Fashion Advice & Tips

[VastuMam]

[VastuMam]

Colors Make a Fashion Statement
Women are generally drawn to the colors that flatter their figure and complexion. Your favorite color doesn't always appear in your wardrobe if it doesn't do a thing for you. If you're the majority, the color you most often choose to wear is the image you want to reflect, and the color that makes you look and feel good.

Lets have fun! Find out what fashion statement you're making with the colors you wear on an everyday basis -- and what the color of your clothing says about your personality.



What the Color of Your Clothing Says about You
Black - Conservative yet sexy, you know that black is versatile. Wearing black clothing makes you appear thinner, giving your self-esteem a turbo-boost.

Pink - Traditional and charming, pink is feminine all the way. A pink and black combo is a trendy twosome for women who like to add mystery to their otherwise girly image.

Red - Bold and vibrant, you like to be the center of attention. Red portrays the adventurous side of you that's undeniable.

Blue - Fun-loving and free, blue clothing attracts independent women who are comfortable with their inner-selves and achievements.

Orange - Extroverted and gutsy, orange means you like to stand out in a crowd. Never taking life for granted, you enjoy new challenges and have a tendency to come out on top.

Yellow - Always the optimist, you're athletic and outdoorsy. Yellow reflects a vibrant personality and great intuition.

White - Those who favor white prefer "safe" colors for a perfect match. White can be a great accent for a deep, dark tan, adding sex-appeal to the "colorless" color.

Green - If you're hot on green, you're a down-to-earth, natural beauty. While somewhat stubborn, you're still "the girl next door" who likes to have fun.

[VastuMam]

How to Dress Slimmer & Look Thinner


Everyone's weight fluctuates. While not everyone can be a size 6 or 8, the clothes you wear can make you look thinner, or have the opposite affect, it's your choice.

You don't need to completely cover your body if you have extra weight, and not every tip will work for you. You have some great features, so accentuate them and accessorize. Find out what best flatters your figure and stick with it.

A small weight gain will make your clothes feel tighter so always have some "fat" clothes available for those occasions and don't feel bad. Every woman experiences this. Dress slimmer and look thinner with these modern fashion tips.



Tips to Dress Slimmer


Choose darker solid colors such as black, navy blue and gray. Black rules!

Dress monochromatic, all in one color, top to bottom, no patterns.

If you want to wear patterns, go for smaller ones that overlap.

Avoid horizontal stripes. Look for thin vertical and and diagonal lines for a fluid look.

Select accessories to draw attention from trouble spots.

Wear clothes that fit. Not too baggy but not tight and clingy.

Avoid bulky sweaters and sweatshirts.

Always try on clothes. Different designers have different size charts.

Avoid pleats. Flat front pants and skirts are instant slimmers.

Low-rise pants that hit just below your navel will lengthen your torso.

For longer looking legs, skirts should fall right above the knee.

Forego the frills. Extra ruffles and material only add bulk.

If you have a large bust, invest in a good support bra.

Avoid shiny fabrics such as velour and satin.

High heels add height and shapes your legs. That's why you always see runway models in heels.

Dark panty hose will make large legs appear thinner.

Stay away from patterned leggings.

Wear undergarment foundations such as control top pantyhose and shapers.

If you prefer wearing a sleeveless dress, cover your upper arms with a sheer, elegant shawl.

Choose open collar shirts and scoop necklines.

Avoid small handbags. Stick with a medium-sized bag in proportion to your body.

A dress with matching coat can hide bulges.

Match your belt and shoes to your skirt or pants to make your legs appear longer.

Don't tuck your shirt in. Buy those that fall just below your waist, but aren't too long.

V-neck shirts will make your torso appear longer.

You can still wear bright colors, just not on your problem areas.

Frilly clothes are a no-no and just add to your overall size.

Avoid too-tight pants that cling to your hips and thighs. Instead, try trousers with comfortable legs and wide cuffs.

For longer, thinner-looking legs, opt for an asymmetrical, tiered skirt.

