Start Your Fashion Business - How to Start Your Own Clothing Line? Part I

Starting a clothing line is a real challenge. Let's face it: Starting a fashion line is hard and interesting but takes preparation (and money). You will need to thoroughly research your market and find the right niche for your clothing line. The demographics and the pricing play an important part in the final decision. Choosing a concept that you believe in makes it exciting to get started and easier to keep going.

A good way to get fresh ideas for your designs is to go shopping. Spend time in the malls checking on what people wear and what people buy. Do not rely too much on this method though as it is common for people to wear clothes now that were fashionable a few months ago. Be careful about your timing, by the time you finally launch your label, the fashion style you were involved in may already be out of date.

Branding your clothing line Branding your clothing line starts by making a clear decision on your clothing line's concept and target. A thirty seconds statement about your brand will help your brand and logo match together. Don't be afraid to be visionary and think (at least one year) ahead of your time.

A tag line, or short statement about your fashion line is also a great tool to sell your products and should be used as part of your sales pitch. Choose a name for your brand that is catchy and gives an angle to your designs. Then, conduct trademark research to ensure that it isn't already registered.

Good luck! You will be surprised to discover that the name you imagined is probably already registered by a dozen of companies. Some of them may nothing to do with the fashion business.

While it is pretty reassuring to see that the name you have chosen is popular, this also means that you will have to research further to find a unique label name.

When you are done, register your clothing brand's name with the United States Patent office. It isn't very expensive so feel free to register more than one name.

The success of your clothing line will depend on the exposure you can give to it. Nowadays, you need to be very present on the net so go and choose a domain name which keywords include part of your tag line.

Finally, register your company name with your city's chamber of commerce and take advice from an accountant to find out what tax returns you have to file and when.

Read more about how to start your clothing line in the second part of this article: Start your fashion business: How to start your own clothing line? Part II

Spring fashions

Spring fashions

Choose The Right Dress And Look Stunning On Prom Night

Most young ladies experience the joy of their first formal occasion on prom night. They all aspire to look enchanting for their handsome partners. The search for the best possible ensemble will probably start in magazines or online. The most dazzling outfit is crucial to make it a night to remember. Some will explore the rails in their favorite boutiques and others who have a creative flair may prefer to design their own unique attire.

Many factors will need your consideration before you make a final decision as to what to wear. Whether you explore the mall for the ready made dress or prefer to make your own, you need to know the fabric and colors that suit you best. You may want your partner to wear the same color as your dress in his tie or waistcoat or jacket. This will give you that little edge as the perfect couple.

Color choice can make or break the overall effect of your outfit. Do not hesitate to seek advice from more than one fashion expert. Your eyes, hair and skin tone take on that extra sparkle and glow when you wear a color that is in tune with your personal makeup.

Your choice of fabric must be in sync with your body shape. Not all shapes can wear the stiff fabrics and at the same time the soft flowing fabrics can look enchanting on the right figure. Fuller figures look best in loose flowing garments in darker shades. The slim shapes can carry the tighter fitting garments successfully. Don't allow the latest trends to dictate to you if they do not suit your build. Go with the advice of the design experts at the store who will be honest with you and not try to sell you something for the sake of their commission.

Your ensemble needs to suit your color, shape and personality. Accessories can add a finishing touch to allow your personality to shine through. Start your search for the best finishing touches online and browse through some fashion magazines as well.

Decide whether you are the delicate sandal girl or the stiletto extrovert. The shoes and bag can match in color or style or fabric. Your small decorative bag only needs to hold your phone and lipstick.

Hair, jewellery and makeup also need your attention to complete the picture. Go for the hairstyle that suits your face best. Your stylist can give you excellent advice in this area. Makeup should be applied to enhance your best features. Never overdo the makeup as you will be horrified when you see the photographs later on. Apply lipstick and eye shadow that enhance your existing color

Your jewellery should enhance the color and style of your dress. Delicate necklaces and bracelets look as good as the bolder chunky costume pieces. Try the different items with your dress and decide what you think make the best statement and looks right. You will know what is right when you see it. The more comfortable you feel and look the better you and your favourite friend will enjoy your prom night. Go for it and dazzle your classmates.

Style Resolutions for Summer 2012

Instead of traditional resolutions that we will never manage to keep (giving up chocolate, exercising more, spending less etc), I've come up with some style resolutions that we may actually enjoy sticking to this year. So here's mine - I hope it inspires you to make some style resolutions of your own!

1# Try a new colour. My wardrobe is quite colourful but contains absolutely no orange, as I seem to have convinced myself it won't suit me without actually giving it a go. Everyone from Kim Kardashian to Cheryl Cole was spotted in the striking shade last year, but I'm glad to see it's sticking around, giving me another chance to pull it off!

2# Find a handbag that is stylish yet practical We might all love a clutch bag but they aren't exactly made for carrying all those essential items (make up, brush, perfume, phone, magazine, mirror....), so maybe it's time to move on to bigger and better things. A shoulder bag is both gorgeous and roomy, ensuring I won't need to try and travel light.

3# Try a new denim style Like a lot of women, I tend to have a favourite pair of jeans that I always rely on. The pair you can dress up or down for any occasion, which becomes the fail safe choice when other outfits don't go to plan. This year it's time to add a new staple piece of denim and I've chosen some military style high-waisted jeans. They promise to flatten stomachs and lengthen legs, so I'm hoping they'll become my new best denim friends!

4# Dare to be different Ever see an item of clothing that you think is gorgeous but instantly assume you could never wear? I'm very guilty of this, but it's time to step out of my comfort zone and into some uncharted style territory. A colour block shift dress is unlike anything I've ever worn before, it flatters my figure and ensures I'll stand out for all the right reasons.

5# Embrace your shape As a size 14-16, it can be hard to know what new styles will suit my shape and I sometimes feel intimidated by new trends. A good example is the jumpsuit - when it became a trend last year I quickly wrote it off and didn't even try one on until recently. Turns out, they suit my shape perfectly and I definitely plan to expand my jumpsuit collection in 2012.

6# Dress like a star I'm always reading about celebrities and wishing I could dress like them. My current favourite has to be Kate Winslet, who never fails to impress with her choice of outfit. By emulating her style, we can all look like stars in 2012.

