on swirl!

Up to 80% off Shae
Grab a pile of Shae’s super-flattering, colorful knitwear — perfect for breezy summer nights — at up to 80 percent off on our sample sale site. Plus, get $20 off your order through May 26. (One discount per customer.)

Next Video: How to Wash Your Delicates

Yoga Moves You Can Do in a Taxi

Tips from Instructor Tara Stiles

Sitting in a taxi when you’re in a hurry is torture. Instead of yelling at your driver (it’s not his fault there’s a naked cowboy in the road), channel your frustration into something positive: yoga. In this video, Strala Yoga founder Tara Stiles demonstrates moves that’ll get you to your destination with your sanity intact.

Strala Yoga, 623 Broadway, between Bleecker and Houston Streets, fourth floor (917-488-7195 or stralayoga.com).

Next Video: Cleaning Silk in the Washing Machine

How to Wash Your Delicates

Laundry Tips from The Laundress

In the immortal words of Linda the Bra Lady, the last thing anybody wants is a “dead bra.” And what’s the killer? Machine washing, that’s what.

Give your skivvies a longer, happier life by watching today’s Easy Does It video starring The Laundress cofounder Lindsey Wieber Boyd. As in so many areas of life, correct undie washing involves gentle agitation and careful pressure.

We demonstrate on a bra here, but the techniques work on all delicates. As a bonus, we also have a video that teaches you how to wash your favorite silk dress — get this — in a machine (yes, really). Swish away.

For more tips from The Laundress, check out its blog. To buy any of the products mentioned in the video, go to thelaundress.com. Enter DCVIDEO at checkout for a 20 percent discount.

this week on swirl!

Up to 70% off Alisha Levine
Alisha Levine’s clothing strikes the perfect balance between sexy and comfortable. Snatch up the effortlessly wearable pieces at up to 70 percent off on our sample site — plus get free standard shipping through May 23.

Next Video: Exercise No. 1: Love Handles

Cleaning Silk in the Washing Machine

Laundry Tips from The Laundress

With all the money you spend on dry-cleaning silk dresses, you could buy, well, more silk dresses. What the labels don’t tell you: You can clean them in the washing machine. In this video, The Laundress cofounder Lindsey Wieber Boyd shows you how.

For more tips from The Laundress, check out its blog. To buy any of the products mentioned in the video, go to thelaundress.com. Enter DCVIDEO at checkout for a 20 percent discount.

Next Video: Exercise No. 2: Butt

Exercise No. 1: Love Handles

Get Beach Ready with Tracy Anderson

You have the swimsuit. Now you just need the body. Tracy Anderson, the fitness expert responsible for multiple famous physiques (Gwynnie, Madonna), can get you there.

Here are four videos, all featuring an Anderson-designed exercise targeting the perpetually annoying areas: love handles (above), saggy butt, flabby abs, and bat wings.

We won’t lie: The moves are a lot harder than they look, especially when you’re doing 40 reps. But we’re game for anything to make that walk from towel into ocean a little less dreadful.

For more information, go to tracyandersonmethod.com.

Next Video: Exercise No. 3: Abs

Exercise No. 2: Butt

Get Beach Ready with Tracy Anderson

Put your rear in gear with exercises designed by fitness phenomenon Tracy Anderson. In this video, she uses a bench, but you can also use a chair or couch. And, yes, onlookers were mesmerized.

For more information, go to tracyandersonmethod.com. To get more tips, check out our videos for love handles, bat wings, and flabby abs.

Next Video: Exercise No. 4: Bat Wings

Exercise No. 3: Abs

Get Beach Ready with Tracy Anderson

Fitness star Tracy Anderson demonstrates exercises to get your abdomen in check. In this video, she uses a tree, but a wall will just as effectively do the trick.

For more information, go to tracyandersonmethod.com. To get more tips, check out our videos for love handles, bat wings, and butt.

Next Video: Selecting a Wedding Veil

Exercise No. 4: Bat Wings

Get Beach Ready with Tracy Anderson

Don’t fear the tank top. In this video, workout queen Tracy Anderson shows you a few exercises designed to get rid of bat wings (upper-arm flab) — and all you need are some water bottles (or weights).

For more information, go to tracyandersonmethod.com. For more tips, check out our videos for love handles, abs, and butt.

Selecting a Wedding Veil

Tips from Bridal Expert Gabriella Risatti

Choosing a veil is much easier than picking a dress, but it shouldn’t be an afterthought. In this video, Gabriella Risatti, owner of Gabriella New York Bridal Salon in Manhattan, gives pointers on how to find the best one for you.

For more tips and tricks, sign up for DailyCandy Weddings. Is there something you wanna learn how to do? Submit ideas to easydoesit@dailycandy.com.