The Golden Globe Awards 2007

Winter in LA? At least for one night, it didn't seem so. Despite the unusual 45 degrees in the star studded city, stars chose fashion over warmth at this year's Golden Globe Awards. It was a night of red carpet glamour from white flowing gowns, metallics, glitz, and Greek goddesses to, of course, the classic black. Jewelry was understated and limited to the basics - large diamond rings, accented bracelets, and hoop earrings - so that, in the end, the fabulous gowns stood out even more. We saw lots of white and sexy backs dominating the evening, making it the new it style.

Among the most popular designers throughout the evening was the always-glamorous Marchesa, being the choice of both Sienna Miller and Jennifer Lopez. J. Lo looked bedazzling in a Greek inspired black frock with a gold-embroidered low back, while Sienna Miller looked simply astounding in a white long train metallic-embellished gown. The much debated Scandinavian-like braided hairdo of Sienna Miller matched well with her looks, although her make up could have accentuated her features and her golden tan a little better.

Once again, Chanel Couture simply proved to be timeless. Surprise, anyone?! Penelope Cruz's Chanel Couture black gown was accentuated by lacy frills and emphasized her strong features, and made her seem even more exotic than she actually is. Eva Longoria, in a ravishing navy Ungaro dress, simply proved that you don't have to be the stereotype 5'7 and above to be the center of attention, and that petites are equally, if not even more, attention-worthy!

Among our favorites was Angelina Jolie, who looked simply divine in a strapless St. John charcoal-gray gown. The sleek updo and beautiful make up (which only consists of the basics), matched well with her dress, although her best accessory for the night was, without a doubt, Brad Pitt. Our only objection - tattoos! To all the fashionistas out there, please do not have your arms and shoulders tattooed, when you are planning on going to the Golden Globes in a charcoal strapless dress! It is for your (and our) own good.

It is worth mentioning Jennifer Hudson. She not only stole the night away with her Cinderella success in Dreamgirls, but she also looked lovely in a navy v-neck Vera Wang. Among the other newcomers was Emily Blunt, the notorious first assistant in every fashionista's must-see The Devil Wears Prada. The new starlet took away from her vicious image in the movie, and created a more soft and natural look in an eggshell-colored Herv? L?ger gown. Jessica Biel also showed off her toned physic in a shimmering silver beaded Valentino gown. There was just one ops! - Hilary Swank wore the same dress to a Vanity Fair's Oscar party in 2004!

Once again, our favorite desperate housewives simply proved that 40's the new 20. Felicity Huffman looked extremely elegant in a high-waist emerald green halter Ellie Saab dress. Teri Hatcher also looked a far cry from her casual jeans and T-shirt character in a white draped-back long dress.

And now turning to our little fashionistas, our Little Miss Sunshine Abigail Breslin looked just lovely in a blue chiffon dress complemented with a jewel-shaped clutch, proving her star potential even at such an early age.

This year's Golden Globe Award ceremony saw an unusually small number of faux pas compared to last year. Apparently, it was a lesson well learned for Drew Barrymore, who went from last year's ill-fitting bra-less deep green Gucci dress, to a fabulous look in a beautiful pale pink gown by John Galliano for Christian Dior. However, not all celebrities learned from their previous mistakes. We have definitely seen Cameron Diaz looking better than last night. Her raven looks in a tiered Valentino gown, red lipstick, and black hair, were simply too much of an extravaganza. Sad to say, we are somewhat disappointed from the always fabulously-dressed Beyonc?. Although her Ellie Saab sequined gown complemented and accentuated her famous curves, it was simply over the top even for our golden Dreamgirl. Her beauty and sophistication comes out best in more simple, yet, elegant designs. The same applies to Jennifer Love Hewitt in the golden-brownish Georges Chakra gown, which simply took away from her natural beauty.

In just one night, the red carpet at the Golden Globe Awards saw an unmatched glamour and beauty, which would simply be hard to top during our next fashion extravaganza, the Annual Academy Awards at the end of February. But let's be serious - Hollywood celebrities are always able to surprise us and to surpass their latest fashions, thus making us even more curious and full of anticipation to see their upcoming choices at the Oscars!
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About the Author

PhatGuru.com Inc.
Queen of Cool
PhatPeople@phatguru.com

Clear Bra Straps Get The Drop On These Cool Fashion Accessories.

Every person is familiar especially with those fashion staples that are vital parts of our wardrobes. Maybe its that pretty strappy pair of shoes that are dressy enough for casual day in the office but yet snazzy enough for a night out in the town. Or maybe the perfect pair of jeans or the little black dress that never goes out of style, worn along with the jacket or sweater that goes perfectly over the little black dress to make it professional by day.

What?s just as important in every woman?s closet of late are clear bra straps. Sure we?ve all been there. Perhaps you were out shopping all day, and on a whim you grab that perfect strapless or backless dress or shirt and take it home, only to discover that you don?t have a bra in your wardrobe that doesn?t peep out of the outfit in all the wrong places. An easy solution to this predicament is clear bra straps.

For sure, there are strapless bras available. However clear bra straps provide a much better solution in many cases. A lot of women have the right bra that not only offers just the right amount of support and lift but at the same time does it without creating unwanted lines and ridges that show through clothing material. Now the problem is, the bra isn?t strapless, and sure no one wants to attend a formal dinner or go out on a night of wild dancing in a tiny backless outfit or that form-fitting tank top with her bra straps as the most conspicuous thing about her outfit. Evidently clear bra straps are the perfect solution when you don?t want straps to show at all. You can not only sport them with most convertible bras but also in some cases can even be used with strapless bras to help keep them from shifting and sliding during the course of a day.

For those shopping for bras, a good idea would be to select those that will allow you to swap over the existing straps. This way, you can simply replace them with clear bra straps especially when the outfits you want to wear calls for bare skin.

Clearly its utility is obvious, in spite of the fact that a number of women have turned them into a fashion statement in and of themselves. On a creative note, there can be some that are added with rhinestones, sequins, or beads to their clear bra straps and worn them as an accessory. Wearing clear bra straps in this fashion can add an element of flair and unique style to your outfit.

If you like, you can replace the existing straps with different straps in ease for bras with interchangeable straps. Just in case if your favorite bra is not interchangeable, don?t worry. Many women with a bit of a sewing skill have often successfully replaced the straps on a favorite with clear bra straps. Yes, this could mean that the change is either permanent or that you?ll have to do more sewing if you wish to change back to the original straps.

On the whole, straps that are see-through provide both freedom and flexibility in planning your wardrobe. For some as a mechanism to hide all evidence of a bra and for others, as a decorated fashion statement in and of themselves!

About the Author:

Tracie M. Loewe provides readers with up-to-date commentaries, articles, and reviews for shopping as well as useful buying guides and other related information.

Clear Bra Straps Get The Drop On These Cool Fashion Accessories

Every person is familiar especially with those fashion staples that are vital parts of our wardrobes. Maybe its that pretty strappy pair of shoes that are dressy enough for casual day in the office but yet snazzy enough for a night out in the town. Or maybe the perfect pair of jeans or the little black dress that never goes out of style, worn along with the jacket or sweater that goes perfectly over the little black dress to make it professional by day.

What?s just as important in every woman?s closet of late are clear bra straps. Sure we?ve all been there. Perhaps you were out shopping all day, and on a whim you grab that perfect strapless or backless dress or shirt and take it home, only to discover that you don?t have a bra in your wardrobe that doesn?t peep out of the outfit in all the wrong places. An easy solution to this predicament is clear bra straps.

For sure, there are strapless bras available. However clear bra straps provide a much better solution in many cases. A lot of women have the right bra that not only offers just the right amount of support and lift but at the same time does it without creating unwanted lines and ridges that show through clothing material. Now the problem is, the bra isn?t strapless, and sure no one wants to attend a formal dinner or go out on a night of wild dancing in a tiny backless outfit or that form-fitting tank top with her bra straps as the most conspicuous thing about her outfit. Evidently clear bra straps are the perfect solution when you don?t want straps to show at all. You can not only sport them with most convertible bras but also in some cases can even be used with strapless bras to help keep them from shifting and sliding during the course of a day.

For those shopping for bras, a good idea would be to select those that will allow you to swap over the existing straps. This way, you can simply replace them with clear bra straps especially when the outfits you want to wear calls for bare skin.

Clearly its utility is obvious, in spite of the fact that a number of women have turned them into a fashion statement in and of themselves. On a creative note, there can be some that are added with rhinestones, sequins, or beads to their clear bra straps and worn them as an accessory. Wearing clear bra straps in this fashion can add an element of flair and unique style to your outfit.

If you like, you can replace the existing straps with different straps in ease for bras with interchangeable straps. Just in case if your favorite bra is not interchangeable, don?t worry. Many women with a bit of a sewing skill have often successfully replaced the straps on a favorite with clear bra straps. Yes, this could mean that the change is either permanent or that you?ll have to do more sewing if you wish to change back to the original straps.

On the whole, straps that are see-through provide both freedom and flexibility in planning your wardrobe. For some as a mechanism to hide all evidence of a bra and for others, as a decorated fashion statement in and of themselves!

Tracie M. Loewe provides readers with up-to-date commentaries, articles, and reviews for shopping as well as useful buying guides and other related information.

Spring Fashion Freshness

Its a whole new season so why not kick start it with some fabulous fashion finds, a change in fragrance, and maybe even a new hairdo, and dont forget to lighten up your makeup.

Its a whole new season so why not kick start it with some fabulous fashion finds, a change in fragrance, and maybe even a new hairdo, and dont forget to lighten up your makeup.

This season is full of wonderful fabrics and styles, from ultra feminine to the boldness of the ethnic prints. From short to long dress and skirt styles. From halters to cap sleeves. From tweed to pastel shades. Shoe styles vary from flip flops to wedges to stiletto heels. And be sure to check out the fabulous styles in casual and sporting sandal wear.

When choosing items for your spring wardrobe, first analyze your body shape and determine what styles will look best on you. Next decide what your favorite colors are for this season and determine what colors flatter you the most and which flatter you the least. Stay away from the colors and styles that don't flatter. Choose clothing that is most flattering, but also be sure to step out on the limb a little bit and choose a few items that are not a traditional style or color choices you would make. Dare to experiment a little bit. Its always nice to add a little spice to your wardrobe.

This season there truly is something for everyone. We see skirts that go from mini to ankle length. Full skirts, pencil skirts, flared skirts - they are all in style. We've got great selection in summer tops from open back, to halter, to baby tee's, to strapless. And shorts are arriving on the scene in a variety of lengths from short shorts to knee length.

Your color choices are truly endless! The full spectrum of pastel shades is at your fingertips. But wait, so are the vibrant bright shades such as yellow, chartreuse, turquoise, and pink. Traditional white is still in the running and is very easy to dress up or down.
This seasons jewelry is also large with something for everyone. We've got long dangles, full chandeliers, fun studs, large hoops, and more. There are plenty of rhinestones and crystals on the scene this season. And wait! Pearls have had a whole new facelift - now faux pearls are available in a wide variety of color and they don't just belong with your formal wear. This season pearls are ever so chic with your fave pair of jeans. Now that's progress!

