July 2013

Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Make It Pop

Summer is easily the best time of year to experiment with makeup. We all have a little more natural color in our complexions, and that’s a good enough excuse for me to liven up my beauty routine.

While I normally stick to plain ‘ol black eyeliner, I took a chance with trying bright colors on my lips and lids and fell in love! Stila’s new Innovative Countless Color Pigments features a blend of shades in this punchy compact. With so many ways to apply, it’s like four products in one. Some days I’ll blend the colors together for a shimmery wash on my lids, and other times I highlight my eyes using just one color. This eye shadow brings a much-needed pop to my makeup bag.

While I normally stick to plain ‘ol black eyeliner, I took a chance with trying bright colors on my lips and lids and fell in love! Stila’s new InnovativeCountless Color Pigments features a blend of shades in this punchy compact. With so many ways to apply, it’s like four products in one. Some days I’ll blend the colors together for a shimmery wash on my lids, and other times I highlight my eyes using just one color. This eye shadow brings a much-needed pop to my makeup bag.

I love to highlight my lips, and using gloss is the easiest way to incorporate color into my makeup routine. M.A.C.’s Dare to Wear Lipglass comes in easy to apply shades and are a fun break from heavy lipsticks or standard balm.

I’m naturally pale, but in the summer I get just a shade or two darker. Dior’s Rosy Glow Healthy Glow Awakening Blush gives me a natural, sweet touch of color. The slight rose scent makes this product even sweeter.

I certainly don’t stop at my face when it comes to trying out new shades. Sephora by O.P.I.’s Neon Lights set features a topcoat along with five new bold colors for hands and feet.

What makeup products are you dipping into this season?

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Friday, July 26, 2013
Going Back To Basics

There is no denying that classic pieces goes far beyond its years in our closet. Whether you own a distress pair of jeans, classic hand bag or a white button up shirt you know you can wear it time and time again and it compliments well with whatever you have in your closet.

You know the saying you must invest in classic pieces? That I strongly agree but I haven't gotten around to spend a few hundred dollars on this Helmut Lang jacket that I've been eying on for months. I did include that though in my 100 things in 1001 days but I'm hoping to get it sooner than later.

As for the other basics, well I have a few favorites; a black leather jacket, chambray top and a black pointed heels. These staples instantly makes you look polished whatever it is you're wearing.

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Wednesday, July 24, 2013
The New Rules Of The Engagement Ring

Finding the perfect engagement ring for your fiancé can make any man feel inadequate. There are so many long standing rules, traditions and expectations to meet. You just want your girlfriend to say yes and spend the rest of your life with her, not agonize about how big the diamonds in the ring should be. The new age has brought with it new rules that can be applied to nervous grooms-to-be everywhere.

The Four Essential C

As you’re shopping around for diamonds, bear in mind the four essential Cs: carat, cut, clarity and color. Carat is how much the diamond weighs; cut is the shape and number of edges of the diamond; clarity is the small details noticeable through magnification and color is the overall shade of the diamond. The four essential Cs all combine to make the diamond sparkle with a certain fire and luster. In order to make sure that the carat, cut, clarity and color of the ring is balanced, think about what the woman in question likes. If she likes sparkle, then focus more on the cut of the diamond and less on the overall size of the diamond. Women who like big diamonds might not care so much about the color, clarity or cut.

Take your time while searching for the perfect engagement ring and don’t be discouraged if it takes you a few months. Much like finding the perfect woman takes time, finding the perfect wedding ring takes time as well. Try not to give yourself a deadline, and make sure that you ask plenty of questions if you ever aren’t sure of anything while at the jeweler.

Leave Tradition in the Past

Most of the brides of today don’t expect you to treat them like the brides of yesterday. Times have changed and what a bride-to-be expects out of an engagement ring has changed as well. Where before it was thought that a man should spend no less than three months’ salary on a ring, most women don’t want their soon-to-be husbands to spend that much money on them. There’s nothing worse than starting off a marriage in deep debt because of an overly expensive engagement ring. Loose diamonds and rings of silver and gold are no longer the must-haves they used to be. Instead, think about getting an engagement ring made from stainless steel. Most people will think it’s silver, and stainless steel lasts longer and is easier to clean as well. Other inexpensive metal options include mixed metals, turquoise and onyx. Something else to think about is purchasing the ring at an auction rather than an expensive jeweler.

