What is Fem Rouge?
FEM as in “feminine” is our sensitive, caring inner voice and what it means to be a woman … ROUGE brings to mind our sensuality and powers of seduction à la Moulin Rouge … It is the combination of sweet femininity and smart sensuality that is in every woman’s nature!
Who is Fem Rouge?
This magazine is fixated on the same things you are: anything that inspires us to embrace the beautiful, unique creatures that we are! We’re just like you, entrepreneurs, stay-at-home moms, wives, sisters, daughters and friends. We come from different ages and stages in life, a variety of nationalities and distinctive backgrounds. Our staff is a group of models, chefs, musicians, psychologists, beauty professionals, fitness experts, world travelers, teachers, students, socialites, bookworms, experienced in all stages of love and life! In short … We are twelve gorgeous girls on a mission to create the best women’s magazine ever! How do we dream of doing that? By treating you as we would treat ourselves: with honesty and compassion. Everything we recommend or review has been personally tested by our team. We’re constantly experimenting with new beauty products, trying on clothes, tasting delicious food … but don’t think it’s all fun and games! Our trials of the latest and greatest beauty creams can sometimes go sour! We go all out to make sure each item lives up to its promises, rocks the quality scale and is something we just couldn’t pass up! If it enhances our lives, we want to share it with you, too.
You see, we believe that by focusing on the things that empower us, we women can change the world! So join us to meet, learn, share and bond with an amazing community of women.
articles January 2014
after 30 18 love Don’t give up hope! Follow these tips to true love.
’s that smell? 19 what Subtle is sexy when it comes to perfume!
hot 20 red Let’s look at some of the hottest reds on the runway.
denim 22 dynamite Learn what three types of jeans should be found in every woman’s closet.
favors 24 fashion curves Fashion Do’s and Don’ts to accent the curvelicious body
27 watches Casual, sporty, everyday ... and secret!
women 32 iconic A tribute to everyone’s favorite Princess!
bouquets 34 bridal Some of the prettiest radiant skin DIY & OTC skincare 4 remedies packed with 5 the power of citrus. prescribed by nature Health benefits of cumin and red raspberry tea recipes Focus on Figs | Aching for Acorn (Squash)
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does yoga make 9 you smarter? Breathe . Relax. Perform. The secret benefit of yoga. no men allowed Let’s talk thyroid.
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cabo san lucas 12 What to do, what to eat, where to stay in Mexico’s Paradise.
bouquets you’ve seen!
sweets 36 spectacular Wedding cakes as delicious as they are beautiful.
38 bridal fashion
spotlight It’s all about the dress in our focus on bridal fashion!
decor 43 home Decorating tips for modern living.
Winter’s the best time to get dewy skin while you enjoy one of summer’s favorite fruits!
get the glow with
grapefruit Get skin bennies from nature’s summer citrus!
Zesty Peel
This grapefruit facial peel has both anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, so it will reduce redness and puffiness on your face and freshen oily skin. The lactic acid in yogurt exfoliates, while the enzymes and minerals provide healthy oils and reduce pore size. You’ll need: Zest of ½ grapefruit 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt In a small bowl, mix the grapefruit zest with the yogurt. Stir until well blended and the yogurt is lighter in consistency. Spread the mixture on your face and let rest for 10-15 minutes. Rinse with warm water and follow up with your favorite moisturizer.
Erase Fine Lines
Grapefruit juice gives skin a natural glow. Vitamin C provides antioxidants plus a collagen boost which can, over time, reduce the appearance of fine lines. Egg whites remove dead skin, and honey provides moisture and cleans out your pores. You’ll need: 1 egg white 2 tablespoons fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice 1 teaspoon organic honey Whisk the egg white in a small bowl, then add grapefruit juice and honey. Blend together. Apply to your face and let rest until it starts to become tacky (about 15 minutes). Rinse with warm water.
Want your skin to have a jewel-like glow? They don’t call grapefruit ruby red for nothing! Full of Vitamin C, Lycopene, and Antioxidants, grapefruit promotes collagen production and the growth of fresh, healthy cells. It also helps battle those nasty, free radicals that can attach to your skin cells and cause wrinkles.