If you're a petite woman, wear the highest heel you're comfortable with to add some height.

A thick waistband helps flatten the tummy

[VastuMam]

How to Choose the Best Fitting Jeans for Your Figure


By far, blue jeans are the most important clothing in today's wardrobe. Because they are durable and can be worn with just about anything, they are universal.

Why is it that you have one or two favorite pairs that you wear most of the time? It's probably because you have ran across a style and color that looks best on your shape. Unfortunately, they eventually wear out, you gain or lose a few pounds, or you throw them out for a new trend.

If you would rather go to the dentist then shop for new jeans, you're not alone. Just the thought of trying on multiple pairs of jeans in the fitting rooms can make the strongest of us cringe in fear.

We've got some shopping tips to help you find a pair that will flatter your figure and cut down on the stress involved when you find a pair that looks great on the rack -- but not so good on you.

Plan Ahead

Set aside a good chunk of time when you begin your quest for a good pair of jeans. If you're in a hurry, you'll probably make some bad decisions and end up returning the jeans to the store.

Choose a Good Fit

Don't buy jeans because the size on the label looks good. Sizes and cuts vary widely by the brand, so start with your general size-range and don't be reluctant to choose a size larger than what you usually get. A comfortable pair of jeans that fit well will look the best on you.

The Darker the Color, the Better

If you're concerned about extra weight, stay away from light-colored or stonewashed jeans. Dark (indigo) blue and black denim jeans with some added Lycra make you look slimmer and will go with just about anything. Choose angled back pockets to help minimize your backside and stay away from jeans that have no pockets at all.

Look for a Long Hem

When you go shopping, wear a pair of shoes with heels that are (at least) similar to what you usually wear with jeans. For thinner-looking legs, the hem of the jeans should cover a good part of your shoes and almost reach the floor. Keep in mind that when jeans shrink, so can the length -- so it's better to go with the longer pair.

Go with the Boot Cut

Stay away from large flare legs that will add bulk. Boot cut jeans have just the right amount of curve at the bottom of the legs to look stylish and make your legs appear longer.

Trends are OK

If you've been dying to try a pair of low-rise hipsters, go ahead. Just make sure you're comfortable wearing them and they don't aren't so low that you've got too much showing. Wear a pair of bikini panties underneath so you don't have "granny panties" ruining your fashionable look.

Get a Second Opinion

Take along a friend who is on the same mission. Sometimes a different perspective is all you need to point you in the right direction. If you both like how a pair looks on you, chances are, it's a good choice.

[VastuMam]

The History of Fashion Fads, by the Decade


As the decades pass, fashion fads are often characterized by politics, popular movies, music and famous celebrities. History shows that designers also dictate trends by changing styles often, allowing themselves and clothing manufacturers to keep making money off of our our strong desire to be fashionable and trendy.



1950s Styles


The 50's marked the era of conservatism. After the end of WWII, families flourished, thus, the "baby boomers" children. Women's small waists were often the result of a corset or cinch belt, worn with dresses or knee-length skirts. High heels or saddle shoes were the popular choices for shoes.

Poodle skirts and pony tails dominated, with designer Bill Blass Jeans for a more casual, practical style. Accessories included the unique cat-eye glasses, sometimes worn with a chain.

Men looked clean-cut, a-la Jimmy Dean, wearing flat top and crew cut styles that were very short and easy to care for. Gray flannel suits dominated the workplace and slacks were often worn for casual, everyday events.



1960s Fashion Fads

The 60's began the "groovy" time when the babies of post WWII were growing up and finding their own style. Youth took precedence as they became the largest population in the United States.

The beginning of the decade began with women wearing knee-length dresses leftover from the 1950s. Later on, mini-skirts, hot pants and go-go boots showed a generation breaking away from their conservative parents. Bouffant hairstyles ruled, with hair accessories for adornment and to hold a complicated style in place.

Men still enjoyed crew cuts but lost the bland, basic colors for brighter, eye-catching styles. Casual shirts were plaid, button down and polyester suits and pants were appropriate for the workplace.

