Indholdsfortegnelse for Feb-14 i Cosmopolitan

Floral arrangements—in perfume, cocktails, heels!—love illuminated (literally), and hearts of gold…here's what our editors are shopping, Googling, and loving this month. Tough Love "I've long been a fan of graffiti artist Curtis Kulig's 'love me' movement. His Me + Mi jewelry line is awesome, like being tagged by Curtis himself." —aya kanai, fashion director Heart necklace, $90, love necklace, $90, Me + Mi, meplusmi.com Peonies "When paired with musk—like in Elizabeth and James's debut perfume—the peony scent is straight-up sexy." —MARTA TOPRAN, SENIOR BEAUTY EDITOR Elizabeth and James Nirvana White, $55, sephora.com Plate, John Derian, $8.50; rose syrup, Royal Rose, $11; both catbirdnyc.com Edible Roses "My Pinterest has been blowing up with rose-flavored everything. A hint of rose syrup in a plain vodka soda makes it feel…

Cosmo Live! One of the things we hear from those of you starting out on your career path is how daunting it can be to get your foot in the door. That's why we decided to address the issue full on, right here at Cosmo HQ, with a series of career events specializing in the fields we know you're interested in. First up: Fashion! We asked the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) to cohost our event, which was sponsored by Lancôme and took place on a recent Saturday. The day was packed with inspiring speakers, from veteran designers like Isaac Mizrahi and Cynthia Rowley to Jenn Rogien, the genius costumer for HBO's Girls and Netflix's Orange Is the New Black, to American Eagle Outfitter's style director Preston Konrad.…

"I trained as a dancer and was performing at Lincoln Center for the first time. But when I got onstage, someone else's song started playing—it was another group's turn! I ran offstage while the audience laughed. It's on video." —kaylee v., 20, stylist, from New York, NY [No. 1] Party Crasher "Five of my girlfriends and I were planning a weekend trip when one of them mass-texted us about inviting along a guy from her office. It bothered me, so I responded to the group by pointing out that none of us even liked that guy. No one wrote anything back…and that's when I realized the guy was cc'd in the group text. Can't wait for that plane ride.…" —laura m., 24 [No. 2 ] "I accidentally Insta'd a friend's…

Your Endless Love character is a good guy with a shady past. Any similarities? We both love love. I love love. He works in a garage and I work in movies, so that's a bit different. But I worked in a garage when I was 15. I also raced cars. Not professionally, but that's what I always wanted to do. If I were in Formula 1, I'd quit acting…or make it my B job. You're pretty tatted up—any girlfriends' names? No! That's relationship suicide. I would get my mom's name though. My favorite one is "What goes around comes around" on my shoulder. I'm a big believer in karma, but 90 percent of people say, "Isn't that a Justin Timberlake song?" I did a movie with Justin and told him,…

Wear your heart on your sleeve—or skirt or clutch. With graphics so flirty—from smoochy lips to light-my-fire matchsticks—you can say how you really feel without uttering a word. T-shirt, Comme des Garcons Play, $120, newyorkdover streetmarket.com; skirt, Stella McCartney, Stella McCartney, 212-255-1556; clutch, Gucci, gucci.com; love cuff, C. Wonder, $48, cwonder.com; heart bracelet, Zoe Chicco, $330, zoechicco.com; love ring, Me + Mi, $90, meplusmi.com; bar ring, Alibi NYC, $78, alibinyc.com; earrings, Forever 21, $3.80, forever21.com…

GET CHEEKY Hip frills are flirty and flattering for every body type. BUY IT 1 Bralet, $49, thong, $42, Eberjey, eberjey.com 2 Thongs, Aerie, $7.50 each, aerie.com 3 Chemise, Victoria's Secret, $48, victoriassecret.com 4 Bra, $50, panty, $22, Parfait, barenecessities.com 5 Bra, $36, panty, $14, Jessica Simpson Collection, Lord and Taylor 6 Bra, $36, thong, $14, panty, $14, Jessica Simpson Collection, Lord and Taylor 7 Bodysuit, American Apparel, $38, americanapparel.net 8 Bra, Frederick's of Hollywood, $10, fredericks.com 9 Bra, $39, panty, $19, Marielle Collection by Felina Lingerie, designerintimates.com 10 Bra, $36, panty, $16, Topshop, topshop.com SUPPORT SYSTEM For those blessed with a big cup size, Parfait lingerie starts at a 30D. PINUP-WORTHY Act out a…

1 Stila Magnificent Metals Foil Finish Eye Shadow in Metallic Dusty Rose, $32, Sephora 2 Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture in No. 12 Le Blanc, $34, yslbeautyus.com 3 Giorgio Armani Nail Lacquer in Kaleidoscope, $20, giorgioarmanibeauty.com 4 Pacific Illusions Mineral Shimmer Lip Gloss in Harbor Lights, $28, pacificillusions.com 5 Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Colour in Mint Snow, $26, lauramercier.com 6 CoverGirl Bombshell Shine Shadow in Ice Queen, $7, drugstores 7 Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow in Surf, $22, bobbibrown.com 8 Butter London Nail Lacquer in Leccy, $15, butterlondon.com 9 Estée Lauder Pure Color Instant Intense Eye Shadow Trio in Steel Lilacs, $36, esteelauder.com…

