Archive for the ‘Thoughts from the Closet’ Category

Important Men’s Fashion Tips

Sunday, April 1st, 2012

By Nelson Fountaine

For many men, the concept of men’s fashion is no more than wearing outfits that match to a certain degree, on the proper occasion. Of course, there is much more to men’s fashion than that, and by following some important tips you can refine your look and feel a lot better in the clothes you wear.

Articles such as men’s dress shirts, men’s dress shoes and suits for men don’t have to strike fear in the hearts of men who don’t know what they’re looking for. If you follow some general guidelines when searching for any type of men’s clothing, it will make the process go a lot smoother and will result in you wearing clothes that fit perfectly and look great.

Regardless of the type of men’s clothing you’re wearing, the fit is of paramount importance. Men’s fashion is filled with guys who wear all of their clothes in sizes that are too big. Exact fits will vary, but a good general rule is to wear your clothes so they almost hug your body. You don’t want them tight, but you do want them contoured. This includes men’s suits, men’s shirts, men’s jeans and everything else.

It’s usually also a good idea to keep your well-fitted men’s clothing more along the simple line. A maximum of three different colors per outfit is a good rule to follow for men’s fashion. The supporting articles of clothing also play an important role in men’s fashion. It may be true that men’s suit or other article may be the star, but everything must match for the outfit to be complete. Try to keep the same theme on top and bottom of all the outfits you wear.

When you go shopping for men’s clothing, try to take along a friend most of the time. It can be tough to trust the salespeople 100 percent, as they are trying to sell everything, after all. Good salespeople will be helpful, but having a little extra support never hurt. You can get a much different perspective on men’s shirts, men’s suits, and men’s fashion in general, if you bring along a friend for your shopping excursion. Having a friend along will also help you mix things up and stay current in your look. Try not to follow trends too closely in men’s fashion, because obviously they are going to change. Also, don’t be a slave to brand names because in the end your wallet will definitely be lighter, but your look might not show it.

As with most things in life, details are extremely important in men’s fashion. Men’s suits, men’s shirts and men’s jeans are important, but many people notice the details first. These may include jewelry, a scarf, a pocket square or the knot you use for your tie. Many women will glance down at men’s shoes before they look at anything else, making them an important aspect of men’s fashion.

Whatever kind of men’s shoes you decide to wear, keeping them clean and looking sharp will enhance your overall sense of men’s fashion as much as anything.

For all of your men’s fashion needs, trust the experts at Harry Rosen Menswear 700 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, BC V7Y 1E8 (604) 683-6861.

Being On Trend for Spring With Head Scarves And More

Sunday, April 1st, 2012

This spring, we are going to see women boldly go where they may not have before: bright colors! Whether pastels or florescent, everything is incredibly bright this season. This carries into everything, from pants to shoes, head scarves to jewelry. You can’t walk into a store without seeing in your face brights.

Speaking of color, jeans of all colors of the rainbow are very popular at the moment. You’ll find them in orange, red, purple and green and a variety of shades of each. They can really change up an entire outfit if you know how to wear them. For those who are new to the style, pairing them with a white t-shirt and simple flats is a safe way to go. For those who embrace the trend completely, have fun with it. Pair a floral blouse with your pants. Also in is color blocking, so a blue shirt with your green pants and orange shoes may sound wild, but you will be sure to see lots of it.

Adding more color to things is the trend of the head scarf. Head scarves have always been acceptable, but they are more so in style this year than they have been in a while. Forgo the black, brown and gray headscarves of old and whip out floral patterns, stripes and polka dots. Polka dots are huge this season and on your head scarf, they are sure to be adorable and add a little bit of young flair. A head scarf isn’t just in trend, but it’s great for keeping your head cool and away from direct sunlight, so you won’t get burned up there!Wedges are still in, spilling over from last year and especially the fall and winter. But we’ll see more open toed wedges as well as sandals with a high wedge. Some of these are pretty high in height, but a platform in the front can make walking a lot easier and give your foot less of a strain. Expect to see these in all sorts of colors and a lot of them in a suede material.

Getting into the new trends of the year can definitely be a lot of fun. All you need is a dash of color, a pair of wedges and a great head scarf and you’ll look like you just came off the runway. And the great thing is, these seem to be trends that will hang around for a while!

DoubleHeaderUSA offers a variety of styles on head coverings, from head scarves to hair bows. They have great prices and other accessories to match.

Clothes Every Career Woman Should Own

Wednesday, March 28th, 2012

A big problem those right out of college have is that they have to dress up for job interviews, but they don’t have money to buy the clothes since they don’t have that job yet!

