Innholdsfortegnelse for December 2013 i Cosmopolitan

Here's what our editors are shopping, Googling, and loving this month. Wine to Go "A flask for wine? Yep, that's right—it comes with a small funnel for easy pouring." —Charles manning, fashion editor In God We Trust x Thorny Rose, $60, ingodwetrust.com Saturday Nights Out "Suki Waterhouse (aka Bradley Cooper's GF) is my spirit party animal in her new campaign for Forever 21."—MAY HASSO, FASHION ASSISTANT Friday Nights In "A Friday evening at home with your DVR feels fancy with a luxe set of pj's. Just add wine."—KATIE L. CONNOR, DEPUTY EDITOR Olivia von Halle, $470, oliviavonhalle.com Hitting the Slopes "I'm from Canada, where snowboarding is just what you do, so I'm always on the lookout for colorful gear that stands out." —CATHERINE…

How they got their start… Ada Calhoun For our Holiday Sextacular, writer Calhoun and her lucky husband put some vintage sex games to the test in "Sex Games, Anyone?" (p. 154). How I got my start. "I interned at magazines in high school, but when I graduated, I decided I wanted to travel the world. I worked on a lot of farms and studied Sanskrit for five years. When I went back to school at the University of Texas at Austin, I interned at The Austin Chronicle and rediscovered that I loved reporting. I met my husband, a performance artist, when I was sent to do a story on him 13 years ago!" Twitter: @AdaCalhoun Isabel Gillies Law & Order: SVU actress-turned-writer Gillies found a new beauty staple in her…

"I had just gotten an iPhone and was taking a bath when a guy who'd been trying to go out with me called me on FaceTime. I really wasn't interested in him, but I picked up—and accidentally turned the camera down! There were no bubbles in the water, so he got a full-frontal view. I told him it was an accident, but he kept calling me for a while after that." JANELLE W., 26, FLIGHT ATTENDANT, FROM WASHINGTON, DC No. 1 Watch and Learn "Last summer, I went to Barcelona with my best guy friend, Tommy. Before long, I found myself on the dance floor, sandwiched between two sexy dudes. We danced for a while, and then I asked them to come home with me and Tommy. When we got…

You've become the go-to guy for big action—Star Trek, This Means War, Jack Ryan. Are you an adrenaline junkie? I get a lot of my kicks doing these films. I do stuff for my job that I did playing make-believe as a boy in my backyard. But I'm not a dummy—if I sense something could permanently injure me, I step away and let the professionals do it. What's the best advice you've been given about dating? My mom always told me to take my elbows off the table, so that if I ever had dinner with a queen, I would know how to eat properly. But she also taught me basic things about being a gentleman, like opening car doors. Especially in Los Angeles, I think people lose those small…

YEAR-END BLOWOUT! Jordana Abraham, Aleen Kuperman, and Samantha Fishbein, the girls behind the blog Betches Love This, sound off on the sexiest and skankiest moments of the year. 2013 They're real supermen! Action stars Tom Hardy, Robert Downey Jr., and Andrew Garfield take time to make some kids' days. Wendy Davis and her pink sneakers become icons of feminism. Major props to standing up for women's rights in comfort. Angelina Jolie goes public with her double mastectomy. Brad Pitt supports her like crazy. Want to hate them so much, but not gonna lie: Betches love this. Jennifer Lawrence falls on her way to pick up her Oscar, prompting us all to fall—really hard—for J. Law. "Blurred Lines" video model Emily Ratajkowski cast in Gone Girl. Gone? More like "You've Arrived,…

WHY WE HER LOOK Jessica Alba's oversize jacket and easy pants are as cozy as a set of pj's but a lot more polished. Cool Jacket A puffy, printed bomber keeps you warm and runway-ready. BUY IT 1 Travel set, Quinn, $125, quinnshop.com 2 Pouch, Flight 001, $18, flight001.com 3 Scarf, Armani Exchange, $38, armaniexchange.com 4 Tank, Jockey, $21, jockey.com 5 Sunglasses, Saint Laurent by Hedi Slimane, $325, Solstice Sunglasses stores 6 Case, LifeProof, $79.99, lifeproof.com; charger, Jonathan Adler, $28, jonathanadler.com 7 Bag, Topshop, $100, topshop.com 8 Suitcase, Tumi, $545, tumi.com 9 Wallet, Smythson, $640, smythson.com 10 Pants, Kenneth Cole New York, $88, kennethcole.com 11 Vest, Armani Exchange, $128, armaniexchange.com…

What type of eyeliner should I use on my inner rims that won't fade? —KATE ARDEHALI, 30 "Gel pencils are gentlest—and high-pigmented versions (like these) stand up to this teary spot." Made specifically for inner rims: Em Michelle Phan Waterliner, $20 each, emcosmetics.com What's the best kind of acne treatment that won't leave my face raw andred? I've tried everything. —LINDSAY BALSAMO, 20 "Ask your doctor about prescription Aczone cream. Unlike retinoids and benzoyl peroxide, the active ingredient (dapsone) gently kills acne bacteria." Aczone Gel 5%, prices vary, see your derm for an Rx Is leave-in conditioner meant to replace regular conditioner? —JESSICA YACKEREN, 34 "If it's a cream, yes. Sprays, however, can be used in addition to conditioner for extra detangling help." I just got bangs, and my…

to start Apply a lightweight foundation with your fingertips. Use circular motions to avoid streaks, then tap a damp makeup sponge all over to blend and soak up any excess makeup—key to a natural-looking base. Urban Decay Naked Skin Liquid Makeup, $39, beauty.com next up Swirl a peachy pink blush over theapples of your cheeks, blending up toward your temples. Then tap a shimmering highlighter powder just above the blush with your index finger to define your cheekbones. Giorgio Armani Eccentrico Star Palette (blush and highlighter in one), $88, giorgioarmanibeauty.com almost done Get your smoky on (a step-by-step breakdown is below). Afterward, clean up any bits of dark shadow that may have fallen onto your cheeks and under-eye area by sweeping them with a fluffy brush. 1 Giorgio…

