By Bobbie Thomas

From making your smartphone smarter to cute and cleverly-designed baby onesies, TODAY style editor and Bobbie.com's Bobbie Thomas shares buzz-worthy products for everyone:

chromaticgalllerie.com

Pick your own heel height!

Just the right height
One of the most common questions I'm asked by women is about shoes; how to find a wide width in a certain color, where to purchase low-heeled purple pumps or just how to make shoe shopping easier.  Enter ChromaticGallerie.com, a website specializing in a rainbow of basics. They offer up simple yet stylish suede and leather designs, each in 3 different heel heights and 3 different widths, so you no longer have to trek around the mall in search of the elusive perfect pair ($88, chromaticgallerie.com).

Less 'dropped' calls
Smart phones provide us with countless solutions on a daily basis, but one thing they sometimes lack is a good grip. Whether you have an iPhone, Blackberry or Droid, you may be familiar with how easily they can slip out of your hand when taking a picture or juggling keys and a handbag. Thankfully there's FlyGrip, a small attachment that clips onto your phone and rests comfortably between your fingers, providing a solid, single-handed grip ($29.95, flygrip.com).

twotara.com

Smart: Boy or girl can wear this cute romper.

The perfect baby gift, every time
Last but not least, I was surprised to learn that 40 percent of expectant parents choose not to know the gender of their baby before birth, leaving 40 percent of baby shower-gifters in the dark.  But rather than settle for gender neutral green or yellow, you can turn to TwoTara, makers of adorable two-sided onesies, one side being blue, the other side being pink.  There are also fun, dual-tone rompers, baby booties, hats and more ($5-$35, twotara.com).

More: Bobbie's Buzz: Active (and stylish) essentials
Hillary Clinton doesn't care if you see her without makeup
Retro fashion: Making the old new again

By Bobbie Thomas

Just because you're not ready for a compost pile doesn't mean you can't help celebrate Earth Day! TODAY style editor and Bobbie.com's Bobbie Thomas shares small, stylish ways you can make a difference.

Write on
Whether you're looking to reduce the amount of trash that ends up in landfills or you just can't stand when your pen runs out of ink, Seltzer Goods' "Seven Year Pen" is a smart and simple solution.  Over 100 million pens are discarded every day, so this one's designed to last! It can write 1.7 meters a day for seven whole years. Added plus? It comes in 16 chic styles ($7.50, seltzergoods.com).

uncommongoods.com

Be kind to the planet in style, with a reusable, earth-friendly can.

Drink responsibly
There's something refreshing about cracking open a can of your favorite beverage, but there's nothing fun about the quantity of cans that are tossed out each year.  Enter "my eco-can," a cute, reusable can, complete with flip top, available in a cheerful assortment of colors ($13, uncommongoods.com).

Get pumped
Last but not least, I fell in love with Etsy seller 'GiddySpinster's striking stiletto planters, made from reclaimed high heels.  The perfect hostess gift or a fun friend for your window sill, the fashionable accents come ready, planted with exotic flora from "spiky cacti" to "lavender echeveria." They're also grown organically and planted in 100 percent organic potting soil ($49-$75, etsy.com/shop/giddyspinster).

More: Bobbie's Buzz: Lashing out in style
Gisele's 5-year-old niece is now also a model
The 8 best BB creams

TODAY style editor Bobbie Thomas

From a semi-permanent mascara application to a self-curling coat, TODAY style editor and Bobbie.com's Bobbie Thomas shares the latest in lashes.

'They're real!'
I absolutely flipped when I tested out Benefit's new "They're Real!" mascara, which is designed to lengthen, separate and dramatically curl your lashes. Simply apply a coat and watch your lashes lift instantly, right before your very eyes ($22, benefitcosmetics.com).

Benefit

No fakers here: Benefit's They're Real! mascara is getting rave reviews.

'Better than false lashes'
Beauty editors are buzzing about this new system from Too Faced cosmetics, which uses a high-tech, three-step formula to extend your lashes. Using unique Flexistretch nylon fibers, the coats melt and seal together, building out lashes that are long, glossy and sleek ($35, sephora.com).

'Cry baby' 
Last but not least, busy gals will be thrilled to tears to learn about a semi-permanent lash-coating process that's hitting salons. 'Cry Baby' is applied by a professional and can provide you with up to two weeks worth of impressive volume, curl and color, as opposed to traditional tints which only darken the strand ($25 & up; CryBabyMascara.com for salon locations).

