Fashion Articles

Shoes are a Glimpse Into a Man's Character

posted on 25 July 2012

Shoes or footwear have been labelled as a defining article of your wardrobe or a passive part of one's fashion choice (depending on who you ask) - from mens slippers to safety boots to trainers, they reveal something about our fashion choices. Personally I have grown attached to my Sperry Top Siders boat shoes over the course of the past year. Some remark that the shoes are uncomfortable, too formal, and too informal or just plan bizarre to wear in a big city. I concur it is incredibly impractical in the winter but its versatility and personality are what makes it my favorite shoe. They add an air of calmness to any outfit and provide that kind of relaxed experience you would only get sitting on an idling boat on a summer day. These shoes provide a hint of class while maintaining a down to earth feel. Although they are uncomfortable, these shoes are visually satisfying and are made with the sturdiest of materials. My outlook on shoes is that they add a sense of personality to the wearer and my Sperry’s are no exception to this rule.

More Information: about.com | newsvine.com | gizmodo.com | beyonddiet.com

Oh How I Enjoy the Wonderful Outdoors

posted on 23 February 2012

The most relaxing and fun thing to do on a nice day is to take a walk in the woods. I love to go to the lake and just walk on the trails. It seems like it is different everytime I go, the scenery is always changing. As you walk on these trails you can hear the sounds of birds and different wildlife. You can see many different plants and flowers as well. Every season brings something new and different and I can never get bored with walking in the woods. It is just so nice to be able to see, hear, smell and touch nature. As a precautionary, I always take a backpack with me, my Aigle gilet, a bottle of water and some other small items that I've put together. I have never had to use anything to protect myself nor have I had to us any of my medical supplies, but I do recommend taking a backpack with you just incase. It can also come in handy if you find something out there that you may want to take home like a lucky rock. If you have never walked in the woods you really should try it sometime, I think you will like it.

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Where to Get Fashionable Boys Clothing

posted on 14 January 2012

When boys are still young, it is the duly responsibility of parents to shop for their clothing. However by the time they join primary school, boys start becoming more independent. In addition, they don’t want to get much influenced especially their clothing. At this time, you will realize your son want to decide on the type of boys clothes to buy. As a concerned parent, you should be very flexible and take this positively. There are good numbers of stores where your son can get fashionable boys clothes. Most of these are stores that specialize in children apparels. There are overwhelming numbers of retail outlets that specialize in boys clothes. You will find a good number of them within the high streets. Such retail stores stocks a wide range of boys clothes that would be suitable t your son. In addition, there are good retail stores that stock trendy and fashionable boys clothes. These are the exact stores where you should take your son to shop for his clothing items. This is because your son would most likely want clothes that reflect the trend of the moment. Of course you will also get fashionable boys clothes with other retails shops that are not specializing in children footwear. There are big name stores that stock a wide range of products ranging from household, grocery to clothing items. You can also check with these stores of fashionable boys clothes. Some of the big name grocery stores have sections that deals with boys clothes and you will find some of the latest fashion and trends in the market.

Further Sources: ed.gov

The Amazing World Your Feet Indulge Themselves In

posted on 10 December 2011

Fashion is a language that cannot be spoken, but only seen - from hair clips all the way down to shoes, fashion is a door to individuality. Together, you get some of the greatest fashionista's in the world. However, these fashionista's aren't the only one's with a great sense of style! Take a look at my closet, and you'll believe me! Shopping often, and working in a retail store, I have gained a different outlook to the fashion world- hence my favourite shoes. Prior to working at a retail store, I never did have a a sense of interest in fashion, let alone shoes. Now, all I do is shop for shoes. My favourite fashion item has got to be my black ankle boots I purchased from Spring a month ago. They have this amazing army twitch to them, with the thin black laces and the high ankles, I am pretty sure that is what makes them so sexy. I love wearing them with black legging, or even a pair of skinny jeans. They accentuate the legs to look leaner and longer. Along with the fashion side, I love these boots because they're so season appropriate! When I go clubbing, and have to wait in the line for 20 minutes, I'm not freezing cold! Although they are only shoes, and cover that extra top half of your feet, heat travels up, and it makes ALL the difference. So with this in mind, I think every girl should go out and grab themselves a pair of ankle boots for the winter, trust me, you'll thank me!

