Happy New Years Eve, everyone!  How are YOU bringing in 2012?

• Attending/hosting a crazy party with friends?
• Going on holiday?
• Celebrating with a dinner filled with delicious foods?
• Staying at home to avoid the hustle & bustle?
• Falling asleep before midnight?

Whatever your plans involve, we hope that you will be popping some champagne to ring in the 2012.  After all, what is New Year’s Eve without a few bubbles ?!  Don’t worry if you have one glass too many –we’ve all been there, done that!  However to ensure that you don’t spend the first day of the year feeling drained, nauseous, and suffering a migraine, here are some of our top cures to ward off that hangover:

• Avoid drinking on an empty stomach: Eating a meal containing carbohydrates (rice/pasta)  or fats (salmon/nuts) will help slow down your body’s absorption of alcohol.

• Sip a glass of water in between each drink

• Replenish your body with a glass of water before going to bed.  In the morning, up your intake of liquids like water and fruit juice.  Given its Vitamin C content, orange juice is an ideal choice!

• Make some toast: After drinking to just about every toast that was made the night before, eating a slice or 2 of toast will help energize you.

• Sleep: Rest and recuperation is the best way to give your body a chance to recover.

• Avoid too much caffeine: A cup or 2 of tea/coffee is fine but any more will further dehydrate you.

• Take a shower, switching between hot and cold water: This will open your pores and get your skin breathing, improve circulation and relax your muscles.  More than the physical benefits, a shower will help refresh your body and mind.

• Try hangover supplements like Alka Seltzer Morning Relief, but be sure to consult with your doctor first.

We all have our go-to hangover cure…share yours!

Feeling like you’ve wasted your holiday ‘beating’ jet lag?  No one enjoys the symptoms of jet lag including sleepiness during the day, insomnia at night, irregular hunger patterns, poor concentration and so forth. You know how the saying goes “When in Rome, do like the Romans”…or in other words, sleep like the Romans !  During your next trip, use our top tips to fight the effects of jet lag and feel like you’ve made the most of your trip away from home:

1) Try to fit in with the daily routine and activities of the new time zone as soon as possible – eat when they eat and sleep (or at least rest) when they sleep.

2) Reset your watch at the beginning of your flight can help you adjust more quickly to the time zone of your destination

3) Drink plenty of water before, during and after the flight to avoid dehydration.  Experts believe that dehydration is the leading cause of jet lag.

4) Avoid drinking alcohol or caffeinated beverages on board to also avoid dehydration.

5) Sleep on the plane if it is nighttime at your destination.  Use earplugs, headphones, eye masks, or sleep aids to help block out the noise and light and facilitate more restful sleep.

6) Stay awake on your flight if it is daytime at your destination. Read, talk with other fellow passengers, and take advantage of in-flight entertainment…anything which will prevent you from falling asleep.

7) Exercise as much as you can on board to facilitate blood circulation.  Stretch your legs by walking up and down the aisles when the seat belt sign is switched off.

8) Take supplements:  Some people claim that the natural hormone produced by our bodies melatonin will cure jet lag by promoting sleep.  Although this can be bought at most health food stores, be sure to consult with your doctor first.

9) Relax on the first day at your destination: If time permits, arrive at your destination a day or 2 earlier than the important activities.  This will ensure your body gradually adjusts to the new time zone and you feel rejuvenated for the remainder of your trip.

Are you a victim of jet lag? How do you get over it?

Paige Premium Denim's Verdugo High Rise Legging in Breckenridge.

What is your favorite ‘travel’ jean?

Packing for a trip is one thing I do not enjoy, my biggest stress being that to travel light is an absolute ‘not possible’ for me. Not to mention that on the weekend I went to pick up my son from the airport for his one-week trip to Mumbai, and I was shocked to see his luggage was nonexistent. For the first half hour all I could ask him was if he’s forgotten to bring something, if he’s got all he needs, and if he’s allowed 46kg, how could he travel in 7?? To me, that’s a criminal waste!