Refreshing Toner Making your own is easier than you think! Make a larger batch and store it in a glass bottle in the fridge. You’ll need: 1 part grapefruit juice 1 part witch hazel Mix together and dot around your face and neck. No rinsing required! TIP: Grapefruit oils can irritate skin in the sun, so these ruby-red routines are best applied at night. And always remember to apply regular sunscreen.
Consuming grapefruit and grapefruit juice can reduce the efficacy of certain prescription drugs and might trigger dangerous side effects in others. Ask your doctor about incorporating grapefruit into your skincare regime if you take cholesterol, cardiovascular or birth control medications.
uBeauty
grab some
grapefruit goodness when you don’t have the time or inclination to whip up
your skincare at home, these over-the-counter options give you all the goodness you need.
body lotion
toner
Origins Gloomaway Grapefruit body souffle with a lively grapefruit scent creates a sense of optimism and contentment as your whole being is nurtured in silky softness. $31, origins.com
The exfoliating powers of Mario Badescu’s alpha grapefruit cleansing lotion is perfect for dull, dry, and sensitive complexions. Alcohol free. $26, mariobadescu.com
lips & cheeks
Pink Grapefruit Lip & Cheek Tint from 100% Pure nourishes and softens skin with moisturizing shea and cocoa butters. 100% natural, 100% vegetarian, gluten free. $15, 100percentpure.com
cleanser
grapefruit face cleanser from (Malin+Goetz) is gentle enough for dry, sensitive or rosacea-prone skin. Perfect as eye and makeup remover. Natural fragrance and color. $30, malinandgoetz.com
moisturizer
This lightweight Oil Free Grapefruit Cream from MyChelle hydrates and nourishes breakout-prone skin without clogging pores. $31.25, mychelle.com
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TEA
Red Raspberry Leaves Hey ladies, still looking for natural relief during that time of the month? You’ll find it with a familiar fruity friend. Prepare to discover the raspberry’s hidden talents! Raspberry leaf tea has a long history as a folk remedy in almost every culture and it was a favorite treatment for a host of “women’s problems.” High in magnesium, potassium, and Vitamin B, this tea has been used to ease menstrual cramps and bloating and even ease labor pains. A study published through the National Institute of Health finds there may be significant antioxidants in raspberry leaf tea, and it can relax constricted blood vessels. We’ve been enjoying those bright red berries, and now we know better than to throw the leaves away! It’s considered safe and even beneficial for women who are pregnant to drink raspberry leaf tea, but just to be sure, check with your healthcare provider. To purchase, look for Traditional Medicinals Organic Raspberry Leaf tea ... or if you prefer brewing loose leaves, you can find tea at Mountain Rose Herbs.
Prescribed by Nature This potent little guy is one of the starring flavors in foods from around the world! It’s used in Middle Eastern, South Asian, and Latin-American cuisine, The earthy flavor of cumin makes many dishes delicious, but it also has health benefits! Cumin is a great digestive aid, easing the whole process by helping in the breakdown of fats and the more efficient absorption of nutrients. It’s also been shown to help diabetes! Cumin helped reduce blood sugar levels and also helps the body resist developing diabetes-induced cataracts. Savor its singular taste in all sorts of dishes—from a light and refreshing fava bean salad to wholesome chickpea curry, uu You’ll find lots of great recipes showcasing cumin at www.FemRouge.com
SPICE
Cumin
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peaceful perspiration
Though we know the importance of exercise, most of us still have a hard time squeezing in a 30-minute run or a class at the gym. In this every-minutecounts, gotta-get-stuff-done environment, how did yoga’s quiet, meditative, slow-paced flow become so popular? The calm, purposeful, rhythmic movements of yoga stretch specific muscle groups very differently than a traditional cardio workout that requires the body to go “all out.” Many yoga practitioners say a session leaves students with a feeling of peace and serenity, which may be exactly why we’re drawn to yoga in the first place. Turns out, a recent study conducted at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign suggests that feeling of mental clarity is, actually, all in their head–but in a good way! brains
+
brawn
=
yoga!
