The Evolution of the Irish Sweater
Monday, September 30, 2013
The Evolution of the Irish Sweater




Irish sweaters combine a mixture of the traditional Aran sweater with the modern stitches and styling to make today's sweaters. Made from wool yarns, they are made to be stylish, durable and warm. Most sweaters incorporate complex and highly textured stitches.  Many are traditional Aran stitches and today variations of those stitches are also used.

Previously made from Irish wool and other fine imported wools, most of the wool is Merino, the finest wool.  It is a thick durable wool fiber harvested from the second or third sheering. When merino wool fibers a very fine and have a soft luxurious fee.  It possesses a natural elasticity allowing for greater stretch.  The fiber is very absorbent and allows the evaporation of moisture easily, preventing clamminess.  Merino wool reacts to body temperature changes.  It holds in body heat in the cold and releases body heat when you're hot.  Merino wool also drapes beautifully because it doesn't hold or create static electricity. 

Today's merino wool is not like yesterday's wool. It's easier to clean and maintain its original beauty.  It can be machine-washed.  It's stain resistant, with no wrinkles to iron out and it doesn't harbor odors. Merino wool protects against UV rays, it fire resistant, it comes from a renewable source and its biodegradable.  It has all the natural benefits we seek in our usable products today. 

These sweaters are machine knitted into pullover Irish sweaters and cardigans.  The pullovers feature crew necks or turtlenecks, while the cardigan styles include button front, zip front, single button and asymmetric styles.  V-neck, collared and hooded cardigans complement any wardrobe by providing a fashionable layer of warmth on colder days. Incorporating unique stitches, each style is generously made with ample room for ease of movement and lounging.

The luck of the Irish may have originated from the stitches on the Irish sweater, as many of the stitches actually symbolized wishes of good fortune. One of the stitches of the traditional Aran or Irish sweater is the cable stitch, which represents a wish for good luck and safety for the fishermen.  The honeycomb stitch has significance in that it represents bees hard at work.  The diamond stitch symbolizes a wish for wealth and success. Finally, the basket stitch focuses on the fisherman again signifying a wish for a bountiful catch.  These stitches can exist singularly or exist in combination on the same sweater on the front, back and sleeves of the garment.  The history of these stitches goes back as far as the Irish sweater itself. 

Originally, the Irish sweater was hand knit from scoured wool that still retained its lanolin.  The lanolin or natural oil made the wool sweater water-resistant, making it wearable even when wet.   Fishermen wore them in harsh wet conditions because they were made with loving hands and each stitch held a wish for success and good luck.  Today, someone you know personally may not make the sweater, but it is still made with care and attention to detail. The stitches may only be symbolic; still, it's lovely to see the stitches working so harmoniously together in such fine soft wool.  Anyone who purchases an Irish sweater will experience a beautiful, durable and easy to care for wool sweater that will probably be passed on for a minimum of two generations.
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Dress Like Taylor Lautner Without Breaking the Bank
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Dress Like Taylor Lautner Without Breaking the Bank






Taylor Lautner has made it onto several “hot celebrities” list since his star turn as Jacob in the Twilight movies. Fans of Lautner have been watching his style evolve as his stardom grows. He’s remained true to his easygoing, casual yet elegant style, which is a great influence for both guys and girls. Want to ape his seemingly effortless style? Follow our eight rules. 

Keep it comfortable. Recently, Taylor Lautner was spotted in the Philippines promoting Bench Clothing, a British clothing retailer known for its casual clothes. Its line of comfortable t-shirts, warm jackets, and casual sportswear is a perfect fit for Lautner’s style.

Accessorize your face properly. Let’s face it, men don’t have a lot of options for accessorizing. Where they can make a statement is with their choice of sunglasses. Taylor Lautner seems to favor aviators, which are flattering an almost all face shapes.

Wear your favorite piece with everything. Taylor Lautner is often spotted with his signature Simon Spurr leather jacket. It fits with Lautner’s style - cool yet comfortable. Want your own designer leather jacket? Gilt often carries Simon Spurr for up to 60% off retail. Also, don’t just buy just one - keep a stock of four or five jackets handy; it will be easier to keep them clean that way.

You do not need to shop at expensive retailers for a great suit. Want to know who Taylor Lautner loves for suits? Calvin Klein. Calvin Klein is accessible, pretty affordable, and if you know how to work the sales and coupons, you can get awesome bargains. Plus you can find Calvin Klein suits at major department stores like Macy’s and Kohl’s at awesome prices. You can combine their sales with credit card savings and rewards points for deeper discounts.

