We've been lucky enough to have an exclusive interview with Barbie. Read what she had to say about her secrets to success, Avon Cosmetics and the love of her life – Ken!

We hear it was a special birthday in March 2009, how did it feel?
I celebrated by 50th in 2009 and it was a blast! We had so many parties and FAB events around the world! It was amazing and I was so touched that so many people were there for me! So I think you can guess the number this year!

You look amazing for your age, do you mind sharing with us your secrets for looking so youthful and contemporary?
Attitude is everything! If you feel good, you look good! And of course FAB outfits, great shoes and must-have accessories keep you current! Plus a great trip to a spa always works wonders, too!

You’re an extremely successful woman, what are your secrets to success?
Careers have always been extremely important to me, and I want women to know that if you can dream it, you can be it! I’ve had over 125 careers and I’m still counting! From astronaut to computer engineer to fashion model to art teacher, there isn’t anything we girls can’t do!

One question we’ve been dying to ask – how is Ken and does he have any bad habits that make you laugh or annoy you?
Let me think about that! Ken is the perfect boyfriend for every occasion! We’ve been going strong for over 43 years (with one break up from 2004 to 2011) but we just got back together on Valentine’s Day! He’s my ultimate arm candy, prince charming and true love. There is one thing—he did have a few fashion mishaps over the years and I didn’t really like his no-shaving phase. Other than that, he’s an absolute doll!

How long have you been working with Avon Cosmetics and what made you decide to collaborate on a new range of products?
As fashion and beauty experts, we have so much in common! I’ve been collaborating with Avon many years. It’s a natural fit and a great partnership we share. Our new range of products are totally doll-lightful and glam girls of all ages will love them! It’s a match made in heaven working with Avon!

Do you like social networking?
I LOVE social networking—it’s a natural for me, don’t you think? I’m on Facebook and Twitter all the time! There’s so much to say and update all the time. You should check out my pages at: facebook.com/Barbie and twitter.com/barbiestyle.

Read all about her latest range of Avon beauty products

Thank you for taking the time to chat with us Barbie, we appreciate just how busy you are. We’ll look forward to hearing more and seeing you soon!

Barbie

New this spring… from Avon, from the High Street and online

From light florals and lace to nude colour trends, work the new season’s style – contact your local Representative or order online.

On your marks, get set, accessorise…
It’s one of the simplest ways to shift gears from winter to spring. Avon’s current range features on-trend nude shades, like the Erin Stretch Bracelet – a set of three pearl bracelets tied together with a chiffon ribbon – and the beige Ellie Shoulder Bag. Pair it with the Ellie Scarf – designed in a light polka-dot pattern to match the bag’s lining. And did we mention that all three cost only £25?

Easy does it, don't blow your budget…
Go easy on your wallet by looking to your winter wardrobe for staples that slip into spring. Bear in mind key trends this season: denim, ’60s dresses, lace, bright colours and pretty florals, says personal stylist Lisa Talbot.
 
Mix into your winter favourites: recipe for success
 
Lisa’s personal shopper tips!
Denim: Ease into the look by wearing a denim shirt under a cute Aran knit. Or, for those already denim inclined, work a denim shirt over a white vest. Get inspiration from the designer jeans look then pull together with a boyfriend jacket and pale pumps.
 
60s dress: Don’t put away your tights and boots just yet! Pair them with a mod mini-dress and a cropped cardigan for a little vintage style… groovy baby.
 
Lace: This season’s hottest trend, lace, can be found from the catwalks to the high streets. Give it a go with a lace dress, and patent courts or biker boots. For a more understated look, wear a lace-shouldered top under a blazer.
 
Bright colours: Colour is the best way to inject a bit of spring into your wardrobe. Make an outfit truly pop with a bold top. Balance the look with neutrals – jeans, a cardi or a jumper. You can never go wrong with a splash of brightly coloured chiffon under a loose knit jumper.
 
Pretty florals: Refresh your style by wearing a floral cardi over a neutral shirt, paired with cropped wide-legged trousers in camel. And in balmy weather, opt for a light floral-print dress and biker boots.

What will you be wearing?

