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History of Charm Bracelets

August 20th, 2007

The custom of wearing charm bracelets dates back thousands of years, and though the materials and designs on them have changed, the concept itself has never gone out of style.

This form of jewelry initially had a religous function, and dates back to the prehistoric era. According to Elizabeth Florence, president of the Jewelry Information Center, “The first charm bracelets were probably worn by the Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians and Hittites from 500 to 400 B.C. Those charms were made of lapis lazuli, rock crystal and other gems and were inscribed with small designs, such as figures of gods, man and animals. They were immediately associated with special powers.”

As time passed, charms lost their protective spiritual functions and became fashion jewelry. The 1890’s saw a renaissance of charms, especially in Victorian England, where elaborate and intricate jewelry was in vogue. Queen Victoria helped popularize the trend by wearing a charm bracelet of small lockets holding family portraits.

WW II caused another revival of charm bracelets in America in the 1940’s and 1950’s, as soldiers stationed abroad picked up charms as souvenirs in the European cities they visited and brought them home for wives and girlfriends. The fashion trend continued well into peacetime.

Charms still remain a popular jewelry item, as personalized keepsakes in an increasingly mass-produced jewelry market. Popular themes include horoscope signs, birthstone charms, travel souvenirs, and family keepsakes. Many women start collecting charms when they are children, and the charm bracelet grows along with them, reflecting hobbies and personal experience. A charm bracelet can hold a small replica of a graduation cap, wedding bells, or lockets with children’s photos.

Charms are also a popular gift because of their affordable price. An intricate silver charm can be obtained for less than ten dollars, though it is possible to spend hundreds of dollars on a charm made of 18K and set with gems.

Italian charms, a genre in and of themselves, do not dangle from a chain like traditional charms. Instead, they are soldered onto flat links which snap onto an extensible bracelet. They are embellished with letters, symbols, pictures or stones, or have enamel pictures painted on them. Charms can be snapped on and off these modular bracelets to create new configurations to match different moods and outfits. They are traditionally made of stainless steel or 18k gold. Italian charms are of the same standard size and the resulting bracelet can be customized to fit every wrist; a small size holds 17 or less links, a medium 18, and a large 19 or more.

There are different companies which produce Italian charms, but all brands can be interchanged on the same bracelet. The basic “starter” bracelet of blank links costs approximately five dollars, and the charms cost fifteen dollars and up. China also manufactures Italian charms, and while these are popular (and, as with most Chinese goods, very competitively priced), some consumers report occasional oddities such as reversed images and poor fit.

Frank Vanderlugt
http://www.italian-charm.info

http://www.italian-charm-bracelet.info

That Chemical Bond Called Sexy Bra!

August 3rd, 2007

Sometime, things just get so darn boring. It makes you see life like a 1950s movie without a touch of color to brighten up the day. But if you thought that there’s no way you can perk up, think again.

Resort to some things that will cheer you up, boost your confidence, and eventually make a life that is full of life!

For ladies out there, you may opt for a sexy bra instead of the usual types of brasseries that you have. Most fashion experts contend that wearing sexy things like a sexy bra will definitely make you feel sexy.

However, the big question is: what makes a sexy bra? Is it the material, the design, the color, or the person who is wearing it?

Some of you might prefer to answer with the latter choice in mind. But nevertheless, sexy bra is still a bra and needs a little more positive characteristics to give you the support and comfort that you need.

So, when choosing a sexy bra, it is still important to consider these following pointers so that you’ll not only feel sexy but confident and comfortable as well.

1. When you want to show some flesh and your sexy bra might just do the job for you, consider the color of your tops and your sexy bra as well. Do not show beige sexy bra straps under spaghetti-strap tops.

2. Do not wear plastic strap sexy bras with halter-tops. It will not be a pretty sight even if you are wearing a sexy bra.

3. A single hook looks very neat, but it is not practical for fuller busts. A fastening with two or three hooks is much comfortable and supportive even during some hot steamy nights.

4. All straps should have adjustable levels fort the hooks to accommodate fluctuation of weight or washing changes. A stretch sexy bra with Lycra will get bigger over time and may not look sexy anymore, so does a sexy bra woven with a firm cotton material.