MANE WISH LONGER HAIR Remember Rapunzel? Once her braid was long enough, she tossed it down to the prince and girl was outta there. Today, she'd be in trouble. Between dye jobs, stress, and styling, growing hair can be a beyotch. To the rescue: these accelerators and illusionist tricks. In-Shower Secret Shampoo matters! "Hair follicles are only 1.25 mm below the surface of the scalp, so cleansing ingredients really can reach them," says Elizabeth Cunnane Phillips, a hair scientist at the Philip Kingsley Trichological Clinic, in New York. Look for formulas enriched with vitamins E and B5, zinc, iron, and copper—they increase keratin production, the building block of hair. Game-Changing Treatment Instead of having your stylist trim ratty ends, find one who offers the Brazilian Blowout Professional Split-End Repair (about…

Known for fragrances that drip with sex appeal, D&G offers a softer side to seduction with Dolce—their first foray into delicate, ultrafeminine florals. Cosmo got the exclusive scoop. It complements spring's hottest trend. All about flowery prints on spring runways, Dolce & Gabbana leads the romantic charge. A feminine perfume is the perfect finishing touch to the look.The secret ingredient: a "scentless" flower. Most varieties of white amaryllis (below), the key note, lack a natural aroma, but scent scientists found a rare species in South Africa that, during a short flowering period, puts off a rich aroma. It fuses tradition with technology.In addition to taking a classic perfume-making approach (distilling plant oils), perfumers use a technology called Headspace, which preserves the amaryllis. In the lab, the flower is isolated, and…

Read the vibe of the room. Collaborating requires being hyper-attuned to the people around you. I recently asked Steven to read a script, and he e-mailed, "Call me when you're ready to discuss." I knew from the tone of that sentence that he didn't like it, because "I love this!" would have been an impulse he would not have resisted. Create a safe space. I have a distinct memory of my school days. When I raised my hand or turned in a paper, there was that moment of Will I meet the test? Every time a writer turns in a script or a filmmaker shows you her film, she's utterly exposed, so I recall that feeling and try to give people the permission to share their ideas. Don't leap to…

Cosmo's financial guru, author of Financially Fearless, and CEO of LearnVest, Alexa von Tobel Plan, Plan, Plan Go Short The longer the break, the better, right? Actually, studies show that it's the excitement of anticipation that maximizes happiness. A quickie getaway delivers those good feelings on a budget. Be Watchful Got a dream destination? Plug it into AirfareWatchdog.com and you'll receive e-mail alerts when low fares pop up. Recruit Friends You can save money by sharing a rental car, staying in a suite, and requesting group rates for activities. Use the free app Splitwise to divvy up the bills. Compare Options The calculator at BeFrugal.com computes the estimated cost (and time investment) of driving versus flying. Using public transit can be a major money saver…

SPEAK UP "I comment out loud whenever I see his friends buy their girlfriends flowers or write an adorable status about them on Facebook. Since he's competitive, he usually tries to one-up his buddies." —Alisha G., 28 MEET HIM HALFWAY "I send him links to restaurants I want to try. He never used to plan dates, but since I started this, he's taken me to quite a few on my list." —Victoria P., 24 REWARD HIM "Whenever he does something sweet for me, I thank him with a blow job. That way, he associates his good deed with my naughty one." —Brittany M., 23 DO THE OBVIOUS "I buy him beer. It helps him detox from whatever's bothering him, and he's mushier when he's a little buzzed." —Kate C., 24…

NO-BS RESPONSES TO QUESTIONS YOU CAN ONLY ASK COSMO Q I know nipples are supposed to get hard when you're aroused, but I don't feel much sensation in mine unless I'm cold. Is something wrong with me? A Stop the nipple shame! "Some women's nipples are just more sensitive than others," says Jennifer Wider, MD, author of The Savvy Woman Patient. The hardening of your nipples depends on the nerve sensation in your breasts, which varies from lady to lady. Rare women report nipple tingling so strong, they can actually orgasm from it (nipplegasm!), while others hardly perk up. It's all good, because your boobs aren't the only way to get titillated. "Some women get more aroused when they have their feet or the back of their necks touched," Wider…

WHEN A FRIEND gets pregnant, YOUR relationship IS BOUND TO EXPERIENCE SOME growing pains —BUT THAT DOESN'T MEAN YOU CAN'T (EVENTUALLY) FIND A BALANCE BETWEEN CRIBS AND COCKTAILS. Let's be blunt: When you find out a friend is expecting, you feel excited for her—and if you're being honest, you may also feel a little…betrayed. It might sound horrible and selfish, but this happy time for her may be a hard one for you. I've been there. It's real, and it hurts. And no, feeling hurt does not make you evil, because there's no denying things are about to change big-time. Good-bye, Bloody Mary brunches and impromptu after-work socializing. Hello, ultrasounds and sleep-deprived zombie-mom on diaper duty. The first time a friend got pregnant, I felt as though she were abandoning…

Peek behind the doors of your local women's health clinic and you might see something surprising: men. "Men are much more involved in decisions involving birth control and pregnancy as well as termination these days," says Cecile Richards, the president of Planned Parenthood. "It's part of a generational shift." Amanda Kifferly sees the change in her waiting rooms every day as the director of patient advocacy for The Women's Center, which runs clinics in four states. "These men care deeply about the women getting an abortion," she says. "It's crucial to include their experiences in the dialogue about the procedure." And yet men rarely are asked about their experience—even though they likely bought the pregnancy test, shielded a girlfriend from protesters, held her hand during the procedure, or cared for…