More: The 8 best BB creams
Nail news: Designer strips, Kate Spade polish and more

By Bobbie Thomas

Whether you're a beauty buff or a makeup minimalist, the “cat eye” can be modified to fit your mood. From understated and sexy to va va voom and striking, a little black liner is all you need. TODAY style editor and Bobbie.com's Bobbie Thomas shares some favorite tools and foolproof ways to get the look.

Pro 'purrfect'
From Angelina and Adele to Beyonce and Emma Stone, cat eyes can range from sweet to sexy, and whether you're a first timer or just don't have the time, there are a few quick tricks that can help you apply your liner like a pro. You could literally stick on your liner with Eye Rock’s Instant Eyeliner Tapes, which you can simply peel and apply within seconds ($13, birchbox.com). Another easy bet is Beth Bender's all-in-one stencil kit. Both the original Get In Line set and the Deluxe Glamorous Cat Eyeliner pouch include reusable cut outs to help you get even, fast results ($32-$41, bettesboutique.com). In a pinch, you can also create your own custom stencil with a business card. Snip off a slice along the edge, use as a guideline, then flip over to use the reverse side on the other eye.  

Pro tools
If you’re willing to draw free-hand, it's all about having the right tools. If you prefer a pencil, opt for one that offers a sponge tip at the opposite end. The applicator tip will help you blend or drag your line with a softer edge so you can smudge in the effect. You’ll find a variety of options at your local drugstore, but Clinique's Quickliner pencils are popular ($15, clinique.com). While liquid liners will work for a surgically precise line if you have a steady hand, gels have emerged as a crowd favorite thanks to bent tip brushes. The slanted stem is bent at an angle to help get your hand out of your eye line while applying so you can see what you're doing (Japonesque Belt Liner Brush $3.99, CVS.com; Sonia Kashuk Bent Eyeliner Brush $5.99, target.com). Smashbox's Be Discovered Jet Set is handy, while MAC's Fluidline gel pots are a go- to for professionals. and personal favorite of mine ($15, maccosmetics.com).  And even if you make a mistake, Givenchy’s brand new "Mister Perfect" eraser is designed to instantly remove all traces of errors, both liner and shadow, waterproof and non-waterproof ($30; sephora.com).

Pro finish
Last but not least, mascaras can help complete your look. When used alone, mascara can create a subtle, sexy shape that accentuates the edge of the eye similar to a winged tip line, and when paired with bold liner, luscious lashes can have an even more dramatic effect.  Benefit's new "They're Real!" mascara is designed to curl, lengthen and, mostly importantly, separate for a wide-eyed, feline look. Too Faced's Better Than False Lashes system uses a two-coat formula that melts and seals together, building out lashes that are long, glossy and sleek (They're Real! Mascara $22, benefitcosmetics.com; Better Than False Lashes $35, sephora.com). Both of these new formulas have beauty insiders (and myself) quite impressed with their transformative results.

More: Future of fashion? 3-D printer produces stylish shoes
Bobbie's Buzz: Tanning tights, wild manis and more

TODAY style editor Bobbie Thomas

By Bobbie Thomas

From textured tips to multi-tasking tights, TODAY style editor and Bobbie.com's Bobbie Thomas shares brand new beauty buys:

Caviar manicure
More than just stylish clothes came down the runway at a recent Cushnie Et Ochs show. The fingertips on the fashion label's models inspired a new textured manicure craze, and sent nail fanatics in search of micro-beads to recreate the look. Now Ciate's new Caviar kits offer everything you need to DIY a 3-dimensional finish, sure to create conversation (Avail on Apr. 10, $25, ciate.co.uk).

Ciate

Designed by the small London-based polish company Ciate, the look is created by sticking tiny beads to two coats of base polish.

Reinvented remover
Last month nail care brand Cutex launched its latest Advanced Revival remover.  While most formulas with a high percentage of acetone can strip nails, this blend quickly cleans away polish while leaving behind a nourishing coat to strengthen nails. Said to be one of the only innovations in remover in over 15 years, Advanced Revival can help your nails look shiny, smooth and healthier than ever before ($3.49; drugstore.com).