Strike a pose: The good (and bad!) by Cosmo staffers. If You're Taking a… …Selfie WORK IT! Angle your chin slightly up toward the light to nix shadows and create a gorgeous glow. Doing so also sculpts your cheekbones, chin, and jawline. BEAUTY BONUS: Think happy thoughts. A real smile is way hotter than a fake. AVOID IT! Make the pic about you—not your living room. …Couple Shot WORK IT! Lean in so your faces touch or yours rests on his chest or shoulder. The lack of space creates an eye-pleasing focal point and literally shows your connection. BEAUTY BONUS: Push your hair over your free shoulder to make it sexier and fuller. AVOID IT! Lean into your guy, not away from him. …Posse Pic WORK IT! Turn inward toward…

Reach out when someone is down. When a coworker or work contact gets let go or demoted, get in touch with her right away, and continue to check in every few months. Tell her how much you miss her, and ask what you can do to help. These people will be back, and they'll forever remember your kindness. That's good karma that may turn into a professional opportunity. Stay in touch with former colleagues. Keep on the radar of people you've worked with—bosses, cube-mates, etc. You can do this without being pushy by sending a nonintrusive "just touching base" e-mail or an "I thought you'd like this article" e-mail. Say thank you often. People love getting credit—including for your successes. Scored a new job? Send a former boss or your…

COSMO HOT TOPICS: THIS MONTH WE'RE TALKING ABOUT… Unlearning Anorexia At 14, Kelsey Osgood began "studying" to be anorexic the way other girls prepare for college. In her new memoir, she tells how she used that same determination to get well. Q & A Q Where did your desire to become anorexic come from? A I always felt out of place. In middle school, my friends got into bras and boys, but I didn't find that very compelling. I thought that meant I was stunted. I had also been a theater kid and was coming to the realization that the one thing I thought I was good at, I wasn't good at—I was too self-conscious. One day, it dawned on me like a religious calling: I'd been wanting to lose…

ALL HE WANTS FOR CHRISTMAS IS A SEXY TREAT FROM YOU! Guys reveal their secret holiday wish lists. (Good news: Some of the stuff they want is actually pretty doable.) "A little Santa's helper role-play would be nice. If cookies are involved, bonus points." —Tim S., 25 "A nice massage. This time of year is stressful, so a good rubdown would be a legit wish." —Alex R., 24 "Bringing toys into the bedroom. It's something I'm usually nervous about bringing up, but if she's taking requests for the holidays.…" —Bobby M., 26 "One word: threesome." —Patrick G., 24 "An unexpected blow job when I'm just chilling on the couch or something would be cool. And if there's no pressure to reciprocate, even better. If it's a 'gift,' it can be…

Mark was out of my league. Effortlessly good-looking, he was also a talented writer—that combo was my kryptonite. We met when he was posting flyers for his play outside a New York City theater. It was fall, and he looked very British in his striped scarf and fingerless gloves. I had moved from L.A. to pursue my dream of being a writer in New York. I approached him and stupidly blurted out, "I like plays!" He handed me a flyer. Even though there were only 15 people in the audience, his play touched me. It may as well have been Broadway. I told him as much. "Some friends are getting drinks now," he said. "You should come." That night, we talked about writing and art. We both like Jay-Z and…

DECODE HIS… PACKAGE Unwrap what your man is really saying with his holiday gift, so you'll know whether to deck the halls…or him. His Package FLOWERS AND CANDY Unwrap It If all he got you were flowers and candy, he put in a pitifully minimal amount of effort. You deserve a partner who gives you more consideration than deciding which Walgreens to hit en route to your place. His Package JEWELRY Unwrap It Guys give bling when they're taking the relationship seriously and want you to commit as well. He gets bonus points if he got an item you've been pining for—guys who listen are as good as, well, gold (or platinum or silver…). His Package A TRIP Unwrap It Whether it's a G4 to Paris or a road trip…

From WORK… Round up your posse to refresh (not reapply!) your faces—then make a beeline for the bar. Lip Lockdown FOR COLOR THAT LASTS WAY PAST MIDNIGHT, "IT'S ALL ABOUT LAYERING," SAYS MAKEUP ARTIST MALLY RONCAL. HER TECHNIQUE: SWIPE, BLOT, AND REPEAT (AT LEAST TWO TIMES). From left (items worn throughout): On Daiane: Blazer, Diane von Furstenberg, $425; pants, J Brand; top, Adeam, $365; earrings, Bing Bang, $78; ring, Elizabeth and James, $125. On Nicole: Vest, Emerson by Jackie Fraser-Swan; sweater, Marc Jacobs; dress, Roberto Cavalli; belt, Raina Belts, $40; ring, Karen Egren Jewelry, $80. On Maggiemae: Sweater, Salvatore Ferragamo, $700; shirt, Noon by Noor, $644; dress, Louis Vuitton; earrings, Jack Vartanian; double-band cuff, and single-band cuff, $550, Maiyet; ring, White Moth Jewelry, $150 Instant Pick-You-Up PERK UP SKIN AND…