Abi Redecen  – Online Beauty Editor

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Bracelet · Spring Fashion

This year to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of  International Women’s Day and the 125 years of Avon, we are very proud to introduce our new Empowerment Bracelet. This new Empowerment Bracelet was launched to help raise vital funds of charities fighting domestic violence. To date, the sale of our Empowerment jewellery in the UK has raised £400,000 to help life-saving projects and services supporting women and children, throughout the country, who experience domestic violence.

The beautiful blue and silver empowerment charm bracelet features the infinity symbol, the design of which represents "a future of infinite possibility for women and a future free from violence". 100% of profits from the sale of the bracelet will go to domestic violence charities: Refuge, Women's Aid and Unifem.

"On the centenary year of International Women's Day, and as Avon celebrates 125 years of empowering women, we are more committed than ever to help put an end to domestic violence. Our empowerment bracelet gives women everywhere the chance to show their solidarity and support.  At Avon we truly believe that if you empower women, you can change the world,"
Anna Segatti, president of Avon UK

Help end violence against women and show support by wearing Avon's Empowerment Bracelet which is available for £5 through your local Independent Avon Representative or online.

Need to find your local Representative

Follw us on Twitter and Facebook.
 

Abi Redecen – Online Beauty Editor

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Empowerment Bracelet · International Women's Day · Refuge

Since Lady GaGa sashayed onto the world stage, many of us have gazed in wonder at her outfits and wondered just how she pulls them off.

There's that meaty ensemble, the bizarre head dresses and, of course, the sky scraper heels. But back to those heels, she's worn platforms to yoga (with a willing male to guide her along), towering sparkly creations to the Grammys and a sky high pair of Ruth Davis open toe sandals on Friday Night with Jonathan Ross.

They're artsy accessories that no average woman has ever had to walk in, that is, until now. The more daring amongst us ladies will be interested to know that the Sky Heel, a whopping nine-inch high shoe, is set to hit the high street soon.

If you dare to bring the catwalk to the high street they'll set you back less than $100 (£63) for a pair in either gold or sparkly red. A company spokesperson said: "The trend is bigger, bigger, and bigger – and the Sky Heel is the biggest of them all."

Fashionista Paris Hilton recently completed some of her community service (cleaning windows wearing high heels, which just show that there's room for glamour almost anywhere). Seems like a lot of effort and expense for a few extra inches on your height doesn't it?!

How will we care for feet that are going to be sexily exposed in these creations? The Hindustan Times advised that cracked feet should be soaked in lukewarm water with aroma therapy oil added to soften them and leave them smelling fresh. This sounds good, however, we think your best bet is to contact your local Representative and ask for their advice on how to take care of your feet during this hectic season.

After this, apply soap or shower gel (try Avon Senses Mystique Shower Gel) and use a pumice stone, Planet Spa Dead Sea Minerals Exfoliating Body Scrub or loofah to get rid of all that nasty dead skin, but go gently.

Try patting your feet dry with a soft cotton towel before gently rubbing in a moisturiser (Avon's Foot Works Deep Moisturising Cream is ideal) to keep them looking lovely.

Before bed time, pull on a pair of loose socks to really let the moisturiser soak in.When you wake up the next morning you'll be ready to put on your high heels and practise those Stricty Come Dancing moves!

Abi Redecen – Beauty Editor

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Avon Cosmetics · Sky Heels · Strictly Come Dancing

Autumn/Winter 2010 has some absolutely fantastic staples when it comes to fashion, and (collective sigh please), we are firmly in a new season so, ladies, it's time to switch it up and get on the trend bandwagon. Time to give your Avon Representative a call and discover the full range of goodies we have in store.
 
This month it's also time to make a difference (even if you do it by treating yourself!). Yes, I'm sure you're all aware that it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month (just) – so it's time to 'think pink' and do your bit for your fellow womenfolk.
 

However, donating has taken a more fashionable turn, and this time round you can show your support with one particular on-trend item that is bound to turn your home into a glittering palace in no time.

Starting with the Crusade Christmas Bauble yes I know this isn't strictly what we'd call fashion, but it is a great way to get your home looking festive a bit nearer the time, and while the gorgeous sparkles are bound to revamp the most boring of trees, £1.25 will also be donated to Breakthrough Breast Cancer.
 