Tanning tights and more
Believe it or not, Skin Kiss has introduced the world's first hosiery that gives you a faux glow, while their caffeine-infused variety aims to firm and tone ($15.90 or $40.54 for 3 pack, tightsplease.co.uk). UK-based brand Pretty Polly has also developed double duty tights. Their Naturals line is enriched with Shea butter and a 'cooling agent;'  they even offer up an almost invisible open-toe option, so your legs can look better than bare just in time for sandal season ($6.36-$11.12, prettypolly.co.uk).

More: Caviar manicure? Extreme nails are here to stay
Under $100: Minty green style

TODAY style editor Bobbie Thomas

By Bobbie Thomas

Designer deals for spring are here, thanks to big brands teaming up with high-end names. TODAY style editor and Bobbie.com's Bobbie Thomas shares more on this season's hot new collaborations:

Macy's

This doo.ri for Impulse coat sells for $85 at Macy's, quite less than the designer's runway collection.

Doo-Ri designs at Macy's
Award-winning Korean-American fashion designer Doo-ri Chung is the latest label to create an exciting capsule collection for Macy's. Known for her beautifully draped styles, and for dressing first lady Michelle Obama among other notables, the doo.ri collection ranges in price from $39 for chic twisted and pleated tanks to $150 for a unique faux-leather motorcycle jacket (doo.ri for Impulse, $39-$159; macys.com).

Marni mania at H&M
Roberto Cavalli, Jimmy Choo and Versace are just a few of the powerhouse designers that have teamed up with affordable fashion favorite H&M over the last few years — and the next name coming down the catwalk is celebrity favorite Marni. Starting Mar. 8, you can scoop up bold-printed pieces and artsy accessories from the distinct designer label starting at low prices (Marni at H&M $9.95-$199; HM.com for stores).

New names at Aldo
Last but certainly not least, spring 2012 is bringing some of the best and brightest names in design to footwear. Popular shoe store Aldo offers up the Rise program, where fresh names in fashion like Preen, Libertine, and JW Anderson lend their eye to sleek stilettos, stylish sandals and more. Step into stores starting Mar. 8 to score a pair for yourself (Aldo designer shoes, $155; AldoRise.com).

More: Bobbie's Buzz: Smart style solutions to simplify your life
Luxury for less: How these 8 beauty steals stack up
Slideshow: Michelle Obama's effortless style

TODAY style editor Bobbie Thomas

By Bobbie Thomas

A full time job, raising kids, running errands — all while looking glamorous... it's not easy being a woman! TODAY style editor and Bobbie.com's Bobbie Thomas shares smart solutions to keep life running smoothly:

Problem: Misplaced eyeglasses
There's something about eyeglasses that makes them so easy to misplace!  But fear no more with Eye Gotcha, beautiful brooches that double as a place to stash your readers. From floral to crystal designs, each savvy style includes a small metal hoop for you to slip your frames into so you can "see and be seen." ($12.99- $18; allurements.co)

allurements.co

Eye Gotcha accessories are magnetic eyeglass holders that double as brooches.

Problem: Hormones that wreak havoc
If you feel like you need a little TLC around that time of the month, consider signing up with GoodandLovely.com, a club that delivers monthly care packages filled with chocolate, tea, body products and other soothing supplies. Just indicate your week and let them take care of the rest! ($13.99 per month; goodandlovely.com)

Problem: Did I already wear that?
It can be tough to keep track of when you last wore something and since no one wants to commit a fashion faux pas by wearing the same thing twice in succession, there's My Last Look wardrobe tags.  Each tag comes ready to slip on a hanger and includes fields for you to fill out,  from "when" and "where" to "with who" and "with what?" ($19.95; fashionistafixes.com)

More: Great new style heights: High-low hemlines trend
The best affordable U.K. shopping sites (and yes, they ship here)

Sarah Potempa

You can get beach-worthy hair with to Sarah Potempa's new Beachwaver.

Woven clutches, hand-crafted jewelry and effortless, beachy hair are always hits on the runway. TODAY style editor and Bobbie.com's Bobbie Thomas shows you how to score these island-inspired looks for yourself:

Bahamian 'bling' and woven wares
When it comes to raw and earthy accents, there's nothing like going straight to the source! Indigenous Caribbean materials like the nickernut and the conch shell are instantly transformed on the beaches of the Bahamas into beautiful, statement jewelry pieces that are stylish everywhere from city to seaside. I was also captivated by unique "wilk shell" jewelry, fashioned from the shells of native snail-like creatures.  

