How to Create a Snake Braid

Bella Breakdown Learn how to make a so-pretty-it-hurts snake braid. First, divide hair into three sections. Begin braiding a classic three-strand braid. Grab the center piece and pull other pieces aside. Gently push up while holding the center strand. Secure with an elastic and repeat on the other side. Pin the braids back....

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The 17 Best Companies for Maternity and Paternity Leave

Bella Breakdown The United States is one of only two countries out of 185 in the world that don’t require paid maternity leave for new moms. In honor of International Women’s Day, here’s a look at some companies in America that are leading by example with unusually robust paid leave policies. In the US, new parents can take 12 weeks of leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act. But it’s unpaid, and more than 40% of employees don’t qualify. Out of the 185 countries in the world with available info, the US is one of two without guaranteed...

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The Only 5 Makeup Brushes You’ll Ever Need

Bella Breakdown The right makeup brushes can make all the difference – here are five you should know about. #1 Eyeshadow Brush – use this small fluffy brush to blend eyeshadow. #2 Angled Brush – use an angled brush to define your eyebrows, then use it to apply eyeliner. #3 Foundation Brush – spread concealer on first, then buff on your foundation. #4 Blush Brush – place bronzer on cheeks, jawline, and temples. Apply blush on the apples of the cheeks. #5 Fan Brush – use a highlighter on cheekbones, forehead and nose....

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12 Ways Kate Middleton Redefined Being a Princess

Bella Breakdown Kate Middleton is more than just a princess. Get to know more about the Duchess of Cambridge. Some things you might not know about Kate Middleton are: 1. She lived in Amman, Jordan from ages 2 to 5. 2. She was bullied while at boarding school in England. 3. The seemingly prim and proper Duchess was captain of the field hockey club at Marlborough College. 4. She took a gap year before university to study in Chile and Italy. 5. She graduated with honors with a degree in art history. 6. She launched a new brand under...

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4 Pilates Exercises to Relieve Lower Back Pain

Bella Breakdown Strengthening your core can help support and stabilize your back, which may have the effect of reducing lower back pain. Give these four Pilates core exercises a try. #1 The 100 Set– laying on your back with your legs at a 45° angle and in a roll up position, pump your arms to the count of 100. #2 Scissors – roll up into a partial sit up position and scissor your legs. Alternate by pulling each leg toward your forehead then switch. Do this for 30 seconds. #3 Glute Bridges– laying on your back with your feet...

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