Bangles are on the top of the fashion radar this season. Load your arm from top to bottom, wear a single, mix and match materials, sizes and styles.

Wood jewelry is the top pick to go with the ethnic prints of the season. There's some wonderful vintage pieces to be had for a reasonable price. The beauty about vintage is the exotic woods you can find which are no longer used today because of cost.

While you are busy uplifting your wardrobe and jewelry, why not uplift your body? Perhaps a new fragrance, a new hair cut or color, add some lighter shades to your makeup.

Remember to make your fashion statement you have to pamper the whole you! Spring is a time to rejuvenate, so take some time to rejuvenate not only your wardrobe but yourself.

Make your fashion statement!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Estate Jewelry International has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing estate jewely & costume jewelry for all occasions, as well as a wealth of information on jewelry, fashion, designers, and beauty. Please visit us at http://www.estatejewelryinternational.com/

Tips For Choosing Lingerie That Will make You Feel And Look Your Best

A Women's Guide to Looking, Feeling
and Being Sexy - Part 1

In this 7 part article series, Love Kitten Lingerie is giving you suggestions and tips for hiding bulges, flattering figures, and choosing the lingerie that will make every woman look and feel her best.

The most important thing no matter what your shape or your age is to wear your lingerie with confidence.

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To read this article and see photos that go with this article
http://www.lovekittenlingerie.com/LingerieTipsforProblemsAreas.pdf

Lingerie is now not only a bedroom item but now very fashionable to be seen wearing your lingerie as outerwear. It looks very sexy to be wearing a corset with your favourite jeans or that cute little babydoll with your denim skirt.

Love Kitten Lingerie provides suggestions and tips for how to choose lingerie that will flatter and enhancer any figure type. Different kinds of lingerie are better at covering or disguising problem areas. This article provides helpful information that women can use when deciding what styles of lingerie to wear.

Did You Know That
Women generally know their particular problem areas, but are confused on what to wear when it comes to lingerie to best suit their shape.
The most important thing no matter what your shape or your age is to wear your lingerie with confidence. In this report, Love Kitten Lingerie will provide suggestions and tips for hiding bulges, flattering figures, and choosing the lingerie that will make every woman look and feel her best.

# Helpful tip to remember is no matter what shape or size a woman's body; dark colors hide a multitude of sins.

If you have a great cleavage but heavy thighs, wear a piece of lingerie that will draw attention to the cleavage therefore taking the focus off the thighs.
Enjoy this Special Report!

Cindy

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Problem Area # 1

I Have Small or Drooping Breasts

Under wire lingerie comes in a variety of styles, including babydolls, bustiers, gowns, and even camisole sets. Under wire is great for providing lift and creating cleavage, and this all leads to feeling more confident. Under wire camisoles look great in the bedroom and also under a jacket as outerwear or with a pair of jeans.

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A Women's Guide to Looking, Feeling
and Being Sexy - Part 2

In this 7 part article series, Love Kitten Lingerie is giving you suggestions and tips for hiding bulges, flattering figures, and choosing the lingerie that will make every woman look and feel her best.

The most important thing no matter what your shape or your age is to wear your lingerie with confidence.

*********

Problem Area # 2

I have large arms and wide shoulders

Thin straps should be avoided if you have large arms and wide shoulders. If
you want to disguise these problem areas you should wear lingerie with
sleeves or wide straps instead.

Many gowns and chemises come with wide straps or sleeves and available in both long and short styles. Some women feel more comfortable if they are more covered and if that is the case choose a long gown.

# Helpful tip -
Another great idea if you are feeling a little adventurous is to choose a costume, as these most often will offer a little more coverage. Most costumes at Love Kitten Lingerie have sleeves, both long and short and, this allows women to cover their arms and give their partner a lovely surprise.

Remember in 'Part 1' we spoke about extending your bedroomwear to outerwear. The picture below looks really cute with a sexy black bra underneath, add a pair of straight leg jeans, high heals and a great belt and you are ready for clubbing.

Whatever you decide to wear, make sure you wear it with confidence!

**************

A Women's Guide to Looking, Feeling
and Being Sexy - Part 3

In this 7 part article series, Love Kitten Lingerie is giving you suggestions and tips for hiding bulges, flattering figures, and choosing the lingerie that will make every woman look and feel her best.

The most important thing no matter what your shape or your age is to wear your lingerie with confidence.

*********

Problem Area # 3

I Have No Waist

Don't despair, even if you have a tomboyish figure two-piece outfits really help this problem area. If you feel like you have no waist you should try wearing 2-piece outfits to break up your body. Camisole and boy short sets are perfect for this, as they provide separation between the bust and the hips creating the illusion of an hourglass figure, even for women who are not naturally shapely.

Remember whatever you wear you must wear it with confidence!

# Helpful tip -
This season's swimwear trend is the monokini, it has been seen on the Paris and Milan shows and on our beaches. It is also a great style if you have no waist and looks very sexy and stylish. Throw on a sarong and you are ready for the beaches on Monoco.

It's all an illusion but who cares as long as it works

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A Women's Guide to Looking, Feeling
and Being Sexy - Part 4

In this 7 part article series, Love Kitten Lingerie is giving you suggestions and tips for hiding bulges, flattering figures, and choosing the lingerie that will make every woman look and feel her best.

The most important thing no matter what your shape or your age is to wear your lingerie with confidence.

*********

Problem Area # 4

I Have a Bulging Tummy

Most of us have this problem, just because you may have a tummy is no reason not to wear lingerie and look great. If you are feeling a little uneasy about your tummy there is some very flattering styles available to cover this area.

I also suggest wearing silky fabric or micro fibre cut in a very feminine style to provide tummy coverage. Once again by drawing attention to the cleavage or a pair of great legs, the focus is off the tummy area.

# Helpful tip -
Remember to wear your lingerie as outerwear. Imagine this sexy little babydoll with a strapless bra over ? length straight leg white jeans and high heals. I was travelling with one of our models whilst she was wearing this and we actually got upgraded to business class.

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A Women's Guide to Looking, Feeling
and Being Sexy - Part 5

In this 7 part article series, Love Kitten Lingerie is giving you suggestions and tips for hiding bulges, flattering figures, and choosing the lingerie that will make every woman look and feel her best.

The most important thing no matter what your shape or your age is to wear your lingerie with confidence.

*********

Problem Area # 5

I Have a Heavy Bottom

Does my bum look big in this? How many times have you said that or heard that being said. There is some easy ways to hide a heavy bottom? Bustiers and babydolls often come with a bikini panty, which will provide great coverage. Women with heavy bottoms should avoid thong or g-string panties, as these accentuate the bottom.

Boy leg and boy shorts have wider leg coverage and helps to give that illusion of a smaller backside. It also covers dimples and cellulite that we all hate.

You will feel more confident wearing these type of boy leg cut shorts.

# Helpful tip -
I think if a heavy bottom is the problem we feel so much more confident if we are covered. This still allows us to look sexy and feminine.

**************

A Women's Guide to Looking, Feeling
and Being Sexy - Part 6

In this 7 part article series, Love Kitten Lingerie is giving you suggestions and tips for hiding bulges, flattering figures, and choosing the lingerie that will make every woman look and feel her best.

The most important thing no matter what your shape or your age is to wear your lingerie with confidence.

*********

Problem Area # 6

I Have Heavy Thighs

To read this article and see photos that go with this article http://www.lovekittenlingerie.com/LingerieTipsforProblemAreas.pdf

# Helpful tip -
The key to hiding heavy thighs is to wear lingerie with a wide skirt. Instead of close-fitting gowns, or bustiers, which can accent the thighs, babydolls with a wide skirt or ruffles or pleats.

The fabric will drape over the legs and minimize those problem thighs. This is very deceptive, as the added width appears to come from the babydoll not from the thighs!

We all hate those thunder thighs and even slim girls will have this problem. But if we create that illusion no one will ever know.

Hey, I feel sexy again and 10lbs lighter - to read this article and see photos that go with this article click on this link

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A Women's Guide to Looking, Feeling
and Being Sexy - Part 7

In this 7 part article series, Love Kitten Lingerie is giving you suggestions and tips for hiding bulges, flattering figures, and choosing the lingerie that will make every woman look and feel her best.

The most important thing no matter what your shape or your age is to wear your lingerie with confidence.

*********

Problem Area # 7

I Have Thick or Short Legs

Women with short or thick legs should wear shorter lingerie, like bustiers and teddies with high cut legs; the more leg that is shown, the longer the legs will appear.

Short girls for example, Kylie Minogue seem very leggy and that is achieved by the cut of the teddy or the shortness of the item that she is wearing.

# Helpful tip -
Remember to start thinking about wearing your lingerie as bedroomwear.

Girls with thick legs often feel more comfortable if they can cover their legs. If that is your case I suggest long styles.

I feel like a super model wearing these outfits!

About the Author

Love Kitten Lingerie is the only Lingerie Members Site in the World that Offers ALL Lingerie, Costumes and Shoes at Cost Price. Why Pay Full Retail Ever Again to Look Sexy? Visit us now at http://www.lovekittenlingerie.com

Dresses Dresses Everywhere The Star Of Spring 2007 Trends

The dress reigns supreme this season with hardly a Ready-To-Wear collection that has not cast it in a leading role (TULEH). Across the designers' lines its versions are even more varied and versatile. From the iconic wrap styles to the staple sheath this strong trend in the return to the 'must have' dress will again render it the wardrobe staple as in generations past.

Over the years I have learned that what is important in a dress is the woman who is wearing it.

Yves Saint Laurent

The moods of Spring encompass breezy sophisticates (BILL BLASS), smooth sexiness (GIORGIO ARMANI), and sheer openness (CALVIN KLEIN and BCBG). We see light, easy feminine versions; simple, delicate creations from designers who translate their 'love' of dresses (CAROLINA HERRERA) to dresses you'll 'love' to wear.

SHAPES/SILHOUETTES:

The shirtdress is back with its June Cleaver sweetness. It's neat and crisp with clean lines and smart details (RALPH LAUREN). Not heavy or cumbersome, worn with or without a belt or with a short or 3/4 sleeve cardigan, it is functional and feminine and will satisfy a multitude of scenarios for the work week as well as the weekend.

Volume is in. From the full skirted baby dolls and the bubble and gathered hems, to the tent, trapeze and muu muu styles you'll find a lot of fabric to contend with this season. Be sure you wear your correct size so that the volume will be in proportion to your frame. Too small and you'll look 'stuffed' into the parts that are designed to fit the body, too big ... you can easily look 'sloppy.'