SPEND MORE TIME IN BED You may think you're a five-hours-is-all-I-need rock star, but your star would probably shine even brighter if you got more zzz's. A full night's sleep can make you slimmer, smarter, and happier than making an extra $60,000 a year. Now snuggle in and get some. IF WORRY KEEPS YOU UP A little Bach might help: In a study when students listened to classical music before bed, their sleep quality improved more than those who listened to an audiobook or nada. Mellow tunes may lower blood pressure and reduce anxiety. IF YOUR ROOM IS TOO LOUD Try pink noise, a term for sounds like falling rain and rustling leaves. Hearing these sounds at bedtime increased quality-sleep time by 23 percent in a Chinese study. We love…

ARE YOU WEARING THE WRONG KICKS? "While you're strength training, feet need to get feedback from the floor to keep you stable as you lift weights and change directions," says Harley Pasternak, a trainer in L.A. The fix: Use running shoes for running but low-to-the-ground cross-trainers for everything else. The design also helps exercise your glutes and hamstrings. —LIZ PLOSSER SECRETS OF THE MOST MOTIVATED WOMEN IN THE WORLD Imagine if exercising every day was your job. It is for these Winter Olympians, and they're sharing their best secrets for staying on track. Hilary Knight ICE HOCKEY "My teammates motivate me. We push one another to work harder. Grab a friend to join you at the gym, or take up a team sport. I promise it will make your workout…

WITH your lovahhh So you're in a relationship and everything is peachy. Except on Feb. 14, when expectations escalate. (Where the @*%$ are my roses, amirite?) Why put the burden on him? Instead, give him a home-cooked meal that brings him to his knees. 1. WHEN HE WALKS IN, put him at ease. Offer a glass of bubbly, something easy and affordable to start. Once he's settled, surprise him with a bouquet fit for a dude—one made of salami (!!!). After he unwraps his bouquet, pull out some olives and a block of your favorite cheese and you've got appetizers done and done. 2. TIME FOR DINNER There may not be a faster way to a man's heart than to cook him a dish that reminds him of his mom.…

Evie James is a tech whiz who runs her own successful company, which means she spends most of her time developing genius apps. She's always been the power player in her relationships…but she's never been with anyone who has made her lose control. That is, until she finds herself designing a new male-seduction app for Flirt magazine, and she meets Caleb Anderson, heir to the Holden-Anderson media empire, which owns Flirt. As a well-known master of the one-night stand, Caleb is more than happy to help Evie develop her 50 Sex Tips app. But both of them quickly discover they can pretend that what they're doing is "field research" for only so long.… Of course he had a mansion on the beach. He was that kind of guy. A sleek,…

1. FLY SOLO Jennifer Nettles, aka the lady half of Sugarland, ditches the band for her debut solo album, That Girl. Epic vocals? She's still got 'em! 2. HOLLER FOR THE TEAM USA …Hotties (oh, hey there, Bode Miller) as they vie for gold at the XXII Olympic Winter Games in Sochi, Russia. The action starts February 7. Mittens, P.S. from Aéropostale, $14, ps4u.com Top, Diane von Furstenberg, $98, dvf.com 3. WEAR A WARHOL …Then hang it on your wall. The limited edition Pop Wrap collection celebrates the work of creative giants and close friends Diane von Furstenberg and Andy Warhol. 4. MEET YOUR NEW BESTIES Abbi Jacobson and Ilana Glazer, of the Amy Poehler–produced Broad City, on Comedy Central, might be the most keep-it-real city girls since,…

How They got their start… Ariel Schrag In "Girls Who Like Girls" (p. 142), writer Schrag debunks common myths about lesbians and dishes out advice as our Ask Her Anything columnist. How I got my start: "I self-published my comics in high school, then attended Columbia University. After college, my comic book, Potential, got optioned. I wrote the screenplay, and my entertainment lawyer passed the script on to the producers of the The L Word—I was hired as a staff writer. While working in TV, I wrote my first novel, Adam (out this spring), about a teen boy who visits his gay older sister." Twitter: @ArielSchrag Chelsea Maruskin Set and production designer Maruskin helped create the whimsical wonderland in this month's fashion feature, "The Sweetest Thing" (p. 158). How I…

FLOWER GIRLS Michelle Dockery and Christina Ricci make a lovely long- and short-stemmed bouquet. SECRET WEAPON Why hit the gym when Gwynnie can fit trainer Tracy Anderson in her pocket? ITALIAN-STYLE Snooki plays mini meatball to JWoww's spaghetti boob-ognese. CHEST MATES Watch out, Vince Vaughn, Owen Wilson is in prime motorboating zone. BIG DIFF Shaq's so tall, his head didn't fit in Kevin Hart's Instagram of this pic. True story. SHINE YA LIGHT What Adrienne Bailon lacks in Rita Ora's height, she makes up for in soaring vocals. GOING UP! Hold the elevator, Jenna Dewan-Tatum needs a ride to Stacy Keibler's penthouse pouf. GIRL TALK Lena Dunham to Taylor Swift: "My mammaries line up with your ovaries!"…

When I was in high school, I was really into The Real World: Back to New York. It was ground-breaking. I mean, three black people in the cast?! That season featured my favorite reality star of all time: Coral. She might have come across as bitchy when edited, but to me, she simply knew who she was. She said what I was thinking, except that I was too afraid to say what she could easily say out loud. By the time I got to college, something had changed. There weren't any Corals on TV anymore. With the exception of a few anomalies, the women in reality shows had been reduced to lunatic chair-throwers whose air time consisted of profanity-laced insults. Whether it was one of the Basketball Wives or a…