5. Women often wear sexy bras that are too tight thinking that it will give their breasts that needed lift. This should not be the case. A sexy bra can give you that much needed lift to show off those eye-popping cleavage at the same time fits just right. With this, you do not only look sexy but more confident.

6. Have a wardrobe of sexy bra. Think of the occasion that will call for it. Sexy bra looks good with laces on and looks even great with evening gowns or even with a simple night lingerie.

Have fun with it!

7. Remember that if your sexy bra lets your breast bulge above the cup or out of the sides near the armpits, creating lumps under the clothes, then the cups are too small.

8. On the other hand, if the cup material puckers or the breast doesn’t entirely fill a molded cup, then it is just too big.

9. Likewise, if your sexy bra rides up in the back and is higher than the front, then the band is too long.

10. A nice, comfy sexy bra should never leave red marks on the skin after it’s taken off because it means that your sexy bra is just too small.

11. A colorful, laced sexy bra is a definite turn-on. But remember not to wear then under a white or light-colored shirt. This will not make a good impression on you.

12. Do use a matching halter bra and pull it down with a low-back adaptor. This will definitely make you look sexy and cool.

There you have it! Just follow these simple rules on the dos and don’ts of wearing sexy bra and you’ll never have an embarrassing moment. Indeed, a sexy bra partnered with a confident wearer equals a one hot summer night.

That is what chemistry is all about!

Joyce Dietzel writes articles for my-bra-store.com a website dedicated to Sexy Bras For A Sexy Lady

Slimming Fashion Tips For Plus Size Women

August 1st, 2007

We all want to look our best, whether we’re short and slim or tall and heavier. Here are a few tips I’ve collected for plus size women that will help us look our best.

Pants

Choose pants that are long enough for you. If your pants are too short, it visually cuts the length of your legs. The longer your legs look, the slimmer they’ll appear.

Also choose pants that fit you well, not too tight or clingy. Fabrics that are too thin tend to cling to your legs and reveal bumps we’d rather keep out of sight.

Choose pants that are either boot cut, wider legged or flared at the bottom. The boot cut is slimming, while the wider cuts also add a slimming effect by keeping a visual straight line from our hips to our ankles. The worst choice would be a tight, tapered pant leg bottom as this enhances the width of your hips and thighs.

Capri pants are very slimming as well if they’re the right length. Choose a style where the bottom of the pant ends a few inches above your ankles but below the widest part of your calves.

Skirts

Choose skirts that rest just above your knees. A mid-calf skirt cuts the length of your legs and draws eyes to the thickest part of your lower legs.

Again, proper fit is key here. Something too tight will visually enhance and draw attention to bulges that we’d rather not publicize. Also look for skirts that fit below the waistline if you have a thick waist.

Bras

A well fitted bra is a must for every woman. Not only to give support and comfort, but a too tight bra can pop out those back rolls like nobody’s business!

If your cup size is not too large, consider trying a sports bra for a comfier fit that has adequate support. No wires here ladies!

Colors

Choose darker colors for areas you don’t want the eyes to focus on and brighter colors for places you want to accentuate. Darker colors such as black and navy are very slimming and should be in every woman’s closet.

Dressing from head to toe in one color is also very slimming as it makes a person look taller. Matching your pantyhose to the color of your shoes and skirts helps achieve this look.

Patterns

Stay away from large patterns and look for vertical stripes - thin is best. Thin stripes help give the illusion of length. Adding length helps give the illusion of a longer body, which helps you look thinner. Small, delicate prints can also be very flattering.

Fit

If your clothing is too tight, it accentuates and magnifies all flaws. If our clothing is too loose and baggy, we think we’re hiding our size but the opposite actually happens: we magnify our size.

So many tips to keep in mind when shopping for new clothes! But the key points to remember are proper fit and visually lengthening fashions. We have so many options now in plus size fashions that we can find exactly what works best for our body types.