Pick Diesel for your denim. Lautner is a huge fan of Diesel for jeans, and with good reason. They are comfortable, durable, and look good on just about anyone. Diesel is also widely available at just about any major retailer like Bluefly or Nordstrom.

Keep it casual, but not cheap. Lautner is often spotted in T-shirts and jeans, but since they are tailored so well for his body (all the better to show off those muscles!), you know they are definitely not from Forever 21. When it comes to clothing, paying a little more for quality will pay off in figure flattery, and you get to keep the clothes longer.

Keep your shoes interesting. Taylor Lautner loves to have fun with his shoes, and it shows. He wears everything from casual dress shoes to lace up boots to leather sneakers. Just make sure that your shoes go with your outfit. Don’t put the leather sneakers together with a formal suit or vice versa.

Girls, you can keep it casual for Lautner. If you dream of joining Team Jacob, you should know that he loves to when you have a low-maintenance style. You can be yourself in jeans and ballet flats.
About the author
Allison Preston is an avid sports fan and an experienced writer with a passion for deals and coupons and for saving her readers money. She currently writes for leading coupon and online promo code site bluepromocode.com based in Santa Monica, California. 


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Keeping Your Briefcase in Excellent Shape
Friday, September 27, 2013
Keeping Your Briefcase in Excellent Shape






Purchasing a briefcase is an investment in your professional career. As such, you want to take excellent care of your briefcase so that it lasts for several years. Here are a few ways to care for your briefcase so that it continues to enhance your professional attire at the workplace.
General Care Instructions
Most briefcases are leather. Leather is a highly durable and luxurious looking material but it must be cared for in a specific way. If you own a designer leather briefcase, here is what you should be doing routinely to keep the leather exterior of your briefcase looking great.
You may find that individuals at your office often bring beverages and food to meetings that require you to have your briefcase at. Because of this, watch out for spilled liquids and foods when you go to place your briefcase on a desk or table. If you need to take your briefcase into the restroom, wipe down the surface of the countertops with a paper towel to ensure that the area is dry before setting your briefcase down. Liquids can cause irreparable damage to leather briefcases so it is important that moisture does not pervade the exterior of your briefcase. If your briefcase does happen to get wet, wipe it off as soon as you can with a soft towel or cloth.
You may find that your briefcase is exposed to moisture even when you are doing everything in your power to keep it away from liquid substances. To remove mildew from your briefcase, create a solution of equal parts water and rubbing alcohol. Get a cloth damp with this mixture and then rub it on the exterior of your briefcase.
Every so often, your briefcase will need to be cleaned. How often you clean your briefcase is up to you and should be based on how often you use the briefcase. Purchase a high quality leather cleaner. Spray the cleaner liberally on the outside of your case and then let it sit for a few seconds. Using a soft towel or cloth, wipe off the remaining liquid on the outside of the case. Completely wipe down the entire briefcase and make sure that there is no remaining cleaner on the case when you are done.
Cleaning the Interior
When you take the time to clean the exterior of your leather briefcase, take a minute to freshen up the inside as well. The inside of your briefcase may be lined with cloth or felt. To clean the interior, remove everything that you usually keep in your briefcase. Then, take the case and shake out any dirt or small trash items that may have collected inside. If there are still crumbs or other bits of trash in the case after you do this, use the brush attachment on your vacuum to thoroughly remove dirt from the interior.
To freshen up the material, find a cloth and get it slightly damp. Go ahead and wipe down the fabric or felt in your briefcase. However, make sure that this only gets the interior slightly wet and does not soak the inside with liquid. Keep the case open and allow it to air dry so that mildew does not build up within your briefcase when you shut it. 
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Friday Outfit Inspiration: The Tee
Friday, September 27, 2013
Friday Outfit Inspiration: The Tee





There came a time where any cotton tee is banned in my closet. Why is that you ask? Well, I find that cotton tees or any cotton fabric for that matter doesn't last very long. They can get old and faded after a couple of washes. But then I realized how dead my closet is without it. So I figured I need to get my hands on it again, whether it's a plain grey or with graphic. I prefer those with graphic especially if it's in black and white. It gives your outfit that much needed edge without overdoing it.

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 A Lightness of Being
Sunday, September 22, 2013
A Lightness of Being





When I was in college, I bought a book called The Unbearable Lightness of Being. I never read it. I just like the title that's why I got it. Much like how I buy books because I like the cover. I know it's ridiculous but haven't you done that at least once in your life?