7# Trade in the LBD Instead of relying on my favourite little black dress that sees me through all occasions and seasons, this year I want to trade it in for something brighter. I'm going to find a more colourful replacement, that I could wear it to a variety of events, from a party to a job interview, and would feel comfortable knowing that I wouldn't blend in to the sea of black dresses that inevitably make an appearance on most occasions.

8# Accessorise I'm in the habit of only adding jewellery to an outfit if it is a special occasion. This year, I want to add a bit of sparkle to every look, whether I'm heading into work or going for a night out on the town and with prices this low in the current climate, I can afford to wear a new piece every day!

9# Invest in some versatile outerwear I always seem to end up faced with the problem of which jacket to wear when heading out somewhere nice. A winter coat is too bulky but a cardigan won't do much to keep me warm on a cool Scottish night. To solve the problem, I will be definitely be investing in a blazer this year, the perfect piece to keep you looking stylish and sniffle-free.

Fashion and Top Modelling Agencies

Most of the top modeling agencies looking for several aspects in particular, when they cast models for different projects which we can found out while searching for beauty and modelling tips. It is an acceptable fact that the modelling agency and their standards are tremendously growing. In the modern world there is more competition among teenagers in fulfilling their dreams to become true. Online websites had made use of this situation and it allows their aspiring models to promote themselves by creating and posting online interactive portfolios. Getting skinner are considered to be an advantageous one, now in the modelling world, as people have been raising several concerns regarding the industrial standards and industry in general.

Modelling and fashion trend change constantly and on a consistent basis. Models and their looks also are undergoing change as well as the trend does. What is fashion this year will be the history for next year. The modelling industry is now in search for new faces and models that are completely unique or different from their predecessors. Modern and fresh looking styles which create a revolutionary aspect will win the hearts of the people in the industry. Models having fierce sense of fashion are now replacing the conventional looking models that we commonly see in the ramps of runway modelling.

With in 2012 it is sure that modelling industry and standard will undergo a remarkable change in some peculiar patterns. Plenty of advice and instructions are available regarding fashion styles for the women but what about the aspects concerning men. Even though we moved away from skinny body confines we have not bid good bye to slim cut suit in general. The ideal style suit for men would be a fusion of classic tailoring stitches and modern masculine silhouettes. English suit is well accepted now a day which had also been considered to be the most classic of all types and it is commonly known for the stylish military cut.

This year the most fashionable suits are following three basic guidelines which comprises of broad shoulders, waist should be slim and the trousers also to be slim. One can also try out the return of the much expected double breasted suit and the guidelines given above will apply equally for this also. These new stitches and modern cuts are designed to grab the attention of a well maintained body so it is time for one to go to gym to maintain their body in a healthy condition.

Your hair style should match your wardrobe whether you are in smart outfit or casual wear. Even looks of men seem to be one which induces the two main styles called fringe style and slick back style. These physical preparations along with your attitude towards the job will ensure success in your career. As a male model you must be secure in your look and modelling ability and self confidence is always essential which will makes a great difference on your career. For any model male or female it is a must for anyone to be getting educated about the industry as a whole.

Men's Fashion: Create a Good Look With Boots

In today's fashion conscious and appearance-oriented world, we are all concerned with looking our best at all times. Today, many people equate their sense of style with their personality. This means that when we look bad, generally we feel bad. Feeling bad is something most of us do not want, and so there seems to be only one solution: look your best at all times.

Looking your best does not mean spending hours and hours preening, and thus wasting valuable time, rather it means wearing decent clothes, staying clean, and not being too flamboyant. The majority of people understand this concept quite well, but there is normally one area with which many of us fail, and that is the shoe department. If you are not what we would call in today's vernacular a 'fashionista, then you are probably unaware of this universal fashion-truth: the shoes make the outfit. Without the right pair of shoes, even the classiest of outfits can look terrible.

If you do not have much money to buy your wardrobe, then buy cheaper clothes, but never scrimp on shoes. Designer shoes are a must, Cat boots, Nike, D & G, Prada, Timberland, whatever your favourite brand, make sure you purchase a respectable pair. Sure, this may break the bank a little, but for the price you not only buy great shoes, you buy yourself a little confidence and self-esteem - qualities upon which we cannot put a price.

Men and women should both be equally concerned with their appearance. However, with men, there tends to be less information, and men tend not to understand all the fashion rules. There are a few staple items, by way of footwear, that all men should have, and one style of shoe that every man should own are boots. If you are a man looking for a pair of boots and you have little understanding of fashion, and have little interest in finding out, then follow the tried and tested method and opt for a brand that you know is popular, such as Cat boots or Timberland boots. If you cannot decide on the exact style of boots, then ask a shop assistant for advice, if you are shopping online, email the company and ask for advice - most will be more than happy to help. Failing this, simply look at the pictures of the models the websites use to display their range, if you notice a look that you like, try to mimic the outfit.

Boots are a fantastic fashion item for men as they suit many different types of outfit. They look great with any pair of jeans, and many styles of trousers, and, they lend the wearer a touch of 'cool' - something that many people admire. The great thing about Cat boots, and various other brands, is that they last, so although the initial investment may be rather steep, the boots will last a long time.

Style Advice - How to Make the Most of Your Figure

We all want the perfect figure, the hour glass figure, but that's not possible for most of us. We all have problem areas that we wish we could get rid of like having more fat in one area and wishing we could move it to another area, but that is not likely to happen unless we go under a surgeon's knife. But there are some things we can do to help ourselves, such as the way we dress. We can dress to emphasise our good points and hide our bad points. Two women of the same size and build can look very different according to how they dress. Read on to see how you can make the most of your figure.

Wearing darker colours make you look more slimmer while light colours have the opposite effect. So if you are bigger on the hips wear dark colours around there and lighter colours on the top.

If you are slightly on the bigger side or are short in height try to avoid wearing stripes or details on a garment going across your body. This will only make you look bigger. Instead try wearing stripes or detailed garments going down, this will have the effect of making you look slimmer and taller.

Try wearing bright colours or patterns to take the eye away from your problem areas, so such as if you are bigger on the bottom half, wear colour or pattern on the top.

Accessorise your outfits. This will take the attention away from your problem areas, such as a scarf around your neck or interesting jewellery.