When Anne Papineau's doctor recommended she try the NuvaRing earlier this year, she was sold—until the pharmacy began charging her $80 every three weeks. "I was excited to make the switch, but as a grad student, I couldn't afford it," says the 24-year-old in Overland Park, Kansas. She was also confused, because it had been more than one year since the Affordable Care Act required insurers to make contraception free. Why are women like Papineau still being charged? "Plans are working hard to comply with the law," says Susan Pisano, vice president of communications for America's Health Insurance Plans."But when you get into real life, there are dozens of scenarios that nobody envisioned when the law was passed." WHEN YOUR BRAND ISN'T COVERED By law, every insurer must cover all…

Too slammed to sleep? Doctors say it's okay to stay up all night every once in a while. Just be cautious if you are depressed or anxious or have a weak immune system. Your stress levels increase by 14 percent with every hour of sleep you lose, upping your risk for moodiness, depressive episodes, and illness. With the disclaimers out of the way, let's do this. FROM DUSK TO DAWN… Refuel Regularly Think of tonight as a long hike—bring plenty of snacks for the road ahead. Choose snacks with protein and fiber, like veggies and hummus. You'll keep your energyup without allowing your blood sugar levels to drop. Sip Coffee In moderation, java is a safe caffeine fix. Don't use caffeine pills, which aren't FDA-regulated, pills like Adderall, or herbal…

1. Deep Indigo Rich blues are "coming in really heavy" this season, says Genevieve Gorder, interior designer and host of HGTV's Dear Genevieve. Pair them with cream, gray, and pink tones—so pretty! All fabric swatches from John Robshaw Textiles. 2. Darling ClementineTurn clementine skins into candles by pouring olive oil on the peel and lighting it, says Apartment Therapy founder Maxwell Ryan. It'll burn up to three hours. Dinner-party trick! 3. Bow Wow Get your aww fix by following Ginny, a Jack Russell who really knows how to live. This girl enjoys bacontinis! Love. @Ginny_JRT on Instagram 4. Wild Card Send a note to your honey and heat things up, no space heater required. Squeeze You So Hard Card, BHLDN, $6, bhldn.com 5. Eau So Good Your house…

Dog Days "The dog may be cute, but some people eat on that table." — Jordan S., 19 Horsing Around "Just a noble stallion on a stroll." — Adriane F., 18 Flapjack Crack "I always go eat pancakes with my pants down. WTH?!?" — Sheri C., 33 Footloose "Sorry, I can't study. Your feet are distracting me." — Natalia G., 18 #CatwalkProbs "Maybe you're having such a hard time walking your cat because you actually tried putting a cat on a leash." — Kendall S., 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 CONTENTS Page 19: Michael Michael Kors — michaelkors.com. Goldie London — goldielondon.com.…

1. NAIL IT Step 1: Polish tips and toes with Mariah Carey's special shades for OPI. Step 2: Dance them dry to "All I Want for Christmas Is You." Ooh, baby. OPI Mariah Carey Holiday Nail Lacquers, $9 each, ulta.com 2. GIVE PROPS to all things female in comic books from lady illustrators to foxy superheroes with the new book Pretty in Ink: North American Women Cartoonists 1896–2013. 3. YOU BETTER WORK B**CH Britney Spears releases her 8th studio album on December 3 (a day after her 32nd birthday) then kicks off a two-year gig at Planet Hollywood Las Vegas on December 27. Keep on dancing till the world ends, B. 4. to 8. TAKE THE OSCAR BAIT It's that time of year when studios release their most-likely-to-win-an-Academy-Award hopefuls.…

No female star has had a year quite like Miley Cyrus—from her split with fiancé Liam Hemsworth to her polarizing VMA performance (why do people feel so much more comfortable attacking female performers than they do male singers?) to the record-smashing success of "Wrecking Ball" and her hilarious turn on Saturday Night Live. When we spoke on the phone last week, she was bursting with energy. "I'm the happiest I've ever been," she chirped. "People keep looking at me and saying 'You're glowing and radiating this happiness.' I don't know how more could be going on in one human being's life!" In other words, it's Miley's moment—which is why we've put her on the cover for the second time this year. She concluded our chat by saying "It's so much…

"IN THE MIDDLE OF A ROMANTIC DINNER, HIS PHONE VIBRATED. HE PULLED IT OUT, AND HE had a full conversation AS I PUSHED MY FOOD AROUND. A FEW MINUTES LATER, HE answered it again!" —THERESA M., 24 "He seemed like a really good listener. Then he asked me, 'Do you ever stop talking?' I was like, excuse me? Then I walked out." —LEAH P., 24 "I never drink tequila, but on a first date, a guy kept my glass filled. On the sidewalk, he pulled me in close for a kiss. The sudden motion made me sick, and I threw up on the sidewalk…and a little on him." —TRACY S., 26 "When he pulled up at my house, he had a Chucky doll sitting in the passenger seat where I…