Designers are offering a great selection of body skimming sheaths and standout chemise styles (KARL LAGERFELD) truly a joy to wear especially if your silhouette has some figure challenges (slight tummy, thick waist, etc.). Also to enhance your proportions the 'floating' waistlines are presented in so many collections. The empire/high waist (VIVIENNE TAM), the natural waistline (CAROLINA HERRERA), the belted waist (BILL BLASS), the drop waist (OSCAR de la RENTA, ANNA SUI, 3.1 PHILIP LIM), these elements when executed in various fabrics (cottons, linens, silks) and patterns (florals geometrics, abstracts or plaids) as well as in wovens or knits offer limitless combinations for you to enjoy.

High waist a-lines with knee skimming skirts worn with cropped jackets (CHLOE) afford a great opportunity to engineer your proportion and soft, flowing sleeves can give a youthful look to your outfit.

BEHNAZ SARAFPOUR shows the easy going chemise shift with piping details, contrast black and white and worn over skinny crop pants for a very upscale casual look.

Caution: With so many choices selecting the style for you can be daunting. First rule: know your shape then select a style that flatters rather that frustrates.

FABRIC/FABRICATIONS:

Soft jerseys, matte jerseys, lots of silks, chiffons, organzas, georgettes, crepes and crepe de chine, luxurious charmeuse and silk blended with rayon and cotton all show up in the fabrics of Spring. Cottons also show up in a strong way in voiles, piques, boucles, jacquards and blended with silks. Linen, the perennial spring fabrication, makes its appearance in stand-alone tissue versions as well as blended with cotton and silk leading to a perfect weight supporting the season's cast of flattering body beautiful contributors.

DEREK LAM'S collection includes cotton poplin presented in the soft, clean, comfortable 'elegant but humble' spirit of American design. 3.1 PHILIP LIM shows a T-shirt dress with a generous sprinkling of rosettes all in white.

The miracle of stretch has been added across the board mixing its magic in everything from the sheerest silk georgette to the dense stretch wool crepe. This is by far the winner in the category of est supporting comfort.

NECKLINES:

Necklines are varied offering something for everyone. Choose your most flattering from among the candidates: boat neck, strapless, scoop neck (CYNTHIA STEFFE), rounded square, halter (DONNA KARAN) ruffled (BETSEY JOHNSON), off-the-shoulder, squared-off deep v's (AKRIS) or the soft drape (DKNY). A good variety can be seen at TULEH.

SLEEVE LENGTHS:

Sleeve lengths also abound in variety from the sleeveless to the kimono with collections featuring all the in between versions: the cap sleeve (3.1 PHILIP LIM, ZAC POSEN), the short puff sleeve (RALPH LAUREN), the short bubble (STELLA MCCARTNEY), the lantern sleeve (BURBERRY PRORSUM), the 3/4 sleeve (cuffed and plain), the poet (CHLOE), and the bell (MATTHEW WILLIAMSON).

SKIRTS AND HEMLINES:

Skirts and hemlines are equally generous in choices ranging from short and shorter to shortest (BLUMARINE) . We're seeing draped (DONNA KARAN), wrapped and bias cut (DKNY); trumpets, tents and trapeze (OSCAR de la RENTA); balloons, bubbles (MALANDRINO) and baby dolls; ruffled (VALENTINO), ruched and rolled; gathered and straight, pleats and pencils, flapper and flirty, asymmetrical (MICHAEL KORS) and tiered and the classic straight hems. Details go from dainty to daring; from the sweetness of eyelet and lady-like lace to the drama of beaded and belted, and double bubbled balloons.

YVES SAINT LAURENT showcases plaids, big and bold and beautiful. NICOLE MILLER offers wonderful prints. DIANE VON FURSTENBERG has florals in full bloom. ISSEY MIYAKE shows bold abstracts and we see beautiful tribals at GIVENCHY. The combinations at MISSONI come alive as the colors harmonize with each other. At VALENTINO the stark white and vivid primaries speak to the clean crisp feel of Spring.

All this awaits the eager buyer this season. So this season, why not celebrate the dress and all that it represents... after all what is important is ...the woman who is wearing it.

Karen Hodge, speaker, author, fashion editor, designer, and style coach, is the owner of KEH & ASSOCIATES - A Wardrobe Consultancy. She conducts workshops and seminars for corporate and private clients on perfecting personal style-developing wardrobes for individual lifestyles.

You can contact Karen at: 800.609.5113 ext.305,
write to her at 10605 SE 240th, Suite.#121, Kent, WA 98031
or visit her online: http://kehandassociates.com

and join her group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/kehandassociates

Celebrity Glamour Secrets Revealed

Celebrity Glamour Secrets are now available to anyone wanting to know, just how do I make myself look like a star. No, we're not talking nips and tucks here, we've found some very doable deals that can assist you in everything that it takes to slim, form, and shape your bodies into the shape you desire that will accent your body like the stars.

Celebrity Glamour Secrets are highly endorsed by such personalities as Oprah, Katherine Zeta Jones, Gwyenth Paltro, Teri Hatcher, and Jenny McCarthy. With names like that you know we've struck gold in these products.

Celebrities are no longer keeping their secrets. If you've longed for glamour or just want to look your absolute best, then you've got to see the whole range of products we offer.

One very unique product that's simply amazing is Spanx. You know those tell-tale panty lines, well no more. Our shapewear collections include bras, panties and hosiery that control and shape your figure in comfort and style. It doesn't matter if you are a size two women who just needs a little thigh smoothing, a full figure women looking for tummy control, or if you need special shapewear for maternity or post baby support. Everybody, and every figure, can benefit from our shapewear.

Celebrity Glamour Secrets offers shapewear, lip plumpers, waist cinchers, bra tops, strapless bras, undies, thongs, and much more. Visit our Galapagos boutique and start living like the stars. Accent your body and watch the world treat you like the star you are. Your Secrets to Instant Beauty!

Visit Us Today! Click here

http://wealthsmith.com/celebrity-glamour-secrets.htm

About the Author

Jim Wilson is an avid announcer of the latest trends on and off the web. He is a trend-setter of ideas, information, and so much more. See just what all he can offer you today: http://wealthsmith.com

Tips On Casual Clothing And Undergarments

Khaki would be too casual, but black Capri's with some sort of a heel would be nice just be sure to buy a blouse or shirt that will go well with the shoes. Perhaps the same color as the shirt. Even if you have white sandal. Don't be afraid to wear an ankle bracelet.

Costume jewelry can really up the look for a wedding. Black is fine as long as you wear it with a light colored shirt or its not totally black, maybe frilly tank top with lace, or even a white short sleeved top. Check out any fashion web site and look under misses selection then tanks & camisoles this will give you a pretty good idea.

Although some of them are too casual those aren't the ones I'm talking about! I specifically would choose the black and white tank with the black Capri's or even the bluish colored one look for stuff like that with hair and makeup. With your hair done you would look great. Try something with chiffon or even try any local Store. If they don't have want you are looking for then go on the internet and order something from there.

Get press on nails and remember to sand your nails down before you apply the glue. Don't paint them a light pink such as the sally Hansen kind. If you get press on nails make sure that are clear so that way you can paint them what ever color you want.That way you don't have to worry about the color of your nails not match the color of the clothes that you choose to wear.

The proper under garments can make all the difference in how your clothes look on you. In terms of panties, nothing is more unflattering than seeing panty lines under your slacks!! That's especially true in the summer when you can get a double whammy...actually seeing through light white pants as well as having the textural bulge that some underpants give!! I am a huge fan of thongs! For some people they take some getting used to and some are more comfortable than others. You'll have to try them and see how you feel. They make visual and texturally bulging panty lines obsolete...great for your look in clothing.

As for bras, it's a great idea to get your bra professionally fit! This may sound a bit bizarre but there are great women out there who do this for a living in lingerie shops. You would be surprised at how many women walk around wearing the wrong bra size for years!! A bra too small around the back provides bulges that look ugly under sweaters or t shirts. Cups the wrong size result in bulging if too small and lumpy wrinkles and gathers if too big.

Anyway, once you have the proper size, here are some things to look for: Go for unadorned and seamless cups. (While lace and rosebuds are awfully pretty, they don't permit fabric to lie smoothly). I love the bras at Victoria's Secret that are unpadded but nonetheless have opaque, shaped cups like the IPEX demi bra. I recommend you take a look at their web site for some ideas or stop into one of their stores and try some different styles on. Here's a tip, try the bra on and put your top back on to really see how it looks!

Own a variety of different bra cuts...one more plunging, one with race backs, one with narrower straps, one strapless, etc because different tops and dresses call for different bra styles. Get a couple of the basic style and then one of each additional style should do it! You just never want your bra or its straps to show! Some people might thing that it is not very classic that a woman's bra straps are showing.

Victor Epand is an expert fashion consultant at http://www.LingerieDress.com/. Visit us when you want the best prices, styles, fashions, and fits of all types of lingerie. We carry a super selection of everyday, as well as bridal and specialty items.

Jewelery to Suit You

Jewellery to suit you
Today the availability of costume jewellery is awesome. There is so much to choose from that many of us are like kids in a sweet shop when we go shopping for that special item. Alongside precious and semi precious stones there are pearls (cultured, fresh water, simulated, glass) crystals (Czech, Chinese, Austrian) in all shapes and sizes not to mention an array of different settings. It is not surprising that many of us have difficulty in choosing that special piece of jewellery to complete an outfit.

A carefully chosen item of jewelery can work a magic spell on your look and is just as important as your choice of outfit. In addition to Jewelery complimenting a certain style of clothing it can help accentuate or disguise physical features. However there are more factors to think about than just whether something suits you. A well-chosen piece of jewelery must be comfortable, complimentary but also liked. If your height dictates that you should avoid dangle earrings but you just have to have them, it is important to wear and enjoy them. Your choice of jewelery is a statement about who you are just as much as it is about what suits you.

The following are some tricks that I have amassed over the last 18 years designing jewelery. I hope that you find them useful.

Face shapes
There are primarily 5 different face shapes (oval, rectangle, round, heart and square) and each of these shapes suits a different style of jewelery. However it is not easy to identify which shape you are. Also it?s not just your face shape that needs to be taken into account, as your build (petite, medium, large) is also an important factor in getting the overall look right.

How to determine what face shape you have
Pull your hair away from your forehead with a hair band and stand in front of a well-lit mirror. Its better if you have a friend to try this out on each other.

An oval shaped face has a wide forehead, prominent cheekbones that gradually narrows to a small chin A heart shaped face is similar to an oval shaped face except that the cheeks appear wider in relation to the chin, which is very small and often pointed. A round face is widest at the cheeks with no angles. Long faces have a forehead, cheeks and jaw line of roughly the same width Square faces also have forehead, cheeks and jaw line of roughly the same width however they also have a very strong straight jaw line

As a simple rule if you choose a style of jewelery the same shape as your face you will accentuate it.

Oval face
This is the easiest of the 5 as any style of earring will suit.