Further Research: peoplefinders.com

Presents for My Family and My Friends

posted on 24 November 2011

I don’t like buying presents that just sit at the top of the shelf and just gather dust. I’m just not that kind of a person. It just seems as throwing money away, money which can be used on buying something useful to them. So what kind of gifts do I like to buy to my friends and family? Usually, I tend to buy presents that are commonly used every day, like clothing, kitchen appliances, bathroom items, tickets for shows, etc. If I know someone is after jewellery, I'll even make some gifts with the jewellery making kits I own. I try to guess what item and color that person wants, and I just go for it. Sometimes I make very good choice and they are exalted, but sometimes I go wrong. I had some uncomfortable experiences with those guesses, like buying present that doesn’t suit that person, or something that they already have. Whenever I choose a present, I don’t just look for the cheapest model, but look for something that looks unique, one of a kind.

More Info: nih.gov

My Vintage Leather Jacket Goes Everywhere With Me

posted on 19 November 2011

I admit I'm a little different to my friends when it comes to fashion. While they parade around in their Toki and Nabi dresses and other popular brands, I'm a bit more old-school. I have an old leather jacket that used to belong to my father. It was probably a muted black at one time, but now it has faded, and looks very mossy green. It has some damage. Some wear and scuffs in the leather give the jacket a lot of edgy personality. I think my father wore it in college in the 1970s. Now, I rock it while wearing my bootcut jeans with high-heeled boots, or over a black long dress. The fact that it is vintage means that no one will have a jacket like mine. It has a lot of funky vitality and I get compliments on it, especially when I wear it to arty events and music concerts. It is a warm leather jacket, but I don’t get too hot while wearing it. I imagine that in the 70s, it looked like a very basic, simple leather jacket. Now, with the scuffs and small tears from years of wear, it looks like an expensive, high fashion, rock and roll jacket.

Show Yourself Off With Your Own Fashion Statements

posted on 8 October 2011

Nobody tells you to wear a certain color shirt or a certain size of pants, or certain brand shoes - that's the beauty of fashion: self-expression. Even my daughter is into her Monnalisa clothing range, and it shows that such self-expression can start early. And the same it is with accessories, whether it is a bracelet, a watch, a hat, a wallet etc. I like to wear loose fit clothes and some original accessories, like a white watch instead of a silver one, a baseball cap with some original stitching or a ring with my initials. When it comes to clothes, I try to dress according to the situation. If I go to a sports practice, I like to wear sweatpants and a hoodie. If I go to school or work, I dress casual with an addition that I can move freely and stretch in every possible way without concern. In my wardrobe I mostly have loose fit clothes, i.e. some big t-shirts, large sweaters and wide baggy jeans. I also have my white cap, white watch and my own necklace.

Further Research: wisegeek.com

Fancy Dress: I Would Dress Up as Harry Potter

posted on 8 October 2011

Thinking about fancy dress costumes, only one character comes to mind that I'd like to dress up as. Recently my brown hair has grown long, just like Harry Potter. My face slightly resembles the actor who plays him. I would only need one of those Griffindor robes, a wand, glasses, and turtleneck to pull it off. Many girls love Harry Potter, and as him being the main character/hero in the loveable series, it definitely works - I think there'd be a sense that I could perform "magic" so to speak (dress as Potter), so I can well imagine the scope of the chat-up lines I could deploy! Seems like it would be a great costume to spark up a good conversation or small talk at a party. Also with some cool props the costume could get even better, possibly like a dead Dobby (Harry's loyal elf). It would be a funny (c'mon, you know it is) addition to the costume.

Other Sources: apple.com

Scarves On and Off a Fashionista

posted on 30 September 2011

Lace and other soft materials like silk and pashmina wool really appeal to me. And such materials can be used in so many ways to create wonderful fashion accessories. Take scarves, for example. Summer scarves, winter scarves. You can find a scarf appropriate for any weather and any occasion. On a normal day, I like pairing skinny jeans with a fitted top and adding a colorful scarf. I can dress this look up from day to night by switching my sensible flats for some cute boots. For date night, a fun cotton dress can become glam by adding a trendy scarf. The way you tie your scarf can help change the loop. There are a lot of tutorials online for different ways to tie a scarf. The best part is, if you have a long neck or a short neck, you can still look awesome in a scarf! For a shorter neck, keep the scarf long against your torso. For a long neck, wrapping the scarf so it falls mostly against you neck will draw the eye up to you face rather than the length of your neck.Further Reading: investopedia.com | csmonitor.com | peoplefinders.com

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Women and Handbags: an Inevitable Combination

posted on 24 September 2011

When do you see a woman without her handbag? Exactly, never. Whether she's carrying one of those popular black clutch bags, or a satchel, a woman needs a bag to carry her things in. Even though men seem to think shoes or clothes are more important for a woman, they’re wrong. It is the accessory that completes the outfit! A simple jeans, t-shirt and black pumps are totally restyled and up to date with the right handbag. So what to choose for 2012? 2011 is almost over. Last year in 2010 the must-have was the oversized bag. In the following winter the furry bags won more terrain, and this year we all switched to the shopping bag or beach bag. Everything fits in since it is so big, and they are easily personalized by patches or buttons. Convenient and comfortable! What more do we want? Fashion changes though so for 2012 we are looking forward to update our basic t-shirt look with… the retro leather schoolbag. Worn in the hand or over the shoulder, the leather, square bag with 2 buckles on the front is the trend for next year. So take a look in your attic, you might be ready for fashion!