Most people actually have plenty of clothes that would be great for an office, they just don’t know it yet. If they feel their wardrobe is still lacking, there are a few pieces they can buy that will complete it. Like these:

One blazer:

If you have one black or navy blue blazer, you can put all sorts of tops underneath. Even casual t’s, tank tops, and of course blouses, look dressed up and professional under a blazer. Collect all the pretty pins you own or that your mother gave you and attach them to the collar of your jacket. Blazers go great with knee length skirts and trousers for the office, and then they look sexy with jeans out of the office. My friend who teaches singing lessons and works super long days and goes from running around town, back to teaching keeps a blazer in her car. She goes back and forth between that and sweatpants throughout the day as she runs errands and gives her lessons. Her students who are there to learn to sing better from a professional only see her in her “professional” attire.

A black trouser and a beige trouser

Trousers are another item that people won’t notice you repeat-wear, so long as you change what’s going on on the top. Since these are recognized as office attire, you can wear totally casual tops, sweaters and if you’d like nice shirts on the top. Switch between the two colors—the black and the beige—and you could put on those pants every day of the week without anyone batting an eyelash!

A pencil skirt

I love these because they are universally accepted as professional, as well as sexy. Many times I’ve worn a super sexy, lacey or beaded tank top under a blazer with a pencil skirt to work, and just tossed the blazer off for after work drinks. You instantly have the sexy teacher or sexy secretary look going.

Button down shirts

Get one in white and one in black. A tailored one always gives a professional look and just unbutton the top a bit for a sexy look after work. Or, throw on one a few sizes too big, tuck it into your pants, put the sleeves under your blazer, and when you leave the office, swap in some skinny jeans and a waste belt to get a nice silhouette and that “boyfriend’s shirt” look.

Hopefully it’s clear now that having a cute wardrobe and a professional one doesn’t mean you need to have more than one wardrobe!

Five of the Most Expensive Gifts Ever Given

Tuesday, March 13th, 2012

Giving gifts is one of the most celebrated traditions of all time. For very obvious, practical, and joyful reasons, giving and receiving gifts goes beyond the gift itself. But how about those gifts that comes with a very high price tag?

Some say that it is the thought of giving gift that counts. But for some, that is not enough. They are the ones who are willing to impress their loved ones with lavish gifts – gifts that are high in monetary value, and become the center of attention in the world of high living. There is something that is especially awe inspiring in purchasing a gift that is well beyond most people’s budgets.

They are also the ones who have the resources and are knowledgeable in the world of precious stones – the most expensive gems of all time that are intended to get the attention not just of their loved ones, but of the world as well because of their class, elegance and value.

While jewelry is being given every day in every corner of the world as gifts, here are some lavish items that really standout.

1. With a price tag of $7.98 million, the Blue Diamond was auctioned at Sotheby’s in Hong Kong.

2. Novo Yellow Diamond Ring is sold at Tiffany’s for $1.35 million. The 25.27 carat diamond ring set in platinum and yellow gold has always been considered as one of the most expensive engagement ring.

3. The 40.63-carat Burma ruby cut in heart-shape and comes with a 155-carat diamond necklace is the top jewelry in the British collection. With a price tag of $14 million, its monetary value is primarily due to its rarity.

4. The Chopard Blue Diamond ring is an oval-shaped diamond ring, with triangular-shaped diamond shoulders and a pave-set diamond band in 18-carat white gold, priced at about $1.7 million per carat, again, because of its rarity, has a total price tag of $16.26 million.

5. Priced for no less than $3 million for this necklace – this elegant color combination of white and green stones, the Magnificent Diamond and Emerald Necklace from Chopard’s “Haute Joaillerie” collection has 191-carats worth of Columbia’s most beautiful emeralds, made beautiful with 16 carats of rose-cut and drop-shaped diamonds.

It has been said that diamonds are a girl’s best friend. So for a truly valuable gift, in every sense of the word, you can give jewelry as gifts to your loved ones. Jewelry does not lose its value over time. In fact, most jewelry has appreciated in value over time. And again, apart from the monetary value, jewelry has emotional and social value that also does not diminish over time.

While most gifts may not be as expensive, giving a gift that has significantly more financial value is deemed important not only because of its price, but because of the effort in coming up with such an amount to purchase the gift. The investment is not just on the monetary value, but also on the thought of giving something of great value.

Author Bio: Criss White is a professional article writer for bridal, wedding, and various other topics. For more articles or to check out some crystal favors and to check out other wedding jewelry, gifts, and wedding favors, visit Bridal and Wedding Favors.