I have always been mocked for my heavy luggage, and shrugged it away justifying that ‘I need it all just in case….’, until I realized that less is more, and that there is such a thing as intelligent packing. Packing light can be light on the spirit too, (the more you carry, the more you have, the more you need to look after, to choose from, etc.),  and this can start with packing for a weekend away. You can put together essentials, and turn out as amazing as someone who may have packed four times more than you have.

My rules would be:

1) Know your destination and climate well: Beach/ski resorts, mountain getaways or bustling cities, and plan accordingly.

2) Choose clothes that spell comfort. The last thing you want is to squeeze into something, keeping in mind the holiday food and drink agenda.

3) Select items that are crease-free.Jersey tops and dresses pack away with minimum space, look fresh and need minimal care.

4) Pick up travel-size toiletries or turn your make up into mini make up bottles and jars. Miniatures that cosmetic brands sometimes give out are great for this.

5) Take the versatile dress that would be suitable for both casual and dressier evening wear.

6) Keep shoe wear to the minimum, one comfortable day pair and a dressier wedge or pair of heels for the evening.

7) Accessorize: a long gold chain, pair of stunning earrings, a fun cuff – all this can add a new look to that top or dress from day to evening.

8) Your favorite pair of jeans, colored or classic ink, a lightweight or a dramatic flare, where you could play with different looks from day to night.

9) Tees and shirts – a variety of tops that complement your jean, and give you the choice.

10) The right lingerie is crucial – you don’t want the panty line showing under those great jeans, or the wrong bra that spoils the look of the top.

11) A shawl to keep you warm -  you never know

12) Medication – I always carry my Berroca and the Alka Selters for that hangover! You don’t want the sluggish feel on your holiday.

13) Last but not least, the little fun bits: – the book, the board game, pack of card, puzzlers – whatever you like.

All this sounds like a lot, but I have managed all this into a small hold-all, and even managed to put in a small lightweight folding bag in case I have some shopping to bring back!

Enjoy your weekend away! And remember the phone charger .

Season’s Greetings from the team at Denim Diary!  We wish you health, comfort and prosperity this holiday season.  May your home be filled with the joy of family and friends!

It’s a fact of life: feeling like you’ve swallowed a balloon or 2 before heading on a night out is every girl’s worst nightmare.  Most of us have experienced discomfort and tightness in our abdomen at some stage. It’s a surefire way to start the night on the wrong foot, especially when a fitted outfit is on the cards.  As horrible as it feels at the time, fortunately there are ways to prevent it.  With a few tweaks to your diet and lifestyle, beat the bloat this holiday season by giving your digestive system a helping hand.

1) Slow down your eating: Eating too quickly makes swallowing air likely, and the excessive air in the stomach can lead to distention of the stomach.  Slow down your eating to prevent the risk of discomfort as well as overeating by becoming more mindful of your hunger levels to prevent overeating.

2) Cut back on gassy foods: Foods such as beans and cruciferous veggies like broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage are infamous for producing gas or bloating.  Due to their make-up, some people find it difficult to break these foods now, causing an increase in gas production.  Rather than avoid them completely of these foods, limit your portions.

3) Increase the fiber:  Inadequate amounts of fiber can lead to constipation and bloating.  Stick to a diet containing plenty of wholegrains, legumes, fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds to stay regular.  However be sure to gradually bump up your fibre intake.

4) Drop the salt: Excessive salt causes the body to retain water, leading to bloating.  Lower your salt intake by ceasing to add salt to your food and avoiding packaged foods which are tend to be high in salt.

5) Enjoy probiotics: These healthy bacteria improve the balance of good bacteria in your gut, which keeps your intestinal tract working properly and helps reduce feelings of bloating and constipation.  Some yogurts and fermented milk products are good sources of probiotics.

6) Get active: Exercise causes muscles to contract, which propels waste products through your digestive track.  Incorporating merely 30-minutes of moderate-intensity activity will help keep your bowels regular.

7) Get tested for food allergy or intolerance:  If the bloating persists after eating certain foods, consult your dietitian or doctor about whether you are intolerant to such foods.  Avoid removing foods from your diet without professional advice.

And if all fails, always keep a loose top in the back of your wardrobe….just in case !