HEAVEN SENT When Candice Swanepoel isn't working the runway in a jeweled bra, what does she do to feel sexy? "It's impossible to feel sexy all the time. I usually throw on liquid liner or a red lip," she says. A little Victoria's Secret lingerie also helps. Bra, $55, V-string, $18.50, merrywidow, $88, panty, $18.50, Victoria's Secret, victoriassecret.com Tote, $198, handbag, $128, Juicy Couture, juicycouture.com Totes TALKING Juicy Couture's Valentine's Day collection, featuring hand-painted catchphrases by artist Baron Von Fancy, speaks louder than words. perfect MATCH From casual slip-ons to sexy stilettos, there's not a single misstep in blogger Chiara Ferragni's (The Blonde Salad) collaboration with Steve Madden. Shoes, The Blonde Salad x Steve Madden, $129, stevemadden.com DIGITAL DARLINGS For its latest hit, Target taps print master…

1 "I'd dress down these earrings for the day with a comfy sweater and leather pants." Earrings, Bauble Bar, $34, baublebar.com 2 "I love this ring because it's sexy and ferocious. It's ladylike with bite." Ring, Nektar De Stagni, $495, nektardestagni.com 3 "What makes this spider ring great is that it's large enough to be a statement but dainty enough to wear every day." Ring, Khai Khai Jewelry, khaikhaijewelry.com 4 "Blue represents inspiration, sincerity, and spirituality—everything I want out of love." Ring, Erickson Beamon Rocks, $28, Bonton stores 5 "This Chanel bracelet is a classic any girl can wear forever." Bracelet, Chanel, Chanel Boutiques 6 "Hoops are timeless, depending on size. These are perfect for 2014." Earrings, Effy, Macy's 7 "I love this piece as a festive…

FEELING KNOTTY? Coat strands with conditioner (this has argan oil and keratin), then comb through. Goody Gelous Grips Rake Comb, $5.47, Walmart; Organix Keratin Oil Conditioner, $8, drugstores BEST BUDS Rich pigments in garden-inspired hues work as shadow and liner. Jane Eye Shadow in Hyacinth, Lilac, and Rosy Posy, $8 each, ulta.com BARE ESSENTIAL Slather on after a shower for petal-soft, floral-scented skin. Bodycology Truly Yours Moisturizing Cream, $4, Walmart FACE TIME Unplugs pores, clears up a breakout, and softens rough skin—all in 10 minutes! Formula 10.0.06 Pores Be Pure Skin-Clarifying Mask, $6, ulta.com LIP LUST This gloss is as nourishing as the cult-fave beeswax balm…just sexier. Burt's Bees 100% Natural Lip Glosses, $9, drugstores BACK TO THE FUCHSIA A metallic finish makes this flirty hue more fierce. CoverGirl…

WE LOVE LANVIN Infused with lemon, green tea, and musk—and peppered with designer Alber Elbaz's iconic illustrations—the latest Lanvin scent is sassy, inside and out. Calling all Cosmo girls! HAIR PAINT Rad hair color (see also: Kelly Osbourne) is finally DIYable, thanks to Vidal Sassoon's street-style-inspired collection of bold dyes (lilac, fiery red, bluish-black, and more) that last an impressive eight weeks. Vidal Sassoon Pro Series Permanent At-Home Color Kit, $9, drugstores NEXT-GENERATION GEL TAKING THE CURE OUT OF GEL MANICURE: L'ORéAL'S THREE-STEP (PRIMER, COLOR, TOPCOAT) SYSTEM. THE RUBBER-SILICONE REACTION HARDENS IN SECONDS AND CREATES THE SAME CRAZY-SHINY COLOR FOR TWO WEEKS…MINUS THE ANNOYING BULBS AND UV BUSINESS. L'Oréal Paris Extraordinaire Gel-Lacque Nail 1-2-3 Kit, $12.99, drugstores TINTS, TAKE TWO Member of the Tarte Cheek Stain cult? The same flattering…

4 Milkmaid Braids Like Heidi's, only hotter! HAIR HEADBAND Pin two loose braids along your hairline. Tendrils, welcome. DREAM WEAVER Work a ribbon into a French braid that leads into a messy bun. SO CENTERED Make a middle part, pull two side braids toward the crown, and pin. BOHO BABE Fishtail two side ponies, gently pull them apart to plump them, and pin them to the top of your head. 4 bubble styles These puffy looks are blowing up Hollywood. TEMPTING TAILS Apply three elastics to each pigtail, and puff out the hair in between. QUEEN BEE Tease hair, smooth the top layer, then pin it all under at the nape. Slip on a headband. LES BALLOONS It's a French braid, only with ponytails. Start with one, then add more…

There are hundreds of details that a bride-to-be has to deal with in the months before her wedding— the band, the flowers, where to seat relatives who despise one another and are likely to throw things—but unfortunately, the detail that can make the most significant difference in her life is often overlooked: a prenup. The reasons for this are understandable—no bride ever wants to imagine that someday she's going to get divorced, despite the odds. Who would? But I believe the main reason a prenup isn't considered is because many young women getting married are in the same situation that I was—the owner of nothing but credit-card debt. When I got married at 24, a prenup never even remotely occurred to me. What was there for him to take? My…