 

Calsilica – Myth or Reality

Monday, March 12th, 2012

Some twenty years ago, calsilica started appearing in jewelry shows and gem and mineral exhibitions around the world. The specimens shown had bright and vivid colors that spanned the spectrum of the rainbow! Quite naturally, jewelry designers and fashion jewelry fans became enamored with this beautiful gemstone. Over the next several years, there was a steady increase in the demand for calsilica for jewelry designs, and soon calsilica earrings, silver pendants, rings, and other items began to appear on the market. Online and traditional jewelry stores could barely keep up with demand and the price for this stone increased steadily.

Once the initial euphoria of a new and beautiful gemstone in the world of jewelry died down, gemologists and some well-informed jewelry fans started to ask questions about the origin of this stone. In most cases, these questions arose from natural curiosity, while in other cases the questions were borne from suspicions concerning the authenticity of calsilica. At first, suppliers staunchly claimed that calsilica was a natural stone that was discovered in a mine in the State of Chihuahua, Mexico. They claimed that mining of the stone continued to present day and even provided a few photographs of the mining operations. The photographic evidence was inconclusive and the doubts about the origin of calsilica persisted. Gemologists and geologists requested permission to visit the mine and visually inspect and confirm the deposits in Chihuahua. All these requests were denied on the grounds of proprietary information. Suppliers persisted with the claim that calsilica was a natural material – a natural form of microcrystalline calcite, that was found in the veins or seams of the volcanic rhyolite rock formation. The claim was that the binding agent in the stone was a mix of natural clay minerals that hardened under high pressure and temperatures, rendering the stone in the form that we now see it today. This did little to quiet rumors that calsilica was indeed a man-made material and not a naturally occurring stone as was originally claimed. In fact, new rumors of a spectacular deposit of natural calsilica in China started to spread in the world of gems and gemology. The specimens supposedly obtained from the mine in China were quite beautiful and their colors and patterns rivaled those of the specimens from the original mine in Mexico.

To quell these rumors and answer the many questions surrounding this gemstone the Swiss Gemological Institute (SSEF) undertook a laboratory investigation of calsilica in 2002, and published their findings in one of their newsletters in 2003. To begin their investigation, SSEF purchased two calsilica specimens at a gem and mineral show in France in 2002. The seller of course claimed that the stones were natural and even produced photographs of the mine in Mexico. To further bolster their claim, they even had a letter of authentication from a laboratory in the United States stating that the stones were not man-made. SSEF performed microscopic examinations and laboratory tests on the specimens, and found that the base materials were indeed a natural form of calcite. They also discovered however, that the colored streaks in the stone contained man-made coloring pigments. They also found that the binding agent was a transparent soft, plastic-like material very similar to paraffin wax, and not natural clay minerals as was originally claimed. This investigation proved once and for all that calsilica is a man-made stone.

Author Bio: Mr. Arnold writes extensively on sterling silver jewelry and fashion gemstones jewelry. He is a geologist and amateur gemologist in Arizona.

 

Bridal Purses Are Versatile Accessories

Thursday, March 8th, 2012

Bridal purses are usually elegant that make stunning accessories for ladies during weddings. The best thing about bridal purses is that even if you are not getting married, you can still use them during other formal occasions. With an elegant purse in your hand, there\’s no worry of not having a matching accessory to complete your cocktail look.

For formal functions and red carpet events, an elegant clutch bridal purse is stunning enough for you to carry in your hands. You may want to choose a white bridal purse that does not only represent purity but white is also a neutral color that goes well with any color of outfit you wear. A clutch bridal purse is big enough to secure your credit cards, keys, cellphone, compact powder, lipstick. It comes very handy and easy to hold in you hand without giving any hassle.

If money is not an issue for you, you should definitely consider designer bridal purses. These usually have more sophisticated and trendy designs from the fashionable minds of famous designers. Designer brands are indeed more expensive, but it is worth paying for because they are of high quality and feature unique designs that will put your at the top. Designer bags are made and with more attention, giving you no worries that your purse is the same with the purse held by the lady next to you.

If you are looking for a convenient elegant purse, consider a front flap bridal purse that is very easy to open whenever you need to get something that is in it. Aside from convenience, many front flap purses have beautiful designs including rhinestones and crystals. Many women are so in love with front flap bridal purses because of those advantages, and they treat these purses as their best friend.