Long/ face
Going by the rule above long earrings will make your face appear longer. If you want to disguise a long face short, stud earrings are best matched with a round necklace and neckline. A v neckline will accentuate the length of the face.

Round face
Round/hoop earrings will accentuate a round face. Long, slim earrings will give the impression of length. Add to this either a pendant or V shaped necklace to a V shaped neckline

Heart face Women with a heart shaped face have a narrow chin. If a narrow chin needs disguising choose earrings that are wider at the base. If your heart shaped face is your best feature it will be accentuated with earrings narrow at the base.

Square face For women with square shaped faces avoid harsh angular lines, rather opt for hoop or round shaped earrings with a round necklace Also avoid a square neckline.

Necklines We have addressed, round, square and V necklines but what about strapless and backless.

Strapless dresses look great with choker or simple round necklaces or just a long pair of dangly earrings Backless dresses, or those with a deep V at the back look great with a lariat necklace. This looks like a simple round or pendant necklace at the front but has a string of beads dangling down the back.

Want to look shorter?

If you are tall and want to appear shorter choose either a choker or round style necklace, avoiding long strings of beads. If you have a long neck that you want to show off, long slim earrings and a round necklace are a must.

Want to look taller?

If you are petite and want to look taller opt for V shaped necklaces and avoid choker styles. The longer the necklace the taller you will appear, but not too long-the princess length of necklace at 18 inches is long enough. Very long chunky earrings may dwarf petite frames. If you have a short neck this will appear shorter the longer the earrings that are chosen. Very fine short dangle or stud earrings are the most complimentary.

Chest size Your chest will look larger with a round neckline, halter neckline, polo neckline and choker /round necklaces. It will be minimized with a V neckline and V or pendant shaped necklace.

Bracelets Bracelets can add that finishing touch to your overall ensemble The choice is endless with so many designs about but the most suitable for your frame is as follows. Larger builds can cope with chunky, or many layered bracelets. Also a wide band or cuff looks great. For petite frames fine delicate bracelets will compliment small hands and wrists. .

Finally, always take note of what you are wearing when someone compliments you on how well you look as this is an affirmation as to your choice of style and colour. Happy jewellery hunting!

Jenny guazo is jewellery designer for braceletsnbrides http://www.braceletsnbrides.co.uk

Why Today's Bras Are Far From The Ones Your Grandmother Wore

Depending on how old you are, you may remember your first bra being a plain white cotton one, filled with embarrassing seams that showed through your tops. They closed in the backs and had uncomfortable straps that had you shrugging to adjust them throughout the day. Some of them were cone shaped, giving them a pointed appearance that made it look like your breasts could double as a weapon. Because of their plainness, you probably didn't own that many of them, replacing them only as you got older and your breast size increased or when they became too worn to give you the support that you needed.

Today that has all changed. Plain, utilitarian bras have become a thing of the past. Before, a lingerie drawer may have contained bras, panties and stockings. Now bras have become so stylish that they often warrant their own drawer in order to accommodate the number of them that are owned. Now bras come in so many shapes and sizes that they are a fashion unto themselves.

The pushup bra has become widely popular among women who have small breasts. Large breasts have always been coveted by women because of the sexual appeal they have to so many men. Many tops and dresses are designed to show healthy amounts of cleavage that the smaller breasted women could never before hope to have. The pushup bra creates the effect of a larger, fuller bust line and allows these women to now have the cleavage that before they could only covet.

Strapless bras are another great addition, thanks to the many tops and dresses that have spaghetti straps or are strapless themselves. Tube tops have come back in fashion and without a strapless bra, they can not be worn without some sort of jacket or top to cover the bra straps. Since this is a summer fashion wearing one demands that you also wear a strapless bra. No woman wants to be seen wearing a jacket when it 90 degrees outside.

Another great addition to bras types are the seamless ones. No longer do you have to worry about having a big, visible seam going across your chest when wearing your favorite tank top or sweater. These bras are made with foam and designed in such a way that there are no seams that can be displayed and ruin the look of your top.

For clothing that is designed to show a so much skin that not even a strapless bra will work with them, you can now get bras that are little more than stick-on cups. They come in two pieces, each to be worn on one breast and have an adhesive that keeps the piece in place so that support is maintained.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach, Florida. Find more about this as well as hot lingerie at http://www.hotlingeriesuperstore.com

Bustiers: For Brides And For Every Woman

For the bride-to-be, a bridal bustier is a must-have. You want to feel like the most beautiful woman on earth when you walk down the aisle. A bridal bustier helps by making sure you look amazing in your wedding dress. They slim, flatten, and hoist, all while looking smooth and seamless under your gown.

Here?s how the bridal bustier works. Bustiers start at the bosom and go down to the hips. They?re like corsets in that they feature boning that helps keep everything ?in place,? so to speak.

Bridal bustiers are created to be invisible. Often, they?re totally seamless and feature hidden underwire, a low-cut back, and straps that can be removed. Not surprisingly, the vast majority of bridal bustiers are white.

Bustiers, corsets, and basques are actually three different pieces of lingerie. If you hear the term ?bustier corset,? it usually refers to a bustier that?s made to firmly cinch and hold. The bustier corset is something women turn to when an ensemble calls for a near-perfect figure. You probably wouldn?t want to wear one every day, but they?re ideal for occasions when you want to be an absolute knock-out. A bustier corset can instantly trim 3 or 4 pounds off your figure and make you appear curvy yet toned.

Almost all bustiers come with removal straps. The strapless bustier has a couple of different uses. They?re ideal for wearing under a strapless gown and tube tops. In fact, they?re also great for a top or dress with thin spaghetti straps. A strapless bustier provides all the support you need, but with no unsightly appearances from your bra straps.

A strapless bustier can also be a fashion statement. Increasingly, women are wearing strapless bustiers as tops. They?re sexy and sassy for a night on the town. Paired with a blazer they can even be toned down enough for less wild occasions.

Lots of sexy costumes feature bustiers. Using a bustier in the costume?s design can make even Little Red Riding Hood a red hot temptress. A witch costume complete with a bustier says no warts here, only delightfully devilish spells. Here are just a few of the sexy costumes that typically include bustiers:
?Devil
?Pirate
?Fairy
?Bar maid
?Princess
?Santa?s little helper

Of course, as you already know, bustiers make for sizzling sexy lingerie. No piece of sexy lingerie is truly sexy unless it makes you feel fabulous. And fabulous you will feel with the womanly, hourglass shape that an exotic bustier will give you.

When meant to serve as sexy lingerie, bustiers come in less ?functional? varieties. That is, the vertical seams and lacing are meant to be visually appealing and not to constrict. You get the best of both worlds: an exotic bustier that?s seductive yet fairly comfortable to wear.

Sexy, lacey bras and panties are great, but can become common-place. An exotic bustier makes you look and feel like a ?take charge? kind of gal. Really wow that special someone with a piece of lingerie they never expected. Even the shyest of women will feel like a total goddess in an exotic bustier.

About the Author:

Adrian Jones has been involved in the sexy lingerie uk market for many years. This article outlines the benefits of women wearing sexy costumes as if that needed much explaining!

Second Wedding Dress Encore Brides Don't Settle for Second Best!

GONE are the days when the second time bride known as the encore bride has to settle for scaled down ceremonies with fewer guests.

With over 45% percent of all weddings today involving one or both partners who have been married before, it's difficult to tell from the attire whether the modern bride is marrying for the first or umpteenth time. In fact, the modern bride who is lucky enough to find love again is trampling on the old traditions. Now their wedding is based on their taste and their budget. With the motto being: This is the last time, and it's got to be the best.

The encore bride is in a different place than when she had her first wedding. They are confident, they have more money to spend, and they know what they want. Their focus is on simple elegance.
Whether it is your first, second or third wedding the focal point is still the wedding dress. These brides are seeking dresses that are tailored rather than poufy - a sexy, sophisticated look with the emphasis on quality fabrics.

Today's trends in bridal gowns are all about you. Your second wedding gown should reflect your personal style, your fashion sense and what kind of wedding you want to have.

When shopping for that perfect dress it helps to know your body type so you can choose the gown that highlights your best features and downplays the areas you wish you could forget.

Here are some of the latest fashion trends to help get you started:

Trains are fine, but keep them simple, again matching the formality and style of the wedding.

Show some skin: At this year's runway shows, many designers decided to go bare. Creations featured mostly strapless gowns that place the emphasis on the bodice: gently weaved, beaded, or simple with demure jeweled straps.

Body-Conscious: Designers are very body conscious these days, with shape taking precedence. This is good news for any bride: most of these dresses have a slimming effect. The ever-popular A-line (also known as princess) is a long cut that draws the eye downwards, and often has a built-in train. This does not mean that designers have abandoned the classic traditional gowns...the skirts still float but the cut is meant to flatter the body.

Embroidery and Lace: These two mainstays of bridal fashion never go out of style and let's not forget beading. Today's bride wants the opulence in beadwork with many designers choosing crystals over glass beads.

Color: This component of a gown has never been so popular. Brides are actually thinking outside the box these days choosing jewel tone gowns in gold, silver, and a variety of pearl tones. However, second time brides still are confident enough to wear white, after all white symbolizes commitment and faithfulness so why not!

Where to Look: Magazines are the traditional way a bride begins her gown search, but why not look for a gown online? Most designers now have WebPages, and a collection of name gowns can be found on a number of websites. And if you're wondering, Will the gown of my dreams fit me right? there's help to be found on a multitude of websites which determine your body type and then suggest the dress type that is best for your figure.

Finally Hit the Runways! The latest fashions needn't remain a trade secret. Bridal shows, which feature live runway presentations of the current trends and designers, are an excellent way to view a variety of gowns.

A wedding is a celebration of love so indulge and take your time finding that perfect gown. The number one comment I receive from second time brides is...his is definitely it, I'm not getting married again.

Visit her website at: http://www.bridalchalet.com

About the Author

Gail Young is a co-founder of The Bridal Chalet, an online bridal boutique selling designer style couture and traditional wedding gowns and bridal accessories. A second time bride herself, Gail combines her extensive knowledge of the industry with her passion for designing couture bridal fashion. The Bridal Chalet has a collection of exclusive designer wedding gowns geared to the second time bride - the Sara Houston Collection.

How a New Mother Can Use Her Breast Pump With Less Time and Bother

Many times a new mother is surprised at how time consuming feeding an infant can be. Add to the regular breast feeding schedule the time to use a breast pump and mothers are even more pressed. Timesavers can be found in making wise clothing choices, multi-tasking while pumping, and organizing the breast pumping routine better.



Dress for Successful Breast Pumping.



Wear two-piece outfits with easy access to your breasts. A loose top that can be pulled up from the bottom makes breast feeding and breast pumping more convenient. Another choice would be a dress or shirt that buttons all the way down the front. Buttons that go down only to the waist are not usually sufficient for double pumping because you need to be able to open the shirt wide. Also you could buy nursing tops or dresses with discreet slits at the breast for convenience when nursing or pumping.



