By Tiffany San Roman | Wellness Contributor

Summer, especially in a place like Chicago, is about looking hot. Whether your rocking your board shorts on North Avenue Beach or stripping down to the skimpiest 2 piece on Oak Street, no matter who you are it truly is about getting some much-wanted attention. Now, whenever you go to the beach what is one thing that truly stands out in a guy (or gal)? That's right folks, the elusive v-line. Getting a v-cut does require some serious commitment, but there’s no magic to it.

Obtaining v-line abs isn’t something that’s going to happen overnight, and it requires two basic steps. Much like getting lower back dimples, the cuts that make v-lines pop are only visible with a low body fat percentage. Even a thin layer of fat will prevent your v-lines from showing through. The second step involves specifically targeting your lower abdomen muscles during your workouts.

Let’s walk through the two steps in greater detail.

Decrease body fat percentages to the 6% – 13% range for men (and 14% – 20% for women). Body fat percentages in these lower ranges often require hard work and dedication. These are the levels of fat you’d find in elite athletes. There are some formulas that you can use to calculate your body fat – but I’d recommend working with a trainer or professional to determine your starting point. One of the most effective ways to decrease fat is by engaging in a high intensity interval training program. As you alternate between intervals of high and medium intensity, you’ll push your metabolism into high gear – and incinerate calories long after your workout ends. Supplements like Quick Slim by MJ Products help boost your metabolism while burning fat and are proven to be effective.

Build lower ab muscles. While obtaining a low body fat percentage is crucial, you’ll obviously need to develop your abdominal muscles – and lower abs, in particular – to achieve the full effect. Crunches are fine, but what really burns fat and has a more vivid appearance on the abdominals is the plank, which will require you to lift your body, arms to the side, for 30-45 seconds for beginners, 1 minute for more advanced individuals. 3-4 reps are good and, trust me, you'll definitely feel the burn.

Body lifts. If you you have access to a fitness center or gym equipment, try sets of hanging leg raises. Hang from a bar, and lift your straightened legs so that the body folds in half. For a variation, bend your knees and include a twist. Twist on one side, then repeat the exercise by twisting on the other. Be powerful and explosive in your movements. For women, simply hang from a bar and lift your lower body as high as possible, legs extended. 10-12 reps, 3-4 sets works perfectly.

Remember that while performing any exercise, the most important thing you can do is stay hydrated. Plenty of water means a fresh, glowing look while also eliminating toxins from the body.

By both lowering your body fat percentage and developing your lower abdomen muscles, you’ll get the all-elusive v-cut that drives so many of us wild. When you reach your summer v-line goal, send us your pics: we promise we'll be nice! xoxo

By Jorge G. Zavala | Creative Director

Spring has finally arrived and summer is right around the corner, insiders. The sun is shining, the air is warm, and the birds are chirping. In Chicago, we cannot take a single warm day for granted and for this very reason we aspire to make everyday a fiesta.

Mother's Day is this weekend and, no matter what mom says, she wants to be treated like the queen that she is. For this very reason, I've crafted a special cocktail reflective of my own mom: a sweet, strong, passionate woman full of vibrant energy. This craft cocktail, the Raspberry Moscato Sangria Delight, will not only be a hit with mom but a vibrant piece of delish for any summer occasion.

This sangria is slightly sweet, fruity, and bursting with color. It's fruity with hints of honeysuckle and melon and creates the perfect rooftop patio drink for any high-so occasion.

To boost the raspberry flavor, I made a sweet raspberry simple syrup by boiling frozen red raspberries with water and sugar. When the syrup cools, it gets strained through a mesh sieve to capture the pulp and seeds. I also added a generous splash of red berry vodka. You could also use raspberry vodka or raspberry liquor (anything but raspberry schnapps will work). For a bit of bubble, I finished off the sangria with a touch of champagne.

Ingredients: Sangria 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries

1 cup halved strawberries

1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries

1 (750 ml) bottle chilled Moscato

1 recipe raspberry simple syrup (recipe below)

1/2 cup red berry or raspberry vodka

1 cup champagne

Raspberry Simple Syrup 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup water

Directions: Sangria Add fruit to the bottom of a large pitcher. Top with chilled Moscato, raspberry simple syrup, and vodka. Stir to combine. Place the pitcher in the refrigerator for at least an hour to chill.

Before serving, stir in lemon-lime soda.

Raspberry Simple Syrup In a small pot, add raspberries, sugar, and water. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves. Take the mixture off the heat and allow it to come to room-temperature. Strain the mixture through a mesh sieve. If you're not going to use the mixture right away, store in an airtight container and place in the refrigerator until ready to use. The mixture can be made 3 days ahead.

I encourage you to make this for that special lady in your life and woo her away like the gent you are. After you've made it and had a chance to savor its delicious elixir, let me know how much you've enjoyed it.