I just remember it while I was inside the bus thinking. I usually reflect on stuff while I'm inside the bus or train. I just find it relaxing and it's the time I can have on my own. 

Awhile ago I felt light. I felt like I'm a starting a new with the new apartment and just new things in general. I won't go into details but for the longest time I felt like I have something to look forward to. Better things and with that I'm happy. 

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Make your own style
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Make your own style





There is no better way of stamping your own style and personality on an item of clothing, than creating a unique design that can be applied to show off your creativity. At Dazzlewear, they have a range of rhinestone transfers and motifs, which can transform your clothing and accessories. Starting with accessories is a fun and easy way to begin branding your own items, so they will begin with giving you some hints and tips on how to design your own bag.

First choose the bag you are going to be working on, and check that the material is able to take the heat from an iron as this is how you will affix the transfers or motifs. This doesn't have to be a brand new item. It can be one of your old bags that needs a new look, or a bargain you have picked up from a vintage or charity shop. One of the easiest design ideas is to have your initials on a clutch purse and Dazzlewear are happy to personalise any motif for you. Then using your hot iron, simply place the initials in the middle or top of the accessory, iron on and peel back the transfer, and you have an exclusive personalised bag.

For special occasions such as weddings, you could add a hearts or flower motif to complement the theme of the day. You may also want to organise some printed bags to give to the bride’s mother and new mother in law, along with the bridesmaids with their initials and the date of the wedding as a thank you. If you have been invited as a guest, then check the colour scheme for the day and jazz up your outfit with a bag that has a unique rhinestone pattern on in the same colours.


Often, the up to the minute fashion accessory is quite costly, but you can check out the magazines and internet to get an idea of the latest craze. Then with a bespoke transfer you can achieve the look for a fraction of the price. Recently rhinestone Union Jack shapes have been very popular or you could create your own version of the American Stars and Stripes.


During the summer months when the Festival season is upon us, sporting embroidered bags becomes a common sight. Imagine putting your own eye catching and sparkling design to this accessory, and you will certainly attract everyone's eye. If you are going to create an "embroidered" look to your bag, then try spiral shapes radiating out from the centre, or stars and moon designs, measure up the area you have to work on and make a rough design on paper first.


If your bag has embroidery on it, you can look to placing single or small groups of rhinestones in and around the current pattern. Whatever ideas you have, then Dazzlewear are keen to hear from you. If you cannot find what you want in the bespoke designs, contact them and start designing.


About the author
George Christo has a passion for Customised t-shirts, work wear embroidery and teamwear – this is his job and his world. You can connect with him on Google+

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Alexa Chung for British Vogue October 2013
Friday, September 20, 2013
Alexa Chung for British Vogue October 2013







Alexa Chung has got to be one of my favorite IT girls of today. Her style is not your typical sweet or lady-like type of look. Instead, she knows exactly how to mix both masculine and feminine pieces that compliments if not blend well together and that's what I love about her style.

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The Must-Have Items for the Fashionable Salesman
Friday, September 20, 2013
The Must-Have Items for the Fashionable Salesman





The days of salesmen wearing a tradition black suit are over, so if you want to be a fashionable salesman, consider switching your dressing habits if you are wearing the less modern salesman outfit. That's not to say suits are not fashionable, but you often see salesmen wearing the types of suits that don't fit them, and that have fat ties. As a salesman, it is your job to look professional, and there are several ways you can do that by adding a few elements of style to your wardrobe. This can help increase the amount of respect people have for you in your decision-making abilities, and make you more relatable.
Knowing Which Tie to Wear
Skinny ties are in. If you are still wearing a grandpa tie, stop. A skinny tie will help you to look your most fashionable, and it is a key component to a modern-looking suit. The skinny tie gives off an aura of professionalism, while also showing that you have an idea about fashionable guy stuff. Even if you are an older salesman, you can relate more to the younger generation by wearing a skinny tie that could make them say, "Hey, you've got style." Once they respect your tie, they might respect you, and they could respectfully accept whatever you are selling.
Shoes that Match Your Clothes
If you are wearing a dark colored suit, do not wear light colored shoes. Even though black does go with a lot of items, a black pair of pants will not match white shoes, or even light brown shoes. Make a commitment to match the tone of all of your clothes. That does not mean you need to wear the same color of everything, but if one item is much darker, or lighter, than the other items you are wearing, you may need to take a step back and open your shoe closet. If you have trouble matching colors and tones, don’t be afraid to ask someone for help. You probably have a friend who’s been waiting for the day you finally break down and ask for some advice!
A Pair of Glasses Has Many Benefits
Glasses have become fairly fashionable. Make sure you are wearing glasses that are made by a designer brand, or at least look like they were. Glasses that look expensive (even if they’re not) are always more impressive. The traditional type of glasses with round, thick rims are not something a fashionable salesman would wear. Instead, smaller lenses with thin rims are in style. Even some thicker black rims with more of a square shape are popular among the fashionable. Furthermore, glasses make you look smarter. If the person you are selling to thinks you are smart, they might respect you more, and make that purchase. Adding a few fashionable components to your outfit will not only make you look good, and perhaps make people want to talk to you, but it will also make you feel better about yourself. Part of being a great salesman is having confidence in whatever you are selling, and if you have confidence in yourself, then you are likely to have confidence in the items you are selling. And that could lead to more sales.
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What Causes a Flushed Complexion?
Thursday, September 19, 2013
What Causes a Flushed Complexion?