Use a pumping bra for hands-free pumping or Medela?s Pumping-Free Attachment Kit. The strapless variety of pumping bra makes it convenient to put on and take off only while pumping in a two-piece outfit if you prefer your ordinary nursing brassieres for most of the day. Some women have made their own pumping bras by cutting slits in an old bra. You could also try the old rubber band trick.



While you are making clothing choices, note that prints will not show wetness as easily as solids, and breast milk will stain your silk blouses. Other wise (or unwise) fabric choices may come to mind. Leaning forward slightly while pumping will help to keep the milk going into the bottles and not running out on your clothes. Some users tuck a towel under their breasts.



Multi-tasking while Breast Pumping.



If you would rather not buy hands-free pumping bras, you can have at least one hand free while double pumping with the following technique. Sit at a desk or a table. Use the edge of the table and one arm to hold your funnels in place. That gives you a free hand to read something that will lay flat on the table or eat a snack. Some users put the breast pump motor on the floor and operate the controls with a toe. With the Avent Isis IQ Duo Breast Pump, the controls are in one button on the part that is near the breast and the user?s hand. Another option for multi-tasking is the hands-free breast pump by Whisper Wear, the self-contained breast pump worn inside your bra. Although not absolutely silent and it makes one?s chest look larger than usual, this breast pump may still be an option for many mothers.



Some women multitask by pumping one breast while nursing the baby on the other breast. Some babies are bothered by the noise of an electric pump so their mothers have more success with a quality one-handed manual pump like the Medela Harmony, Ameda One-Hand, or Avent Isis breast pumps. A good time to try this technique is early in the morning when milk supply and the prolactin hormone is the greatest. Baby will usually be sated with the one side at this time of day ? no need to switch sides unless you feel lopsided. Women who have difficulty getting their milk to let-down when pumping alone can often fill a bottle with their baby helping to stimulate their let-down.



Organize Your Breast Pumping Routine Better.



Follow a set routine: assemble your equipment the same way each time. Disassemble and wash the parts the same way each time. Like the pit crew for a race car, you will get faster and more efficient each time.



If you use your breast pump more than once a day, you could try the following. Instead of washing your parts after every session, just give the breast shield assembly a quick rinse and seal it in a clean plastic bag in the refrigerator between uses. Do give the parts a thorough hot, soapy wash at least once daily and follow the manufacturer?s instructions for sterilizing when needed.



Some users advise buying extra breast pump parts as a convenience. Have a couple of sets of the washable parts and you can wash only half as often. Some women buy three sets if they are pumping three times daily while at work. They bag the parts without washing them and bring them home for one washing. It saves time at work, and you can take advantage of your home dishwasher. Some women assign the task of parts-washing to another family member so they can have more time nursing and re-bonding with their baby in the evening. Another advantage to owning at least one extra set of parts is as a little insurance in case you lose something essential. If you are not lucky enough to have a retailer in your area that sells all the parts individually, you need to call the manufacturer and have one shipped to you. It can take days for your part to arrive. That can be a real inconvenience for mothers who must pump every day.



Finally, if you are breast pumping several times a day, buy or rent an efficient, high-quality breast pump. A double electric pump will finish the job in sometimes less than half the time, usually ten minutes when you become experienced. A pump that is slow is not only inconvenient, but some users find them uncomfortable too. A breast pump that wastes your time will cause you aggravation you do not need.







Matia Bryson is the mother of seven previously breast fed children and wants to help other mothers to breast feed their children as long as they desire to do so. Matia Bryson is the mother of seven previously breast fed children and wants to help other mothers to breast feed their children as long as they desire to do so.

The ?old rubber band trick? can be found at the Hands-Free Breast Pumping Page. For information on how to get more out of one?s breast pump, read the Breast Pump Articles at the Baby Loves Your Milk website. For tips on buying a new breast pump on eBay, go to EBay Breast Pump Watch.

Sigma Heart Rate Monitor Review

Want to boost your fitness routine, maximize your time, and get real, visible results? Then you probably already know that heart rate monitors can really help you custom-design your workout routine to achieve that sleek, body beautiful feeling that everyone wants. Consider Sigma heart rate monitors, because if you?re buying anyway you might as well buy one of the best.

Sigma heart rate monitors come in a variety of styles and colors, so you can choose the monitor that has the features to best suit your workout needs. Wrist and strapless varieties are available, so you can wear your Sigma heart rate monitor any way you wish. The colorful, quality designs and styles look like fashionable watches, not tools for exercising.

The Onyx line comes in three signature styles from Sigma: Fit, Pro, and Easy. The sleek, black designs Sigma heart rate monitors contain features like lap counting, memory that can store multiple workouts, and training modes that measure endurance, interval training, and time functions that include alarms. With a Sigma heart rate monitor, you can experience a complete work out, maximize your time, and get the results that everyone wants.

The Topline Sigma heart monitors come in a multitude of shades and styles, like the silver-toned PC 9, blue PC FT, and chrome-on-gray PC 15. The Sigma Fit Watch has all the features that anyone who?s serious about their workout needs. You can check out the calorie counter, Fit Test, and training manager features ? all of it design to give you the most from your workout. With a Sigma heart rate monitor, you have everything you need to achieve a high level of physical fitness.

By keeping track of your heart rate while you exercise, you can see just what kind of progress you?re really making. You?ll know if you?re reaching your target heart rate, and how long you?re maintaining that level. Getting to, and staying at your target heart rate is the best way to meet all your physical fitness goals.

Sigma heart rate monitors are constructed and designed with fitness in mind. They?re made to withstand the wear and tear associated with exercising, made to stay strong even under impact and movement, so that you can continue to use your Sigma heart rate monitor for many, many workouts to come. The high-quality products that Sigma offers are just what you need to take your workout from a fast trot to a full sprint. You?ll reach results faster, make more efficient use of your workout time, and enjoy the feeling of physical fitness a lot faster. With Sigma heart rate monitors, you can even use the memory features to track your growing progress and stamina.

Check out Sigma heart rate monitors online to look at all the styles and types. You?ll find the Sigma heart rate monitor that best suits your needs, so you can get started on your path to physical fitness right away. The quicker you get on the right track, the sooner you can sprint down it ? and down the path of healthy living.

Looking for Top Brand Heart Rate Monitors at Below Retail Prices?

FITZZ.COM - Personal Health & Sports Products Home Fitness Exercise Equipment Online

20 Tips For Buying Your Wedding Gown

 



20 Tips For Buying Your Wedding GownSubmitted By: Annette Durrett  

1. Start early - Once you have set your wedding date, begin your search for a wedding dress. Ordering a wedding gown can easily take four to six months for the complete process. Unless you purchase your wedding dress off of the rack, your wedding gown will not be sewn until you order it. Then you can expect to have one to two fittings for any needed alterations. Even if your purchase a gown off the rack, you need to allow time for finding the wedding gown and for fittings and alteration time.

2. Have an idea - Use the Internet and bridal magazines to get an idea of the type of dress you want, puffy sleeves, long skirt, etc?Consider the ceremony's location and time of year- don't plan a huge skirt for a tight little church or a thin silk sheath for an outdoor winter ceremony. Hint: Don't remove the magazine pages with wedding dress styles you like. Keeping them in the magazine will help keep them organized and will be easier for the sales staff to flip through and see your choices.

3. Do your homework - Contact friends and the local Chamber of Commerce for reputable bridal saloons and other wedding gown dealers in your area. Call the Better Business Bureau about any company you plan to patronize. Be wary of any wedding dress salon or seamstress that requires more than a 50% deposit on special orders, you want to have some leverage if the product you receive is not what you expected. Be aware that some wedding gown shops remove the tags from wedding dresses so you cannot identify the designer. Many times they will not offer you the style number of the wedding gown but try to get this information before putting money down so that you will know the exact wedding dress manufacturer. (Click here to see a special notice from the bridal council of America on where to find a wedding dress.)

4. Don't shop alone - It is best to take one or two people with you who can assist you in getting in and out of those beautiful, but big wedding gowns. Also, another person can give you an honest opinion on how the dress fits and help you determine its appearance from all angles. Most importantly, taking one or two people will make your experience more fun. Relax and enjoy yourselves! You don't have to buy your dress in one day (usually).

5. Plan to Pay 50% down - Generally a 50% deposit is required by most bridal shops on special orders and off-the-rack gowns that need alterations. Once the order has been placed, that money is absolutely non-refundable. We recommend using a charge card for this payment, in case there is a significant complaint against the establishment you may be able to work something out with the credit card company for reimbursement.

6. Call ahead - Many bridal shops and department stores require appointments to try on wedding gowns. Be sure to call ahead and secure your appointment before dropping by an establishment, you might find you have just wasted valuable time because they won't see you that day. Also, you will want to verify if the bridal shop carries the manufacturer you are interested in or if they have a sample of a particular wedding dress you have your heart set on.

7. Measure up - It is a good idea to have your measurements taken at a bridal salon or take them yourself before ordering your wedding gown. Each wedding gown designer has a different size chart and these sizes are generally a little larger than your street clothes size. Wedding gown sizes are based on measurements and even though you may normally wear a size 6 you may order an 8 or 10 in your wedding gown.

8. Buy a dress that fits - Even though you may be on a diet to lose 20 pounds before your wedding, buy or order a wedding gown that fits you now. It is very easy to take in a wedding gown with minor alterations but it is next to impossible to increase the size of a wedding dress. Don't be stuck with a wedding dress that does not fit properly or worse that you can't wear because it's too small.

9. Get your purchase order in writing -Once you have chosen the wedding gown you are going to purchase and are prepared to put down a deposit, have the salesperson write up a detailed receipt for you. Included on this receipt should be a full description of the wedding gown, including any special charges, such as charges for petite or large sizes, extra length, change of sleeve length, or any other special requests. Delivery date and due dates should be included as well. Lastly, any special offers such as free alterations, free shipping or rushed delivery time should be spelled out on the receipt as well. Having a written record of your verbal agreement with the bridal shop will be added insurance for you should a dispute arise.

10. Consider the rear view - Remember that you will be spending quite a bit of time with your back to the audience. Be sure that the view from behind is as flattering as the front.

11. Know the styles and terms - Look through our list of wedding gowns terms to know to help familiarize yourself with wedding dress terms so that you can better tell a salesperson what you are looking for. Consider doing a little research on fabric types and different wedding gown companies as well. Your local library or bookstore will carry books such as Bridal Gown Guide by Denise and Alan Fields which will provide you with more information.

12. Set a budget - Be realistic about your budget and try to stick to it. There are many options for buying a wedding gown (click here to see where to buy a wedding gown). Don't try on wedding gowns that are out of your price range because you are only setting yourself up for disappointment and making the decision process even harder on yourself.

13. Review your options - There are many places to find your wedding gown such as Bridal Shops, Sample Sales, Department Stores and Renting. (Click here for more information on where to find your wedding dress and how their service and price compare to each other.)

