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by:
LynnDonn
There’s
an unmistakable charm about a cigar box purse or handbag. Neat, petite
and elegant, and decorated with romantic, quaint and quirky images from a
bygone era, these design gems are becoming increasingly sought after
fashion accessories. You can purchase cigar box purses and handbags made
from real cigar boxes, or they can be decorated with just about any
image you can imagine, including classic movie stars, fashion
photographs, dancers, animals, flowers or abstract designs. If you shop
around online, you’ll find a huge range of cigar box purses and
handbags, many of them uniquely designed and sold by the artist who
created them. You can even have a cigar box purse or handbag custom made
using a favorite image of a pet, a special place, person or thing, or
perhaps a cherished old photograph of a great aunt or grandmother taken
in a bygone era. Any image is suitable, so long as it’s your own, and
there is no copyright existing in the photograph or artwork. Or if
you’re particularly creative, you could even make the purse or handbag
yourself.
Making your own cigar box purse or handbag.
It’s very simple to make a cigar box purse or handbag yourself, and
you’ll have the satisfaction of having something which is absolutely
unique. A handbag or purse you’ve made yourself also makes a lovely gift
for someone special. You can purchase a simple wooden box, or a real
cigar box if you can find one, some paint and lacquer, and the hinges,
corners, handle and clasp from purse hardware suppliers which you’ll
find online. Of course, you’ll also need a photograph or piece of
artwork to use on the box. Choosing an image, a color scheme and purse
hardware pieces which work together artistically is great fun, and very
satisfying when it all comes together. It’s a very simple job to paint
the box, glue on the image, cover the whole thing with a few coats of
lacquer, then attach all of the purse hardware components.
About the author:
Lynn Donn is the webmaster for http://www.unique-handbags-and-purses.comHer website offers tips and information on all the latest trends in purses and handbags for the fashion enthusiast.
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by:
Sher Matsen
It’s
that time of year when we pack up our bags and head to the beach for the
day to enjoy those warm sunrays and the refreshing sound of the lapping
water.
So what constitutes a good beach wardrobe. Well there are certain
essentials that none of us forget. On goes the swimsuit and bathing
suit cover, flip flops on our feet. Beach bag has been packed with the
essentials – sunglasses, floppy hat, towel and a good book. Great – got
the basics covered but what about the rest.
So if we are so prepared for a day at the beach, why is it by the
time we get home we look pretty worn. Here are some helpful tips to
make your day at the beach fun and keep you looking fashion fresh all
day and all the way home.
First before you leave home, if you’ve got long hair pull it into a
high pony tail or fun knot. Use some funky hair accessories that will
stay in place when you’re swimming. Try a fun colored bobble or some
firm fastening clips in bright summer colors. If you pull your hair up
your neck will stay cool and you’ll look fresh all day with your neat
hairdo.
Second slather yourself in sunscreen before leaving the house, then
toss the sunscreen in your bag so you can reapply after a swim or every
few hours. A sunburn is not only unhealthy and painful, it’s
unattractive, so don’t let yourself turn into the lobster of the day.
Your sunscreen should be a SPF of 15. It doesn’t hurt to use a strong
SPF on your face or your entire body if you burn easily.
Your beach bag should be large enough to hold your supplies for the
day. Why not get something fun and fashionable to keep you looking
fashion fresh. Make sure you’ve got all the daily essentials in your
bag – sunglasses, sunscreen, a good book, a floppy hat, some lip gloss,
and any other makeup touch ups you’ll want. If you plan to wear eye
makeup make sure it’s waterproof. Stay away from heavy foundations. If
you must apply something use a bronzer moisturizer. It’s also a good
idea to bring lip balm with an SPF15 to protect your lips. It never
hurts to put some moisturizer in the bag. Include a snack and plenty of
fluids. It’s important not to get dehydrated.
Okay great we’ve got the basics covered now what about the wardrobe
basics? If you’re planning to wear a swimsuit it’s usually easiest to
put it on at home, that way you’re not chasing down change rooms. So
great – first on goes the swimsuit. Now what to wear for a cover? Well
you’ve got plenty of choices. A tank top and shorts, tank and skort,
or a nice light cotton dress all work well over top. Choose something
that’s easy to put on and take off, and choose fabrics that breathe to
keep you cool. I also suggest including a long sleeved cotton blouse
just incase you start to burn you can protect your shoulders and arms.
If you’re planning on heading out later in the day without returning
home you might want to toss a pair of jeans or long skirt into your
bag. If your outing is going to extend into the evening you’ll want to
include a sweater for the cooler evening air. If you’re worried about
your evening wear getting sandy or wet at the beach, then place them in a
separate bag and leave them in the trunk of your car. That way you are
guaranteed they’ll remain fresh.