"Flower Power" and "Free Love" were all the rage when the 1969 Woodstock "Summer of Love" concert took place. Bell-bottoms became a hot fad that emerged once again decades later. Beaded jewelry was the funnest, must-have accessory to show individuality.



1970s Decade

The 70's marked a freer, fun-loving society when the women's movement prompted them to burn their bras, sparking true liberation. Tube tops were comfortable and sexy whilst mini-skirts and hot pants allowed more show of leg.

Long, flowing dresses and skirts with feminine, floral prints were the style for those not yet ready to join the others. Colorful, tie-dyed t-shirts became popular fads for both women and men, none of them appearing identical.

Girls often wore culottes to school, not near as daring as their older sisters. Colorful, crocheted ponchos and satin jackets provided style and warmth on a cool, summer night.

Hairstyles were feathered, thanks to Farrah Fawcett who set the trend for long layers and lots of fluff. Not only did women cut their hair to be like her, they wanted to be blonde. Brunettes began adding highlights to give themselves just the right touch of blonde. Braver ones completely bleached out their hair.

Corduroy and denim fabrics were a popular choice for men, available in pants, suits and blazers. Along with disco music, the movie "Saturday Night Fever" brought high-waited suit pants and leisure suits.



1980s History

What can be said about the 80's fads? From hair to jewelry to shoulder pads, it's big everything. Along with the long, teased hairstyles, makeup became much bolder. Besides the somewhat "scary" factor, this decade sums up some fun music and styles that we'd rather forget.

1980's fashions for women were primarily long t-shirts and sweaters worn over leggings or tights. Influenced by the movie "Flashdance," off-the shoulder styles were were seen on just about everyone who kept up with the latest styles. Legwarmers looked not only sporty, but stylish as well.

Mini-skirts never lost their appeal and the 80s were no different. Denim minis in various colors worn with colorful high-heeled shoes were popular with the younger crowd. Jelly shoes were cheap and provided a more casual look.

Spandex was introduced to the mainstream and was often mixed with other fabrics. Denim included stonewashed jeans, ripped and with holes for the hip crowd. Parachute pants were popular for men and boys and allowed comfort when hip-hop music required freedom of movement.



1990s Fashions

The 90's mark the end of the century with hope around the corner. Styles were not nearly as outrageous as the 80's and were toned down with classics as well as new styles. Waistlines were creeping down, leading to the hipsters becoming popular once again in the next century.

The younger generation who expressed their individuality enjoyed grunge, gothic or a classic, vintage look. On the other side, preppy styles were for the high school and college kids who wanted to show their clean-cut status.

Leather was popular for jackets, pants, purses and belts. Available in a variety of colors, wearing durable leather showed style, status and practicality.

Marrying later in life, women became dedicated to bettering themselves with higher education and good jobs. The demand for comfortable styles was undeniable. Many businesses allowed work attire to become more relaxed and some toned down their dress code to "business-casual." Some companies began allowing Fridays to be completely causal, resulting in fun and higher productivity.

[VastuMam]

Fashion Faux Pas and Clothing Mistakes


Your make-up is applied, your hair is styled, and you're ready to go. But wait... There's nothing that can spoil your look more than a conspicuous fashion faux pas.

Here you'll find top women's fashion mistakes and blunders you may have noticed on other people, but you haven't committed them yourself, right? Think again. Have a look around, these blunders are more common than you think and many of these can be applied to men as well as women.



Common Fashion Mistakes & Blunders
Your clothes don't fit correctly.

Wearing baggy clothes can add pounds. Clothes that are too small accentuate unsightly bulges. Don't buy anything thinking that it will be "just right" if you lose weight. Look good now. If the size tag bothers you, cut it off.


Wrinkled clothing.
That great suit or dress won't flatter you unless it's wrinkle-free. Avoid this fashion mistake and buy clothes that don't wrinkle or keep an iron handy.

Dressing too trendy.
Don't try to satisfy every trend in one day. You'll probably just end up looking silly.