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Treat yourself to a new wardrobe and save money at the same time with plus size clothes coupons and bargains found at http://www.plussizegoodies.com. Copyright http://www.PlusSizeGoodies.com

What Colour Part 8: Violet

July 28th, 2007

Royalty. Spirituality. These are the major themes of violet. This colour has a certain mysterious duality to it. The passion, aggression and energy of red intermingled with the authority, compassion and stability of blue. Violet is a well-rounded colour that both advances and retreats.

Violet has an arrogant quality about it - but in such a manner that is selfless. Violet allows us to surrender to our higher conscience, instilling humanitarian vision and spiritual enlightenment.

Violet gives a huge boost to both creativity and spirituality, making it the perfect choice for either studio or temple. Ceremony, magick, religion and mystery are all associated with violet. Along with nobility, wisdom and enlightenment, violet is an excellent colour for the robes of priests and priestesses.

Violet stirs the senses and makes us more aware. Violet is evocative and sensual, transforming bad habits and speeding recovery.

The favourite colour of Cleopatra, excess of violet energy could explain her moodiness. Too much violet can confuse and cause deep depression.

Food, clothing and home accessories are the best ways to enjoy violet. Unless, of course, you are privileged enough to spend your days in intense spiritual and creative pursuits - then by all means, paint your whole home purple!

Ivy Mills has been researching chemical sensitivity and natural alternatives for over five years and has brought her knowledge to the marketplace in her company, Valhalla Essences. Her personal experiences have fed a passion to help others with the same problem. Ivy welcomes others to share their stories and experiences on her blog, Peaceful Power.

Wholesale Handbag - Your Bag, Your Choice

July 3rd, 2007

What makes a girl real feminine?

Does the question sound weird? There are several ways for you to emphasize your femininity more. Your apparel, your jewelry and your accessories can reflect your being as a woman.

Another stuff you should not forget about women, this is their ever-sophisticated handbags. Women have a passion for handbags, which they use to place their make up kit every time they have their girl’s night out and even every day when going to work or school.

Handbags are sold in different sizes, colors and brands. It depends on your preference whether you will go for a small or a big one.

From the name itself, handbags are something you can conveniently carry anytime you want.

Usually, you use your handbags by matching it on the color and the type of outfit that you are wearing. It somehow adds accentuation to your entire look. It can even make you become more attractive for other people.

Handbags also come in various styles. It will depend on the kind of materials they are made of:

• Beaded Handbags- This is one of the most difficult design of a handbag. It requires a lot of artisanship for the designers because you need to connect the beads one by one following a particular pattern. The beads can also be coupled with crazy ornaments to make it appear more pleasing to the eyes.

• Straw Bags- From the name itself, this is made of straw materials. Different colors of straw are knitted to produce a lovely and stylish bag. This is a bit cheaper as compared to beaded bag.

• Novelty Bags- When you are going to attend for special occasions such as party and night out, this is the most preferable style of bag for you. These are also smaller and more colorful. This is made of linen materials.

• Stone Studs and Metallic Bags- This is almost a combination of the beaded and the novelty bag. It is made from a metallic cloth and designed with beads that appear to be like stones. This is also perfect for special occasions.

• Fabric Bags- It is also an alternative for your backpacks. Since fabric material is used for this type of bag, you can bring this when you are in a semi-rugged outfit. It is called fabric bags.

• Acrylic Photo Handbags- This is a different thing. It is one of the most expensive among the other types of bags because it is already made of acrylic pictures and illustrations. The materials used here are craftier.

• Canister Handbags- If you are fond of using cute stuffs, this is the most suited for you. It has a peculiar coffee can shape handbags that has the flap opening.

• Leather Handbags- If you want to take advantage of a good quality of bag that will last for longer usage, the leather bag is best for you.

All of the said types of bags can be yours anytime you want. You can have it for lesser costs by purchasing it wholesale.

If buying wholesale you can choose as many bags as yo want bags at a discounted price. Moreover, you can save your money for your other accessories.
Handbag wholesale sources can be found online. Just go to your favorite search engine and search for “handbags wholesale”

Petra Smider is the editor of Wholesale
Distributors Online. Browse our comprehensive list of wholesale distributors.