Every week, I get at least one e-mail from someone I know, often barely, asking for money for his or her project. There was an ex-boyfriend with an album, two friends running marathons, another ex with a graphic novel, and a neighbor suggesting I help make the Veronica Mars movie a reality. Whenever my in-box dings, I'm tempted to respond…with my credit card. I like to think I have a good heart, and hey, what's sacrificing a couple of lattes? But $10 here and there adds up. To date, the online fund-raising platform Kickstarter has more than $813 million in pledges, many from accidental Daddy Warbucks like me. Okay, so most successfully funded projects raise less than $10,000, but some reach six figures, 49 hit the million-dollar mark, and a…

From top: Ornament, Initial Reaction, $33, initialreaction.net; bracelets (from left), Sequence, $38, sequencecollection.com; Miansai, $60, miansai.com; Miansai, $85, miansai.com; Sequence, $53, sequencecollection.com; pocket diary, Smythson, $120, smythson.com; necklace, David Yurman, David Yurman, 212-752-4255; dress, Roberto Cavalli, similar styles available at Roberto Cavalli boutiques; pinkie ring, Bijules, $279, bijulesnyc.com; chain-ring bracelet, $375, ring, $435, Jennifer Fisher, jenniferfisher jewelry.com; sweater, Autumn Cashmere, $286, Wink, 212-433-0161; cupcake, Georgetown Cupcake, $2.75, georgetowncupcake.com The perfect presents for everyone on your list… and for yourself, of course. GET YOUR SHOP ON! BAD SANTA Black, red, and right all over, these tongue-in-cheek gifts are guaranteed to keep you on the naughty (in a good way) list. 1 Clutch, Stella McCartney, Stella McCartney, 212-255-1556 2 Panty,…

I know black is usually the way to go, but if I wanted to wear another color to an interview, are there any that would work? —JULIE PERRY, 29 "The color red represents power, so I definitely think you should incorporate it into your interview look! You can make an entrance statement with a crimson wool coat then take it off to show your I-mean-business black ensemble. Good luck—I hope you get the job!" Lauren Jeans Co., $299, macys.com What's a standout, unexpected piece of jewelry to wear to holiday events? —ALLISON BERRY, 22 Left ear cuff, Material Girl, $10, macys.com; right ear cuff, Annelise Michelson, $425, avenue32.com Bottle opener, Fort Standard for Of a Kind, $44, ofakind.com; watch, Bulova, $399, macys.com; Fitbit Flex Wireless Wristband, $99.99, Target I…

When we love something, we want one in every color (or fragrance or flavor). Cue our obsession with these collections, which you can keep for yourself—or spread among your besties. Cheeky Crew Chances are, you've tried the original rose-hued Benetint (the cult fave debuted in 1977!)—maybe even the Posie and Cha Cha Tints that followed. This month comes Lolli Tint, a poppy orchid color you'll want in the rotation. Benefit Tints, $30 each, benefitcosmetics.com Aroma Anthology Clear your dresser to display a few of these stone-topped beauties (we love Ikat Jasmine for every day and Amber Musk for date night)—or give one to your mom. Aerin Fragrance Collection, $110 each, aerin.com Cast of Colors A CoverGirl–Catching Fire nail collaboration guarantees one thing: a total sellout (especially at just…

I never thought oil would change my life. Falling in love? Life changing. Being pregnant? Certainly. Writing a book? Yup. A beauty product? No. Really, no. But one did. It started a year ago, when I gathered on my bathroom shelf a few glass bottles filled with oils, like grape-seed, sea-buckthorn, black-currant, argan, camellia-seed, and almond. They looked enchanting, old-fashioned, and sexy in front of the white tiles. While now there seems to be a trend of mainstream beauty companies offering cleansing and moisturizing oils, when I began to use them, I felt like I had found an old, rusty key to a beauty secret of ages past. But at the same time, when I unscrewed that first bottle, mixed in with its ancient scent was a brand-new spark of…

WE'RE CRUSHING ON THE SEASON'S intense color palette. One daub, sweep, or stroke of these rich, sexy textures ON LIPS, EYES, OR NAILS WILL CREATE A LOOK THAT WILL GET YOU NOTICED IN THE CROWD. Smash MOUTH BareMinerals Marvelous Moxie Lipstick in Live Large, $18, bareminerals.com YSL Rouge Pur Couture in Corail Urbain, $34, yslbeautyus.com Rimmel London Kate Moss Lasting Finish Matte Lipstick in 113, $5.49, drugstores MAC Cosmetics Retro Matte Lipstick in Relentlessly Red, $15, maccosmetics.com Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Hydrating Sheer Lipshine in Parfait, $34, chanel.com Lancôme L'Absolu Rouge Lipcolor in Rouge Caprice, $30, lancome-usa.com Tom Ford Lip Color in Bruised Plum, $49, neimanmarcus.com Elizabeth Arden Beautiful Color Moisturizing Lipstick in Red Door Red, $25, elizabetharden.com Dior Rouge Dior Lipstick…

"My parents are charging me rent to live at home while I job-hunt." —Sarah P., 22 Join the club: One in three millennials lives with her parents. Whether your parents charge you rent on principle or need your help to cover the added utilities, food, and other costs of your living there, it may seem weird to pay to sleep in your childhood room. Set ground rules to feel more in control. Will they give you a discounted rate if you pitch in with chores? How long do you plan to be at home? And use this period as an opportunity to hone your money skills. Talk to your parents about their housing budget and you'll be ahead of the game when you move out on your own. "My…