Consider Her Lifestyle

A majority of men are under the impression that an engagement ring absolutely has to have a sizeable diamond. If your girlfriend works with her hands or leads an active lifestyle, it doesn’t make much sense to have a massive diamond in her engagement ring. The ring will more than likely spend more time safe on a counter rather than on the woman’s finger. A series of small diamonds is a better fit for a woman who wears gloves or works with her hand. Another advantage of small diamonds is that they aren’t as expensive as one large diamond.

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Tuesday, July 23, 2013
VIKTOR & ROLF WEDDING COLLECTION

This weekend I'll be back home to attend my sister's wedding. It's going to be a short trip but it will be nice to see everyone. I still remember the days when she rambles about finding her perfect dress. Much like all the brides to be, finding the perfect dress is the most important part of the wedding. While most ladies will opt for the usual silhouette, I thought why not share with you this pretty yet unusual wedding collection from Victor & Rolf.

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Sunday, July 21, 2013
Styling Tips for Wearing Stripes This Summer

Stripes are a very unique trend. They are not like most trends which come and go. It might be the same pattern, but stripes are reinvented every year. Two years ago stripes were worn with the nautical look with a navy/white or red/white combination. Last year they were styled as a “weekend in the Hamptons” look. This year stripes are going were they haven’t really gone before, high fashion chic with an edge. They were rocked all over fashion weeks this year including the runways of Marc Jacobs, Christian Dior, and Dolce & Gabbana. If you are trying to achieve this look but do not think it is a good idea for you to rock a full striped body suit to the supermarket, no fear!

I am here to give styling advice to help you achieve this look the right way that is comfortable and easy to wear! The first outfit I styled below showcases one of my favorite skirts of all time, The Stripe It Lucky Skirt from Modcloth. I paired the skirt with this Hot Pink “Valley Girl” Wildfox Top and an amazing pair of Zara pumps! This look is flirty and fun perfect for a day with your girls or a night on the town. If you rock more of a casual style, my second option is perfect for you!

I went for a “hippie chic” look by going with this Vertical Stripe Maxi Skirt from Amazon. I added a darker pop of color, burgundy, throughout the hat and the Asos Scalloped Handbag. Wearing Booties with this outfit is such a great option, even during the summer months, very chic! Stripes are a great year round trend and can be paired with virtually anything!

Written by Jessica Farley

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Friday, July 19, 2013
How to Prepare for the Prom, For Guys

There are a lot of tutorials out there for girls on how to prepare for the prom. They need their dress, make-up, sleep-over make-over parties and a few more hours on shoes. But guys have no real guide, which is why they just show up and let the ladies run the show. But not every young man wants to just show up, and it is perfectly alright if you want to do a little something extra aside from showing up and dropping by Alexandria prom tuxedo rentals as an afterthought.

Find a Ride

Traditionally, this was the job of the guy. But be realistic, most seventeen year olds, which is the average age most people are at proms will still be on learners permit. More often a group of friends will carpool to the prom venue or put their money together to rent a limo or car service. And this is what you should do too. Prom is supposed to be a party with friends and you will save some money by pooling your resources for a ride. If all else fails, have your parents drive and be your car service.

Find a Date or Not

Of course it would be nice to have a date, just like in the movies. But having a partner of the opposite sex is not really a requirement for going to your own prom. Go without and party with friends, chances are you will find the opportunity to rub shoulders with somebody you like.

Bring a Corsage

If you have a date, go to the trouble of making or buying a corsage. Do not bother with a bouquet of flowers since a bunch of flowers is too bulky and awkward to bring around. A corsage is the traditional gesture for a prom date and many girls and their mothers still expect it. You are also expected to pick up your date at her residence but if that is not practical, going by in a car pool or meeting at the venue is fine too.

Your Parents Want Pictures

It's not just your date's parents who want to preserve the memories. Your parents would want picture of you and your date and you and your friends. Bring a camera if you can or take pictures with your phone to take a picture or two you can share with your parents and other relatives who are far away and like to be updated with your life.

Rent a Tux and Pair with Dress Shoes

Buying a prom tuxedo is really not the most practical thing to do especially when renting one will do as well. You might want to save your cents on dress shoes instead that will get to wear in the future. Depending your your schools dress code set for your prom, get a tuxedo that matches the gown of your date if you have a date. You can also get tuxedos to match with your friends by choosing vests, ties or bow in different colors and prints.