So there you have it – every little helps, and that premise is perfect for the item next on the must-have list, red gloves – all the celebs are donning various shades of this hue, from Leona to Christina Aguilera and the gorgeous Jessica Stam.
 

Besides, with the wintry weather on its way, this is one item that you simply can't do without!
 
My final pick of the month is leggings – literally everyone has been spotted in a pair – and Avon has the way for everyone to wear them.

Whatever your shape or size, Body Illusion Leggings will leave you looking slimmer, smoother and flatter (and let's face it we could all do with a bit of that come Christmas!).

They are also currently on offer – so what are you waiting for – dig out the fashionable, trimmer and more generous you!
 

Abi – Online Beauty Editor
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autumn/winter · Christmas · Fashion trends

 
If you're remotely interested in fashion and make-up then you're bound to know that statement lips are somewhat of a must-have for this season.
 
However, if the question of how exactly to achieve this elusive 'statement' seems to be hovering over your head, then panic over, I have the key to getting on trend in a quick, easy and painless way.
 
Statement lips are basically a bold shade that stands out from the rest of your face and the crowd – think berries, plums hues or even a splash of pink.
 
The key to getting this look just right is all in the shade you choose and how you apply that lippie (yes there is a knack; it's not just running it across your lips).
 
Make-up artist Jill McKay has an explanation of how to get the perfect creation and you need to "moisten lips with balm, lightly sweep concealer over your lips then line lips with a nude lip liner in feathering strokes".
 
"Apply the lip colour with a firm lip brush carefully painting over the lip liner," she added.
 
It's a simple as that – but for this you will need some Color Trend Perfect and Hide Concealer and for that price you could buy it just for your lips!) and a fantastic lip shade to ensure you turn your make-up into a high impact look. 
 

 
Can't decide whether to go glossy, matte or a combo of both? Try Avon Pro colour & Gloss Lip Duo in Passion Plum which is three looks in one – and a product guaranteed to make life that little bit easier. 
 

 
Food for thought: If you're a fan of this colourful trend then why not combine it with Breast Cancer Awareness Month and 'think pink' – check out Avon Ultra Colour Rich Mega Impact Lipstick in Fuchsia Fun.
 
 

With all this knowledge bestowed upon you, there's really no excuse not to perfect that pout! Give your local Avon Representative a call or shop online today.
 
Abi Redecen – Beauty Editor
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A/W 2010 Trends · Avon Cosmetics · Makeup

Get more good-hair days between appointments

Trade up your cut
Track down an experienced stylist to do your hair… a precise, expert cut looks better for longer. If you have short hair, which often needs monthly appointments, ask your stylist for a style that grows out well.

Keep on top of ends
After a haircut, keep your ends hydrated by using a daily leave-in conditioner. If they look fuzzy some days, work in a dab of shine-enhancing oil to smooth them.

Stop splits
Five or six weeks after your cut, when split ends start to appear, try an at-home glossing treatment to help seal strands and add shine.

SIY… Snip it yourself
Yes, really… if you have a fringe, be bold and trim it. Smooth down dry hair with a comb, then hold your scissors so that the tips point up at a slight angle and trim a bit at a time. And don't snip horizontally, which can lead to, eek, overcutting.

Contact your local Representative and ask them about our Advance Techniques haircare range. We have some fantastic products to help you keep your hair tiptop between appointments! 

Abi – Online Beauty Editor

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Fashion · Haircut · Hairstyles

It’s simple; the secret is in the handle! Lashes are so important; after all they frame the windows to your soul and are the epitome of femininity. For years make-up artists have known that the best way to apply mascara is in a zig-zag motion, well now you can own that expertise with new Sonic Boost Vibrating Mascara.

It’s so clever it delivers *8000 micro vibrations and together with the formula, helps you create lashes that look separated, extended and multiplied.

Here’s how you can Vibrate, Separate, Captivate…

Step 1:
Bring the wand up to the lash line, starting on the upper lid at the base of the lashes. Simply twist to activate the brush’s side-to-side vibrations

Step 2:
Use slow, straight, steady upwards motions to move through your lashes. Do not wiggle the brush. The vibrating action of the brush will do all the work.

Step 3:
Apply Sonic Boost to your lower lashes. The automatic zig-zag motion will make you feel like you’ve got a personal makeup artist!