14. Comfort matters - Remember you will be wearing your wedding gown for the entire day and well into the evening; so choose a gown that feels comfortable. An important test (after you have your wedding dress on) is to attempt to bend over, sit down, dance or do whatever it takes to assure that you can move in the wedding dress so that you will feel comfortable wearing it on your wedding day.

15. Try them all on - Even though you may have an idea of what type wedding gown you want, be open to the suggestions of a professional bridal salon staff. A wedding dress that is not very appealing on the hanger may surprise you and look very flattering once it is on your body.

16. Soften up - Stark white dresses are not flattering on many women. Consider an ivory, soft pink or other antique white that might be more becoming with your coloring. Also, understand that dye changes many materials vary slightly and the wedding dress that you special order may not be the exact color of the wedding dress you try on at the salon. If your wedding dress is being made, request a swatch of the fabric to get an idea of the exact color you will be wearing.

17. Wear a little make-up - We are not proposing that you wear a heavy application of make-up or lots of dark lip stick, but do put at least a little make-up on so that you don't look washed out in everything you try on. If you wear your make-up and fix your hair before shopping, you will have a better idea of how you'll look on your big day.

18. Try on the whole package - Bring with you shoes that are roughly the same height of the shoes you plan to wear during the ceremony and a strapless bra. Before you make your final decision on a wedding gown, try on your head piece and bridal slip to see what the total package looks like. You want to make sure that the headpiece and other accessories you choose will all look great together with the wedding gown.

19. Inspect each wedding gown - If you are planning to purchase a wedding gown off the rack, be sure that you inspect each wedding gown very carefully. Turn the wedding dress inside out and inspect each seam to make sure the construction of the wedding gown is solid and that the fabric is not unraveling at the seams. Inspect the appliqu?s and beading to insure that they are securely fastened and not just glued onto the wedding dress. Be wary of purchasing a wedding gown that needs minor repairs because once you begin to alter a wedding dress, you can not return it if the repair is not successful.

20. Relax and enjoy yourself - Remember to relax and enjoy the shopping experience. Allow the bridal salon salespeople to pamper you or enjoy the thrill of the bargain shopping of a warehouse sale. Whatever you do, remember the goal of your wedding is to marry the person you love and that your wedding gown is just one part of the ceremony. Being an educated consumer will help you feel more in control and feel more comfortable with the purchase you make.

**A special notice from the bridal council of America:

The Best Place to Buy Your Gown from The Bridal Council of America?

The best place to buy your wedding gown is at the store you try it on. You may be tempted to order your wedding dress through a o inventory dealer, an 800#, or the Internet, thinking you will get a lower price. However, when all things are considered, you may end up paying more. Here are three tips:

1) Beware of anyone who wants to ship your wedding gown to you. You have little recourse if anything goes wrong. Chances are the extra charges you will have to pay someone else for fitting, steaming, pressing and shipping will outweigh any discount.

2) Beware of anyone who requires you to pay in full for your wedding dress before ordering it. They are saying, We do not service what we sell. We do not guarantee the fit. We do not want to be responsible. OUR ADVICE: You should never pay more than a 50% deposit at the time of ordering your wedding dress.

3) Beware of anyone who suggests that you do the footwork - select your style preference somewhere else and then call them to order. If they can't show you wedding dresses to try on, don't show them the money.

Our recommendation is that you buy your wedding gown at the same place that you select it. When you consider terms and what the price includes, you can usually save time and money by doing it all at one place - a full-service bridal store where your satisfaction is guaranteed. A wedding is too important to take chances.

About the Author:

Annette Durrett has been in the wedding business for over 10 years helping brides prepare for their big day. To learn more about wedding dresses review Wedding Dresses. Also, for information about all things wedding related visit us at AffordableWeddingInvitations.net.

Article Tags: dress, gown, wedding

Dressing Your Bridesmaids

Dressing Your Bridesmaids

For a bride, shopping for bridesmaid dresses can be one of the most difficult aspects of wedding planning. How can the bride find a gown for her maids that will display her own taste, look great on every girl and will fit into the financial picture?

There are so many colors and styles of dresses to choose from. The bridesmaids themselves may vary greatly in size and they want a flatteringly gown that makes them feel good. The bride and her bridesmaids may be in their mid-20s or older and want a more sophisticated look in the bridesmaids gown. The bride also has the task of choosing a dress that will look good with each girls skin tone, hair color and figure.

Choosing the right gown can be a challenge, but its not impossible. The bride should start the decision process early. Its ideal to actually place the order for the gowns about four months before the wedding. This will allow time for alterations, shopping for shoes and other accessories and leave time to dye the shoes to match the gown. The bride will find it most helpful to shop with the one bridesmaid whose fashion sense she shares. The ultimate decision about the perfect bridesmaid gown will be the brides.

The first step to choosing a bridesmaid gown is to determine the formality, style and fabric of the wedding gown. The bridesmaid dresses shouldnt overpower or clash with the wedding gown. For todays more simple bridal styles, nice detailing in the maids gowns creates a good look for the group. Back accents like straps, halter tops and simple beading are important for ceremony photography. A quality gown of good fabric and construction is necessary for the active bridesmaids who will be walking, dancing or running errands. Who needs to worry about seams splitting apart or buttons falling off during the wedding?

The next step for most brides is choosing the gown color. This can be done by looking at bridesmaid swatches in the bridal shop. Most manufacturers make bridesmaids dresses in anywhere from a few colors to as many as fifty. Choosing the actual color will narrow the choice of gowns to a more manageable number.

The bride must then consider the size ranges and figure types of her maids. Most bridal parties have an average of two full-figured members. If this is the case, many times its best to begin choosing a gown style with the larger maids in mind. Some larger girls feel comfortable in spaghetti straps or even strapless gowns, but many would rather have at least a short sleeve or perhaps a shawl. The smaller girls can usually wear any style. A-line styles look good on most everyone. A two-piece style with a longer top covering the hip bone is another good style. Almost 50% of wedding parties will include a pregnant bridesmaid. Extra fabric can be ordered to create a maternity side panel. A few designers are now creating maternity bridesmaids.

A new marketing trend for bridesmaids is the idea of separates. Most manufactures now feature at least some of their styles in separate tops and skirts. Separates offer some flexibility for the maids as they are able to choose different sizes for the top and skirt and can accommodate many different figures types. The bride can also choose the color and manufacturer of the separates while letting the maids have the freedom to create a style they will be comfortable in.

In these sensitive economic times, many gown manufacturers are adjusting their prices to meet everyones financial needs. Many designers have lowered their prices with no reduction in the quality of the garments. This years selection of gowns should meet the approval of everyone in the wedding party.

The bride may save time by doing her preliminary shopping online. She can narrow her choices and email styles she likes to her maids. Shopping on the internet may be the most logical choice for some brides when her maids live in different parts of the country. Online ordering entails the maids obtaining their own measurements and alterations which must be done correctly for the best fit. Be sure to order very early to allow extra time for shipping the gowns.

The bridesmaid look is not complete without shoes and accessories. Shoes are available in many styles in fabrics which can be custom dyed to match the gown. Also popular are the clear vinyl shoes in strappy sandals some with changeable colored ribbon straps. One shoe company is now producing 100% silk shoes with leather soles in colorfast fabrics available in 9 styles in 15 colors that can be special ordered for delivery in about one week. Matching wrist or elbow gloves offers a sophisticated look. A simple rhinestone or pearl necklace and earring set will enhance the look of your maids.

With all the choices in bridesmaid gowns available today, every member of the wedding party should be happy with the final results and will spend the wedding day celebrating with the bride and her groom.

About the author:
Roanna Rose has owned a full service bridal shop for more than 20 years. In 1997, the business was extended to the internet when the web site http://www.tjformal.comwas created showcasing prom dresses, wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, tuxedos, and formal accessories. For free tips on shopping and planning for your prom or wedding visit: http://www.tjformal.com/tips.htm

A French Maid Costume Can Turn You Into The Sexy Temptress You Have Always Fantasized About

Sexy costumes can transform your boring everyday existence into an exciting adventure fantasy. Transform into a sexy insatiable temptress or a school girl costume into an innocent virgin school girl, with a french maid costume.

There are a huge range of sexy costumes designed to suit a wide variety of occasions and moods. You can find many daring costumes to wear for an intimate, romantic evening.

Here is a look at some of the most popular costumes.

Maid costumes are very popular and French maid costumes are even more so. There are a huge variety of maid costumes available, ranging from classy to sultry maid outfits and even sheer outfits.

School girl costumes can be found in many costume stores online and are available in different types. Two piece costumes, sorority costumes, cookie girl costumes, reform school girl costumes, brownie girl costumes, Girl Scout costumes, Parisian and Eton school girl costumes, you name it, you will find it.

Marilyn Monroe costumes are another big hit. Remember that famous white dress that made Marilyn Monroe the household name that she is today? Well, you can get yourself exactly the same costume - the legendary white stretch cire dress.

Another popular costume is the Marilyn Monroe adult costume. This costume includes a long, strapless vinyl dress with a slit, back bow and long, matching vinyl gloves. This is a sexy costume and has been nicknamed Diamonds are a girls best friend.

Nurse costumes have for a long time, been the most famous of all costume categories. You can choose between a halter bedroom nurse outfit or a candy nurse outfit. There are even nurse teddy costumes.

Other speciality in-demand outfits are police girl costumes, cheer leader costumes and Arabian dancer costumes.

No matter what the occasion, you can be assured that a costume outfit will help you attract the kind of attention you are looking for and turn you into whatever you have fantasized about.

Kalwant Rana is A Freelance Writer For www.sexy-plus-size-lingerie-org.uk. You Can Find Lots Of Useful Information And Reviews About All Kinds Of Discount Plus Size Lingerie From A Simple Plus Size Bra To A Fabulous French Maid Costume.

Style Yourself like a Celebrity: Gorgeous Prom Jewelry for Every Dress

A dress without accessories is like a Christmas tree without ornaments: beautiful but oddly naked. Celebrities and their stylists know that carefully selected accessories can make or break an outfit. Coordinated accoutrements can tie your look together, creating a pleasing package, while clashing pieces can distract the eye and throw off your entire look.

While it's difficult to decide which of the myriad wonderful accessories to wear, you don't need a celebrity stylist to get it right, as long as you keep the following time-tested tips in mind. And remember: less is more. Wear too many accessories and nothing will get noticed, except the fact that you piled too much on.

Prom Jewelry
The most obvious prom accessory, jewelry, is easy to get right if you consider two things: your hairstyle and your dress. (Personal style counts, too, but only you know what suits you. Choose pieces you'd wear after prom and you won't go wrong.) Think also of color. Try not to match your dress exactly, but rather choose colors that compliment your ensemble. For example, a green dress will look great with deep blue or black gemstone jewelry. When in doubt, wear diamonds or pearls--they look great with everything! My personal favorites are freshwater pearls. In addition to white, freshwater pearls come in many beautiful pastel colors, like lavender, peach, pink and yellow that complement a variety of fabrics. Freshwater pearls are also surprisingly affordable.