THE HIGH FLYER PATIENCE BEARD, 19, COLLEGE CHEERLEADER Born with a disorder that forced the amputation of her left leg, Beard was just 1 year old when she wore her first prosthetic. Yet she played baseball, learned gymnastics, and in seventh grade, began cheerleading. Five years later, she made the University of Arkansas squad. She practices daily, often tossed sky-high by male cheerleaders. "At first, it was probably scary for them, thinking, 'We have this metal leg flying at us.' Now, it's just normal," says Beard, who has outfitted her prosthetic with prints like polka dots and zebra stripes. A communications major, she hopes to be a motivational speaker. "Everyone has something," she says. "Whether it's your weight, how you feel, having a prosthetic—whatever it is, own it and be…

The Notebook RYAN GOSLING | RACHEL MCADAMS WHY IT'S HOT I don't need to explain why a sex scene starring human vibrator Ryan Gosling is a turn-on. But I will. After a torturous seven-year wait, Rachel and a bearded Ry Gos finally consummate their passion in a grade-A thong-twister. Gosling pushes her against the wall, passionately rips off her clothes, and then carries her into the bedroom, where he feasts on her naked body. Yes, please! RE-CREATE… THE URGENT, UNDER-THE-CLOTHES QUICKIE The key is keeping things fast and furious. Be rough with kissing and touching as soon as you walk in the door—push your undies to the side, leave your heels on, and do it under your dress. Hell, just get busy right against the wall if you must. (If…

My boyfriend closes his eyes every time we have sex. When I'm on top, he closes his eyes, and when he's on top, he looks away and closes his eyes! Should I take this personally? A I'll bet it's just the way he has sex. Some people make crazy O faces, some people make animal noises, other people make weird requests of their partners that involve diapers—be glad you don't have to deal with that. Yes, he could be fantasizing about other people, but he could do that with his eyes open too. Rather than acting like he's been doing something wrong ("It hurts my feelings when you don't look at me and my body"), tell him what you'd like him to do: "It would really turn me on if…

"I went straight to his apartment, knocking and sobbing until his brother opened the door." When Kim Berlin fell in love for the first time, she fell hard. "He was the first person I'd been with sexually," says Berlin, who was a college freshman at the time. Maybe it was because she was new to dating, but she admits, "I was crazy, crazy obsessive." For one thing, she had a hard time accepting that her new guy had ever been with anyone else. "I was consumed with his high school girlfriend—a redhead," Berlin recalls. "I literally started following redheads down the street to see what they had that I didn't." It didn't help that her guy seemed to get off on making her jealous. "Once, he casually mentioned that he…

Top, skirt, and earrings, $710, Marni; necklace, Bulgari; bracelet, $410, ring, $340, CAandLou "I'M SUCH A NATIONALIST. IF SOMEBODY'S CANADIAN, I AUTOMATICALLY THINK THEY'RE great. I WAS MICHAEL CERA–CRAZY FOR A WHILE." This page Romper with belt, and shoes, $695, Michael Kors; necklace, $373, ring, $125, Tuleste; cuff, Caterina Zangrando; bracelet, Lele Sadoughi, $195 Opposite page Dress, Marchesa; ears headband, Ellen Christine Couture, $350 Beauty Tip The aromatic equivalent of a flouncy, flowery skirt: the überfemme Dolce by Dolce & Gabbana ($70). This page Bra, $275, skirt, bag, headbands, and earrings, $635, Dolce & Gabbana Opposite page Dress, Oscar de la Renta; headbands, Eugenia Kim, $215 each; bracelets, ring, Meredith Marks Designs; earrings, Efva Attling "YELLOW FLOWERS ARE SO BEAUTIFUL. I LOVE THEM. IF A GUY WANTED TO IMPRESS…

A kiss A DAY… Keeps colds and flu away? "When people kiss, they exchange germs, generating new antibodies that can help prevent infection," says Yael Varnado, MD, cofounder of Health Expert. More ways making out is healthy: It soothes your pain and curbs production of stress hormones, leaving you a little more Zen than before you locked lips. So get smooching. —SHANNON FIEDLER Ask Dr. Ashton Q Can my gynecologist be my primary doc too? A Sure—we're trained in head-to-toe medicine. And since you see your gyno often, you'll be treated by an MD who knows you and your body. But make sure to ask your gyno if she's comfortable in this role. If she is, she may request extra tests (like blood work and skin checks) so she's catching…

You've probably heard the newest weight-loss secret—and maybe you've even tried it yourself: Drop 10 pounds "instantly" by giving up wheat. When Annakeara Stinson, a 26-year-old who lives in New York City, heard about it, she thought she'd found the secret to staying thin. "I was in my last semester at school and so stressed out. There was no way I could stay as fit as I had gotten over the summer." She headed to the doctor complaining of stomach problems, and he suggested they could be linked to the wheat protein gluten. She happily went gluten-free. One month later, 15 pounds lighter, and raking in "You look great!" squeals, she veered into dangerous territory. She'd eat spinach and spoonfuls of almond butter—and nothing else—for dinner. She was irritable and…