I NEVER SAW IT COMING. I was a lieutenant in the military police in Italy when my brother, Raffaele, was accused of an unthinkable crime. He was in college, in love with an American student named Amanda Knox, and living in the scenic hilltop city of Perugia, Italy. One night while he and Amanda shared a romantic dinner at his apartment, a woman was brutally stabbed to death across town. That woman was Amanda's roommate, a British student named Meredith Kercher. The murderer left Meredith lying on the floor, her body covered with a bloody duvet. That was six years ago, on the first night of November in 2007. I was 30 years old, living in Rome, planning to become a mountie in the military police, known as the carabinieri.…

Q My boyfriend is really into foreplay, but I'm a "main event" kind of girl. How do I get him to speed things up and get to the actual sex sooner? A Congrats on finding a man who didn't go to the Wham, Bam, Thank You, Ma'am School of Hooking Up. While intercourse is the favorite for many a sexy minx like yourself, consider that the fun before the deed may be really important to arousing him. Kinky compromise: Liven up your foreplay with a couple's sex toy, like the Ako Vibe ($35, babeland.com), designed for exciting both your clitoris and his testicles. Or "surprise him with a quickie now and then, so you get your fix," suggests sex therapist Sadie Allison, PhD, author of Tickle Your Fancy: A Woman's…

There is a magical place that reverses almost every sign of aging. It's your parents' house, and chances are good that with the holidays coming up, you'll soon be experiencing its power firsthand. Outside your childhood home, you are an independent grown-up with a job, possibly a 401(k), and vague concerns about taking vitamins. Inside, you are still a cranky teenager. "I found myself stomping up the stairs, slamming the bedroom door, and screaming, 'You don't understand!'" says Ana P., from Portland, Oregon, describing a recent fight she had with her dad. "It was ridiculous. I thought, 'I am 30 years old; I'm married; I manage a half-a-million-dollar budget at my job,'" she says. "How did this happen?" It happens to the best of us. "A smell, a sound, or…

When we last sat down with Miley Cyrus earlier this year for our March cover story, the most controversial thing about her was her chopped-off hair. Since then, a few things have changed. Cyrus—who turns 21 on November 23—stormed the MTV Video Music Awards with a sexed-up performance that broke the internet, launched a pair of hit singles (the party ode "We Can't Stop" and the emotional "Wrecking Ball") off her new album, Bangerz, and broke up with her fiancé, Hunger Games actor Liam Hemsworth. A messy parting with the man you'd planned to marry might drive some girls to the couch with a carton of Chunky Monkey, but not Miley. When we met up with her at a Hollywood soundstage just weeks after the breakup became official, she was…

Have Fun OUTSIDE! The temps have dropped, but that doesn't mean you're stuck being a couch potato. Sweating outside not only gives you energy, but it also makes it more likely you'll repeat the workout in the future, according to a study in Environmental Science and Technology. Win-win, snow bunny. TAKE A WALK If shorter days bum you out, soaking up some natural light will help your body make vitamin D, which may improve your mood. (Don't forget SPF: You get a good dose of D even with sunscreen.) PICK UP THE PACE Outdoor runs and bike rides burn more calories than hopping on a treadmill or stationary bike, thanks to natural resistance created by wind, uneven terrain, and sidestepping icy patches. Plus, gearing up and taking on the…

THE BIG ow! Coital Cephalalgia \ ko'it l sef' -lal'j \ n Nothing feels better than an epic orgasm…unless it's followed by a massive orgasm headache. Sexual activity elevates blood pressure and heart rate, which can trigger coital cephalalgia: head-splitting pain lasting minutes or even days. To ensure headache-free hookups, tell your doc your symptoms. After ruling out rare conditions like an aneurysm or a tumor, she can offer a migraine Rx, like Zolmitriptan nasal spray or Sumatriptan pills, or advise you take ibuprofen. —MADELINE BUXTON SOURCE: EDMUND MESSINA, MD, MEDICAL DIRECTOR AT THE MICHIGAN HEADACHE CLINIC Ask Dr. Ashton Q Wait, why did my doctor put her finger up my butt? I thought it was a pelvic exam! A She's probably trying to evaluate the backside of your pelvis,…

Party Time! BUILD A BETTER…CROSTINI Party food that's darling, delish, and easy? We'll toast to that. SWEET Fresh Strawberry and Balsamic Slice 4 c. strawberries. Spread 1 T fresh goat cheese on each toast, then spoon on strawberries. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar, and sprinkle with sea salt. SALTY Ricotta With Olives and Pistachios In a food processor, puree ¼ c. each pistachios, olives, and olive oil; 2 T parsley; 2 anchovy fillets; the juice of ½ lemon; ½ t. grated orange zest; a pinch of chili flakes; and salt and pepper. Spread toasts with the ricotta. Top with the mixture. SPICY Rapini, Chilies, and Garlic Cook 2 smashed garlic cloves and a pinch of chili flakes in 1½ T olive oil for 30 seconds. Add a small bunch of broccoli…

