Five Ways to Change Up Your Beauty Look in 2013

Go for a twist on the classics.

Wear navy or indigo eyeliner instead of black. Try a burgundy or rusty red lip instead of bright red. These subtle changes in shade will have a dramatic and head-turning effect.

But when it comes to nail polish, stick with the classics.

For the past two years, I've been painting my nails with loud colors like electric blue and kelly green, often adding glitter, decals or patterned nail stickers. My poor reds and light pinks are collecting dust. I think it's time to give the nail art a rest and bring the old standbys back into rotation.

Get creative with braids.

I've been putting off learning how to French braid my hair since I was about eight years old. But lately, braids of all different types—the waterfall, milkmaid and fishtail, to name a few—have been all over the runways, red carpets and Pinterest, and I'm getting envious.

Replace a product that contains harmful chemicals with a more natural one.

You may not realize it, but many of the most trusted beauty brands make their products using toxins that can be harmful to your health.

There are plenty of great organic products on the market now, and you'll likely find that you like the results better. Start by swapping out one of the products you use every day, like foundation.

Take risks!

During the week, I'm all about the natural look. But on the weekends, I treat makeup like an accessory.

This year, why not try hot pink eyeshadow or some blue streaks in your hair? The Spring 2013 runways made it look pretty cool.