Whats Popular When It Comes To Sandals And Flip Flops?

posted on 14 July 2011

A new trend in sandals is emerging this summer. The gladiator sandal may or may not have a significant heel. This season, the Gladiator sandal, with or without heel is going to be included in most of the wardrobes. It is designed to include a slightly cushioned sole on the inner side with a non-slip outsole. The high-end designer labels include collections from Manolo Blahnik and Jimmy Choo. Jimmy Choo's complete summer 2009 line of snakeskin sandals are just out of this world. The Studded Strappy Sandal, the "Ibiza" would fall somewhere in the middle of the trendy collection. This popular flip flops style includes three ankle straps, has a buckle closure with a zipper at the heel. Go ahead with the latest sandal and flip flops trends this summer and walk in style with your feet in the comfort of one the many chic designs for sandals. Let the flip-flops be for the laundry room only.

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A Purple Pashmina That Floats Like a Vision

posted on 26 June 2011

I love a pashmina that floats over an evening gown like a vision. The pashmina is a deep purple color and sheer in texture like the floor length gown it covers. It drapes over the top half of the dress and trails softly with the movement of the wind. The elegance and beauty it adds to the entire look of classic sophistication while serving as a light wrap for the slightly heavier evening air is magnificent. The glow that purple brings to the skin and the intense blend of diamond jewelry make a purple color skim exciting and new. The belle of the ball will always be stunning in a purple pashmina over a lovely purple sheer gown for any formal occasion. It is the colour than never goes out of fashion - one of those beautifully neutral colours (yet not bland by any means) that works with any outfit.

Fisher Price Baby Swing: Proven Stress Buster For Baby… and Mommy

posted on 28 May 2011

I have a six-month old baby and I have never felt so vulnerable and so helpless in my life as when my baby is crying and we cannot seem to make her stop. Fortunately, my sister lent me my nephew’s fisher price baby swingand it works wonders. Whenever she is cranky or fussy for some reason that we cannot explain, we just place her there and she readily stops crying. I would like to buy a new one by my sister insisted that I use it until I need the swing since my nephew has already outgrown it. I am really satisfied with the product because even though it is not that new, the quality is still good. I am also thankful that my sister really ensured that it is in perfect condition because we are not having problems with it so far. In fact, you wouldn’t even realize that it is not brand new, if you will see it for the first time and you don’t know the story.

Safety Boots a Great Companion On My Long Walks

posted on 18 May 2011

I love wearing my safety boots when going on my long walks up the hills and across the streams. They're warm and waterproof, while giving good support to my feet too, especially on these rocky paths where it's easy to lose your footing if you don't have sturdy footwear. My long walks are a real joy for me - I usually walk for 6 or 7 miles which takes me 2 to 3 hours - most of it is up or down hill so again, sure-footing is essential, and I find that I have to concentrate the entire walk. It's good though - the whole walk makes me feel so good and I always sleep so well the following night after going on a long walk. The only thing I need to be careful of is the weather - if the weather closes in, it can get quite bleak up in the hills and it can be hard to see more than 5 metres in front of you.More on this Topic: movieroomreviews.com | about.com | everydayhealth.com

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A Tip of the Hat to Men's Hats

posted on 15 May 2011

Have you ever watched one of those classic 40s noir movies and marveled at how dashing and debonair the men looked? Now fast forward to today’s casual look and the abundance of baseball caps worn frontwards, backwards and all degrees in between. Sadly, there is little dashing or debonair about today’s headwear. It's not like men lack the choice is it? These days you can even buy shoes for large feet for heaven's sakes! And yet it's the "slouch look" that seems to be the most popular style in 2011. Hats ARE still a popular fashion accessory, but no longer does the shape and style of the hat or slant of the brim announce to the world what sort of man you are. Now everything about is said by the logo on the front of your cap. Are you a sports fan? Then you’ll be wearing your favorite team’s colors and insignia on your cap. Are you a fisherman? Then your cap might have an advertisement for your favorite sporting goods outlet, boat dealership, or bait shop. It’s hardly high fashion. But there is still hope if ball caps aren’t your thing. At least one manufacturer of outdoor clothing is not only producing hats suitable for rugged outdoor wear, but also stylish hats that a gentleman would proud to wear in any venue. Of, course, it’s a matter of personal preference whether you want the casual ball cap or something more formal. Just grab your hat and go!More Info: bloomberg.com | www.widefitshoes.co.uk