A flushed complexion is characterised by many different symptoms, like feelings of warmth and a sudden reddening of the neck area. Flushed skin is a sudden and common physical response that can be triggered by a range of situations or stimuli like anxiety, stress, embarrassment, anger, or another extreme emotional state.
Skin flushing, or blushing, is characterized by feelings of warmth and rapid reddening of your neck, upper chest, or face. The reddening is caused by blood rushing to the surface of the skin around the face area and blotchiness or solid patches of redness are often visible when blushing.
Some of the more common causes of a flushed complexion include:
  • Embarrassment/Anger/Stress: These emotions can cause the release of adrenaline and this can mean that our heart rate increases. Blood flow increases to the face creating the impression of a red face.

  • Rosacea: Rosacea is a medical condition that causes redness in the face and sometime pimples to form. Common characteristics of this is are small, red, pus-filled bumps on the skin that are present during flare-ups. Rosacea affects only skin on your nose, cheeks, and forehead and the redness does not fade nor seem to be caused by any of the other causes on this list.

  • Acne: An uneven complexion can be the cause of a flushed face in some cases as clusters of spots filled with blood can make whole areas look red. But at the same time some of the skin is in better condition than other parts and this will mean that the redness looks blotchily.

  • Rash/Allergy: A rash is an immune response and can be the result of an allergic reaction toward something.

  • Wind: Redness is often caused by wind burn and if you have been out in the cold then a combination of the extreme temperature and the wind can result in your face looking redder than usual.

  • Alcohol: Alcohol can have a flushing reaction due to the dilating effects of alcohol on the capillaries in the face. Be sure to drink lots of water with your alcohol and take sever flushing as a sign to slow down.

  • Exercise: An increase of blood throughout your body, including the face and a rise in body temperature will lead to a flushing effect.

  • Temperature: As mentioned getting hot from exercise or from external heat can cause you to become red, as can being in the cold when your body can sometimes fight to increase your body temperature. Make sure to plan ahead so you have time to cool down after a workout, and try washing your face with a cool flannel to speed up the process after exercising.

  • There are no definite way to prevent flushing, but you can try to reduce your alcohol consumption, avoid extreme temperatures and also limit your intake of niacin to a maximum of 14 milligrams. This might help to reduce the effects of flushing effectively. If this continues, seek immediate medical attention and consult with your doctor for possible solutions. 
About the author
HealthLine.com is a popular resource that offers expert health advice from qualified professionals and experienced contributors. Find out more about a flushed complexion from Healthline.com.
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How to Look Stunning in Your Swimwear
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
How to Look Stunning in Your Swimwear