Jewelry and Prom Hairstyle
Your prom hairstyle plays a major role in the type of earrings that work. If your hair is short or will be in an updo, you have tons of great earring options. Pearl, diamond and gemstone studs are always elegant, and have the added bonus of allowing you to choose a bolder necklace. Drop earrings look great too, and are sweetly feminine. If you choose a bolder earring, like a stiletto or chandelier style, keep other jewelry simple. The same goes for hair ornaments.

If your hair is long and you're wearing it down, you need an earring that can make a statement. Consider big bold gemstones or dangling hoops or a chandelier or stiletto style. (Think Reese Witherspoon, Queen Latifah and Jessica Alba at the Oscars.) Just don't overdo it by wearing a bold necklace or bracelet. One standout piece of jewelry is sufficient.

Jewelry and Prom Dress...
* Spaghetti straps: You have tons of great jewelry options here, but again, you want to pick subtle jewelry or one standout piece. Consider a wide pearl cuff bracelet and a pearl ring, or pearl, diamond, or gemstone dangle earrings and a diamond or pearl pendant. A bezel set diamond--or CZ--works well with a spaghetti-strapped dress. Just make sure, if you're wearing a great bracelet, that your date doesn't get you a wrist corsage.

* Strapless: The majority of prom 2006 dress styles are strapless. That's good news for jewelry lovers, as your prom necklace can really stand out. Choose something short to accent your collarbones like a princess length pearl strand or a diamond or pearl pendant. Don't wear a necklace that comes to the top of the bodice; you don't want the fabric and the jewelry to compete. If the necklace you choose is simple, consider adding bold earrings or a bracelet for added pizzazz.

* Cap- or short-sleeved: Play up your arms and balance out the dress' sleeves with tons of thin stackable bracelets (I love wood, shell and enamel, but not all together, of course). Pick a simple necklace and earrings, or go without. If bangles drive you nuts while you dance, skip them and choose a wide cuff instead.

* High-necked: Lose the necklace (it'll compete) and instead pair a high necked dress with a simple pair of earrings and an elegant bracelet in the same stone. Or stack several bracelets in lieu of a wrist corsage. Remember to choose a piece that won't compete with the bold neckline of this dress. Shoulder-grazing earrings are an option here if they suit the dress's style. They'll be dramatic and sophisticated for sure!

* Square-necked: A square-necked dress is the best setting to show off a beautiful necklace. Borrow Mom's pearls or Grandma's diamond pendant, buy freshwater pearls in a color that complements your dress, or choose a bold gemstone piece if the dress is jewel toned. Play it up here, but keep other prom accessories simple.

* V-necked: Matching necklace and earrings can pull your look together very well, as the V draws attention to your face and collarbones. For no-brainer options, choose a pearl set or a simple bezel-set diamond pendant and stud earrings.

* Plunging: Consider pinning a vintage brooch at the bottom of the plunge, or adorning yourself with a pearl choker, diamond collar or a plain ribbon. Don't wear a longer necklace as it'll detract from the plunge. Keep earrings simple.

* Simple: Lucky you! A simple prom dress such as a sheath, allows you to get a lot funkier with your accessories. The layered look is still hot, so consider piling on a few long gold chains with shorter pearl necklaces, or pearl-and-chain combos. A sparkly diamond cuff, a la Hilary Swank at the Oscars, (go faux!) always looks chic. Remember that you'll be dancing, so no extra long pearl ropes as you'll risk whipping your fellow prom goers.

* Ornate: An ornate dress is a work of art. Depending on the style and level of detail, you may want to choose a simple piece of jewelry, such as a diamond pendant, pearl necklace, simple gold chain or pearl, diamond or gold studs. Stay away from glittery jewelry that will compete with the dress. If the neckline is high and bejeweled, opt out of jewelry entirely and consider pinning something sparkly in your hair instead. A bold, chunky cocktail ring can work wonders here too.

* Vintage: Make it modern with multiple strands or stacks of bangle bracelets or layered necklaces. I like a few shorter gold pieces layered with gold and pearl chains. But don't go overboard: a dress that makes a statement should not be overwhelmed with jewelry. Depending on the dress, a beautiful pearl strand tied with ribbon or a simple pair of diamond studs can work too.

Remember, all top stylists worth their salt know that, when it comes to accessories, it's best to stick with pieces that won't overwhelm your look. The most important tip? Have a blast and keep in mind that getting ready for prom is almost always the best part, so savor every moment!
About the Author

Amy Drescher is a fashion writer and accessories buyer for Moon River Pearls, www.moonriverpearls.com. She welcomes your questions. Reach her at adrescher@moonriverpearls.com. Visit her blog at http://cafe.moonriverpearls.com/amy.

Bridal Jewelry to Wear Again and Again

You want your bridal jewelry to make an impression, while not interfering with the wow factor of the wedding gown. For some brides, their bridal jewelry exists to be worn at their wedding. Then it goes into the jewelry box or safe to never be worn again. That is just not right!

You took a lot of time choosing the bridal jewelry. It should be a memento that you can wear over and over again. Every time you put it on, you will remember your special day that you became someone's wife. The cake gets eaten and forgotten. The flowers eventually wilt and die. Your wedding dress gets preserved in the hopes that you can pass it down to your own little girl some day. But your bridal jewelry, that is something you can take out time after time to enjoy. Liken it to the pictures in a photo album. You can relive those moments, then put them away to treasure for another time.

Pearls are often a part of the bridal jewelry. They are classy, elegant and have a timeless quality. No matter what setting it is in - gold, silver or platinum - bridal jewelry pearls can accentuate your features and your wedding dress. Not all pearls are created equal. There are a number of color variations, so you may have to bring your wedding dress with you when selecting your bridal jewelry. A warm, creamy color is one variation of pearls. Another variety has a pinkish hue.

When considering other bridal jewelry options, think about the design of your wedding dress. The neckline is important in your decision of bridal jewelry. If the neckline is high, you can choose a necklace with a special pendant or charm. Perhaps there is no neckline and the wedding gown is strapless. Your choice of bridal jewelry would then be a choker and possibly earrings to match. If the neckline is low or open, you could wear a necklace with complementary earrings. You could forget about the necklace part entirely if the wedding gown is very ornate in the front. If that is the case, then earrings are your best bet in bridal jewelry.

Another thing to think about in selecting bridal jewelry is whether or not the dress is really ornate and elaborate. If it is, perhaps a basic, understated bridal jewelry set is your choice. A simple dress with casual, elegant lines calls for more sophisticated bridal jewelry.

Feeling a bit funky? Punch up your bridal jewelry with a little color. Highlight the wedding colors in your necklace, bracelet and/or earrings. Colorizing your bridal jewelry gives you more options to wear them after the wedding is over too.

Shop around. If you are near a jewelry store while running errands, pop in and browse. Sometimes finding the right bridal jewelry for you will happen when you least expect it. Or, you can sketch out your vision of what you want your bridal jewelry to look like. A business that custom crafts jewelry could probably make what you want. Of course, there is always a higher cost involved for original work.
Just remember, you are the star of the wedding. The bride and wedding dress usually are. Your bridal jewelry reflects the inner you, so wear something that speaks to your heart. Pick something that you can wear again and again. Your memories, thanks to the bridal jewelry, are priceless.
About the Author

Dave Poon is the owner of Go Wedding Gifts. We take the headache out of selecting gifts for your wedding party, whether they are Bridesmaids or Groomsmen. Come and see our selection of bridal jewelry at http://www.GoWeddingGifts.com.

Searching For The Perfect Destination Wedding Dress

Finding the perfect destination wedding dress is not always an easy task, and the wedding dress that is perfect for one destination may be inappropriate for another.

It is important, therefore, to not only match the destination wedding dress to your own taste and style but to the nature of the destination as well.

A Beach Wedding Dress

For instance, beach weddings are among the most popular of all destination weddings, and getting married on the beach certainly can provide memories that last a lifetime.

A beach wedding, however, will require a different kind of destination wedding dress than a dress for a traditional church wedding, and it is important to take those special needs into account.

Understanding the Nature Of The Wedding

For instance, you probably would not want the wedding dress you choose for a wedding on the beach to have a long flowing train. You may instead want to opt for a shorter and sportier type of wedding dress, perhaps even a strapless model to show off that great tan.

When shopping for a destination wedding dress it is important that the designer have a good idea of the nature of the wedding. This will allow the wedding dress designer to make more appropriate suggestions as to the type of dress that would be best.

Having Fun When Looking For Your Wedding Dress

Of course there is no reason that shopping for a destination wedding dress cannot be lots of fun, and it is important to keep that sense of fun about you as you shop for the perfect dress.

Too many of us allow ourselves to get caught up in the stress of planning a wedding, and we forget that the wedding is first and foremost a celebration of love.

If you can remember that the wedding is a celebration you will be better able to avoid the stress that sometimes comes with the search for the perfect destination wedding dress.
About the Author

Shaunta Pleasant is a professional writer and editor on wedding planning topics. Visit my site to learn more about planning the perfect wedding at http://www.best-wedding-plan.com/destinationweddingdress.html