 
*Consumer Study, 59 people

Contact your local Representative or order online.

Abi – Online Beauty Editor

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Avon · Cosmetics · Vibrating Mascara

Fashionistas will no doubt be aware that the nation has been trend crazy of late, what with London Fashion Week and the likes of New York and Milan, but how do you break it down to decipher what the actually wearable styles are?
 
Fear not, I have a quick rundown of what's hot and what's not, so you create a look that leaves people staring for all the right reasons.
 
I'm going to start with the scarf, an eternal fashion friend, which is your key to getting on trend with ease and without forking out your life's savings and as Claudia Schiffer recently proved, it is also a quick fix for an otherwise 'normal' outfit.
 
This is where the first (and arguably any) trend comes in – leopard print – which we all know is one of the sexiest trends yet and very easy to incorporate, whether in a clutch with your LBD, heels with a camel pencil skirt or as always, the trusty scarf.

If you're liking the sound of this (who isn't?!) then take a peak at Avon's Erica Scarf which is the perfect way to inject some grrr into an outfit, so you best be quick and call your Representative, ask them to order you one now!
 
Next up is camel, and this has literally been everywhere the last few weeks – every celeb is embracing it, as is the catwalk and, with the exception of black and navy, is one of the rare shades you can wear head to toe.
 

So my advice is to go for the woollen coat or cape, or check out Avon's gorgeous Megan Poncho, which just so happens to be a mixture of both! If you need inspiration on how to wear this fantastically chic trend then check out Sienna Miller's recent date outfit – tailored shorts, silk shirt and sky-high heels (all of which were in camel) and tights – a definite winter hit if you ask me.

 
My final style tip is the nipped-in waist. And when I say tip, I mean this is a must – go for Mad Men 70's curves with this Waist Belt and show off what you've got ladies!
 

If this isn't an excuse to invest in a few wardrobe essentials I don't know what is!  Get expert advice and a personal service by contacting your local Representative or order online.
 

Need help finding your local Representative?

Abi – Online Beauty Editor

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A/W 2010 Trends · Fashion · season trends

 
It can be difficult for women at the changing of a season – battling with the latest fashions (whilst utilising as many items as you can from the previous season), and above all, getting on board with the newest trends on the catwalk when it comes to beauty and hair.
 
I feel your pain! However, when it comes to lips, A/W 2010 is set to be easy – there is something to suit everyone and a shade for every eventuality.
 
So first up is the burgundy/blackcurrant/plum theme and this is one that has stuck around since summer, when we first saw Scarlett Johansson in that D&G campaign.

And the good news is, whether you're a fan of Ms Johansson's picture-perfect gloss or the matte look, both are in, and Avon has just what you need, so give your local Representative a call or drop them an email and ask for their expert advice and to talk you through the best products available. Check out Avon Pro Colour & Gloss Lip Duo in Plum.

 
Next up is tangerine, and true fashionistas will have already noted that pumpkin is one of the top shades for A/W 2010 in the fashion world, well this has spread to beauty too, and luckily for us, this is a shade that is versatile enough to be worn day or night.

For an evening out, go for a "pop" of colour – the brighter the better for dark skin tones – or for those with pale and unusual features, or if you just fancy a toned-down daytime, look go for pale hues on the eyes, cheeks and lips – try Avon Smooth Minerals Lipstick in Apricot Glow.
 

I shouldn't even have to mention this, because every female knows, red lips are eternal on the catwalk, the red carpet and in our hearts – again, anything goes – deep, raspberry, glossy or matte. Check out Gwen Stefani or Jessica Alba for inspiration and definitely invest in Avon's Ultra Colour Rich Mega Impact Lipstick in Really Rosy for show-stopping colour.

Finally, there's also the occasional celeb that goes against the grain and opts for something not on-trend, this season's brownie points have to go to Gemma Arterton, for wearing, well practically no make-up at all (and still looking annoyingly gorgeous), and grunge pop starlet Kesha for her blue lipstick, though it's doubtful that this will ever catch on!
 

Whatever colour you decide to opt for – do it in style!
 
Abi – Online Beauty Editor
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A/W 2010 Trends · Latest makeup shades