Hosting/attending a party this holiday season?  We at Denim Diary recently came across an article with awesome “Party Do’s & Don’ts”.  No extra advice can ever go to waste, so here are some of the tips we have compiled.  Hope they come in handy!

• Don’t go to a party empty-handed.  Check out our post on gift ideas if you’re stuck!

• Always account for an extra surprise guest: better safe than sorry.

• Create a music playlist that’s ready to begin as soon as the doorbell rings.

• Keep hors d’oeuvres to one bite; nobody wants to talk with a mouthful.

• Opt for something unique as your centerpieces instead of flowers.  Think seasonal fruit, a tureen or an interesting sculptural centerpiece.

• Don’t wait for late guests to start serving.  Hungry guests aren’t happy guests.

• If you’re doing a set seating, place people with big personalities at the center of the table: they can help carry the conversation.

• Atmosphere is half the battle and sets the ambiance: ensure the room is appropriately lit and the background music is fitting.

• Never EVER run out of ice…or alcohol!

• Put individual guest napkins in the powder room (prevents overused guest towels) and a soap pump (bar soap can get gooey).

• Mingle throughout the entire night and ensure your guests are enjoying themselves and constantly have a drink in their hand.

• Bid farewell: Don’t leave without saying good-bye to the host.

What tips can you add to the list?

Forget diamonds, DENIM is a girl’s best friend.  Which other piece of clothing can be worn all day long, regardless of the occasion and still look appropriate?  Our point exactly!  In just 4 easy steps, take your outfit from casual daywear to dressy evening without having to take off your favorite pair of jeans!

1) Freshen the face: Night-time is the time to take your make-up up a notch.  Carry a mini makeup bag handy with you at all times.  A spritz of perfume, a fresh application of mascara, and a swipe of lip gloss can instantly revive your face.  If you want to add some extra glamour, add a few touches of highlighting or shimmer powder and eyeliner.

2) Accessorize instantly: Carry one statement piece with you so that with one touch, you’ll be instantly ready for the night ahead. Long beaded necklaces, cocktail rings, or even a nice pair of earrings can be all it takes!

3) If the shoe fits: Don’t underestimate the power of a sexy pair of heels to transform an outfit. Day is all about comfort whereas night-time is all about breaking out the heels.  If heels aren’t your thing, change into a fun pair of metallic or animal prints flats to help add some pep into your step.

4) Change to a clutch:  A big overstuffed, Mary Poppins-style bag is a necessity for work and on errands but just looks clumpy on the dance floor.  Invest in a going out clutch that will match most outfits.  All you need room for is your ID, credit card, cash, cell phone, compact, lipstick, and keys.  The rest can stay at work!

It should be the most joyful time of the year. Yet many of us are so intent on “doing it right” that we miss out on the “Merry” part of the holidays.  Don’t let stress get in your way of having a good time.  Instead turn to our tips for staying sane this season, and be sure to take in the moment!

1.      Post detailed lists on the fridge and checking off items when they are done.

2.      Organize and prioritize: Not everything is going to get done, and that is okay.  The best laid plans often go awry but as long as the more important things get accomplished, everything else will fall into place.

3.      Sleep:  As tempting as it is, now is not the time to skimp on your zzz’s.  Be sure to get 7-8 hours of sleep daily, even if that means adding naps into your day.

4.      Move: Even 15 minutes of exercise daily will help alleviate your stress and clear your mind.

5.      Say no: you’re going to be invited to several parties and asked to do more than normal.  It’s nice to help people but do not do so at your own expense.  Honor your existing obligations and politely decline when unreasonable tasks/events arise.

6.      Ask for help

7.      Keep reasonable expectations of yourself and loved ones.

8.      Eat a healthy breakfast: Even though you will be indulging more than normal, at least you will have one healthy meal under your belt.

9.      Pamper yourself: During this season, be sure to take time for yourself at the some point of the day.  Do whatever makes you feel relaxed, even if it’s only for 10 minutes.

10.  Enjoy it: Life will be busy, your days will be hectic.  Do keep in mind that this season only comes once a year.  Savor the buzz while you can and appreciate all the time with family and friends!