Never wear clothes that are too small for you thinking it will make you look smaller because it won't , it will only make you look bigger. If you are a size in between then buy the larger size and have it adjusted.

If you don't own a pair of heeled shoes then buy one. They are a girl's best friend. Not only will they add a few inches to your height but will also have a slimming effect on you and making your overall appearance better. They will be one good investment you make.

Natural Hair Styling

Natural hair styling refers to caring and styling hair without using mad-made chemicals. The oils in our hair are beneficial, but most common hair products carry out the laborious process of stripping the hair of natural oils and then re-hydrating the hair. Natural hair styling seeks to eliminate these needless steps.

It can be hard for someone following this hair care method to get good care and style advice because most hair stylists do not know what to do without their perms and chemicals. The stylist already has a hard job because you give them the task of fixing your hair, when you are really the expert. The stylist is not with your hair 24/7. Everyone's hair is different, and they see 15 different heads a day. Now you have told them that they cannot use their usual arsenal of products on you. You see how this puts the average salon or Denver nail salon in a bind.

The real expert on your scalp is you. When you go to the stylist, tell them about your hair and what you want done with it. Take the responsibility to research and determine what hair care techniques work on your hair and then let the stylist do the work. Although the internet is a great place to find the best Denver nail salon, the real way to find a natural stylist is to ask around. Ask your friends or even people on the street with great looking hair where they get it done.

Once you find someone new to cut your hair, generally what determines if you will come back, after the quality of the cut is the rapport and trust you have in the stylist. You want to trust that the stylist will do as you ask. A stylist should have your hair and your fashion sense as their first interest. A trusted beauty technician will give advice, accept criticism, and make the whole experience fun.

You will want a full hair routine to care for your hair on the days that you do not go to the stylist. Natural hair does not mean you just don't do anything to your hair except when you cut it. That is certainly an option, but your hair will eventually tangle and become unmanageable. Every regimen should consist of cleaning, conditioning, moisture and then repairs of damage. Straight hair sheds oil while curly hair retains it. If your hair is correctly washed it should have a squeaky clean feeling. Remember that means that there is no oil remaining on your hair so you will have to protect it after washing.

Getting Advice and Making a Decision

If you are a social bee and have an extended list of contacts, then it is quite obvious for you to want to be well-equipped with the appropriate tools to be in constant touch with them on a 24*7 basis. So, what do you do in such a situation?

There are many state-of-the-art techniques available today to simplify the process of interacting with your near and dear ones to:

i. Get timely advice from either the subject matter experts or just a close friend regarding an urgent issue.

ii. Reciprocate in the same manner when a friend or acquaintance needs your help to solve a problem.

iii. Participate or initiate a voting for collecting opinions from various groups of people about a topic-here, you provide the question and ask them to vote for the best choice according to them.

iv. Gain an in-depth idea about the way others think about a particular question in consideration.

v. Share your views and engage in meaningful interactions with your peers and colleagues in a seamless manner.

vi. Make your opinions known to your social circle through posts on the social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter.

Well, the topic taken up for discussion can be anything, ranging from simple cooking tips to complex scientific or mathematical problems. Such a platform is receiving high patronage from users of all age groups and professions as they find easy, simple and quick solutions to problems that are causing them a big headache.

At the same time, you are able to gauge effortlessly where your opinions stand among your friends and what they are upto. You can confidently widen your horizon of knowledge and improve our skills through constant and useful interactions and feedback from your friends that are your well-wishers always.

Most of the times, the subject under discussion belongs to a domain like

• Travel

• Beauty

• Fashion and style, including the latest accessories

• Electronics like mobiles

• Sports and entertainment

• Politics

• Love comprising dating tips

• Online shopping

As you can see from all these, you can gain many benefits by interacting with your contacts often. Primarily, you can:

• Save money and make sure you buy the best-quality item only.

• Easily get information about the reputed stores to get specific items from.

• Compare the prices, quality, variety and features of the same range of products using feedback and reviews you get from your peers.

Overall, you are in a better position to get advice and make an informed decision instead of just being led blindly by the outward appearance of items.

The Three-Step Style Changing (or Finding) Process

Do you think you don't have style? When you look at yourself in the mirror you look miles away from your style icon? Just try to follow the "Three Steps" process and you'll get a brand new style consciousness.

Some people have got style. It's natural, it's in their blood, they just have to pick whatever is on top of the clothes pile on the chair and they look just fabulous.

Some other people look in the mirror and are never satisfied with their look, it seems there is always something wrong. The harder they try, the more they look a million miles away from any of the style icons who pop out of fashion magazines.

You keep buying a lots of fashion and lifestyle magazines, you keep buying the clothes that claim to take closer to your favorite look, but it seems like you can never get it right. This is the moment when a radical change is needed, not only in the closet, but also in your attitude. You like that floral skirt and also the Prada striped dress on page 71, the azure cardigan you bought at Harrods a hundred years ago and the shiny red platforms you found on a stall in that hidden street market in Milan.

Great pieces, but when you wear them, they lose all their allure.

It's the moment to start your three steps style changing (or finding) process:

1. Choose the style
2. Select - the "take or toss" game
3. Shop

Choose the style

If you want to look like a style icon, you must first get clued up on different styles and then choose which one you like the most, suits you better and is most appropriate for your lifestyle.

Browse the internet and fashion magazines and get an idea of what the main styles feature: a rock style will involve a lot of black, leather and metallic accessories; urban is all about large pants, cool hats and statement jumpers... Discover the casual chic style, the street style, the funky, the punk and the dodgy styles, vintage and prep, romantic and glam, country and eco-chic and so on.

Try to choose at least two different styles, but not more than three: you'll have the freedom to choose which style is suited better to a particular day but you won't risk mixing the styles and getting odd results.

Just to give you an example, I chose 'casual chic' as my main style, and 'urban' for free time and when I want to feel funky. I'm still thinking about my third pick, I could say 'street style', but just because it can be defined as "any interesting outfit you spot on people on the streets" and it's all about mixing whatever you feel like, with one eye on what's happening on the catwalks. But that's another story.

Select - the take or toss game

This is where the fun starts. As Carrie Bradshaw did with her girl friends in the first Sex and the City movie, put on some good old energizing tune (in the movie it was 'Walk this Way' by Run DMC + Aerosmith, which I would strongly recommend) and dive in the closet.