GIMME THAT MENU FORMATION Puppy Chow For sweet snacking, you must make a bowl or two of the Midwestern treat puppy chow. (Don't worry; it's for humans.) Blogger Mandi Johnson of Making Nice in the Midwest created this black-and-white version just for Cosmo. Don't be surprised if it disappears as soon as it's put out. Use a dog bowl to really drive home the puppy point. Cross Stitch Bowl with Woof, ORE Pet, $10.99, wag.com Hot Dogs Check out these tricked-out dogs on the menu at Cincinnati's Senate pub. Top your all-beef franks his way, or do your own inspired take on the Hello Kitty 2.0 (to be eaten during the kitty halftime show, obviously). Hello Kitty 2.0 Coleslaw, bacon, wasabi mayo, sesame seeds, and crushed wasabi peas White-Trash…

Bitch It Out! Crazy situation working your last nerve? Vent here! Grande Bummer "Trying to finish grad school applications? Have a butt crack latte!" — Larissa C., 23 Speedo Limit "My friend and I stopped to get gas and watched as this guy got out of his truck wearing only a banana hammock and flip flops." — Melissa H., 23 Hair of the Dog "I guess dogs really do resemble their owners — hair and all!" — Nicole B., 23 Flight Risks "Seriously?! You're in an airport, and I can see your nipples." — Alex W., 19 ANNOYED BEYOND BELIEF? LOG ON TO COSMOPOLITAN.COM/BITCH IT OUT TO SHARE YOUR PET PEEVE (AND PHOTO). IF WE PRINT YOUR SHOT, WE'LL GIVE YOU $50! TABLE OF…

What You Thought of the December Issue SMILER LOVE "I was thrilled to see Miley on the cover. I love her, and I'm glad you shed some light on her recent events. We all change who we are—she isn't Hannah Montana anymore, and people need to give her a break! Keep up the awesome work, Cosmo." —Molly H., Moorhead, MN SEASON'S TREATINGS "I have wanted to try role-playing with my boyfriend of four years for a while now. After reading 'Twelve Days of Sex Moves,' I decided to try it. He played my boss, and I was the naughty employee. Let's just say, it was some of the best sex we have ever had! Thanks, Cosmo!" —Chesni K., Indianapolis, IN SO LONG, SUDS "I absolutely loved 'The Magic of Oils,'…

Ariana Grande Nickname: Ari, ar My favorite karaoke song is: "How Will I Know" The ladies I would love to duet with are: Judy Garland, Whitney Hauston The best love advice I've ever received came from: India. Arie "My fairy god mother" Who told me: If you're not happy, end it, cry it all out, and write a song about it To the left, to the left—to her debut! After touring with Justin Bieber, I can tell you that the one thing you don't know about him is: He has a crush on my grand mother The most ridiculous thing in my purse is: Cayenne pepper My biggest celebrity crush is: Jim Carrey Get in line, Masked men. My notebook doodles always look like this: Thank you and all my…

Pear Shape KEY PIECES Dresses that are fitted on top and A-line on the bottom. Dark pants will slim your lower half. STYLING TIP Heels (literally) elevate your curves to bombshell level. There is a reason you never see J.Lo in flats! From top Olivia Wilde, Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian Straight Up and Down KEY PIECES Peplums create the illusion of a slender waist and curves. A strong-shouldered blazer or top does the same by drawing the eye up and out. STYLING TIP Avoid dresses without structure unless they are short. Your legs are your best asset, so show them off! From left Aubrey Plaza, Amanda Seyfried, Emma Watson Athletic KEY PIECES Bias-cut skirts and tops with wide straps. Soft, fluid fabrics keep strong bodies from looking too masculine.…

TWINNING! FUN Tiny twin sisters hit each other with their best shots but succumb to giggles during a tae kwon do match. Cute TKO! FEARLESS Autistic twins Jamie and Alex Schneider finish the NYC marathon together, warm hearts everywhere. FAIL You thought adult onesies were bad—we've now arrived at adult twinsies. That's right, twinsies. DUCK, DUCK DYNASTY FUN Willie Robertson's face—and facial hair—gets immortalized in Chia Pet form. FEARLESS Bold is the parent who slaps a beard on a baby. You can too with DD's Beard Booth app. FAIL Christian group cancels Willie Robertson's speaking engagement after the debut of Duck Commander Wines. Didn't Jesus drink vino? BEERLY BELOVED FUN New study suggests that a pint of beer a day can be good for your health. Here's to that! FEARLESS…

For a full-figured gal, what's the perfect outfit to look hot for a girls' night out? —CARLA JONES, 30 "A colored lace dress is a wardrobe staple. Think about one with a red underlay. Accessorize it with gold jewelry and your look will be sleek and understated but still super sexy." Available in sizes 0 to 16! Dress, Tadashi Shoji, $348, shop.tadashishoji.com; rings, Meredith Hahn, $70 each, meredithhahn.com The winter slush on the ground is super slippery and annoying, but I don't want to compromise looking cute in my heels. What kind of footwear should I go for? —ANDREA GARCIA, 26 "Heels in the winter don't need to feel treacherous. Make sure to look for a pair that has a solid rubber base with treads, a substantial stacked heel,…

Dress, Parker, $308, parkerny.com; shoes, Giuseppe Zanotti Design, $650, Giuseppe Zanotti Design Boutiques; clutch, Vince Camuto, $178, vincecamuto.com; cuff, Jules Smith, $59, shopbop.com; ring, Spencer's own Glow Up Avoid the clash of pale winter skin against red by applying bronzer to arms and legs. LRD: Little Red Dress Meet the LBD's Sriracha-hot sister. Peekaboo details like lace and mesh overlays make long-sleeve frocks seem a little naughty. Pair with thin-strapped stiletto sandals for a look that's smokin'. Dresses 1 ASOS, $134, asos.com 2 Jessica Simpson Collection, $128, Dillard's 3 Catherine Malandrino, $295, Bloomingdale's 4 Rachel Comey, $644, shoplesnouvelles.com Shoes 1 Tibi, $375, piperlime.com 2 Express, $79.90, express.com 3 Gianvito Rossi, Coltori Miami, 786-517-1330 4 Bebe, $129, bebe.com Graphic Appeal Symmetrical patterns and…