How do you stay sane during hectic periods?

With Christmas less than 2 weeks away, travel is in full swing.  We’re all rushing to be reunited with our friends and families during the holidays.  While you’re making your lists and checking them twice, there’s no surefire way to avoid the  inevitable stress that comes with travelling.  Here are a few tips from us at Denim Diary to somewhat smoothen yourjourney:

1) If you are visiting a new place, do a bit of research beforehand rather than waste time during your holiday.  This will ensure you are acquainted with the city and have a few specific destinations to check out and directions from where you are staying.

2) Compile a travel item list and save it on your computer.  This list has everything you might need for your trip based on climate, country, and trip duration.  Print out the list before packing and check off items as they are packed away so as to avoid leaving something important behind.

3) As wrapping paper crumples fairly quickly, avoid pre-packing Christmas gifts if possible.  Also chances are security will unwrap them, especially on international trips.

4) Prior to travel, call both the airline and hotel you will be staying at to confirm your reservations.

5) Check in ahead of time to avoid getting bumped off: flights during peak season are jam packed and showing up a few minutes too late due to unforeseen traffic jams can cost you your flight.   Checking-in beforehand will also ensure you are seated according to your preference i.e. aisle or window.

6) When traveling by air, pack everything in your hand luggage in clear plastic bags.  Your luggage is bound to be opened and checked multiple times and anything loose may be lost.

7) Pack your cell-phone charger and a change of clothes in your hand carry in case of flight delays.

8 ) Be polite: it’s easy to take your travel stress out on airline employees but they are doing the best they can.  Showing a bit of gratitude and manners can be all it takes to bump you up to the top of waiting lists, an upgrade, or some slack even though you’ve exceeded your luggage allowance.

9) Try and exercise prior to your travel, especially for long-haul flights.  It will help relax you  and also help you sleep during your flight.

10) Carry an empty water bottle through security and then keep filling it whenever possible.  Staying hydrated will make your flight journey much more pleasant.

How do you ensure your travel is smooth sailing?

The 2nd week of December is about to start. The parties are in full swing, drinks are free-flowing and holiday treats are all over. We’re not one to miss out on all the fun…nor are we the ones to boast our muffin tops which are slowly developing. Although we have already vowed to get back into shape from January 1st onwards, who’s to say we can’t call upon help from one of our friends now: Plié’s Brazilian Shapewear. Consider these to be ‘magic pants’: any piece of lingerie that provides a slimming effect without the need for diets, exercise or pills is definitely magic in my opinion!

Seamless, comfortable and cooling, I just slip them under my dress or outfit of choice for the night and I’m set to go! Fortunately the Plié Control collection comes in a variety of slimming, seam-free styles for women of all shapes and sizes!

No matter how bloated I look or feel before putting them on, these smoothen out all the lumps and bumps and do the slimming work for me! And before you think celebs like Gwyneth Paltrow, Julia Roberts, and Brooke Shields are naturally gifted with fab figures, they too are a fan of magic pants ! Consider these to be Hollywood’s best kept secret!

Chances are your social calendar is already in full swing and invitations are being delivered to your door by the dozen!  As a gesture of gratitude, it’s always a good idea to come bearing a small gift for the host. Between deciding what to wear, finding a balance between your work life & all the parties, and just being stuck of ideas, it can be difficult to find the ‘perfect gift’ for the host of the evening.  To help you get started, we at Denim Diary have a compiled a list of ideal gifts which don’t require much effort yet speak volumes:

• Picture frame

• Nice bottle of wine.  For those of you who aren’t seasoned wine drinkers, you can’t really go wrong with a chardonnay or pinot noir.  Just make sure that your host drinks alcohol!

• A scented candle set with a light fragrance.  Try to choose a scent that is not too invasive.

• Set of assorted teas or hot chocolates

• Lightly scented soaps or other bath products

• A coffee table book–> hardcover is always a better option

• A gift basket filled with various gourmet goods

• Homemade baked goods which are nicely wrapped/packaged

Any gift ideas? The more the merrier!