My favorite beach look is this. And what’s perfect is it keeps me
looking fashion fresh throughout the day and takes me right into the
evening. First I like a swimsuit that’s got lots of support and is
bright and cheerful. I throw a fitted tank on top and throw on a loose
flouncy long skirt. The long skirt serves me through the evening and
also works great to cover up if I’m starting to burn. I choose a
lightweight material in a darker color with a pattern that accents the
colors in my swimsuit. Flip flops are my footwear. Depending on where
I’m heading after the beach I choose either a basic pair or one of my
funky pair with rhinestones or crystals. Easy to walk in, feet breath,
and terrific for an evening out. I keep a fitted light weight sweater
in my car, and take a long sleeved cotton blouse down to the beach. I
usually choose a long sleeved and long length blouse because it’s
versatile. I can knot it to create a short blouse, wear it long as a
beach cover, and put it on if I start to burn on my upper body. I
usually choose white or a soft pastel depending on my other colors. I
like white because it’s cool to wear and refreshing to look at. Every
year I purchase a fun new beach tote that’s big enough for the beach but
not too big as to take it with me for an evening out. I like a fun bag
that’s full of character.
Since I always feel naked without my jewelry I wear fashion jewelry
to the beach. That way should I loose something I won’t be out a lot of
money and I won’t feel so bad. I like to keep the earrings simple and
elegant. I may or may not wear a necklace. Often I’ll toss a funky
wood necklace in the bag to add to the evening outfit. I like to wear a
couple of fashion rings just to add the finishing touches. Now if
you’re fussy about tan lines you’ll probably want to forgo the rings. I
toss my watch in the bottom of my bag so I can put it on later.
That’s it – simple is the key. Keep your beach wardrobe choices
simple but fashionable. Think ahead so you can go from beach to an
evening out without hassle. Remember to always make your fashion
statement!
About the author:
© Copyright Sher Matsen, All Rights Reserved.
About the author:
Sher
has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing affordable
estate jewelry, and a wealth of information on jewelry, fashion,
designers, and beauty with on staff industry professionals. Please visit
us at Estate Jewelry International.
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by:
Donna Monday
A new
fashion year is here and so are the latest styles for women looking to
freshen up their wardrobes. Ladies, good news. Femininity is back!
From the office to casual wear, you can show off the power of your
femininity while still taking care of business. Jackets are a great way
to add flair and style to your pants and skirts. Boucle jackets are hot.
Also, pairing a colorful denim jacket with a flouncy skirt gives you a
variety options for a more dressed up casual look.
You should have at least one boucle jacket in your closet. Boucle is
very chic and can dress up a pair of black pants or a black skirt very
easily. Boucle jackets come in a variety of colors. Some have removable
flower pins, some have ruffles, etc. In celebrity circles it’s popular
to pair a boucle jacket with jeans and high heels or boots. Very chic.
Skirts are longer, falling either just above the knee or just below
the knee. You’ll find skirts with asymmetric cuts, ruffles at the
bottom, or with a free flowing feel. Why not add a flowery or ethnic
print skirt to your collection. Pair it with a jean jacket in blue, pink
or white for extra pizzazz.
Colorful ponchos and shrug wraps (wraps that are fitted and tie in
the middle) are great accent pieces to wear over plain black or white
tops. Speaking of tops, try a shirt or blouse in a bold funky print to
spice things up a bit. Plus size women are no longer bound by arcane
rules that say they can’t wear prints. Dress for your personality.
Shopping for new clothes is a fun experience and the options for
plus size women are better than ever. You’ll find all the new trends and
plus size fashion styles to create your own feminine chic look at great
online shops like: Lane Bryant, Catherines, Avenue, Just My Size,
Making It Big, Ulla Popken, Size Appeal, Kiyonna and more.
About the author:
Copyright 2005
Donna Monday
Find the hottest looks in plus size fashion – discounts, bargains and more!
http://www.plus-size-appeal.com
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by:
Donna Monday
In our
hungry-for-anything new pop culture world, celebrities are often the
ones that can start a hot fashion trend seemingly overnight. With their
heavy media exposure, they are often photographed wearing the latest
styles in fashion and jewelry.
Platinum engagement and wedding rings are the latest celebrity trend
that has taken the jewelry industry by storm. Several high-profile
newlyweds have taken a shine to the cool elegance of platinum.
“Platinum is like our relationship in that it is strong, precious
and timeless,” says Nick Lachey about the custom made platinum wedding
rings he and his wife Jessica Simpson tied the knot with.
It seems that view of the lustrous metal is shared by other
celebrity couples as well such as: Russell Crowe and Danielle Spencer,
Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale, Adam Sandler and Jackie Titone, as well
as, popular actresses Reese Witherspoon and Kate Hudson.