Is it too soon for bright, spring makeup? I'm bored! —FELICE TRINH, 24 "I'm already rocking poppy velvet-matte lips. The unshiny, almost fuzzy texture is winter-appropriate…and on-trend for spring." Mirabella La La Lips Velvet Lip Pencils in Rose and Sweet, $23, mirabella.com MAC Retro Matte Lipstick in Flat-Out Fabulous and Relentlessly Red, $15, mac cosmetics.com How can I minimize my psoriasis without expensive creams or pills? —KATIE SWIMLEY, 21 "The cheap secret: dandruff shampoo (like Neutrogena T/Gel, $6.29, drugstores). Use it as body wash to exfoliate, then apply anti-inflammatory lotion." SOURCE: JOSHUA ZEICHNER, MD, A NEW YORK DERMATOLOGIST Avène XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cream, $32, aveneusa.com, soothes hot spots. I hate how obvious bandages look on my dark skin. Any options? —CHELSEA CHEATHAM, 23 "Multitonal bandages, like these from Urban…

To start Create a naturally flawless complexion with a BB or CC cream—they even out your skin without looking masklike. Let it dry for two minutes, then dust translucent powder all over to set the base and preempt shine (nerves bring on sweat). 1 Giorgio Armani Luminessence CC Cream, $50, giorgioarmanibeauty.com 2 Giorgio Armani Micro-fil Loose Powder, $49, giorgioarmanibeauty.com Next up The makeup equivalent to paying attention to detail: brow grooming! Our steps, below, make it easy to enhance and perfect yours. 1 Giorgio Armani Eyebrow Defining Pencil, $29, giorgioarmanibeauty.com 2 Clinique Brow Shaper in Charcoaled, $16, clinique.com Almost done Save bright shadow for night. Instead, choose a neutral (beige if you're fair to medium or bronze for darker skin). Swipe it across your lid, stopping at the crease. Then…

THIS WAS MY BRILLIANT Monday morning plan: Lay out the genius concepts I'd devised over the weekend and dazzle my colleagues. But I sped through my talking points, squeaked when answering tough questions, and said totally at least seven times. I'd hoped to make a good impression. Instead, I sounded like a helium-huffing Busta Rhymes protégée. "To a certain degree, you are your voice," says Patricia Fletcher, a voice coach in NYC. "If your voice is free, relaxed, and expressive, it's more likely your message, ideas, and persona will be perceived the same way." And if your voice is tight, small, or constricted? "You run the risk of having your message—and you—perceived in kind." Oof. I began working with Fletcher to cultivate a powerful workplace voice. SHUT DOWN THE UPSPEAK…

COSMO HOT TOPICS: THIS MONTH WE'RE TALKING ABOUT… The Week You'll NEVER Forget Make your memories more meaningful by taking an alternative spring break this year (FYI, some are free!). Cancún-ed out? Mountain biking in Vietnam or helping kids in Ethiopia leaves the good kind of hangover.      • Help with Typhoon Haiyan Relief in the Philippines at Projects-Abroad.org .      • Study rare birds in Yosemite at NationalParks.org/Support-Parks/Volunteer.      • Climb Mount Kilimanjaro and volunteer in Zanzibar at RoadMonkey.net.      • Build houses in North Carolina or do other handy projects at Habitat.org. LEAST CHEESY VALENTINE'S EVER There's tons of cute stuff at the new Toms Marketplace, all from companies that give back when you buy. Blake Mycoskie, founder of Toms Shoes, has handpicked gifts for your guy at Toms.com/Marketplace…

Sweater, Topshop, $58; shorts, Aerie, $29.95; gold-band ring, Nancy Newberg; safety-pin ring, Ileana Makri; heart ring, $550, pavé snake ring, $725, snake ring, $350, Ariel Gordon Jewelry; earrings, Grande's own It's six days before the American Music Awards, and Ariana Grande has no idea what she's going to do. "It's been quite the fiasco," says the 20-year-old pop singer. For what will surely be the most high-profile performance of her young life thus far, Grande has picked out the dress she'll wear…and that's about it. "They're working out the choreography, and I don't even know what song I'm singing yet," she says with a sigh. "I've been running around like crazy." Welcome to the wild world of Ariana Grande. One of the hottest up-and-comers in music right now, thanks to…

I was 22 years old in a shower in Paris when I had my first orgasm. There was no man in sight—just a phallic, plastic shaft the same color as a blue raspberry Blow Pop. In that steamy (literally) moment, the Blueberry Bliss vibrator changed my sexual life. Before Blueberry, sex was pure frustration. "You like that?" guys would ask from between my legs. "Um, keep going," I'd instruct, as clueless boyfriends rubbed everywhere but my clitoris. Occasionally, someone would get close—but I'd always stop him by faking an orgasm (lots of loud puppyish noises did the trick) just as the sensation started to get really intense. The truth is, I was scared. Although I lost my virginity at 15 and always had boyfriends, I never really masturbated. I spent…