Pick all your items one by one and ask them the following questions:

Do you fit into at least one of the styles I chose? Have I worn you more than once in the last one year? Do I really love you so much that I can't trash you?

If you get a yes to the first question, you probably don't need to ask the other two and you should put the item on the 'take' pile.

If the answer is no to the first question and yes to at least one of the others, then you may want to make a 'for further evaluation' pile and repeat the exercise once the closet is empty.

Obviously, if you get three 'no's just toss the item!

A step forward could be to put the 'take' pile back in the closet and sort the items by style. This will speed up your daily dressing up process significantly with no style mistake and you could even skip the 'look in the mirror' step.

Shop

Now that you have a new awareness, you can start shopping. You'll find yourself unconsciously asking the first of the above questions to any of the clothes you'll have in your hands. And you'll be surprised about how much money you'll save by avoiding inaccurate buys, i.e. those items you wear every morning and immediately take off because they don't match any of your other clothes.

Now that you're happy with your style, don't let it go out of fashion, don't stop browsing through magazines and websites and keep it up to date; you'll discover your now expert look and you will enjoy the browsing even more than before. Because, finally, you'll know what to do with those images!

Last advice comes from the divine Anna Dello Russo (Editor in chief for Vogue Japan): "go bold, always. Don't wear your best pieces only on gala occasions".

It's not worth it to spend a thousand euros for a red Valentino dress if you leave it in the closet waiting for the right occasion.

Black - Fashion Constant But Do It Correctly

Fashion is changing. But one thing is should be constant - black. Nothing is boring about the newest fashion in New York and Paris. This is a great tip, which professionals know that make models look brilliant. Black is the basis for two important looks, according to Sally Singer, Vogue's fashion news director. "The interesting thing about black this season is that it's either used as a pop art basic against white, a '60s look that shows the graphic nature of black and white. (Christian) Dior did it well. ... Or, you see a mixing of textures and tones of black. Black velvet, black gauze, black silk or viscose. ... There's varying amounts of light that goes through it to make the black sometimes look gray, blueish or brownish," she says.

Another reason black is great for fashion, is its mess with fantastic jewelry. Style.com's executive fashion director Candy Pratts Price "You could wear a black beaded necklace on a black cashmere sweater, which will look very '40s, or you could also do it with silver -- the '60s -- or with pearls -- the '50s."

Black with a white skirt is a great fashion item. You can always spice it up with a beautiful thick, medieval looking belt.

It's a good time to invest in special black pieces, Vogue's Singer advises, perhaps a Pierre Cardin-inspired pea coat, which would look great against white trousers or blouse, or a pair of jeans.

One of the pieces Singer already bought for herself is a Loris Azzaro black blazer that's lined in gold lame. "That was the kind of special piece I was looking for," she says, especially since it hits on three trends: black, Russian-inspired details and a shrunken jacket silhouette. (She notes that less expensive versions of these "special" pieces are available at retailers such as J.Crew.)

The classic ballroom black dress is always an option. However, try spicing them up with the occasional yellow scarf, or shawl. You'll catch the attention of people with accessories that like. Colors that go well with black are almost endless, just go with the current colors of the season. You'll love the boundless options that you'll be able to mix-and-match when it comes to black.

Men, always own a black pin striped English tailored suit. These are in right now. They are beautiful and gorgeous. I'm not sure of any woman who doesn't love these. ATTENTION: Business professionals. Get this suit, and accessorize with a beautiful modern watch.

Have a look at some of the great options black has this season. Sleek stylish and sophisticated are black's names. Enjoy it this fashion season, especially when winter blows in.

© Brandon Wilson 2005

Glamour Style - How To Change Life By Changing Your Image - Online Help Of Live Top Stylists

First, take a serious assessment of your personal style. Are you traditional? Are you modern with some punk attitude? Fashion forward perhaps, daring even? You have to find this out. This heads you in the right direction.

Second, why are you trying to develop your own personal fashion style? What is the reasoning behind it? Are you trying to be more noticeable, just for fun, or for the opposite sex?

Third, find your niche market on your body. Britney Spears uses her belly button, and has it stand out. Perhaps your neck, ears, eyes, chest, etc. Pick your favorite part and do something with it.

Fourth, because you know your personality, find a celebrity that has a similar taste as you. Get People Magazine or In Style Magazine, flip through and find a celebrity that you would like to copy. Dress like them, and add your own flavor, and let your look evolve.

Fifth, what would you change first? Your hair? Go to a salon. Your clothes? Go to the fashion district of your city. Jewelry? Find some nice boutique thrift stores with some antique or modern jewelry depending on your look. If your going for a huge change, pick out something with a new outfit and slowly incorporate it as jewelry, shirt, or scarf if you don't want a sudden change.

Sixth, rely on accessories first. Handbags, sunglasses, and bracelets are a great way to gradually infiltrate and destroy your old drab look with your new fashion personality.

Good luck in creating your personal fashion style. Make sure you incorporate your new fashion to hide some flaws in your body. Believe me everyone has them, just hide them well, or even better, accentuate your assets! Have fun doing it, but make sure you experiment and ask for people's opinions in most of what you do. But overall, enjoy yourself by expressing your new personal fashion style.

What Is a Capsule Wardrobe? How to Get Those Essential Mix and Match Items in Your Closet

Creating a capsule wardrobe allows you to achieve "wardrobe sanity". Your capsule wardrobe includes basic pieces that can be mixed and matched to achieve lots of different outfits. These key pieces should be the best quality that you can afford - Follow the rules for your bodyline and proportion for these garments and buy them in fairly classic styles so they last for many seasons. Depending on how much money, and space, you have for your clothes, it is most economical to buy these pieces in your neutral colours, and then just add the colourful accessories season by season to keep up to date. Based on your body line and scale you might need to make some adjustments to my recommendations but here is an idea to get you thinking.....

Essential items for your wardrobe

Black Trousers - I choose a soft crepe that is smart enough for business, but can easily be dressed up for evening. If you have trouble finding a pair that fits perfectly pay to get them altered. A lined pair will keep its shape better. Consider your budget too - can you afford to keep dry cleaning them? Also if you find the perfect pair consider buying two pairs and having one for flats and another for high heels

Pinstripe Trouser Suit - If you rarely wear a suit consider getting one in a slightly more fashionable cut that you will like to wear as separates. It's always good to have a suit for occasions such as job interviews or visits to the bank manager but it's a waste if you don't wear it other times so hang the suit items separately and think of it as a jacket and a pair of trousers. Even if you don't work a pinstripe jacket looks great with a pair of jeans and the trousers could be great for evening wear.