Celebrities are especially fond of pairing fancy colored diamonds
with their platinum rings. Also, the three diamond platinum engagement
ring has quickly become all the rage among new brides.
So, if you’re looking to purchase diamond jewelry online, whether
it’s for a special occasion like a wedding, or a gift for a special
person, consider platinum jewelry as one of your best and brightest
options.
About the author:
Copyright 2004
Donna Monday
One special moment. One special ring.
http://www.1-love-rings.com
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by:
M J Plaster
If you
haven't lived under a rock for the past few decades, then you surely
know that Rolex stands for luxurious precision timekeeping, and you know
that Timex is the premier name in inexpensive, reliable timekeeping.
The vast area between the two, however, offers the widest selection of
watches-in terms of function, fashion and price.
We're all creatures of habit, and if one watch has served us well
for years, it's natural that we gravitate toward the same brand and
design each time we purchase a new watch. If you'd like to adorn your
wrist with a different type of watch, perhaps a Swiss-quartz or
high-fashion watch, we offer you a cheat sheet below, to help you get up
to speed quickly with the many offerings available today.
If you've always thought of a watch as a functional necessity, you
might add a few fashionable watches to your collection of watches and
bracelets. If you've always worn high-fashion watches, consider adding
an elegant watch to your collection, perhaps one with a golden mesh
band. Whatever your requirements for timekeeping and your sense of
fashion, you'll find a watch to suit your needs.
Impress Your Colleagues Watches
In the exclusive $5000-$2,000,000 range, you'll find a variety of
luxury watches with names that escape the average man or woman on the
street, and you won't find any of these online. Does Vacheron Constantin
or Blancpain ring a bell?
Perception is everything, and a genuine Rolex brands you a person of
discerning taste. If you live in New York City, you might be surprised
to learn that you can purchase a Rolex from a bona fide jeweler, most
likely in the 10021 zip code. Forget all the hype about Rolex watches:
people purchase them for one reason. They are the most recognized status
symbols in watches—everyone has heard of a Rolex, and a diamond and
gold Rolex remains out of most everyone's price range.
Rolex watches are the most popular, and ownership is not a
requirement for popularity. It might surprise you to learn that Rolex
watches are not THE most accurate. It is unlikely that they take a year
to make, and their resale value is of little importance to their
purchaseers. Ah, Madison Avenue strikes again. Still, a Rolex watch is a
fine watch and an investment in time. Give me status; give me a Rolex.
Other fine high-end watches include Cartier and Omega.
Affordable Treats
If you're a mere mortal with a penchant for arriving at your
destination in style at the prescribed time (perhaps your job depends
upon it), your idea of a good watch probably resides in the $100-500
range, and maybe even toward the lower end of that scale. You know the
names Seiko, Swiss Army, Pulsar, and Citizen—just to name a few. The
brands available in this price range offer a wide selection of choices
ranging from simple and elegant leather bands, to mesh and link bands.
You'll find analog and digital displays, timers, calendar displays,
water-resistance, etc. in this price range. In fact, this price range
offers the widest variety in terms of elegance, precision time keeping,
and fashion choices. You can select from a number of watches using
Swiss-quartz movements in this price range.
For the Fun of it
You'll find everything from designer-of-the-moment watches to
household names such as Swatch and Fossil in the below-$100 range. The
Fossil collections feature casual and dress watches in a dizzying array
of choices, and provide dependable service as well. Fossil offers a lot
of bang for the buck—fashion, dependability, variety.
Starting at $40, Swatch offers the most in up-to-the-minute
throwaway watch fashion. The company began late in the 20th century as a
consortium of Swiss watchmakers and worldwide graphical designers with
one goal: to resurrect the analog watch. Swatch has come a long way
since those days, and one of their newer creations, the Skin Diamond
watch, can set you back a cool $2000. Of course, you won't run into
yourself coming and going if you sport this new status symbol. The rest
of us can settle with wearing our moods on our wrists.
And, last but certainly not least—depending on your current age—this
category satisfies the Abercrombie-and-Fitch, Top 40 crowd with an
assortment of watches from the king of the teen designers, Tommy
Hilfiger himself.
Whatever your pleasure in marking time, find it, get it, own it,
wear it. Mere mortals like us can browse and purchase the watches of our
choice right here—online.
About the author:
M J Plaster is a successful author who provides information on shopping online for watches, men's watches, and women's watches.
M J Plaster has been a commercial freelance writer for almost two
decades, most recently specializing in home and garden, the low-carb
lifestyle, investing, and anything that defines la dolce vita.