My Dream Job: Owning My Own Cafe

posted on 28 April 2011

I have been someone's employee most of my life, and hated it. Since I was a little girl, with my own tea set and miniature table and chairs, I have dreamed of owning my own cafe. It would be a very relaxing place, with flowers, books, and soft music playing in the background. I would have bistro tables and chairs and be surrounded by great artwork by local artists. I would serve coffee, tea and pastries in the morning and small sandwiches and salads in the afternoon. Starting in late afternoon, I would have wine tastings, with cheese crackers, and fruits for people to enjoy after a long day. I might even put on a selection of fashion accessories for sale in the corner too - maybe some clutch bags or something. I would love meeting all the people, and listening to their stories. I could hold small meetings for womens groups to discuss important issues and give referrals. Owning my own cafe, I could dress up or down, at my leisure, and get rid of all those business suits that I loathe. I would design and decorate the cafe to my own taste and surround myself with all those things that make me happy and relaxed. My dream job is probably just that, given the present economy and my dwindling retirement funds....but I can still dream can't I?

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Weddings Haven't Really Changed in Fifty Years

posted on 23 April 2011

Upon reflection, weddings have not changed drastically in the past fifty years, when my own took place. The tiaras for weddings, the cake, the setting - even in 2011, it's still very traditional. Now that I work in the wedding sales office of a resort hotel, I can say that with conviction! Every bride wants the special event to be faultless, including the perfect shade of flowers, ideal weather and exactly the right kind of music, for instance. My own wedding music, however, was not at all what I wanted. I requested the organist in the Catholic Church where the ceremony was to take place to play Gounod’s Ave Maria during the ceremony. That was not allowed, the priest told me, because Gounod was not a Catholic! Well, I suppose that is one thing that may have changed over the years. Perhaps now that beautiful, lyrical music can now be played in the church, despite its author’s religion. My mother’s own wedding took place during the Depression of the 1930’s and, while the ceremony was held in the same church I just spoke about, their lack of finances meant the reception was held in the backyard of her parents’ home. I never realized that, after all the years of her marriage, when my own wedding was at hand, she wanted desperately to be able to plan a big, elegant shindig, which I allowed her to do. Mom picked out the colors, the flowers, the meal, the musicians, everything except my gown and headpiece. She was in her glory, which made me very happy, too. Mom finally got the opportunity to have a real wedding! I see that the mothers of the brides today aren’t much different, as I field their phone calls to the wedding office when they are investigating the variety of destinations for their own daughters’ weddings. On three-way phone calls between myself and the mother and daughter, I have to smile when I hear the daughter let her mother take the lead in the questions, the decisions and the hearty discussions of the meal planning. So, I really think back over the last half a century and see that the important basics of weddings haven’t changed all that much.

Other Sources: about.com | apple.com | itv.com | usatoday.com

My Favorite Spring and Fall Items

posted on 19 April 2011

I love my fashion - from my escape shoes to my jewellery. While a lot of the fashion I buy arguably has no practical use, there is one particular item that most certainly does. You see, one thing I do not enjoy about the Carolina weather is the wind. Whether it's the warm spring breeze or the chilling autumn cold I cannot handle that wind blowing through my bones. So I always have to have a beautiful lightweight scarf to wrap around my neck and a lovely cardigan sweater to keep my arms warm. There is nothing I love more than trying on lovely scarves and finding just the right one. I have a few but my favorite is a woven cotton scarf from India its long and can wrap around twice if Im really cold. And Ive had to wash it before and thought it would be ruined and it came out perfect. Of course I cant say enough how fun it is to find a really nice sweater that you can wear all year long. There are so many you can find that have really pretty buttons and lovely stiching. I have a few to go with all my outfits. The key is to find a few that will match everything you own.

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Pearl necklaces

posted on 17 April 2011

Pearl necklaces are among the most valued jewelry. Throughout history, women of wealthy families and royal descent wore pearl necklaces as their jewelry of choice. Many English paintings from the late 1600s depict women with the famed jewelry hanging from their neck. Though the pearl necklace is less common today, it is still a very elegant item and is far from being out of style. Pearl necklaces can be purchased at most jewelry stores. Pearls are a natural product of the ocean and are subject to price volatility just like any commodity. The cost of a pearl necklace on today's market ranges from $200 to over $1000. There are also imitation pearls. Imitation pearl necklaces can be purchased from jewelry stores and fashion stores. They are a much more affordable option for those who can't afford an authentic pearl necklace. However, the difference between imitation pearls and real pearls is quite stark to some.

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