Corsets, Old World Charm And Sexy Contemporary Styles

June 29th, 2007

Corsets have been worn by women for thousands of years. In fact the oldest corset dates back to ancient Minoans from around 2000 BC. When most people think of corsets they think of the heavy bulky garments from the middle ages of Europe. Traditional corsets were not only heavy, restrictive and very uncomfortable to wear. As fabric technology has improved corsets are now not only more comfortable but are being worn as outwear.

Most women don’t own or have never worn a corset. However if you’re looking for a fashion garment that accentuates your curves and bust line, a corset can be your best friend, so lets take a closer look at what a corset is. A corset is garment that covers your lower torso from bust line to waist. The sides have curved shaped ribbing that gives your body the classic hourglass shape. These ribs are usually made a thin lightweight metal or hard plastic. While these ribs do push your body into certain shapes, they aren’t “trainer” corsets which pose health hazards to your internal organs. To wear a corset first loosen the strings which are located on the back of the garment. There is usually a zipper in the front of the corset, unzip it and wrap the garment around your torso. Align it so the strings are in the back and close the zipper. Now grab the strings and gently but firmly pull to tighten. Pull the strings until the corset is snug and firm. Do not pull the strings so tight that you can’t move or breathe comfortably. The first thing that you’ll notice is your bust line is now enhanced and you will probably be showing more cleavage than you are used to. While this is normal it does take some getting used to. Many women with a large bust find a corset is more comfortable to wear, as it gives them more support than a standard bra.

Most corsets fall into the category of intimate apparel. They come in a wide variety of fabrics such as satin, silk, or lace and an array of colors. You can find something that allows you to be as modest or daring as you desire. If your corset comes with a garter belt and stockings be sure to put on the stockings before the corset, it’s just easier. Corsets are also moving out of the bedroom and being worn as outwear. There corsets are very similar to traditional corsets but available in decorative and luxurious fabrics. They may not be appropriate for a Monday morning office staff meeting but are great for an informal party or night at a club. If you’ve never worn a corset and would like to try one start with an outwear corset first, they are generally easier and more comfortable to wear.

© Lingerie.6ln.com, All Rights Reserved.

Christine McClinden owns a wardrobe full of lingerie including a few corsets. She talks about lingerie and women’s shoes on lingerie.6ln.com

Plus Size Clothes Shopping Tools

June 5th, 2007

Today shopping for trendy plus size clothing that fits well and looks great is easier than ever before. Clothing designers and merchants have finally discovered the huge market full figured women have to offer. We want stylish and comfortable clothing - and we are willing to pay for it.

Fabric choices, slimming cuts & shimmering glamor are available to us in abundance, but how to choose the best fit and most flattering size when shopping online? Trying clothes on before we buy is not an option.

But the good news is that as online shoppers, we have two very handy tools at our disposal:

Sizing Charts & Refund Policies

You will find plenty of websites online specializing in ladies plus size fashions. Before adding anything to your shopping cart (also called shopping bag or basket), check out the sizing chart on site. You will usually find this linked to in the same spot where you choose the size, quantity and color of the item to add to your shopping cart. If it is not there, look in the main menu navigation bar.

You will find that most stores offer sizing that is true to offline department store sizing. So if you are normally a size 2X, you should find that size fits the same when shopping online.

You will also want to know what the store Refund Policy is. The industry standard is between 30 and 60 days from time of shipment. You will see the date listed on the packing slip when your package arrives. With a generous Refund Policy, you are free to order 2 or 3 different sizes of the item you want! Try them on, keep the item that you are most happy with and return the other items for a refund.

What you will want to watch for is any shipping and handling charges. Most times the stores offer a full refund, but it is good to note any charges that may apply if you do opt for a refund. Sometimes it is still worth it if you find that perfect dress you just cannot get locally.

Because most of us do not have a lot of options when shopping for plus sized clothing at our local department stores, shopping online provides us with a happy alternative. Now we too can enjoy a wide variety and plenty of options for fun, trendy fashions!