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by:
Georgia Donovan
It's a sad but true fact that so many women over forty feel invisible. Changing this has become my passion.
One of the things that inspired me to do what I now do, after having
had an executive position with a telecom giant, was an experience I had
one day following one of my seminars.
An attractive, well dressed woman came up to me and told me that the
thing she hated most about becoming older was that she felt invisible.
She explained how, everywhere you look, you see woman in their twenties
and thirties being presented as role models for beauty and style. Rarely
do you see mature women in TV and print ads and some of the fashion
magazines feature teenagers as models. There's only one magazine devoted
entirely to the mature woman - More Magazine.
Just because we're getting older doesn't mean we have to become an
invisible part of society. It doesn't mean we we have to let ourselves
go, gain weight and start looking frumpy. My late aunt Josie, while in
her eighties, looked like she just stepped off the cover of Vogue
whenever she went out.
A woman can still look great as she ages if . . . she learns how to do it.
Many of the makeup techniques that work on a twenty or thirty year
old, are a disaster on the face of a forty five year old woman.
Unfortunately, many older women have not yet learned this. As we age,
one of the makeup secrets we need to know is that "Less is better."
Mistakes in wardrobe are even more apparent. Recently, I was asked
by a national magazine to comment on some celebrity women. Here's what I
had to say about an outfit that Kim Catrall, who I happen to adore, was
wearing:
"Belly bearing cutoffs and lace up top are not for the over forty
woman. Longer, boy cut shorts and a fuller cut tank with a built-in bra
would give her the same bare look."
Below are some fashion anchors every woman over forty should have in her wardrobe:
- A “Little Black Dress” - Black/Navy Pencil or A-Line Skirt -
Black/Navy Slacks/Trousers - Black Cashmere Sweater - White Shirt -
Comfortable yet Chic Black 2” heels - Classic Trench Coat
Fashion tips: Pants with clean lines, no pockets, no pleats look best on almost every woman because they are slimming.
Black or navy will make you look thinner, but add some color with
accessories to give your look some flair. Elastic waist pants or skirts
are to be avoided at all costs because they flatter no one.
Develop a signature. Wear a favorite ring or special bracelet all
the time. Something people will always identify and remember about you.
The scarf should be a wardrobe staple. Learn how to use it and wear
it many ways, such as, looped through your pants as a belt, or tied on
the handle of your handbag.
If you want to learn all my insider techniques for looking fabulous
after forty, fifty, sixty and beyond, visit:
http://www.LookingFabulousAfter40.com
Until next time, keep looking your best and claim your power.
About the author:
Georgia Donovan, The Clothes Doctor, is a fashion stylist and image
consultant, whose mission is to help women reach their fashion potential
and raise their fashion consciousness. To subscribe to her free
newsletter for mature women, visit http://www.lookingfabulousafter40.comor http://www.theclothesdoctor.com
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by:
Mike Yeager
To make
the outfit a success, find the right handbag! A handbag, or purse, can
be the item to make an okay outfit into a fashion statement. While some
women prefer to have just one or a couple handbags in their collection,
others have as many as they have outfits. Some women prefer the top of
the line designer bag while others make do with the department store
knock off. Regardless of these things, handbags are essential to the
success of busy women.
First, to find the right handbag. Knowing what look is desired is
important. It is also important to know the use of the handbag as well.
Just about every style, size, and color imaginable are out there. Often
matching the handbag to the shoes or even to a hair piece is key. So, to
start, chose the style and color that will match the outfit. Know the
texture and feel of the clothes as well as this will show in the
details.
Now, we know what handbag we are looking for. So, were to look?
Check out the local department stores. Quite possible the look we want
will be there. Other options are to look in fashion boutiques and malls.
Yet another place to look are catalogs, and even online. Most major
designers have their handbags online for purchase to those who cannot
get to the actual store. Even more possibilities are available to those
who still can't find what they are looking for.
Handbags are essential to the busy women as well. Not only is it a
fashion statement to have the right bag, it’s also a necessity. Many
women are hustling from one place to the next, from home to work to
picking up the kids to doctor's appointments and soccer games. All the
necessary items, cell phone, wallet, extra snacks even gotta make it in
the handbag or may get forgotten along the way. So, when choosing the
right bag, ensure the handbag is the proper size for what it will be
used for.
Overall, a handbag is necessary, but also fashionable. Whether it is
making the outfit complete, adding to it as an accessory or just
holding all the essentials of our busy lives, handbags are important. It
is pretty easy to find just any bag, but to find the right bag may take
some extra looking. But, the varieties are numerous and the choices are
outstanding. Finding the right handbag will keep you fashionable and
organized!
About the author:
Mike Yeager
Publisher
http://www.my-handbag-4me.com/
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