Mixing two seasons in one outfit.
Your pieces will contradict each other. Stick with one-season fashions.

Evident bra and panty lines.
Wear proper fitting undergarments under your clothing. If they do fit you properly and you still have lines, then your clothing is too tight.

Exposed undergarments.
Avoid this fashion faux-pas! Keep your bra straps properly adjusted so they're not hanging out. If your pants are low-rise, your panties should be too.

Too much white.
White makes you look larger so limit this color. Don't even think about wearing white slacks or pantyhose unless you want to add bulk.

Your skirt or dress is too short.
Be comfortable. Make sure you can sit down without having to worry about what areas you're exposing.

Wearing too many colors at once.
This will make you look undecided. Stick with one to three colors.

Too many prints.
Don't try to mix and match prints or you'll look way too busy. Patterns don't look good on everyone. If you're one of those people that look good in just about anything, choose a pattern on the top or bottom, not both.

Using the wrong accessories.
Top off your look with accessories that match your style. Choose the correct length necklace. Short chains and chokers tend to make your neck appear larger. Don't over-accessorize.

Wearing multiple shades of denim.
Skip the head-to-toe denim. It's ghastly and will make you look unorganized and cheesy.


Dark colored clothing, light colored shoes.
Or visa versa. Keep your clothing and shoes in the same color family. White and black go with anything, but don't make the mistake of mismatching light and dark colors.

Large shoulder pads.
This fashion trend went in and out the 80's. If you wear shoulder pads, make sure they're thin and unobtrusive.

[VastuMam]

Shopping Tips for Women's Fashion & Clothing



Unless you know exactly what to look for, shopping for clothing can be frustrating and time consuming. Spending your money wisely while finding fashions that flatter your figure and skin tone is not impossible.

Here you'll find some tips and advice to help you shop for classic, trendy, and seasonal garments in today's society where your clothing is just as important as your attitude.

Shop in Off-Peak Hours

It's the same with Christmas shopping. When the stores are less crowded, you'll find it easier to maneuver around clothing racks, find an empty fitting room, and get help from the sales clerk.

Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing

Dress in comfortable clothes that are easy to take off and put back on. Avoid multiple buttons, tight collars, panty hose and lace-up shoes.

Watch the Mirrors Carefully

Most stores supply mirrors that may alter your appearance in such a way that you'll appear slimmer. This is good for sales -- but not good when you get home and find out that you look very different in your own mirror. Always check the store's return policy before buying anything and save your receipts in the event that you have to return a garment.

Choose Clothes that Fit

Don't buy loose clothing that hangs on your frame. This will add bulk and make you appear larger. On the other hand, stay away from clothes that will fit perfectly if you lose 5-10 lbs. Clingy fabrics are unforgiving and will show every flaw and bulge. Buy only clothes that you are comfortable in, standing up or sitting down.

Take a Trusted Friend

Get a second opinion from a friend who is on the same mission. Shopping for clothing takes time, so make it clear from the beginning that this will be an all-day event and treat her to lunch for telling you exactly how the styles and colors look on you.

Don't Overdo Trendy Clothing

Wearing the latest styles and trends will keep you updated, but don't wear too many at once. Keep your wardrobe versatile and mix trendy fashions with classic style.

Wear Proper Undergarments

Always wear bras and panties that fit you well. Bras that ride up your back will not enhance your bust and you'll probably experience unwanted bulges. Consider investing in a body shaper to look sleek in a suit or dress. Many tanks and halter tops now have a built-in bra, enjoy!

Mix Seasonal Clothing

This can be done, but keep it practical. Who says you can't wear a tank top in the Winter? Mix and match to find the right balance. Even in cooler climates, a summer tank looks just fine in the winter under long sleeves or a jacket. Just make sure you choose similar colors.

Find a Style that Flatters You and Stick With It

You've probably come across styles that look great on you. If the style is classic, you're in luck. Some fashions such as turtlenecks never lose popularity. If the style is trendy, enjoy it for the moment, but don't toss it out when the trend ends. Fashion trends have a tendency to come back in style, so you can dig it out and wear it again if you haven't experienced any major weight fluctuations.