Colourful Jacket - Most of the items in your capsule wardrobe will probably be in neutrals but add a splash of colour with a bright jacket. Choose something that will work with your smart trousers but also looks great with your jeans. When they first come to see me many of my clients don't own jackets. They really are brilliant figure fixers - they iron out many of your flaws, and more importantly add instant sophistication to any look. Choose canvas and cord if your lifestyle is more casual. Soft wools and crepes for your work wardrobes

Fine Quality Knitwear - A twin set or perhaps V-neck jumper. If you can afford it buy cashmere - its warm in winter and cool in summer and lets your skin breathe. Wear layered with a round-neck t-shirt or with shirts. Great with Jeans, or smart trousers

2 Shirts - Take care to follow the advice for your bodyline here, but a fitted shirt, particularly a stripy one is a great wardrobe addition. Worn open with a camisole underneath or layered under your V neck jumper or tank top. Leave the bottom peeking out of knitwear for a modern look. Plain white is great but why not add some brights from your colour palette too. These work brilliantly with jeans for your casual look, and with the black trousers or suit trousers for something smarter.

Jeans - Go for a classic style. Straight leg or slightly bootleg in quite a dark wash. A little bit of subtle bleaching at the front of the thigh will slim down your legs. A darker style will mix and match better with jackets and party tops. White, or biscuit coloured jeans can be a good addition too. If you don't need to dress smartly and jeans are a staple in your wardrobe don't fret about out - its fine to wear jeans every day if you want to - just make sure they're flattering and the rest of your outfit is flattering.

Evening Tops - You'll need a few of these. Team with your jeans, or perhaps with the smart black trousers. Sequins around the neckline or silky pattern fabric. Your bodyline rules will dictate whether these are skimpy halternecks or chiffon tunics. You'll update these seasonally to ensure you look current.

Basic T-Shirts - Choose 4 quality basics in flattering colours and styles. Ensure that these skim the body and don't cling or swamp. Lower necklines for larger busts.

Camisoles/Vest Tops - my favourite way to add a splash of colour under a basic, or to add modesty to a lower neckline. You'll need these in as many colours from your colour palette as you can find.

Skirts - The addition of a skirt will probably depend on how you feel about your legs. I choose a long A-line skirt in a fabric such as a heavy linen that works well in summer with flip-flops and with boots in winter. Current fashions will also dictate the length. A plain skirt can be transformed with fancy footwear. You may also wish to add a pencil skirt in to wear with your party tops for evening or with your coloured jacket for smart casual, but without a high heel you are instant librarian!

Dresses - For most women a wrap or empire line dress in a soft jersey fabric works well. Dressed up with sexy sandals and an open neckline this can be a great evening dress. Layered with one of your shirts underneath and flatter knee high boots it can be a great casual look. I'd also put tunics and smocks in this category. If you are not keen on your legs then shorter dresses over trousers can be a very flattering look. I love this because it allows you to wear flat shoes and still look elegant (great if you are running around all over the place with either your job or chasing small children)

Shoes - You'll need a pair of sexy sandals for evening wear. Ankle boots for under trousers and jeans - something you can walk around in all day - I choose a pointy toe kitten heel or a chunky heel cowboy boot. Medium height Knee high boots - stretch fabric if your calves are big - these work with your skirts and dresses - choose carefully and find a pair that is comfy enough for day wear but also sleek enough for evening elegance. Flipflops or sliders for summer casual dressing. Trendy trainers for running around at the weekend - not gym trainers - but perhaps something suede or colourful canvas. Plus colourful statement shoes - Remember shoes are a great accessory - choose patterned colourful statement pairs to update your more classic looks.

Handbags - Ensure you have a bag for each of your looks - formal needs a structured sturdy leather bag - casual needs something a less structured and softer. For evening you'll need a dainty little clutch. Like shoes handbags are a valuable accessory to update your outfit.

These are my suggestions for a wardrobe that works. If there are things that don't work for you then double up on the things that do - for example if you don't work and rarely go out you might have no need for the pinstripe suit - so add in more jeans or perhaps canvas trousers or cords. If you work you might only need one pair of jeans and 3 or 4 suite. Adapt this blueprint to suit your lifestyle. Once you have quality basics that flatter your figure you can change and update the look by accessorising and adding fashion pieces each season.

Top Tips:
Ensure that your underwear is supportive and appropriate for your garment too. Correct underwear can instantly streamline bumps and lumps
Get items altered for a perfect fit.

If you are on a limited budget buy your capsule items in neutral colours and extend your capsule wardrobe with coloured tops and accessories.

The Fashionable and Well Groomed Modern Man

The modern man has a lot on his plate. The pressure to be good at everything can seem daunting and overwhelming. As if having a good job and raising well adjusted children wasn't tough enough, they then add emotionally stable, good listener and sensitive. Well time to add one more iron to the fire guys, the modern man needs to also be fashionable and well groomed. Gone are the days where a guy need only look to his fellow man for fashion protocol. I will try and help identify just a handful of common mistakes we as men make in an attempt to prevent you from being the butt of jokes.

Grooming Issues

Outdated hair style- A common mistake guys make is keeping a hair style long past when it was "cool". So you have a great new cut that you think looks wonderful on you, that may be true, but that was back in 1985. Time to try something new.
Not sure where to start? Go to a salon (not one of those drive through hair cutting places that charge $12.95). Set an appointment and ask them for their advice. Let them work their magic. They are experts and will take into consideration your needs and wants when determining a style suited best for you.

Comb over/ Toupee's- The sad reality is that some of us will indeed go bald. The absolute worse thing you can do is to try and hide it. The only person you are fooling is yourself. Good news!! Bald is in. So retire the rug and go short. You may want to add some subtle facial hair in order to add depth and interest to your face. Updating your eye wear will also be a great addition to your new look. Choose frames that suit your face and coloring. Stay away from frameless rims for this will not do anything as far as style and image goes.