Another traditional trade in the Bahamas? Chic straw clutches and fans made from sisal and silver top fibers. I was delighted to learn how easily these totes and trinkets could be personalized by local artisans, and if you don't plan to take a tropical trip any time soon, you can still order online or do a DIY version with colored string from the craft store ($10 & up, Sonique Couture).

Luxe vacation-worthy locks
Sun, salt and fresh air can work wonders for your hair, but you can still have that wind-blown look even if you're land-locked thanks to Sarah Potempa's new Beachwaver. This high-tech tool allows you to create loose waves at the touch of a button. Simply clip a lock of hair onto the barrel, much like you would a normal curler, and let the waver work its magic.  It automatically rotates and gently twirls your tresses into perfect, soft spirals ($189; QVC.com).  If you're looking to get great texture, minus the sand and UV-rays, look no further than Alterna's Dry Mist oil, which can give your hair that healthy, fresh from the beach look while replenishing vital moisture. And if you're a fan of the delicate highlights that the sun can leave behind, Alterna's got a safe solution for that too. Their 1 Night Highlights product add a touch of color and tons of shine that can be washed out in one shampoo (Dry Oil, $14, Highlight Kits $22; alternahaircare.com).

More: Everything but the bikini: Best vacation-wear ideas
Lace it up! Learn how to wear the pretty trend

TODAY style editor Bobbie Thomas

By Bobbie Thomas

Let’s face it, when you finally get some free to time, you want to look good, but you really want to feel good- because that’s the whole point, right? So whether you’re planning a getaway or just live for easy breezy weekends where you live, TODAY style editor and Bobbie.com’s Bobbie Thomas highlights the best casual chic basic looks to collect.

Colorful cover-ups
As a woman with curves, I can understand the desire to cling to a cover-up on the beach!  If fear of feeling overexposed has you anxious before you even set sail for your destination, consider a colorful tunic or caftan to boost your confidence. EchoDesign.com has grown to be a favorite of mine over the years, offering reasonably priced pieces ranging from elegant and airy to pretty and preppy.  A vibrant, glamorous cover-up never goes out of style, so consider the shoreline your catwalk and get carried away in bold tones and punchy prints; you can even add a matching hat or handbag for a polished, head-to-toe look (Cover Ups & Caftans $42-$149; echodesign.com).

Stylish loungewear
Some days you may find yourself wanting to lay low and curl up with a good book. Resist the urge to slip into your old "standby" sweats, just in-case you opt decide to grab lunch or explore. Instead, upgrade to soft yet sophisticated alternatives. Hi-lo hemlines or maxi length skirts look effortless when paired with soft knit tops (BCBGeneration Mixed-Stitch Sweater $98, Lordandtaylor.com; Kloe Knit Hi Lo Skirt $33, Alloy.com), and drawstring linen pants will look polished even with a simple T-shirt or cardigan (Shell Detail Cardigan $39, Venus.com; INC International Concepts Linen Wide Leg Pants $35, Macys.com).

Day-to-night dresses
When you're on vacation, you owe it to yourself to be spontaneous and roll with the tide. Let the day take you from one adventure to the next, and don't let your clothing confine you. Some of your cover-ups could easily convert into great evening dresses with the help of a few accents. Some earrings, bangles, and a small bag may be all you need to go from the sand to sipping cocktails (Raviya Tube Dress $48, dianesbeachwear.com). And a "lightweight" little black dress is an ideal option to have as well. Look for a less tailored style, one that flows can be carefree during the day, but then transformed with a just belt for later on (MM Couture 3/4 Sleeve Tie Dress $78, Missme.com). 

More: 10 fun Valentine's gifts for pals
 Lace it up! Learn how to wear the pretty trend

TODAY style editor Bobbie Thomas

By Bobbie Thomas

It's been proven that this time of year can be depressing for some, so TODAY style editor and Bobbie.com's Bobbie Thomas shares a few fun ways to boost your mood.

Bummer baskets
I fell in love with this Brooklyn-based company the minute I learned about it! After a streak of friends had bad luck, "Bummer Baskets" founder Scott Laborsky saw a need for a fresh take on the old, standby, sympathy gifts. "Flowers die and chocolate-coated fruit can be a waste of calories," he says.  Enter Bummer Baskets, which offer practical goodies like a nice pair of chopsticks for eating takeout on the couch, witty, over-sized wineglasses and more that tell a pal "I'm here for you" ($13.95 and up; bummerbaskets.com).