(NOV. 22–DEC. 21) Sagittarius STELLAR GIFTS You're open-minded, enthusiastic, and the life of every party. BLIND SPOTS You can be blunt and quick to judge. FASHION FAVES Pops of color and leather accessories enhance your bold style. INDULGENCE Traveling to exotic places sparks your curiosity and creativity. SEDUCTION STYLE You are a playful partner and don't get clingy in long-term relationships. THIS MONTH Channel your inner domestic goddess and throw a holiday soiree. You'll be a hot hostess, and your crush is sure to notice. Mars, the planet of action, is touring your house of career. You're in the spotlight, so maintain your energy at work despite holiday festivities. YEAR AHEAD JUPITER, SYMBOLIZING ABUNDANCE, IS POISED TO MAKE YOUR RELATIONSHIPS THRIVE AND STEER YOUR CAREER IN A NEW DIRECTION. CHANGING…

1 You're excited about your boyfriend's party tonight because: a. You finally get to intro your girl Beth to his Liam Hemsworth–look-alike brother. b. Is this a trick Q? It's Friday, and you're going to be drinking and twerking. Woo-hoo! c. He's taking charge, so you can just hang out! The food might be iffy, but it's all good. 2 What's the first thing you do when you walk into your office holiday party? a. Make a beeline to butter up your boss, since you want to ask for a raise on Monday. b. Gab more with the coworkers you came in with. Dullsville, but rude to ditch them. c. Grab drinks, then Ben in billing! It may be a work thing, but you gotta get a groove on. 3…

What You Thought of the October Issue SHOWSTOPPER "I loved Jennifer Lopez on the cover. She is such a powerful woman and has been my fashion icon since she came onto the scene. This was, by far, the best issue I've read. Thanks, Cosmo!" — Siranush O., North Hollywood, CA MIND OVER MATTER "Thank you so much for 'I'm Too Young…for a Brain Tumor.' I had a similar condition, and it gave me encouragement that I wasn't alone in this struggle!" — Jess W., Shreveport, LA MATERNAL INSTINCTS "I was shocked and touched by the story 'My Sister and I Will Never Get Along. My Mother Is Why.' As a mother of three, I can't begin to understand how a mother can choose favorites. In this case, Koren has shown…

MY FAVORITE SONG ON BANGERZ IS: AND I LOVE IT BECAUSE: THE COOLEST THING IN MY CLOSET IS: I HAVE A TOTAL GIRL CRUSH ON: a. Rihanna b. Katy Perry c. Angelina Jolie d. Britney Spears e. Other: THE #1 MEMBER OF MY #TWERKTEAM IS: BEST RELATIONSHIP ADVICE MY PARENTS EVER GAVE ME WAS: AT LA CASA CYRUS, OUR FAVORITE HOLIDAY TRADITION IS: THE SECRET TO LOOKING GREAT NAKED (ON A WRECKING BALL) IS: MY GUILTIEST PLEASURE IS: THE CRAZIEST THING I HAVE EVER DONE FOR LOVE IS: THE ALL-TIME BEST GIFT I'VE EVER RECEIVED IS: Bodysuit, Rihanna for River Island, $57; shorts, Bitching and Junk Food, $120; bra, Made by Niki, $208; (left hand) left ring, $240, middle ring, $560, right ring, $384, Thomas Sabo; (right hand) ring, Vivienne…

SEXY BEASTSelena Gomez can't resist the bad, er, bears. SEÑOR FROGLooks like The Wanted's Jay McGuiness shares tees—what about boxers? HUG IT OUT Blame new niece North West for Kendall Jenner's baby complex. PURPLE HEART Oh, to be Pax Jolie-Pitt's buddy when dad Brad holds him tight. THUMB SUCKER In a cute-off between Jennifer Lawrence and a cub, J. Law wins, always. PINK LADY Everything's coming up rosy for Carly Rae Jepsen. YOUCH! Stars make injuries look glam. 1 Sling it, girl! You won't catch Lady Gaga ridin' dirty. Cone head! 1 Nice jewels, Mariah Carey, but Glitter won't get a sequel (we hope!). 2 Joshua Jackson does the hot hobble. 3 We see you rolling, Lady Gaga. 4 Gwen Stefani's pup ain't no hollaback dog. 5 We want to…

Talk about well-endowed. FUN The dude will appreciate his 8-inch…cup size. Solo cup. Get your mind out of the gutter! Gigantic Red Party Cup, Fred Flare, $20, fredflare.com FEARLESS Tell him how you really feel! Put photos and notes on this sweet little memory device. Love you! Mean it! Message in a Bottle Flash Drive, CB2, $27.95, cb2.com FAIL We're all for staying fresh down there, but there's gotta be a better way. Weener Kleener Soap, Always Fits, $6.99, alwaysfits.com FOR YOUR CRUSH FUN Your canine's so flush, he chews through cash like Kanye. Cash Stash Dog Toy Money, Fun Stuff for Dogs, $13.50, store.funstufffordogs.com Grumpy Cat: A Grumpy Book, Chronicle Books, $12.95, chroniclebooks.com FEARLESS Because Fido needs to get off his duff and start…

1 The Silk Cami 2 The Body Shaper 3 The High-Rise Brief 4 The Flirty Slip Worn throughout: 1 Cami, $97, shorts, $58, Gold Hawk, Neiman Marcus; necklace, Djula, djula.fr 2 Body shaper, Scandale, $98, Saks Fifth Avenue; bar necklace, $286, circle-pendant necklace, $352, Adina Reyter, adinadesign.com; ring, $650, hexagon ring, $638, Shay Accessories, shayaccessories.com 3 Bra, $74, underwear, $48, Huit, nancymeyer.com; necklace, Adina Reyter, $352, adinadesign.com 4 Slip, Eres, $490, 888-656-ERES; necklace, Ariel Gordon Jewelry, $330, arielgordonjewelry.com; bracelet, Sydney Evan, sydneyevan.com Beauty Tip When ditching tights for the night, prep ghostly winter legs with a gradual bronzing lotion (like Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer, $9, drugstores). 1 Silk cami + lace skirt + strappy heels = Glam 2 Shaper + red dress+ booties…