Facial Hair- Keep it trimmed and neat. No one wants to kiss someone only to get a mouthful of whiskers. Invest in a good quality facial hair grooming tool. This will allow you to always fresh and kept.

Ear and Nose Hair- Just because you can't see it when you look in the mirror, doesn't mean it isn't a problem. Invest in a good pair of trimmers and use them weekly.

Cologne- As with any style that comes, it also goes. Scent is no different. Yes, Drakar does smell good. However, if you are still wearing it you need to run to the nearest department store and get some help. Remember that 3 to 4 sprays are sufficient, don't bathe in it or you may run the risk of be offensive. To much of a good thing can be just as off putting as bad body odor.

Teeth and Breath- You may not have perfect teeth. However, keep the ones you have clean. Everyone can name someone they know who has incredibly bad breath. Don't be that person. Brush, floss and use gum or mints if you aren't sure.

Hands and Feet- Take the time to trim your nails and cuticles. If you wear open toed anything, this is even more important. 9 out of 10 men list feet as important on the female attraction scale. It is no different for women. Take the time to manage your own feet and nails, trust me...women notice.

Common fashion Mistakes

Socks with Sandals- Do I really need to explain this?

White tube socks with shorts and sneakers- I don't care if you pull them up or push them down. Go with ankle or athletic socks. The less they are visible the better. This simple change will make your legs and calves look better and give you the allusion of being taller. The wait staff at Hooters gets a pass on this one. Always wear socks that are appropriate and match your outfit. If you think people won't see them or notice your socks, you would be wrong.

Shoes and Belts- These two items should always match. If your shoes are shinny, your belt should be shiny. Black with black and brown with brown.

Gold Chains with Pendants- Unless your name is Vinnie, you hail from the north east and drive an I-Roc Z, this is not a good look. If you fit the above description...your awesome and disregard this advice.

Spandex Anything- Lance Armstrong can pull it off, you however shouldn't try.

Pleated Pants- News flash, pleats are out and the flat front is in. Pleats tend to make you look larger and shorter than you are. The flat front pant is a sleek and stylish way to freshen up your look and at the same time give you the allusion of being leaner and taller than you are.

Jeans with tapered legs- Jeans should fit over the top of your shoes or boots. If they don't hang but rather bunch at the top of your shoes, it is time to retire them. Acid and stone washed were cool for a minute, but now they aren't so don't even think about it.

Jean Shorts- I'm not sure how they became popular, however they shouldn't have. They don't look good on anyone.

Hawaiian Shirts- If you are on a cruise or work at Bahama Breeze they are acceptable. If you don't fit either of those categories you look like a nerd.

Ties with Funny designs- Unless it is "funny tie Friday", no one thinks it is a good look other than you.

Short Sleeve Dress Shirts with Ties- I know it is summer and you get hot. Turn up the A.C. and deal with it. This looks ridiculous.

Shoes- Keep them clean, polished and remember it is impossible to "dress up" sneaker.
Shoes are one of those items where you get what you pay for. Spend the money on your shoes.

Remember that judgments are made about you in the first 10-seconds upon meeting someone. If you are not sure what you are communicating or how you are being received...we can help! alpha m. Image Consulting was launched back in 2006 by founder Aaron Marino. Aaron realized that there was a lack of resources and options for men to receive real world help and advice regarding their image, style and grooming. Our goal is to help the modern man look and feel the best that he can...every day of his life.

How To Become A Fashion And Style Professional With Virtual Doll Games

Children that love fashion should, with no doubt, be ecstatic while they're playing improved Barbie dress up games. With such games, they can make numerous combinations with stylish accessories.

Everyone is so busy in the modern world, with university, work, or hobbies. We live in a world where appearance can tell everything about a person. Everyone should be dressed sharp to make a positive impression. In the case that you wouldn't like to take fashion advices from your grandma, you should surely need to take some actions to improve your skills related to the latest fashion trends. If that these actions is interesting, things are even more addictive. The best way to figure out some facts about fashion is to play virtual doll games. With virtual doll games you will not only figure out interesting facts about the fashionable accessories, and you and your little girls will also figure out how to create the best dresses.

If you and your girl are interested in popular people you and your little girls will definitely find it really entertaining to dress them up for some special events; you can even change their image. In the case that you and your children want to dress Britney Spears in jeans and take a look what does she look like with black hair, you can surely do this. By the way, you and your kids can choose color of the skin for your favourite dolls. This way you and your children may see if some clothes look better on certain types of skin.

By the way, you and your girl may try various makeovers to see whether they fit or not. This way, when you and your kids will select some piece of clothing for yourself, you and your girl will know for sure where to dress it. Do not worry if you and your daughters don't create the right variation for the first time; you and your kid will develop your sense of style as you and your children play fashion games more.

Online Barbie dress up games make things so easy for girls that want to figure out new things about fashion. Instead of going through all those shops and get in touch with the new tendencies, you and your little girls can better go and design a style for your virtual doll; this is definitely much easier and much more addictive.

The most interesting part in Flash dress up and makeover games is the fact that they are available free, on the Web. You and your little girls will find many excellent online fashion games, but be very careful because these games are very addictive.

With Web dress up games you and your daughter will definitely become a very good professional in fashion. If you and your daughters play dress up and makeover games for a long time, you may easily become a guru in fashion and accessories. And in the case that you and your kids don't, at least you know you and your kids were so happy.

Top 10 Fashion Tips for 2011

With the coming of the new year, also comes new trends in fashion and as we say good-bye to all that was in 2010 (a lot of hot pants, knee high socks, lace, leather and cut out clothing) we now say hello to the fashion trends and tips for 2011. Below are our top 10 tips for best fashion advice that can be given to anyone during any time of the year.

1. Choose the clothes that suit your body
No matter what trendsetting or fashion forward clothing you purchase if it will not compliment your body-then you'd better put it back on the store rack!

2. On Jewelry: Less is not always more
(For Men) You must not over accessorize, do not wear more than 3 pieces of jewelry. Silver is becoming popular these days so you might want to invest.
(For Women) Less is not always more especially during the summer, you can accessorize you summer outfits with big and bold accessories. Wooden beads and citrus colored bangles are a good sight during the summer.

