Book Tackles Fashion Emergencies

We all run into fashion emergencies. The problem is, we never know when they’ll strike. And help needs to be immediate.

Like style’s answer to Mighty Mouse, here comes beauty and fashion expert Diane Irons to save the day with her new book, “911 Beauty Secrets: An Emergency Guide to Looking Great at Every Age, Size and Budget” (Trade Paper Original, $14.95).

Drawing on her 30 years as a fashion model, talk-show host, image consultant and beauty reporter, Irons divulges the beauty tricks of the rich and famous, from hiding a hangover to shedding weight after pregnancy.

Did you know, for example, that you can revive your tired face in the morning by splashing it with Alka Seltzer? Or that laxatives will get rid of blackheads? Or that you can prevent foot odor by soaking your feet in strong tea? Strange, but apparently true.

There’s more: Lip balm works to repair cracked fingertips; face powder used around wrinkles only accentuates them.

“911 Beauty Secrets” also reveals celebrity tips for staying fit and beautiful:

Goldie Hawn makes her own beverage concoctions by blending celery, kale, parsley and peppers.

Pamela Anderson rubbed shea butter all over her body--especially the tummy area--to get her figure back after pregnancy.

Jennifer Love Hewitt uses toothpaste as an overnight pimple remedy.

Naomi Campbell relies on monthly power peels to improve her skin tone.

Josie Bissett starts off each day with oatmeal or Raisin Bran with soy milk.

Distributed by the Los Angeles Times-Washington Post News Service.