Aside from bridal clutches, strap bridal purses come with elegant designs as well. These are another perfect accessory to make you look complete at the cocktail party. Purses with straps are much easier to carry as you can easily sling it on your shoulder, leaving your hands free to hold other things. But there are some clutches that come with detachable straps, so if one day you want to carry a clutch in your hand you will simply detach the strap and just attach it on again if you need to. Another great thing about sling bags is that many of them have straps that are beautifully decorated or come in a good variety of chain. You can find straps with rhinestones and other elegant decorating materials. You may opt for a sling bag with a plain silver strap if you are looking for a sophisticated bridal purse.

Beautiful bridal purses come in a variety of colors to choose from. You can also find evening purses for formal evening gatherings that you can personalize with your initials or monogram. These are today’s trend when it comes to stunning handbags for weddings and red carpet occasions. Aside from purses, initials or monogram can also be added on tote bags, travel luggage, backpacks, and even diaper bags.

Author Bio: Jnet is an author for a variety of lifestyle issues and topics. If you’re looking for personalized duffel bags, visit the website Bags-purses-totes.com and browse their extensive collection. Get also fashion bags for your colleagues and friends online!

 

How Shapewear Has Evolved

Sunday, February 19th, 2012

Shapewear garments have existed for centuries. Today’s technological advances have propelled these body shapers to unprecedented popularity and design sophistication.

For centuries, women have done almost everything they could to look better. During the 17th century, corsets were already used. During the 18th century, women wore very tight corsets to make their waists very tiny, with a large bust and large hips.

In the beginning of the 1900s the girdle was created and helped women shrink their stomach and form their thighs.

Girdles nowadays usually consist of one material alone or a combination of Lycra, Spandex, and Powernet. Girdles made of one or more of these materials are very easy to wear. They are also very durable and long lasting. These girdles are very light and they do an excellent job of shaping and smoothing women’s bodies all around the world.

Girdle manufacturing technology has advanced greatly and today they come in a few different types, which are light compression, medium compression, strong compression and even dual compression. These offer different compression levels to provide the desired body control.

With the development of Spandex in the late 90s, shapewear has become very popular. The later introduction of fabrics like Powernet, Lycra, Spandex and nylon helped to boost its popularity even further.

The Powernet fabric is engineered to provide a well balanced temperature control. It is designed in such a way that perspiration is absorbed from the skin and transferred to the garment’s outer surface and into the atmosphere. Powernet is more permeable than other fabrics and enables air to circulate freely next to the skin.

Also Powernet has anti microbial properties integrated in the fabric. Laboratory tests have shown that Powernet fabrics have the capability to continually and effectively combat microbial growth over their useful life.

In recent years, body shapewear has become very popular due to technological advances in garment design and the soft and comfortable materials that are used. When body shapewear is used according to manufacturers recommended sizes, they always feel comfortable when wearing.

Today’s garments are very durable, their advanced fabric construction enables them to retain elasticity and shape longer than ever before. Laboratory tests have shown that these fabrics are so resilient that they can withstand intensive washes and thousands of flexes.

These technologically advanced shapewear are engineered to reduce, lift and tighten without causing stiffness and discomfort. With this fundamental goal completely accomplished they actually produce instant results. Women around the world see and feel the difference the moment they slip one on.

All these events and advances in technology triggered a new and prosperous shapewear industry, with recognized brands like Ann Chery, Diane & Geordi, Vedette and others. The shapewear industry continues to expand as interest grows in their products.

As special purpose products are developed, shapewear garments can be found to make breasts look bigger, thighs and legs look smaller and butts look better shaped. There is even a body shaper to make your arms look better as well.

Author Bio: Lucia Carrera is a freelance fashion writer based in San Francisco, California. You can get more information and read articles on shapewear (fajas in Spanish) and its technology advances at http://www.bezzitos.Com

 

Be Creative in the Boudoir! Ultimate Lingerie Buying Guide

Sunday, February 19th, 2012

Some fearless women glorify in their bodies, proudly displaying what nature has given them. It’s not what you wear, but the attitude in which you wear it. Many ladies are discovering the many ways to play up those dangerous curves. Don’t be afraid to show off that gorgeous tan with a bright-colored string bikini that can be worn according to your particular body shape. Tie those little pieces of fabric really high up on the hip to give the appearance of a longer leg, or down low if you have height issues. Try naughty knickers with a ‘peek-a-boo’ heart, a Brazilian or Boy shorts with a pair of sexy Hold Ups and heels. There is nothing like the feeling one can experience whilst secretly wearing a pair of suspenders holding up a pair of classic silky stockings underneath an outfit. The choices of ladies lingerie can be worn in the boudoir are endless. There is no rule for your tastes, just that you wear these outfits with confidence and a light heart.