Bridal Gowns R Us

Often times the wedding gown is one of the first items purchased, however before you write that check...a few things need to be determined. You need to decide what kind of wedding you are planning on having; small or large, formal or informal, indoor or out. You will also need to determine your budget before you make any purchases. These decisions will make it easier when the time comes to purchase a dress and the right dress.
The purchase of a wedding gown should never conflict with your wedding decisions. For example if you are planning on having an intimate small wedding then a huge elaborate ball gown may not be appropriate or for an outdoor wedding you may want to reconsider a long train that will get dirty. The recommended percentage to spend on wedding attire (not only the wedding gown) is 10% of your total wedding budget. Therefore if you are having a $20,000 wedding then you would have $2000 to spend on wedding attire.
When shopping for your wedding gown take only one to two people with you and individuals that understand you and your style. Also make sure to come prepared with a strapless bra and appropriate shoes. Often times if you forget the bridal boutique will have items you can borrow while trying on their dresses. Also be careful not to wear sneakers and a baseball cap to try on dresses...trust me no dress will look good like it will on your wedding day.
You may find it helpful to bring a camera along while trying on gowns. Some boutiques will not allow their dresses to be photographed so make sure to ask permission before snapping away. If they do allow pictures it becomes a useful tool when you get home to remember and compare each of the final dresses.
Most bridal boutiques only carry one size in each dress so be sure to ask the assistant how long there orders take to arrive. The average is 4-6 weeks however it can take up to four months plus time for alterations. Make sure that the shop does alterations or they can recommend someone that has worked with their dresses in the past. The alterations should be done 2-4 weeks before the wedding and usually are an additional cost to the dress. When getting your dress altered make sure that you wear shoes and undergarments that you are planning on wearing the day of the wedding so the dress can be altered perfectly!
Wedding gown sizes run differently than regular clothing and they run a lot smaller. Therefore if you are normally a size 6 don't be surprised if you wear an 8 or even a 10 in wedding gowns. It is important when choosing the right size to choose a size where it fits your largest body measurement and then the rest can be altered in. It is easier to make a dress smaller than to make it larger. Make sure to ask if the boutique will hold the dress until the wedding or if you have to store it.
If your budget is tight you may want to consider renting your wedding gown or purchasing a used gown. Some bridal boutiques will even rent both wedding gowns and bridesmaid's dresses. Purchasing a used gown may be a better choice than renting especially if the rented dress has been worn numerous times. Often times brides that break their engagement or post pone their weddings will use a resale shop or classified ads for their un-used dresses.
When looking for bridesmaids dresses look in department stores and their catalogues. Often times they will have cheaper dresses and a variety of sizes. You can also look online for a wedding gown and attendants dresses however when purchasing online be careful of the quality of the dress and their return policy.
After purchases have been made there is several things to consider with you dress, including will you need to buy a strapless bra, slip and/or appropriate shoes. Make sure that you will comfortable in your dress from head to toe! Jewelry, veils and headpieces are also items to consider. Make sure these items complement the dress and not distract. Lastly consider your hairstyle, will you have an up do or leave it down and curled? When you are choosing a hairstyle make sure to consultant your hair stylist and choose a hair style months in advance.
If you are looking for Colorado Bridal Boutiques check out PremierWeddingPlanning.com for great vendors and more wedding attire etiquette. Good luck in the adventure of Bridal Gowns R Us and make sure to make your wedding gown true to YOU!

About the Author

PremierWeddingPlanning.com is FREE online wedding planning including everything from email reminders, RSVP online, and budget calculators.

Aromas to Improve Your Work Commute

Aromas to Improve Your Work Commute

Think your career is stressful and exhausting? Perhaps it's more than your workload that's causing you undue stress. If you have a lengthy commute to and from the office, there's no
question it can wreak havoc on your nerves. After all, most commuters spend a large fraction of their days sitting in slow-moving traffic with others who would also rather be elsewhere.
This frustrating routine can even be more exhaustive than your work itself! Your nerves and patience are tested, and by the time you reach your destination you find yourself on the edge.

The good news is you can cope with your commute without getting trapped in an endless cycle of nervousness, anxiety and tension. Aromatherapy is a versatile way to improve your mood and help you relax and find balance.

Today I'll show you how to transform your commute from a dreadful activity into a pleasant and private moment to yourself. All you need is an essential oil diffuser and a few select essential oils and you can create customized fragrances to diffuse in your car that will help you find tranquility, joy, and the opportunity to replenish your energy!

-YOUR RITUAL-
Start every commute with a brief mantra to put you in the correct frame of mind to enjoy the ride. When you first get into your car and before you start your engine, take several deep
breaths and say the following:

Today I feel totally in touch with myself. I am grounded
and enjoy being here and in the present. I am blessed with
joy, love and peace.

Take a few more deep breaths. Visualize yourself integrating those words, breathing them in. Now turn the engine on and enjoy the ride!

-TO PREPARE YOUR BLENDS-
In a 10 ml bottle, add your oils from the recipes below. Use only pure and undiluted essential oils. These blends SHOULD NOT be used directly on the skin. They are for diffusion only. Review the instructions from your diffuser for the appropriate dosage.

Tranquility
1/3 (.33 ml) Lavender essential oil
1/3 Orange (.33 ml) essential oil
1/3 Petitgrain (.33 ml) essential oil

Joy
1/3 Orange (.33 ml) essential oil
1/3 Mandarin (.33 ml) essential oil
1/3 Grapefruit (.33 ml) essential oil

Energy
1/3 Rosemary (.33 ml) essential oil
1/3 Peppermint (.33 ml) essential oil
1/3 Grapefruit or Orange (.33 ml) essential oil

Order your essential oils now at
===> http://www.aromalchemy.com/aromatherapy/ouroils.html

-TO DIFFUSE YOUR BLENDS-
There are a variety of ways to diffuse your oils. Your local natural food store or metaphysical store should offer a selection of the items below:

The Car Diffuser
Originally designed to hang in the rear view mirror, it is a nice little clay diffuser.

The Scent Ball Car Diffuser
Add 5-15 drops of your selected essential oil or blend and plug it into your cigarette lighter adapter.

Create a Pot-Pourri made of dried flowers and leaves and add 10 to 15 drops of the pure essential oil blend to it.

(c) Francoise Rapp. Internationally renowned aromatherapist and alchemist, Francoise Rapp, shares her expertise in using essential oils to heal and revitalize body and mind at http://www.aromalchemy.com. Highlights include aromatherapy classes, pure and organic essential oils, recipes and aromatic treatments for health and wellness, and a free weekly newsletter. Discover the power of aromatherapy today at http://www.aromalchemy.com!

Internationally renowned aromatherapist and alchemist Franoise Rapp shares her expertise each week in her free ezine, the Arom'Alchemy Newsletter. To subscribe, visit www.aromalchemy.com/education/newsletter.html.

Fashion Trends for Winter 2002 and Summer 2003Margot B

The fashion trends for winter 2002 and summer 2003 are varied: glamorous, classic, antique, or Egyptian, Latin American or Wild West inspired.

A feminine 50's-inspired silhouette for suits and dresses;lingerie-inspired pieces, with touches of gold and silver; the return of the glamour wrap all worn for day or evening. Stylish are feminine trouser-suits with short jackets, some more fitted at the waist than others, in cotton or linen gabardine with double cuffs.

Blouses are in asymmetrical-styled cotton. Wool jersey with short-fringed sleeves appear as do pure white, knee-length dresses layered with lightweight cotton voile or organza with meshed structure and casual draping in natural colours and fabrics from denim to silk; baby-doll and halter-style dresses in silk/satin blends with beaded, embroidered touches for sultry summer nights. Fur and lace are the key touches for flowing skirts with diagonal layers and cutout dresses with oversized shawl sleeves.

Were seeing a combination of looks inspired by Egyptian mysticism [rococo prints mixed with either Egyptian cotton or beige satin and the glamour of Hollywood during its golden era with red and black satin dresses being very popular. Slim tops and skirts with circle and flower mohair embroideries; flowing silk chiffon skirts and a bolero jacket, both with confetti-like detailing and a sheer black silk chiffon wrap-up scarf /top.

Designers are featuring both classic and street styling, offering tailored silk/wool palazzo pants and a short, fitted jacket, or unisex hip-hop looks using glowing fabrics for contrasting piping, pocket flaps and colour-blocked tanks. Very popular are acid-frayed denim skirts, furry mini-vests, patchwork denim pants, triple-belt dresses and knitted halter tops with long fringes.

There is also a turn-of-the century style for everyday wear, the austere and casual style of peasants and pioneers. A masculine influence, harking back to the pioneers of grandparents' days, was paired with a Wild West look, with gaucho-style divided skirts.

Ultra-sexy, slim and low-waist pants came in all sorts of colourful styles red herringbone and corduroy, blue plaid, stripeswith Western-style leather and lace-up trims. Tops also come trimmed in leather but varied in style from black or printed kimono-styled numbers to tanks to a denim jacket that screams rock 'n' roll.

The popular colours are shades of brown, slate blue, sepia, beige and prints, with black seen everywhere. In style is the look of an old-fashioned trousseau or vintage neo-hippie bohemian dress; layered skirts of lace and chiffon matched with simple knit tops and bodysuits adorned with lace trim; Liberty florals with faded colours; and floral patterns in a multi-coloured patchwork pattern or antique-look camisole, cotton petticoat [short or long with broderie Anglaise, narrow pleats and horizontal tucks, or lace blouses in faded pastel shades, as if found in old trunks. The used and washed looks are currently popular.

In are Kimono-styled shiny dresses in an asymmetrical cut; ribbon-style hemmed gowns; feminine looks with micro-mini denim skirts; pink plaid strapless tops; fringed dresses; acid-frayed denim skirts; furry mini-vests; patchwork denim pants; low-rider jeans; stretch fabric dress shirts in a variety of colours; triple-belt dresses; legwarmers made from jacket sleeves, in leather and suede; plush sweaters; calf-length coats and shearling maxi coats.

For the face: clean face, dark brows, light eye makeup for daytime or smoky eye makeup for evening, glossed lips or red lips, hair messy and in-the-face or French twist with messy front, otherwise it looks very prissy/matronly.

In young womens wear we see designs of the 60s and 70s, in pre-washed denim and embroidery. Country-style blouses are still very popular, but with a more North African look or with a touch of India: djellabas, sahari jackets, cloaks with hoods, and caftans. The Latin-Cuban tropical look is in style, with soft fabrics in dark, sharp colours - with bare shoulders and descended necklines. 'In' is beading and embroidery on crocheted, knitted, woven or a mix of fabrics. Sexy denim pants and skirts [some with lace insets worn with lace-trimmed tops that were stylish in the 1980s.

A favourite for young women is the black off-the-shoulder sweat jacket with ivory lace pockets; soft colored tweeds blue, gray, brown and butter yellow on simple and sometimes 1950s-style pieces, including a yellow tweed swing coat with a brown knee-length circle skirt and a gray tweed short trench jacket with a matching flared mid-length skirt; silk sand-washed crepe pieces in turquoise and cream; a blue patchwork leather dress and maxi-coat, and a romantic group of cream-colored long, layered skirts; sheer blouses; and leather corsets worn over ruched leggings.

In mens fashion, the Russian army or the bullfighter's costume is in. For mens and women's jackets we see knitted items and casual wear, targeting the medium-to-high market. Denim-with-leather jackets are popular.
Men's fashions will be in warm-weather fabrics of poplin, cotton and seersucker, with pale colours for summer 2003.

White and bleached will be everywhere and in every sub-shade: white, off-white, natural, ivory or antique white and in most materials. The monsoon look, inspired by over-dyed denim and drill, also including batiks and checks in greens and blue-greens promises to be popular as well as the Latin Dandy look, aimed at nonchalance: panama hats, linen and linen blends, in a retro version with dark colours, dusty, pale shades and stripes that grandfathers wore.

Also popular is comfort wear in tweed coats, dark-washed, sand-caked jeans, cuffed leather pants, easy-fitting sweaters, and leather-patched coats; and casual jeans and T-shirt-style looks.

Underwear has to be casual and cool: men are wearing more boxer shorts with placement designs in silk, polyester and cotton also being worn as swimwear or sleeping wear. Stylish are movie characters such as Spiderman or The Simpsons - and women are into a sporty, casual look. Highlighted is men's and ladies' seamless underwear - like a second skin in 100% cotton and 100% silk as well as fabric mixes with Nylon, Spandex, Polyester and Lycra.

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