Joyful juice
For fans of energy shots and drinks, Health Guard Wellness offers up a fun twist on the bottled beverages. Their "Be Happy" shots are a chocolate-cherry flavored supplement that can bring you a burst of positivity and calmness by restoring the neurotransmitters that naturally make us feel good (12 pack, $35.95; healthguardwellness.com).

Mood-enhancing makeup
Last but not least, I've always been a believer that beauty is the quickest way to perk yourself up, and Physician's Formula makeup has taken that idea a step further. Their Happy Booster cosmetics contain Euphoryl, a natural plant extract which has been shown to promote pleasant feelings by mimicking the effect of endorphins. And of course, the rosy glow and pink lips are an always-welcomed bonus ($8.95 and up; physiciansformula.com).

More: 8 ways to look fabulous in a hurry
Banana Republic selling Duchess Kate copycat dress

By Bobbie Thomas

Our modern society is inundated with flawless images that idolize youth. In spite of our culture’s impossible quest to ‘"top the clock", TODAY style editor and Bobbie.com’s Bobbie Thomas offers some inspiration on growing old gracefully, thanks to the women and everyday icons of Advanced Style.

Ari Seth Cohen’s must-visit blog Advanced Style features photographs of stylish women over the age of 60 and beyond that prove  you really can wear that! There is an obsession with perfection, specifically numbers when it comes to what we wear – “if I was 10 years younger, 20 pounds thinner or 3 inches taller” – and these ladies exemplify not only how to have fun with fashion but how to embrace who you are, as is.

Advanced Style

TODAY style editor Bobbie Thomas poses with fashion-forward Joyce Carpati, 80.

Confidence and attitude
At 80 years young, Joyce Carpati believes “to age is a privilege” and her style secret is confidence and attitude. “I don’t want to look younger. I just want to look as elegant as possible,” she told Bobbie. Joyce wears classic color combinations like black and white because they have a “chic, striking effect,” and her signature hairstyle is a crown braid. Joyce also adores accessories: “I look for the brightest colors in shoes – don’t be afraid to wear them with a dark dress. And fishnet stockings? Incredible.” Her essentials include gloves, jewelry and a scarf. "That’s all I need – and, of course – my pearls.”

Advanced Style

Jaqcuie "Taja" Murdock, a dancer, relies on vintage stores for unique fashion finds.

Be yourself
Jaqcuie “Taja” Murdock, a legendary dancer from the famed Apollo Theatre, is not afraid to wear heels in her 80s, and she knows how find fashion for less. Always stopping into second-hand stores, Jacquie says “I want to look different from anyone and have my own unique style. Style has nothing to do with money!” She loves to wear flowers in her hair like Billie Holiday, and says “Dressing up and playing with clothes, color, and accessories can be healing as you age.”

More: Senior style: Glamorous older women embrace turbans

Advanced Styke

Ilona Royce Smithkin, 91, makes her own fabulous eyelashes.

Self expression
The vibrant Ilona Royce Smithkin makes her own eyelashes at 91 years old and has even had a song written about the flirty red statement that matches her hair. As an artist, fashion is an art form for her.  “If you try to imitate too much, you will look like nothing," she said. "Never compare. You are you! Feel beautiful inside, and you will be beautiful outside.” She cherishes the feeling of being “free” and says after decades of insecurity, “a weight has been lifted,” and she has felt better in the past 10 years than ever before.

Advanced Style

Ruth Kobin's beauty secret? She believes in a strict regimen that includes taking off her makeup before bed.

Keep moving
Last but not least, "keep moving" has been the mantra that’s moved Ruth Kobin to the celebrated age of 100. "I make myself go out every day, even if it’s only to walk around the block. You are never too old to exercise," says Ruth of her routine. In fact, she practices Pilates weekly, and does exercises on a floor mat at home with small, pink hand weights. She prefers not to look at a calendar, but instead wants to “celebrate every day.” Ruth is also a big believer in having a beauty regimen and references an old Elizabeth Arden ad that said, "If you want to look like this when you are 40, start when you are 20."

When asked for advice, she shares, “I never go to bed with my makeup on. I dress up every day and I don't wear blue jeans. I dress up even to mail a letter, you never know who you will meet.” One more tip: "Invest in quality pieces, they never go out of style."

More: Senior style: Glamorous older women embrace turbans
Need style advice from Bobbie Thomas? Share your dilemma!