Now that the temperatures are cooling off and you've eaten the last of the summer barbecue, you may be storing your summer clothes away and preparing your wardrobe for fall. As you pull out the earthy colors of autumn, should you leave behind your white wardrobe as well?
We've all heard that white shouldn't be worn after Labor Day, but rules are made to be broken! This is a color that compliments most skin tones and looks good on most body types. From ivory to cream to pearl, there are still white-hot swimwear options for you to choose from this season that will make the mercury rise.  White colored swimwear is in style all year round, wherever you are this year, no matter the time of year, you will definitely look good in a classic white swim suit.
Select a white bikini with embellishments. Gold or silver embellishments can really make your swimsuit sizzle. This hardware pairs nicely with hoop earrings or funky bangles. The White Ibiza Halter & Hipster Bottom Bikini from Canyon Beachwear features gold hardware at the shoulder and the hip for a glamorous touch. The halter neckline of this white-hot bikini offers added support, lifting and shaping the bust line.  The gold hardware are a great addition to the swimwear and makes the peice of clothing not look boring while still maintaining that classic look.
Wow the crowd in a white cover up. If you aren't feeling brave enough to flaunt a white bathing suit after Labor Day, you can still be a part-time rebel. A white cover up adds a dash of pizzazz and intrigue to your swimwear. Feel fearless in a mesh, sheer or crocheted cover up or even a white tunic or caftan.
Feel sassy in a white swim skirt. There's nothing like defying long held tradition with a white swim skirt after Labor Day. Pair this look with a colorful bikini top in hot pink, neon blue or a cheetah print.  Feel flirty in a swim skirt that features side ties, pleats, and a slit at the side or ruffles. If you still want to wear white but don't want to stand out too much at the pool party or the resort, consider a white swim skirt with stripes or a geometric design.
Make a splash in a white swim dress. A designer swim dress in all white can take your look from daytime to nighttime. Turn heads while you're on a cruise or while ordering cocktails at the resort bar. A white swim dress sends the temperature up a few degrees when it features side cutouts, polka dots or one shoulder out. Complete the look with a black and white brim hat or a colorful necklace to really make a statement.
Canyon Beachwear started with one retail store in Southern California in 1979.  Canyon Beachwear now is proud to operate 10 retail locations around the country in locations such as Las Vegas, New York, and Los Angeles.  For more info Click Here



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Fall Reading List
Monday, September 16, 2013
Fall Reading List


Fall Reading List


I haven't finish the book I'm reading for about two months now and I'm trying my best to swift through the story so I can move on to the next. The weather is starting to cool down and I felt that reading something mysterious and fantasy will be a good way to warm up the weather a bit, if you know what I mean. I don't normally gravitates towards those but I told myself time and time again to read the popular novels just to see what the hype is about. So without further I do, I bring you my fall reading list for 2013.

It by Alexa Chung
Grace: A Memoir by Grace Coddington
The Ocean at The End of The Lane by Neil Geiman
The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith
About A Girl by Lindsey Kelk
Crazy Rich Asian by Kevin Kwan

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Trendy Glasses For Work Or The Weekend
Saturday, September 14, 2013
Trendy Glasses For Work Or The Weekend



Glasses are one of the hottest accessory trends available today. They’re so hot in fact, even people with 20/20 vision are eagerly snatching up non-prescription glasses, just to be able to participate in the geek-chic trend. While we couldn’t agree more that this is an extremely wearable and versatile trend, what about those of us who are low on funds and need a prescription, but want to look a little geek-chic ourselves? In other words, we need flexible options that are appropriate for work, but are just as socially acceptable for the weekend. Fortunately there are loads of styles that allow you to be frugal and trendy all at the same time.

Tortoise shell spectacles and sunglasses are getting a huge amount of attention right now. The typically neutral hued glasses come in tones that characteristically look good with just about any skin tone and because they are offered on just about any silhouette, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a style that looks good on you. Since the patterns aren’t over the top, these are great glasses to wear to work with trousers, button down shirts and cute flats, but will go well with typical weekend garb of skinny jeans, a vintage graphic tee and killer stilettos as well.

Cateye glasses are certainly trendy options that, although edgy, work well in office settings. Even if your office is on the conservative side, because of their extremely classic roots, this silhouette will still get a pass. Pair them with an A-line skirt, red lips and simple pearl earrings and a necklace to form an outfit with a strong nod to the 1950’s. Of course, these will look great with more modern musings as well, such as a wide leg pant and blazer. Without a doubt, cateye frames are perfect for the weekend as well, so purchase these with ease, knowing you will get your use out of them.

Unlike any other frame right now, thick framed glasses have rose to the top of accessory trends, with their geek chic guises and mod-retro looks. While at your job it might not be appropriate to go for oversized thick framed lenses, there are plenty of other options that encompass the same look while still being practical for the office. Instead of choosing a thick frame with a super large lens, opt instead for a thick frame with an average to smaller lens. While keeping you sharp for the office, this option will also keep you chic for the weekend, without the need to purchase an additional pair.

Another option that works well for both work and weekend are ombre frames, especially when the color fades from one neutral to another, but possibly even from a bright color to a neutral. Selecting trendy yet appropriate glasses for work can be challenging but the reality is, there are plenty of options available at ClearlyContacts.ca. Just make sure the majority of the coloration is a neutral and that the frames aren’t overpowering or overwhelmingly large.

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