[VastuMam]

Women's Fashion Trends for Spring & Summer 2005


This page outlines the latest fashion, clothing, makeup and beauty trends for Spring and Summer, 2005. As the season warms, new colors and fabrics will set the trend. Many fashions are classics and never go out of style, so don't write them off.



Seasonal Color Trends

This summer brings some new, exciting fashion trends. With warmer weather moving in, we want simple, feminine styles. The upcoming spring fashions for women accentuate unique personalities. This season trends are bold and bright colors will help you stand out in a crowd. Black is always hot, but men are attracted to color. Dress in turquoise blue and sunflower yellow to attract attention. Keep neutral colors on hand to mix and match.



Summer Fabrics

The new Spring and Summer season brings back some great classic fabrics. Now you'll be seeing more light, lacy fabrics and the basic cotton stretch. Look for more spandex-inspired designs.

Cropped capri pants are still stylish for the season, but they can make you look shorter. If this is an issue for you, wear a comfortable pair of strappy sandals with higher heels. Show your waist with a trendy fringe or simple leather belt to emit a classy elegance.



Patterns

Find the patterns that looks best on you. Choose from the classic stripes, paisleys and feminine florals. These will all be all be available with the Spring Fashions. Pick and choose wisely -- they don't flatter all figures.

Military inspired clothing is popular again this year. Take your pick from light cotton cargos, camouflage, walking shorts, and belted jackets. Be creative and accessorize with a belt and chunky jewelry.

What's hot, (particularly for men) are preppy Jerseys. If you take a look at the music videos on MTV and VH1, you'll see plenty of these. Most of the jerseys have numbers, and some take the extra step to have them personalized with their name on the back -- mimicking a NBA player's jersey.



Classics can be Trendy

Traditional, tailored clothing are classic and will never go out of style for business, weddings or formal events. Keep your classics cleaned and pressed for impromptu summer events.

The vintage/gothic look is in, with shiny fabrics, and trim give an elegant look for late-night parties. A pair of high heeled sandals spells romantic all the way.

Classic goes modern with preppy looks for guys and gals. Mix classic fabrics, such as khaki (which never goes out of style) with modern bright or pastel colour for an updated, stylish preppy look.

Look for denim blue jeans that are cuffed at least 3" deep with sexy, flat sandals. Sounds comfortable, doesn't it? Combine that with a classic tank top to expose your shoulders. Don't go light on support, invest in a seasonal bra that has clear or removable straps. Look for tanks and halters that have a built-in bra for style and convenience.

Spring's skirts accentuate curves. Combined with basic tees and flip-flops, a pleated or gypsy-style skirt gets immediate attention. For a more sophisticated look, pair a great flouney skirt with a stylish tank top. Sandals or wedge shoes in a neutral color compliment most styles and are practical for warmer weather.

[VastuMam]

Women's Fashion Trends for Fall and Winter - 2005, 2006


Stay on top of the latest clothing and fashion trends for Fall and Winter, 2005 - 2006. As the season changes, new colors and fabrics will set the mood for shorter days and colder nights. Fashion trends or classic styles, mix n' match for a perfect combination.



Fall Color Trends

Fall is the popular season to preview fashion trends. With cool weather moving in, we have a tendency to focus more on style. Fall fashions for women will demonstrate warm jewel colors and earth tones for clothing. Taking a cue from Paris, France, celebrities are wearing purple and dark pink tones to express femininity. Chocolate brown sets the overall trend. Keep neutral colors on hand for a more versatile wardrobe.


Fall & Winter Fabrics

The new fall and winter season brings back some popular classic fabrics. Now you'll be seeing mohair, suede, leather, fleece, velvet, and the basic cotton stretch.

Denim and corduroy casual pants are stylish for the season but also add practicality. One of the many trendy fringe or simple leather belts are appropriate and emit a classic elegance.