Scientists took a group of 30 participants and had them perform a simple cognitive exercise. They had to do the task again after a 20-minute aerobic workout on the treadmill and one more time after a 20-minute yoga session. While there wasn’t much difference in performance between the pre-aerobic and post-aerobic results, when participants took the test after yoga, researchers were shocked by the clear improvements in reaction time and accuracy! find your yoga
This study encourages us to be more active and demonstrates we can strengthen our bodies and minds simultaneously. Look around your area for a yoga studio and ask to sit in on a class. If it doesn’t seem like your flavor of fitness, try out another type of yoga–there are many! Any exercise is good for you—no matter if it’s running, dancing, or rock climbing! But promise yourself that you’ll take the time to try some form of yoga, and practice it at least once a week. Giving your brain a rest through yoga is a very smart idea!
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Mexico’s Paradise Found
CABO san lucas
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A picturesque refuge on the very tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas draws visitors from every walk of life: outdoorsmen attracted to the region’s reputation for lively, exciting fishing; film stars flocking to the serene horizons to escape the roar of the crowds; and those seeking an exceptional holiday in a place where dramatic scenery mixes with a carefree beachside attitude.
Where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, the weather is usually warm and sunny. The thermometer can dip to the low 50s during the middle of winter, but on average, you’ll enjoy a refreshing climate in the mid-60s to mid-70s. With such reliably accommodating weather, you won’t have any trouble getting outdoors to enjoy the scenery. No matter how daring or laid-back you are, you’ll easily find something to please you.
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However adventurous you get during the day, you can wind down with a soothing sigh as you admire the rock formations at Lands End, with natural sculptures rising up out of the sea. Stroll along the invitingly named Lovers’ Beach for a closer look, but don’t get too comfortable: despite its intimate title, it’s a well-frequented spot to see these natural wonders. And not only is it popular with the two-legged visitors to Cabo San Lucas, it’s a favorite spot for sea lions to gather, so you may hear some more raucous expressions of appreciation than you’re used to! Cabo is full of folks who would be happy to give you the excursion of your dreams, from scuba diving to parasailing, surf lessons to sport fishing, or seeing the handmade wonders at the local glass factory to riding horses through the vast natural beauty of the desert.
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Head to El Farallón, the Pacific-side restaurant with open-air dining and a stunning view. You’ll be shown the catch of the day—and that isn’t just an expression! Choose from tuna, snapper, dorado, or even lobster, and it will be prepared to your exact request.
Start the day by savoring breakfast by the sea!
Enjoy the specialties prepared by Master Chefs, such as this beautifully prepared chile relleno. Indulge yourself at the resort’s tequila and cigar bar.
o stay
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If the warm salt air and fresh flavors don’t make you fall in love with Cabo, wait until you see the beautiful grounds of the One & Only Palmilla.
Celebrate your stay with a toast from the resort’s oceanfront bar . With accommodations so close to the pristine ocean waters, this is a perfect vacation spot to rid yourself of all the worries of the everyday world.
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Let the luxury of the rich surroundings and pure sea air comfort your body, mind, and spirit.
Stop to enjoy the Mexican artistic beauty through the Los Cabos Corridor.
Your room is your own slice of paradise, with a view of the sea from nearly every space.
Your private veranda is the best seat in the house for sighting migrating humpback and gray whales— binoculars included!
The combination of natural splendor and rich luxury will set the stage for afternoons you’ll wish could last forever.
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Love
Finding
30
after
Feeling hopeless about love? It’s a trap many of us fall into, especially in our 30’s, 40’s and beyond, after we’ve accumulated some love baggage. It’s a common worry, but we think the words “spinster” and “eternal bachelor” should be struck from the English language!
You CAN find love later in life! Here 5 ways to get you started:
Here are the top locations to find Mr. or Mrs. Right:
• Gym, sports club, community athletic By this time in your life, you’re bound to have baggage. For some, team this is as easy as convincing yourself that you aren’t inferior for still • Local social events, being single. But for others, it can be a long road to forgiving major festivals, concerts hurts and messy breakups. Take your time and see a professional • Social clubs with a counselor if you run into any roadblocks as you try to lighten the common interest, talent load. or religion • Get-togethers with Be a good student family and friends, plus If you’ve repeated some relationship mistakes, it’s probably time to a date they’ve selected dig deeper into the why of things. Learning from your past errors for you not only makes you wiser in selecting a mate, but it also makes you a better partner. After all, if you repeat old patterns and look for love • Volunteer at your favorite organizations! in the same places, how can you expect a different result?