Tank, Victoria's Secret Pink, $32.50, vspink.com; clutch, Sophia Webster, $495, Bergdorf Goodman Sweater, I Heart Ronson, $25, jcpenney.com; earrings, Wendy Brandes Jewelry, $35 each, wendybrandes.com Swimsuit, The Lake and Stars x Wren, $220, saks.com MAKE A SPLASH Teaming with indie designer The Lake and Stars, Wren debuts bombshell swimwear with a cool-girl twist. EMOJI MANIA Read our lips: Smartphones were just the beginning—emoticons are now on everything from tee shirts to jewelry to clutches. Taking Minutes Nail the borrowed-from-the-boys look and support AIDS awareness with Kenneth Cole's Powered by You watch. Watch, Kenneth Cole New York, $250, kenneth coletime.com Pajama Party L'WREN SCOTT'S LIMITED-EDITION COLLECTION FOR BANANA REPUBLIC IS FULL OF POLISH FROM SEXY COCKTAIL DRESSES TO CLASSY SILK PJ'S THAT WORK FOR DAY AS SEPARATES…

STARRY-EYED Score twinkling lashes by layering this over your go-to black mascara.Hard Candy Lash Tinsel, $6, walmart.com GLAM TO GO THESE LUXE-LOOKING BRUSHES ARE PERFECT FOR HOLIDAY TRAVEL. E.L.F. CRYSTAL TRAVEL BRUSH SET, $5, eyeslipsface.com DISCO BALM Pair this iridescent pink lip hue with a smoky eye for a rockin' NYE look. Sephora Collection Impulse Gloss, $6, sephora.com DEW YOU QUENCH A.M.-AFTER SKIN WITH OUR FAVORITE NEW BB CREAM. POND'S LUMINOUS FINISH BB+, $10, DRUGSTORES FOAM PARTY THE SIGNATURE HERBAL SCENT— NOW BOD-FRIENDLY! HERBAL ESSENCES HAPPY GO LATHER BODY WASH, $5, DRUGSTORES ON THE ROCKS Sparkling cranberry: A festive new take on the classic red mani. SALLY HANSEN GEM CRUSH NAIL COLOR IN LADY LUCK, $7, DRUGSTORES BLING BOARD Filing never looked so glam. MARK ROCK THIS…

SKIN TYPE DRY/NORMAL A.M.-AFTER SKIN ISSUE Ingredients in makeup can be drying, causing flakes, dullness, and sensitivity, says Annet King, director of global education for Dermalogica. COMPLEXION-PERFECTION PLAN STEP 1 Double Cleanse Starting with an oil-based makeup remover, which latches onto old makeup best, gives you a clean slate and prevents moisture loss. A creamy scrub gets the rest. STEP 2 Give Eyes Some TLC "The eye area lacks oil glands. Skipping your nighttime routine dries out the skin, emphasizing fine lines," says King. The fix: an eye-specific hydrating mask (the one at right also depuffs). STEP 3 Mix Moisturizers Add a few drops of a supercharged hydration booster to a dime-size dollop of rich cream to soothe and offer double the hydration. Your tool kit STEP 1 Aveeno Positively…

ONE DAY AT MY last job, for no apparent reason, my boss blurted out, "You're unapproachable." Uh, so awkward. I went straight to Gchat to vent and got a chorus of "WTF" and "So sexist!" from my friends, which was only mildly reassuring. Why would he say that? I didn't get it. It was the first time I'd ever heard him comment on what I was like at work, and it's been the same with my other bosses. My situation's not uncommon. If you're a corporate type, you probably get what's known as a 360, which involves getting formal, detailed feedback from people who rank above, below, and at your level. But a 360—or any degree of feedback—isn't something most of us get. Only 37 percent of workers said they'd…

THE MARATHON WOMAN Erin Michael, 30, physical therapist When Michael ran in the 2011 Baltimore Running Festival with a team from the Kennedy Krieger Institute, where she works with spinal-injury patients, she was surprised to see that few athletes with disabilities were running or riding. "I saw maybe three hand cycles [bikes powered by arms instead of legs] at the biggest racing event in the city," she recalls. So she began putting together her own team of patient/athletes to compete the next year. "I want to help patients achieve something they were once told they never would be able to do after their injury," Michael says. This year, the team boasts 24 patient/athletes and will use fund-raising money to buy more hand cycles, which cost up to $10,000. "I'm so…

for YOUR GUY He wants to hang with his hometown buds, but he'll never bother to call 'em all up. Be a good little elf and plan an outing with his whole crew to show him that you are thinking of what he'd like to do and are down to see his friends too. for HIS FAMILY Psh, cookies are so generic. Whip up a dish that's traditional to his folks' heritage. It may not taste perfect, but you'll go down as the most thoughtful GF ever. for YOUR BESTIE Fill a stocking with items she loves plus mementos of your friendship—things that represent inside jokes, adventures gone awry…anything that says "Hey, only us." Stash it where she'll find it while you're away for the holidays. for…