Friday, July 19, 2013
There Is No Love

One last kiss

One more cigarette
Abandon me
A dead soldier in your bed

Where did you go
Were you shown some revelation?
Should I remember the scene of the crime
Or lose it in translation?

I tell myself that this is just a bad dream

There is no love

No future in nostalgia
No blessing in brokenness
Only feelings to be guilty of
But I'm waiting for someone to prove me wrong

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Thursday, July 18, 2013
The influence of rugby on modern clothing fashion

It is hard to imagine that the clothing worn by players in a game like rugby could have a significant influence on modern fashion and yet every day rugby jerseys are seen on high streets all around the world. Is this really surprising?

In the early days, rugby clothing consisted of polo shirts and shorts, the shirts being plain, long-sleeved and with a buttoned collar. As the game developed and football and rugby split, so rugby players took to jerseys with hoops as opposed to the vertical stripes preferred by footballers.

Rugby jerseys became popular for casual wear because they were rugged and hardwearing as well as colourful. But they were not thought appropriate for more formal casual wear until college students in the United States considered them to be stylish and began to wear them as a fashion statement.

Fashion designers, of course, latched onto the new trend and explored new ways to make the rugby jersey even more stylish. They moved away from the standard team colours that had been the norm and paired them with casual trousers, wore them underneath jackets or wore them with cravats to give a more sophisticated look. So, rugby jerseys took their place on the fashion stage, although they had moved away from the traditional designs of the past.

Lovers of rugby clothing can still enjoy the old casual look. They can still wear the colours of their favourite sides and with the growing popularity of the game worldwide there are more team jerseys than ever before to choose from. And, as fabrics and manufacturing techniques have developed, the range of jerseys and colours has increased.

The skin-tight fit of modern rugby clothing is hardly suitable for casual wear but the modern team colour designs still find favour with fans. Many like to have the number of their favourite player on the back. No. 8 is hugely popular with such great players as Laurence Dallaglio, Zinzan Brooke, Wayne “Buck” Shelford and Kieran Read, who have their own enthusiastic following.

The latest printing techniques mean that the designs on rugby jerseys are becoming more colourful and complex. They have moved far from the original plain or hooped design so that now almost anything goes and some designs are more like pop art than rugby colours. A glance at the catalogue of colours worn by the Stade Francais team in recent years bears testament to what can be done with designs these days.

National sides often seem to experiment more with colour in the jerseys of their Sevens teams. There have been some interesting innovations, one of the most stunning and controversial being the “Tequila Sunrise” design worn by the England Sevens side just a few years ago.

England have broken the mould again with the new kit designed by Canterbury. This latest offering to be worn by the men’s and women’s sides in the July IRB Sevens World Cup and the 2013-14 IRB World Series features a pixellated rose on a white background on the main strip with the same image magnified by a factor of ten on a black background on the change strip. Only time will tell if the new look finds favour with the fans.

Canterbury, of course has all your favourite team jerseys so there will be no doubt about your loyalties. You can even design your own kit using the Canterbury Teamwear range that allows you to mix and match designs and colours and even allows you to add a unique touch by giving you the option of using their printing and embroidery service.

All those years ago when rugby was in its infancy, it would have been hard to imagine that the humble rugby jersey would find its way into the wardrobes of the well dressed man-about-town, but nowadays there can be few men without one. And as designs and colours become more innovative, it seems that rugby jerseys could well find themselves at the cutting edge of fashion.

About the author:

My name is Eddard Blake and I am freelance writer for Canterbury of New Zealand.

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Wednesday, July 17, 2013
Getting Ready for a Party

Everyone loves a party, right? Of course we do! It’s the perfect time to see all of our friends at the same time, meet new people and socialise with people we might not normally see. This fusion of friends old and new makes it completely natural that we should want to look our best, and party preparation can start far in advance of the actual event itself. So, what should we be thinking about to get party-ready?

It is, of course, very easy to dress for a party if we’re simply pulling something out of the wardrobe. However, it is often the case that people will come up with an unusual theme or we won’t quite have the right type of outfit, so it might involve a shopping trip. You don’t have to buy a full new outfit though. Different accessories can completely transform a look, or to save money you could do a clothes swap with a friend so you’re wearing something different and stylish in the party photos.

You don’t need to have a complete hair overhaul either. It’s always nice to have a blowdry before a party to feel your best, but it’s best to steer clear of any drastic haircuts or colour changes. If it goes wrong or you just don’t like it, it can be very hard to hide, and it will knock your confidence for the entire party, so if you want to do something different, stick to heat styling, or updos.