Metallic fabrics are all the rage, and not just in clothing. Accessories such as purses and belts are used to catch the eye and accent styles. Worn not only for casual but formal, these shiny fabrics will make you feel like a Cinderella at the ball.



Patterns

Find the patterns that look best on you. Choose from the classic pinstripes, jacquards, checks, paisleys, and flower prints. These will all be all be available with the Fall Fashions. Pick and choose wisely, they don't flatter all figures.

Military inspired clothing is in this Fall too. Pick from cargos, camouflage, belted jackets and trenchcoats. Accessorize with patriotic jewelry, scarves and handbags.



Styles

A layered tee combined with a classy plaid miniskirt or skort is a perfect Fall, back-to-school combination. Choose a hooded sweatshirt or preppy zip-up hoodie and low-rise jeans for a comfortable, casual style. Skip the sweater or jacket... Opt for a poncho edged with fringe, or vest, sporting a fur collar for a warm but trendy fashion.

Traditional, tailored clothing are classics which are always a good choice for the workplace environment. Cover up with a Swede or fleece jacket when the weather turns cold.



Fashion Trends and Accessories

This Fall and Winter brings the vintage look, with shiny fabrics, fake fur edgings and trim give an elegant look for late-night parties. A pair of high-heeled sandals adds romance to mystery.



Accents and Jewelry

Fashionable scarves, in beautiful colors and designs.

Diagonal lines for a slimmer look.

Fringe - on clothing and accessories such as belts and purses.

Off-the-shoulder blouses and dresses for a sexy look.

Mini dresses and skirts.

Printed trench coats.

Pearls, the ultimate classic.

Very long necklaces, some below the waist with chunky beads.

Chic strands of jet beads.

Large, eclectic watches.

Sterling silver and platinum jewelry.

Faux crocodile and alligator handbags, belts.



Shoes

So what's cool for footwear? Pointy shoes are still going strong but the trends are moving towards rounded toes. Textures include tweed and suede. For a younger look, buy shoes with embellishments such as buckles, beads, or sequins. If you're into boots, consider a tall pair worn with pants or western flare trousers.

[VastuMam]

Build an Italian Charm Bracelet


Italian Charm Bracelets are the hottest new fashion jewelry trend that you'll be seeing a lot more of! These custom bracelets are made by you, allowing you to express your individuality. By interlocking Italian charms of your choice onto a base bracelet, you create a custom bracelet exclusive only to you!



What are Italian Charm Bracelets?
Invented by the Italians, these bracelets consist of charms that are of the highest quality called "Italian stainless." The links are interchangeable on any standard size Italian charm bracelet.

Italian Charm Bracelets are different from traditional charm bracelets. Instead of individual charms dangling from a chain, Italian charms are fastened onto flat links that pop on and off a modular link bracelet. You can build and assemble them however you like, adding and changing the charms to fit your personality. Change the size of your bracelet by subtracting and adding links.

All Italian charms are manufactured using the highest quality of materials including 18K gold, cubic zirconia, fine enamel, stainless steel, and genuine and synthetic stones.

Italian laser charms feature laser engraving which etches onto the surface of the jewelry -- unlike traditional engraving that scratches the letters onto the item and cutting into the charm. Laser engraving is very durable and allows for very fine detail and lettering.



Build Online or Buy Individual Charms

JJ Kent Italian Charms offers you an easy, low cost way to make your own Italian modular charm bracelet online with a simple drag and drop interface. Just choose your charms and drop them onto the base bracelet. Rearrange the charms until you're completely satisfied.

JJ Kent Italian Charms are compatible with other major name brand bracelets such as Zoppini, Nomination, Zoplink, Fascino, Reflorence, Boxer -- and are interchangeable. You can easily design and build your bracelet online, or buy individual charms.

You'll find many high-quality, discounted charms available for as little as $4.95 & $6.95! They often offer free shipping to U.S. and Canada residents. Don't know how to assemble the bracelet? JJ Kent will do it for you -- but it is pretty easy to do it yourself!



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