My BF watches porn, which I'm okay with, but he favors porn with tall, voluptuous blondes. I'm a petite, small-chested brunette. What does this mean? A All it means is he's dating a small-chested brunette. If you were a tall, voluptuous blonde, I have a hunch your boyfriend would tend to watch porn featuring small-chested brunettes. It's natural for men—and women, for that matter—to fantasize about having what they don't already have. True, some guys are attracted to specific physical characteristics in women, but in reality, most guys have one type and that type is hot. I have no doubt your boyfriend thinks you're hot. Now, here's one more tip for how to feel less insecure: Quit looking at your boyfriend's browsing history, you snoop. Q I have stretch marks…

"I JUST THOUGHT, 'MAYBE I'LL GET TO GO SOMEWHERE FABULOUS OR ON A FEW FANCY DATES.'" More college-age women than ever are taking to the web to find sugar daddies who'll pay for tuition, trips, and designer bags…but the perks come at a steep price. Sarah Z. Wexler investigates the scary new way some young women are making money. Lots of girls are jealous of Abby*, 19, a brunette business major in Louisville, Kentucky, for landing such an amazing boyfriend. She raves about her amazing connection with Michael, a handsome 36-year-old doctor who is happy to spend weekends together at the symphony, appreciates her cooking so much he's offered to pay for culinary school, and isn't afraid to commit to a monogamous relationship, even inviting her to move into his…

You know Jena Malone as the seriously fierce actress who broke hearts in Stepmom, brooded in Donnie Darko, and kicked butt in Sucker Punch. Now she takes on the hard-ass character of Johanna Mason in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire. But Jena herself shouldn't be feared. On the set of our photo shoot, the 29-year-old set Pandora to the '90s R & B girl group En Vogue channel and let loose. "Sometimes, I'll hear a mariachi song and be like, Let's go have a dance party!" she says. Here, she talks clothes, cartwheels, cocktails, and why girls just wanna have fun. Top, Bec and Bridge, $200; skirt, Markus Lupfer; shoes, Charlotte Olympia; left cuff, $145, right cuff, $135, Forest of Chintz; turntable, Crosley, $119.95 This page Top, skirt, Marc Jacobs;…

Pre-Party at the Gym! Easiest way ever to boost your workout results: Listen to fast-paced tunes as you're heading to the gym and changing in the locker room. "Up-tempo songs will increase your breathing rate, heart rate, and muscular tension and stimulate the production of adrenaline," says Costas Karageorghis, PhD, author of Inside Sport Psychology. "All those things make exercise feel easier and help you go harder and longer." THE CELL PHONE 15 The more time you spend on your phone—texting, talking, Words With Friends-ing—the less you spend being active, according to a new Kent State University study of the lifestyle habits of college students. To minimize phone-related weight gain, max out at one hour of cell time a day. And keep your cell tucked away when you're walking or…

MEET YOUR TRAINER Holly Rilinger Known For Her sold-out Flywheel Spinning classes and training camps in NYC and the Hamptons Famous Clients Sarah Jessica Parker And Sofia Vergara ONE-TWO PUNCH 1 Stand with feet just wider than shoulder-width apart, toes pointed 45 degrees, and bend knees so thighs are parallel to the floor. Make fists with hands and raise them to chin height, with elbows next to torso. 2 Maintaining squat position, punch right hand across your body to the left, simultaneously turning your torso and head in that direction. Repeat with the left hand to the right. Continue punching in each direction without pausing for 30 seconds, going as quickly as you can. Press through your heels to really work your butt. Think perky! On Rilinger: Tank top, Nike,…

THROW THE UGLIEST (AKA BEST) UGLY SWEATER CHRISTMAS PARTY Embrace the so-bad-it's-awesome holiday spirit! It's about to get kitschy in here. Make a DIY Photo Booth Throw up a backdrop (matte wrapping paper works great), put out some funny props (Santa hats), and create your own hashtag (#Fugsmas). Naughty and otherwise inappropriate poses highly encouraged. From left: Vest, Ugly Christmas Sweaters, $19.95, uglychristmassweaterparty.com; vest, Ugly Christmas Sweaters, $19.95, uglychristmassweaterparty.com; Christmas sweater with pug, ASOS, $59, asos.com . Backdrop: Santa Crowd Wrap, Container Store, $14.99, containerstore.com Translate Your Sweater INTO THE DECOR Go completely bonkers and load the ugly-sweater sleigh with tinsel, baby. This is the time to go for the light-up plastic Santas and Rudolphs. You have license to be outrageous at a party like this. Don't decorate…

EXCLUSIVE COSMO EXCERPT THE ANSWER IS YES When her bridesmaid's dress tears open in the middle of her ex's wedding, Hayley Miller finds herself in her most embarrassing nightmare. But the heat of her mortification provides the perfect backdrop for an entirely different kind of heat with the best man, the devastatingly handsome Italian Nico Rossi…. HAYLEY is a bridesmaid in the wedding of her ex, Charlie. To her surprise, Cressida, the bride, asked her to be in the wedding and Hayley couldn't refuse or people might think she still had feelings for Charlie. Cressida, no dummy, uses the opportunity to make Hayley look every bit the frumpy bridesmaid by putting her in a terrible—and terribly tight—dress. When it splits while she's standing at the altar, Charlie's best…