If you are looking for plenty of options when shopping for plus size clothing, visit www.plussizegoodies.com for my top picks featuring ladies plus size shopping stores. Now over 40 stores listed! Copyright PlusSizeGoodies.com
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Kennith Cole Shoes

May 24th, 2007

The Kenneth Cole men’s shoes Reaction collection offers men everything from thong sandals to stylish dress shoes. This grandiose collection of footwear comes in all different varieties, shapes, sizes, and colors. The Kenneth Cole Men’s shoes Reaction collection is loaded with trendy choices for men. Let’s start with the casual.

The casual offerings of the Reaction collection range from clogs to sport shoes and everything in between. Reaction Men’s Glide Open and the Men’s Straight Plush are both examples of the clogs offered by the men’s collection. Still, there is more casual footwear that Reaction gives men to choose from. There are corporate casual pieces, like the Men’s Lace Off, the One Line Day, the Line in Time and many more. These shoes offer men the luxury of comfort with the style of business.

If business casual is not enough, Reaction gives men several options for a dress look. The Reaction Flex a Bit and Flex Along are shiny leather shoes that scream sophistication, while the Reaction Men’s Row Boat lends to a sportier dress look. The Men’s Puzzle Piece is an intriguing and unique style. These are loafer style with a square toe, and apron style stitched toe seam detail.

Reaction also provides a great selection in men’s view. For a funky take on a cowboy look, try Men’s Red Line. These snakeskin boots can be dressed up or dressed down, with a tapered toe and western style stitching. If snakeskin is not your thing, the Red Line also comes in black or brown leather. For a more casual and rugged look, try the Reaction Pine Nuts. These rounded, plain toe shoes offer stitched accents, but it’s the one inch sole and heel.

Sandals should also be part of a man’s footwear wardrobe. These can range from thong sandals, commonly referred to as flip flops, and more sturdy standards that men can wear with anything. Some of the thong options include Flip 5-0, the Beachy-Keen, and the Sport Graffiti. Sandals that men can wear at work or at play include the Sand-man, the Top Spin, the Flip Wilson, and the Surf the Net, to name a few.

http://www.the-shoe-finder.com

Mens Dress Shoes Trends

May 19th, 2007

The dress shoe may sound boring, but it is anything but. In an age when tennis shoes and sneakers are worn everywhere, mens dress shoes may not be as popular, but they do show the difference between those that are serious and the posers. There are a wide variety of styles, and it depends on what you are looking for. Mens dress shoes range from borderline casual to very fancy, and can adapt to any situation.

Mens dress shoes that many often picture are the boring black shoes with thin laces that we all learned to dread as kids. However, dress shoes have changed a lot since then. The big difference is that the sole has undergone some changes, going away from the wooden and plastic soles to rubber ones, allowing for more comfort, as well as dancing. Also, there are more types available, with wingtips and penny-loafers making a comeback. What styles are popular this summer can be found here: http://www.mensflair.com/news-trends/summer-dress-shoes-trend.php.

The dress shoe has been allowed to dress down, with some shoes being derived from moccasins. However, Italian shoes still continue to reign, with New York and London coming close. Strangely, Los Angeles has also been starting to come into its own. As sneakers become more popular, they have been combined with more conservative mens dress shoes to create hybrids; although looked down, they are becoming popular with trendy models.

Also of note are sandals, which are catching on as more people embrace more holistic lifestyles. Although not a dress shoe by any means, that they are being worn in more formal situations is of note, as well as the controversy that they have created in regards to formal wear, especially as “tribal” fashions come and go in fashion circles, and New Age beliefs continue to take hold. It will be interesting to see if sandals ever crossover from women’s fashion, or will be a truly male footwear.

It is interesting to note that wingtips and penny-loafers are in vogue due to a wave of nostalgia. As more modernistic styles become available, new designers are always trying to update the classics, if for no other reason than to see what modern materials can do to old classics. At the same time, boots are also being taken more seriously than in decades past, possibly due to an interest in western music and Texas’ rise in popularity, as well as having a number of influential politicians from there (not the least of whom is the current president). These “dress boots” are made of a different leather than regular boots, as well as having more obvious needlework.

In short, there is a wide variety of shoes available for dressing up, and it is up to you what kind of shoes you will wear, from the conservative to almost fun.

Bilal Babic, editor of Men’s Fashion Magazine http://www.MensFlair.com
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