Let go
Get specific
What do you really, really want in a partner? Now take your first draft (which looks more like a grocery list) and narrow it down to what you actually need in your counterpart. That way you’ll have realistic expectations that get satisfied; six-pack optional.
Just do you
Be yourself and be downright proud of it! Confidence is consistently surveyed as one of the sexiest characteristics in both men and women.
Go out and get ‘em
Never believe the myth that your soul mate will come to you. If you’re not in the places that single people go, then you are only limiting your selection pool.
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What’s That
Smell? Perfume from a Man’s Perspective
DO Go Clean Pure, fresh scents are uplifting and sexy at the same time. Try J’adore by Dior or Light Blue by D&G. Choose Spicy Be sexy with scents of black pepper, especially when it’s layered with subtle wood or earth tones. A scant spritz of Tom Ford’s Black Orchid or 24 Faubourg by Hermes is reason enough for a man to lean in for some, ahem, closer examination.
A man’s nose knows what it likes and doesn’t like, and most men won’t be shy about telling you so. Here are some guidelines for girls from guys about male scent-sibilities.
DON’T
Be Too Sweet Bake them cookies, and they’ll fall in love, but come to dinner already smelling like dessert? No, thanks. Men are less likely to be attracted to overly sweet smells, such as chocolate and vanilla. If sweet is your preference, choose a scent that achieves a successful blend of elements that includes vanilla without being overpowering. We recommend Yves Saint Laurent Baby Doll. Be Flowery If your fragrance boasts roses or some other strong, heavy floral, the scent may distort a man’s impression from Sexy Lady to Old Lady. Look for a scent that combines flowers with other key ingredients, such as subtly spiced Daisy by Marc Jacobs or citrusy Poppy from Coach.
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YNAMITE
DENIM
Every woman should have at least 3 types of jeans in her closet:
some for casual days v some for date nights v some for fun! v
Level 99 Jeans are a celeb cult favorite. You can find anything you’re looking for in a variety of cuts, sizes, and exciting colors!
Jessica Biel (Fun) Jessica was beautifully polished when leaving the Four Seasons with a splash of fun color in the minty green Janice Ultra Skinny in Argon Green.
Malin Akerman (Casual) While out shopping in L.A., Malin was spotted sporting the Lily Skinny Straight in Crawford, a ripped-knee style hugely popular among celebs including Jessica Alba, Alessandra Ambrosio, and January Jones.
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Katherine Heigl (Date Night) While out for coffee, Katherine Heigl wore the Janice Ultra Skinny in Reign. The dark wash and slim fit is perfect for a night out with that special someone!
Sarah Jessica Parker (Casual) SJP loves her Level 99 denim so much they named a style after her! She’s pictured above in the Sarah Cropped Tomboy in Cristal Wash.
Alessandra Ambrosio (Fun) A muted color palate doesn’t have to be boring! Alessandra was out in L.A. and wore the Janice Ultra Skinny in Krypton, a flirty floral and paisley print on their slimmest cut denim.
Sarah Jessica Parker (Date Night) is wearing the Micro Suede Janice Ultra Skinnies in Irish Cream. This sweet suede jean with white blazer combo is Sex and the City worthy! Talk about chic!
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uiconic women
Princess Diana is best remembered for her enchanting beauty, charitable work, and noble sons. When Diana wed Charles, Prince of Wales, millions of people watched her walk down the aisle in one of the most iconic wedding dresses of modern times, with puffed sleeves and a 25-foot train. As Princess, Diana became a major symbol for style and fashion. Despite being born into one of Britain’s most influential families and becoming a royal and Lady Diana was often described as humble, shy, and compassionate. During her youth, her love for children led her to become a nursery assistant and to work as a nanny. She also had an affinity for ballet. In fact, she studied dance with the dream of becoming a ballerina for the Royal Ballet—a testament to her unmistakable poise and grace. As Princess, Diana became involved with many charities. She worked with people who suffered from debilitating illnesses, including AIDS and leprosy. She also helped underprivileged people, such as the homeless, poverty-stricken youth, and the elderly. Unlike the rest of the royal family, Diana had no trouble relating to ordinary people. Her passionate dedication to work alongside common people who ran extraordinary charities helped her develop a public reputation of a Good Samaritan who connected with commoners. Princess Diana was a stunning role model for people worldwide. We hope you enjoy this dedication to one of our favorite Iconic Women, The People’s Princess.