However, for those that are a tad timid or less bold, there is no reason not to have the same amount of well-deserved fun. A soft and fragile Baby doll outfit may just be what’s on the menu for tonight. More is sometimes less with these lady-like creations. The lightly tied, delicate strings can be adjusted to fit as high or as low as you feel comfortable, and will definitely leave him wanting more. Ladies thrill their mates, leaving him dazed and addled with thigh-high silk stockings, while wearing figure-flattering, heavenly bodies of cloth. A demure Baby doll nightdress does not scream for attention, they simply get it.

Many ladies do not understand the importance of wearing the right kind of supportive bra. They wear it too tight, or too big. They do not realize that they do not have to sacrifice comfort for beauty, not to mention the health effects that a “too tight” bra can have on the spine. There are a lot of reasons to throw that tired bra away. It has served the purpose of barely holding up the girls, but it has been worn to death. Why not pamper yourself with something more eye appealing and will fit better? Remember those suspenders and stockings that were mentioned before? Complete a dazzling effect with a matching bra. There are many choices and colours, from water to gel bras; uplifting and embroidered lace. The right, fitted bra can actually be beautifully slimming too!

Ladies should not be the only ones that have all the fun! Men deserve to feel sexy too, and are almost as concerned about looking nice as women are, and their ladies are glad to have choices for them too. No more are they settling for the conventional, traditional knickers. There are more creative choices than ever for guys that still like to play. Whether he is partial to boxers, briefs or hipsters, they are available for both the young and old alike. They do not have to sacrifice support and comfort for an up-to-date, masculine look. They can have very thin, sheer or cotton trunks, midi’s and briefs, depending on how they like to wear their jeans or what they want to sleep in while in their very own boudoir. Their only requirement should be that they fit well, be stretchable and go with the flow of a man’s movement.

The main thing is to love what you’re in. Do not restrict or put limits on yourself. Putting yourself in a one-dimensional box is an unnecessary inhibition. Be self-aware and confident enough to have fun with the potential you have over the opposite sex. Some go their whole life never giving themselves the opportunity to be playful and naughty. They never recognize their playful side by wearing something that makes them feel pretty and sexy. So be cheeky! Get in that boudoir and quit neglecting yourself.

Author Bio: For more information and to view Lingerie click here

 

Sixth French Open Win For Nadal

Tuesday, June 21st, 2011

Some records in tennis go back quite a few years ago, waiting for a new generation to be able to go one better.

Happily that time has arrived, with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal at the top of their game. (more…)

Bib & Cobbler Style Aprons Are Popular Once Again

Monday, April 12th, 2010

by Jenna Copeland

denim apron

These days, housewives are looking for ways to look cute and attractive even while performing their household chores. And vintage style kitchen aprons help them do exactly that. Cooks are using it everywhere now. It is true that you won’t become a good cook by putting on these aprons. But you surely can look attractive while cooking for your family.

Kitchen aprons have always been meant to prevent the stains of the kitchen from dirtying your good clothes.

Flirty Aprons Mother’s Day 40% Off Sale, code FA-4110.

Multi-color apron

These days, aprons are much better looking. But their earlier purpose of preventing stains still remains. Some hostesses just don’t want to take off these aprons when they are finished cooking. This is because it just makes them look so cute.

Apron makers realize that aprons are becoming increasingly popular. This is why they are constantly coming up with creative and interesting designs. Aprons can be long or short. They can have frills or laces. They can be full aprons or half aprons. Whereas full aprons cover the complete body, half aprons cover the clothes from the waist to the knees.

There may be some interesting sayings on some of these aprons. On others you will find laces and ruffles used to enhance the beauty of the aprons. They can actually be wonderful gifts. There are also aprons available in the 1950s style. They are delicate and beautiful. These have ruffles or laces on them and are made of sheer fabric.

full apron

Vintage and cute aprons can also turn out to be beautiful kitchen decorations. You may have noticed aprons hanging from decorative kitchen wall hooks in magazine pictures. You can also match the aprons with the theme and look of your kitchen.

The best way to buy a beautiful kitchen apron is to search for it on the internet. You can also find them in various vintage shops and thrift stores and that too in different designs and different styles.

Aprons can also be found in large retail shops now. So, if you are looking for a kitchen apron to make you look cute and sassy, then you can find them at your nearest shopping center also.


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About the Author:

Get the latest bib aprons recommendations at the author’s Personalized Aprons web site today!

Article Courtesy of: Go Articles

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