3. In the winter: Accessorize!
During the cold weather add a little pop of color to the weather, you can accessorize with sweaters and scarves, ensure it matches your outfit though! Try to mix and match things, if you are wearing tight fitting jeans then a big sweater will be a good contrast and will compliment your slender legs.

4. Keep your shoes and belts looking brand new:
Shoes and belts can catch the eye of other people so make sure that you invest in a good pair of shoes and a nice belt and make sure that they are regularly kept clean and shiny - there's nothing worse than a pair of muddy boots combined with a smart dress!

5. If you look the part then you have to smell the part.
There is no use in looking great if you smell something like the cat dragged in. So if you take time and invest in what you will be wearing and what you will look like then make sure that you throw in some good perfume, cologne or after-shave.

6. Skinny jeans are still in!
Yes! Skinny jeans are still in! Especially with Katy Perry singing "Let you put your hands on me In my skin-tight jeans", so don't throw out your skinny jeans yet! Nothing is as complimentary as a good pair of high-waisted, ankle exposing, skinny jeans.

7. The Ballerina is on center stage!
With movies like 'The Black Swan' earning a buzz, ballet-inspired fashion is sure to make its own buzz in the fashion industry. From ballet flats to ensembles inspired from tutus and leotards, we will be seeing a lot of ballerinas this year.

8. Summer Fashion tips:
In the summer be sure to wear loose fitting clothes that are made of natural fabrics and are in light colors, printed kaftan might just be making a wave this year. For a little style and functionality, a wide-brimmed hat will keep those harsh UV rays away and will also keep you looking elegant.

9. Add color in the winter:
Spring colored sweater should add some color during the pale winter. Make sure you wear bright printed winter clothes-just so you won't blend in with all the snow.

10. Check online!
For the latest in fashion news and trends, always check online, this is the most updated source of fashion information. Also try to look and see what celebrities are wearing these days. For one thing, everyone and I mean everyone will be looking into what the future princess Kate Middleton will be wearing-so try and see what's she's wearing and buy it quick before the stores run out!

How to Use the Power of Contrast to Always Look and Feel Great

Dressing well is simple but not easy.

Having said that, most women fret and worry about what to wear and usually end up either going too simple or too over-dressed. The middle road is the stylish woman who looks put together whatever her budget.

One of the problems is that girls are not taught how to dress well. Fashion magazines are often no real help because they only show you how to put one or two outfits together. The result is a wardrobe full of single-combination clothes and accessories. It is easy then to fall victim to spur-of-the-moment fashion buys that you later regret.

While there are many tips and tricks to help you dress well, there is one that, if you learn and apply it, you will always feel great, look fabulous and receive lots of genuine compliments.

That key tip is CONTRAST. You can dress well all your life by following this one tip. It allows you to really enjoy dressing and fashion.

Here are three style advice tips that you, a modern Baby Boomer, can use to tap into the power of Contrast.

Contrast Past with Present

Have you ever harboured a secret desire to copy the Mad Men 50s Look or go Vintage or Retro but are scared that you will just look silly? Fear no more!

Tap into your stylish side by using the power of Contrast. Go all Retro, Vintage or any TV fashion style and you will look like you really are an actor in an old movie or television show, especially if you reinforce these clothes with classic accessories. The young can get away with it. For the rest of us take a leaf from cosmetics founder, Poppy King, and wear past fashions with obvious, modern accessories to tone down the look. Choose very modern shoes instead of basic court shoes and you show your modern attitude rather than your desire to relive the past. A modern jacket, trench coat, handbag, necklace or hairstyle will have the same positive contrasting effect.

An alternative way to mix past and present fashions is to wear modern clothes and add one Mad Men 50s, Retro or Vintage accessory. The accessory needs to be large enough to be obvious, like those mentioned in the paragraph above.

It is the unequal proportions that make both these combinations work. Never go half and half.

Contrast Cheap with Expensive

Contrast is also very effective when you have bought a cheap item and are not sure how to wear it so that you look and feel great. I am not talking about a quality brand name bought at a heavily discounted price. Quality brands will always look quality. Just never reveal the price you paid.

I am talking about a no-name brand item that suits you and you want to wear it with confidence and style.

The secret to making cheap look expensive is Contrast. Wear the item with quality accessories. That means wearing a quality pair of shoes or boots, skirt or pants and quality matching or contrasting accessories. It is amazing how good a cheap chain store item can look on you when you draw your onlooker's eyes to your accessories rather than your clothing. I know from experience, past and present, that it works.

Two Plus

Now to the one area where most women struggle when it comes to dressing and that is how to wear two colours so that you feel fabulous and shine confidently.

Any colour goes with an all-black outfit but the colours that make you shine are those that provide a definite contrast to black. Any light or shiny colour will provide the most powerful contrast because they stand out against your dark background. Light colours or mid-range colours in a shinier fabric or metal make the light-dark contrast more intense and pleasing to you and to others. Gold, silver or white accessories look great with black. The contrast is more effective when one of your accessories combines both black and any of these light or shiny colours.

When your clothing consists of two plain colours, use the power of Contrast by wearing jewellery or an accessory that combines the two colours in unequal proportions. As most of today's clothes are a flat matt texture, add a shiny metal or textured necklace, a silk, woollen, chiffon or lace scarf or textured or patent shoes. This is a very simple way to add a colour and texture contrast that makes you shine with confident self-assurance.

Last Words

In the world of fashion and dressing, Contrast is a simple and powerful word. Use these three pieces of fashion advice to remind you to think Contrast every time you get dressed to go out. Then play and see how many other ways you can apply Contrast to your dressing.

How Soccer Schools Are Combating The Challenge Of Competition And Succeeding In A Saturated Market

It seems every man and his dog has started a soccer school. From the next door neighbor to ex football players and almost everyone in between.

The soccer schools market, once a lucrative and booming sector, is becoming increasingly saturated.

It's a natural progression however, when you have such a high profile game and nowhere for the kids to play.

The solution for footy mad parents and footy mad kids is to get some structured and professional tuition from soccer schools - like yours.

Some parents see soccer schools as a quick fix that may boost their child's success into an Academy and 'live the dream', get their child 'spotted' or recommended by one of the coaches.

Unfortunately some soccer schools play to this whim and exaggerate it to increase their own perception that they are the key to the child's soccer success.