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Opposite page: Diana’s last photo session was photographed by Mario Testino for Vanity Fair just months before her death. The gowns she modeled were to be auctioned off for charity. 1: While on a trip to visit the troops, the princess channeled Jackie O in a Versace suit and Philip Somerville pillbox hat. 2: Despite her separation from Prince Charles, Princess Diana exuded confidence by showing some skin at a Serpentine Gallery benefit in this little black dress by Christina Stambolia. 3: Made of taffeta and lace, Diana’s wedding dress remains one of the most talked-about dresses in history. 4: Diana spends time with Mother Theresa. The two women were the most iconic Good Samaritans of the late 20th century. 5: Princess Diana had all eyes on her when she stepped out on the red carpet in this stunning silver pleated Bruce Oldfield gown. 6: During a visit to Dubai, Diana donned a striking royal blue and white turbaninspired hat.
Bridal Bouquets uwedding
Bridal Bouquets Traditionally, bridal bouquets were meant to ward off evil spirits and were composed of bunches of herbs … and even garlic!
Luckily, over time, we’ve moved on to carry fragrant, colorful flowers down the aisle. Whether chosen for the special symbolic meaning within every petal, or picked to complement the dress and décor, each blossom represents a bride’s unique personality. Go simple with a timeless flower, like this gorgeous Parisian arrangement of pink peonies by Kevin Chin Photography.
“Toujours”. This French word for “Always” holds a simple, unspoken promise.
The Little Branch in Los Angeles, CA, contrasts bright salmon blooms with pure white flowers adorned with yellow centers. Green and peach add colorful fun to the bride’s whimsical attire.
courtneydavidson.com
Brocade Designs in Nashville, TN, blends modern chic and traditional charm by using classic roses with a play on colors, shapes, and textures.
Pink blooms by The Floral Lab in San Diego, CA, are reminiscent of a coral reef, a lovely accompaniment to a seaside wedding. This bouquet by Brocade Designs features orchids, roses, and calla lilies dressed for Fall.
www.kristaleephotography.com
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The aptly-named Sugar Flower Cake Shop’s signature creations are flowers with slender, fine petals and other details so unbelievably real you will think they used real flowers. The shop doesn’t stop there - featured in Martha Stewart Weddings, they can also create inventive cakes to fit with your theme, like the “toppling” fantasy cake they created for a couple who were engaged in front of the Alice in Wonderland statue in Central Park.
Above: Creamy sugar ribbon, lace detailing, and flowers look so touchable!
Above: Bursts of cerulean sugar orchids abound on this lovingly detailed cake.
Left: Stunning handmade sugar orchid blossoms take center stage!
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As if their designs weren’t enough to set them apart, their local and organic ingredients and gluten free options enhance the flavor and provide environmentally conscious decisions without compromising style or taste.
Above: Antique style sugar flowers adorn this lush chocolate cake.
Above: This cake features a brilliantly realistic swath of colorful sugar flowers.
Above: Individual leaves in ivory are a feminine and unique touch.
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SOURCES
12-17: http://www.capellahotels.com http://palmilla.oneandonlyresorts.com 20-21: vogue.com 22-23: denimblog.com 24-26: ibtimes.com, bananarepublic.gap.com, venus.com, bostonproper.com, vogue.co.uk, vogue.es 27-31: http://us.chopard.com, graffdiamonds.com, piaget.com, chanel.com, movado.com, katespade.com, marcjacobs.com, anneklein.com, michaelkors.com, barneys.com 32: http://markdsikes.com/2012/05/02/diana/ 33: http://www.fashionspill.com/1-looks-da-princesa-diana/ 36-37: sugarflowercakeshop.com 38-41: romonakeveza.com 43-48: snuut.com, impressionsfurniture.com, dwell.com brookstone.com, systink.com, neublack.com, houzz.com, besthomeinspirations.com, http://classyclosets.com, http://imtex.org