Sometimes it’s all in the details. You might not want a full image transformation, so it could just be something small. It’s not necessarily something that people will notice outright, but there might be something about you that looks a little different which can increase interest in you. This could include an eyebrow reshaping, a new makeup style or even a light spray tan to give you a little confidence booster with this micro-change.

It’s not all about how we look though. It’s also about the way we feel and how we carry ourselves, which doesn’t just come from how we look. Book yourself in for a spa break and get a massage to really relax before the big event. The muscle manipulation of a massage can also contribute to an improved posture, which will make you appear much more confident. Party confidence is all about state of mind, and a relaxing spa day might be all you need to feel serene.

About the author:

Polly Wright is a good time girl who loves nothing more than partying hard and preparing to party.

Tuesday, July 16, 2013
New Summer Outfit Ideas To Try Now

Summer isn't going anywhere just yet and while we are at it, why not try some new looks. I'm pretty you ladies are already bored with the usual. So here are some new summer outfit ideas you must try right now.

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Monday, July 15, 2013
Pre-Shopping Tips For A Mens Suit

If you are in the market for a new suit – say you just got that high-powered job you’ve been pining for or you’re getting hitched to the woman of your dreams – you know that you are about to make a big investment to an item of clothing that you will probably be wearing for a long time. Before you head to the department store and begin your shopping adventures, you should be prepared for how to shop for a mens suit so that you get what you want and spend your money wisely.

Remember Why You Need A Suit

Before you even begin shopping, take some time to think about why you are buying a suit. Not all suits are going to work for every purpose, so keep in mind where and how you will be wearing the suit. A suit that you purchase to wear for your wedding may not be appropriate to wear to the office, and vice versa. Some suits are going to look a little more casual, while others are going to look really formal. If you have your purpose at the front of your mind, you are less likely to buy a mens suit that isn’t going to work for you.

Cheaper Isn’t Always Better

When it comes to buying a suit, you have to remember that these are investment pieces and, with the right care, a mens suit can be worn for many years. There are bargain deals for suits everywhere, but a higher quality suit is going to cost a little bit more. That money is going to be worth it when you don’t have to keep replacing cheap suits. If you are in Australia, Roger David offers mens slim fit suitsthat are both fashionable and high quality, so you can rest assured that you are purchasing a piece that will work for many years to come.

Know Your Style

Suits are made in a variety of cuts and fits, so if you have a firm grasp on your personal style before you begin shopping, you are more likely to be happy with your big purchase. A traditionally tailored mens suit is typically a little roomier, with straight cut legs, but if you prefer a more fitted style, mens slim fit suits is modern, trendy options that are both stylish and classy. Shop around...there are a wide selection of slim suits features suits that are at the height of fashion.

Be Open Minded

While it is important to be prepared by knowing what you want before you go suit shopping, it’s also a good idea to be open minded and willing to try on some suits that may be a little bit out of your comfort zone. Employees at retail stores are on top of what is hip and probably have a good idea of what style of mens suit will work for you. Let go of a little bit of control and try some different colors and fits. If you are usually a traditional suit kind of guy, trying on some mens slim fit suits may open up a whole new world of options for you and you may be surprised with the suit you choose.

Take Charge

It can be fun to give up control a little and try some new things, but that being said it’s also important that you get what you want. Some store employees can sometimes try to talk you into things that you aren’t comfortable with or that you don’t really need, so stay focused and remember that you are the customer and you get to decide what you buy.

Whatever you end up buying, whether you choose from mens slim fit suits or classic fits, being happy with your investment is the ultimate goal. Don’t let the process of shopping for a mens suit overwhelm you, just prepare yourself and have fun.

About the author:

Jim Rowland is a freelance stylist based in Australia who enjoys the latest in men's fashion. When he is not busy with photoshoots and events, he loves to frequent his local cafe for a good cup of coffee.

Sunday, July 14, 2013
We're Not Young Anymore

"It's alright to do things the way you want. There is no map to life, no blueprints to survival, you can create your world day by day if you have a clear vision and an unwillingness to give up." - John O'Callaghan

Sometimes I wonder why I think the way I think. Why is it that when other people take life so seriously, here I am wanting to have fun? I want to go out, meet new people, spend money on clothes, travel and just live life a little.