DECODE HIS… TWITTER PERSONA Remember the good old days when the only thing you had to decipher was his drunken 4 a.m. text? Now all his tweets are windows into your guy's psyche (#LuckyGirls!). So…what do those 140 characters really say about his soul? The Humblebragger He floods your feed with pics of luxe living—bottle service in Vegas with Scott Disick, flying in a private jet—but shields himself from braggart backlash with convenient hashtags like #Blessed. TYPICAL TWEET "Almost broke my ass cliff-diving in Cabo. Thanks to the staff at our private villa, I'm still alive! #Grateful" FAVE OR UNFOLLOW? You may have written this dude off as a total d-bag, but maybe he's just hypermotivated. Who cares how many Instas he posts of his sick vacation if you're sipping…

MEET COCO AND ASHLEY They're a real couple we love. Coco's an art director (she designed this story!), and Ashley is a chef and food stylist. They live together in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, and throw killer dinner parties. Anyone else have a girl crush? SERIOUSLY? "BUT WHICH ONE OF YOU IS THE MAN?" …AND OTHER LESBIAN MYTHS, DEBUNKED BY ARIEL SCHRAG I'm out for breakfast with my extended family. Our group is large, and lots of conversations are going on. Somehow, the topic turns to lesbians. An aunt sitting a few seats away loudly asks: "Ariel, how many lesbians are there in the world?" "334,263,984," I say. Just kidding. Actually, I answer, "Uh, I don't know." And feel awkward. And like I have a giant LED board across my chest…

Once considered the good girls of makeup, nudes now have a naughty reputation. Take a cue from model Alyssa Miller and try five new takes on the lingerie of makeup, each hotter than the next. Russet Eyes Depending on its tone, copper has two sides: reserved (if it's bronze-based) or trendy (if it's reddish). Choose the latter, then smoke it out for a sultry effect. Get the Look Using an eye-shadow brush, blend shadow (we love Estée Lauder Pure Color in Cyber Ruby, $24) onto lids and outer corners, then take it under the eyes with a cotton swab. Define inner rims with brown liner. Pair It With… Matte bronzer from cheeks to temples (try Too Faced Milk Chocolate Soleil, $30). CREAMY, SHIMMER-FREE MAUVE LIPSTICK (SUCH AS LANCôME'S, PAGE 172).…

Lentil 340 Calories FILL-YOU-UP FACTOR Not a lentil fan? Get healthy fiber from barley, couscous, quinoa, wild rice, or whole-wheat pasta. Turkey Chili 480 Calories FILL-YOU-UP FACTOR The cals are worth it when they come from satiating, good-for-you beans, veggies, and lean protein. New England Clam Chowder 500 Calories FILL-YOU-UP FACTOR It's filling but too fatty. Go with tomato-broth-based Manhattan Clam Chowder to get less cream and butter. Miso 170 Calories FILL-YOU-UP FACTOR Add a brown-rice sushi roll or a big salad on the side to make it filling enough for lunch. Chicken Noodle 160 Calories FILL-YOU-UP FACTOR Order it often: Veggies and chicken are rich in vitamins and minerals, so they really can stave off a cold. Tomato 240 Calories FILL-YOU-UP FACTOR Heart-healthy lycopene makes this nutritious, but eat…

WHAT IT IS A head-to-toe sculpting workout, designed by the experts at Barry's Bootcamp for The Cosmo Bikini Diet. Pick up your copy wherever books are sold! HOW TO DO IT Do the routine twice a week on nonconsecutive days with 5-pound dumbbells. (Increase the weight if it feels too easy.) Plus, log at least 15 minutes of cardio three times a week. DOUBLE TAKE 1 Holding a dumbbell in each hand, stand with feet hip-width apart. Lift the dumbbells to shoulder-height to complete a biceps curl, palms facing each other. 2 At the top of the curl, press dumbbells overhead until your arms are straight. 3 Now lower dumbbells behind your head, keeping your elbows as close together as possible. Pause, then press dumbbells back overhead and lower to…

Get a sneak peek at what to look forward to… and what to watch out for this month. STELLAR GIFTS Spunkiness and honesty are two of the qualities that make you an adored and valued friend. BLIND SPOTS You can be set in your ways and stubborn. FASHION FAVES Bright colors go with your cheerfulness, and your independent spirit contributes to your look's modern edge. INDULGENCE Private, alone time helps you balance out your busy social life. SEDUCTION STYLE You are always up for trying new things with your guy! MONTH AHEAD Inspiration is in the air! Grab a journal, and track dreams or insights that pop up. Music and art events will feed your creativity…and you might find some hunky, sensitive guys there too! YEAR AHEAD YOUR DESIRES FOR…

1. At brunch, the Samantha of your group shares the saga of her latest one-night stand—starring a Hitachi Magic Wand, a leather blindfold, and Dario Franchitti 2.0. You: a. Order a second Bloody Mary and try to calm the increasingly hysterical Charlotte in your head. b. Get as many details as possible. You may be a novice at sex toys with the horsepower of a Ferrari, but hopefully not for long. c. Jump in with your own Berlusconi bunga bunga story. Ah, the presidential suite… #Memories #2010 2. You're in bed with your new manfriend, and his frisky hands keep venturing back to your butt. How do you address his anal fixation? a. Shut it down—that's an exit, not an entrance. You're traumatized enough by an accidental "wrong…