Whenever I describe these thoughts to a family or a friend who are much older, they always tell me that it's because I'm young that's why I think that way. But when the time comes, my thoughts will alter and I'll start to take things more seriously. For awhile I kind of believe that. I mean it does make sense. But a friend once told me, "Technically, we're not young anymore." And that just hits me. At 25 we really are not young anymore.

I guess what I'm trying to say is that sometimes we tend to look at other people on how we should live our life. Maybe because it's more proper or socially acceptable. But doing things that makes you happy is not wrong at all and it doesn't matter how old you are. What others have done at a certain age doesn't mean you have to do the same. It's your life not theirs. And if there is one thing I believe in is that you have to do the things you love and make sure do it more often.

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Saturday, July 13, 2013
Five Fashion Atrocities a Biker Shouldn't Commit

There is a wide variety of biker gear on the market that a motorcyclist can use to improve his/her aesthetics. While a good deal of this gear can definitely make you look good on your motorcycle, there are still a few items and combinations of items that are simply fashionably cruel and unpleasing.

Fortunately, the list below can show you what biker gear and fashions you should avoid at all cost. This list will show you the top five ridiculous things a biker should not wear.

Full-face Motorcycle Helmets With Sunglasses Underneath

Even though it may be more convenient and practical for some people to wear sunglasses instead of wearing black visors on a full-face helmet, this combination looks ridiculous. Sunglasses are acceptable and meant to be combined with an open face motorcycle helmet. Looking good is always important, and wearing sunglasses with an open face biker helmet is definitely better looking than wearing shades with a full-face biker helmet.

Mismatched Manufacture Brands

This crime especially should be forbidden when an individual wears a different branded leather than the brand of his bike. In other words, it is inappropriate to wear Suzuki leathers while riding a Yamaha bike. Even racers who have changed teams have the common sense to cover up their old logos if they did not yet get replacement leathers.

Matching Couple Biker Gear

While it is definitely advised to wear matching leather and bike manufacture brands, it is strongly recommended not to wear matching biker gear with your significant other. In other words, couples who wear matching biker gear are not exactly the best looking. Maybe matching biker clothes will look good on two siblings who have not yet learned how to talk yet, but matching gear for couples can look somewhat ridiculous.

Helmet Accessories

Various types of helmet accessories are not only practical, but also good looking. However, certain types of helmet accessories are simply outrageous and a fashion atrocity. For instance, bunny ears and Mohawks on helmets are ridiculous fashion statements. This is usually common sense, but if you somehow have an odd idea that these type of accessories will look good with your bike, then you may have to hand over your motorcycle licenses.

Camouflage Trousers

Even if you manage to find camouflage trousers that are a matching color to your bike, you will still look ridiculous wearing them while you are riding your motorcycle. While camouflage gear is definitely important for certain people, namely people in military or police forces, it typically is a fashion crime if worn by bikers. Think about it for a minute, riding on your BMW bike down the street with your camouflage pants on well certainly make you look outrageous.

There you have it, the five types of biking fashions that you should most certainly stay away from. There are of course other biker fashion crimes such as wearing leather waistcoats, wearing Iridium visors, etc. However, the styles mentioned above are the most common fashion atrocities seen on the streets.

About the author:
Charles Fitzgerald is breaking new ground; he is the proud owner of The Kewl Shop, a place to find things you really want.

Friday, July 12, 2013
Yabbly - Helping You Make Better Purchasing Decisions

Do you have troubles making decisions on what to buy? Maybe because there are too many choices in the marketing and the information are too overwhelming? Well lucky for us there is Yabbly. Yabbly is an online community of thoughtful people who help each other make great purchasing decisions everyday. They were a finalists in SxSW 2013 in the social category and are a top 3 search result in "product reviews" on the iPhone app store.

Their philosophy is that the best purchasing decisions are made through dialogue with actual people who have made similar decisions recently. They believe that one of the main frustrations about online shopping today is that averaging a bunch of reviews just doesn't cut it, and you're left buying a product and simply hoping for the best.

I've tried this myself and no doubt, I got a thoughtful response in no time. People really do give their honest opinion in less than 24 hours and I must say, they are very helpful with it.

So if you need an honest opinion on purchasing decision, make sure you subscribe to Yabbly and help one another make better decisions everyday.

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Friday, July 12, 2013
Chloe Resort 2014 Collection

Soft, easy and vibrant, that is how I would describe Chloe's Resort 2014 collection. I love the play of pastels and drapery in different silhouettes and it's something that I would definitely wear for the summer.

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