It's a dangerous and unsatisfying tactic that has left a bad taste in the mouth of many parents and coaches alike. The promises are far from realised and the backlash has lead to court cases in some extremes.

The challenges facing soccer schools and soccer camps is wider than simple good business sense.

The falling birth rates are going to catch up very soon, meaning less children and therefore less clients and soccer schools competing for the same customers.

Is there a better way?

Is there a more dignified and honest route to providing a great learning experience for your clients, without having to tout for business with improbable 'we'll make you the best' promises or 'we'll get your child into so and so's academy'?

Yes there is and it's been working like gangbusters for the soccer schools and academies that use this approach. It's no secret why some of those soccer schools have been around for 30 years, established a worldwide presence and grown a thriving and sustained business year on year.

These savvy organisations know that to increase revenues the easy way, is to catch the imagination and excitement of their present customers and provide an exceptional learning experience.

Next year when your customers are organising their holiday camps and soccer sessions, who will they choose?

Of course, they'll choose the organisation that provided the innovative, fun, exciting and memorable soccer sessions.

Repeat custom is your most effective marketing spend per pound and your highest return on your investment.

Think about it this way - chasing new customers is expensive because of the marketing and resources required to persuade a new client to join your organisation.

Harnessing the repeat spend of loyal customers is cheaper, more cost effective and increases your profit margin. That's a no brainer in any industry.

So How Can You Harness The Power Of Repeat Custom?

The key lies in capturing the imagination of your audience. One proven way to do that - and this is the way the 'BIG' soccer schools use - is to utilise new innovative training tools that bring a versatile and exciting edge to your activities.

Any child that becomes bored or disinterested in your sessions is lost future revenue. Any training tool invested in should have the capacity to be utilised for different age groups, different abilities and skills levels to ensure you get the best ROI (return on your investment).

Training tools should be innovative and fun to use and not alienate any player. Inclusion should also be a main part of your strategy using something like the Every Child Matters framework.

Coaching staff should be able to hit the ground running with any new equipment without any need for extensive training.

Ideally, session plans,learning outcomes and coaching ideas or examples should also accompany the equipment. This will immediately allow coaching staff to implement their own creativity at a glance.

Not only will this help with shorter start up times, increasing the fun factor, but will also help get best usage from any equipment therefore providing the exceptional and exciting learning experience your are looking to achieve for your clients.

Innovative training tools are just one way to increase repeat custom because they provide a memorable and positive experience for your customers.

Another way is to offer the training tools you have used in your training to your customers. This increases the spend of your clients but more importantly increases the value of their learning experience with your organisation.

If the tools you can offer also provide genuine learning experiences at home for your customers then loyalty and value perception will also increase in your brand.

Not only will this lead to repeat custom but also opens up opportunities for referrals and recommendations. These kind of opportunities cannot be underestimated and provide your best ROI because your marketing spend is greatly reduced per customer meaning your profits will increase.

Getting More From Your Suppliers

Perhaps an important question you may want to ask any suppliers of innovative equipment is if they run an affiliate program or are prepared to offer you commission based sales.

This gives you the option to either buy in stock for instant fulfilment to your clients, which in my humble opinion could be the best option because you strike whilst the iron is hot.

Or you can offer a drop shipping service where your customers order via you and you get your supplier to fulfil the order.

The ability to deal direct with the manufacturer is a must and cuts out the middle man allowing you to again increase your profit margin.

Where Can You Find Innovative Training Tools And More Information?

Unfortunately this is becoming more difficult year on year. The larger corporate manufacturers concentrate on fashion and style and little on innovation and substance.

Increasingly, innovation for the soccer industry is coming from a handful of small companies who have the ability to design and develop exciting training tools aimed at enhancing the performance for their end users.

Profile And Positioning

Increasing your profile and positioning yourself as fresh, forward thinkers in the soccer schools market is key to your success and longevity. By providing creative, fun and inclusive learning experiences for your clients you are guaranteeing a strong foothold in this increasingly competitive market place.

Concentrating on the needs of your customers now will provide a powerful platform to build upon year on year, giving you and your business the opportunity to leave a legacy much longer than 30 years.

Repeat custom will help you survive and thrive in this saturated market place because you have provided what your customers are looking for - an exciting, fun learning adventure that leaves lasting positive memories and a huge smile on their faces.

That's the kind of business sense that will survive the rocky times and put you head and shoulders above the competition.

These are proven tactics and strategies secretly guarded by the 'BIG' soccer schools - until now.

Don't wait for the competition to take advantage. Make the first move and be known as the leader in your field and not the follower. As we both know, leaders rightly get the lions share.

Escape The "Opinion Trap" To Find True Style

People will talk about you. They may sing your praises, think you're just fab, or believe that you walk on water. Or they may do the opposite, and turn into your worst critic. You can't stop people from having an opinion, and you can't stop them from sharing it. This especially true when it comes to fashion and style expression. My advice: get over it.

The tendency to weigh in on another person's image currently has its fullest expression in fashion forums and fashion blogs. Here you can see just how widely people's opinions differ, and how quickly they can change. Even fashion magazines are guilty of shifting opinions...sometimes within the very same issue. For example, Katie Holmes's new haircut caused quite a stir. But for everyone who loved it and called it chic, there was another who thought it aged her and was a mistake. An actress caught wearing the same outfit twice? Depending on the critic, it's either a fashion scandal or a statement of style. Even Audrey Hepburn, the all-time supreme icon of classic style has been criticized for being boring. Boring! Excuse me, but I'll happily deal with "boring" if I can make nearly every fashion critic's top ten list of the best dressed ever!

Instead of lamenting the fact that you can't please everyone, accept it and instead concentrate on developing your own image.

The fashion industry realizes the tendency of ours to be swayed by public opinion, and they profit immensely off our uncertainty. We begin to feel that we need to purchase this or wear that in order to be "in" style. But there is a difference between being "in style" and being "stylish". Don't let the desire to please everyone draw you into fashion schizophrenia. Leave that for the fashion victims. Those with true style don't follow the opinions of others. They maximize the look they have determined for themselves..

So how can you avoid falling into the opinion trap?

Decide how you want the world to perceive you. Study the elements that make up your fashion persona. Learn what looks best on you, and stick with it!

People will talk. But not all opinions should matter.

Look Cool and Keep it Cheap - Style Advice For Men on a Budget

With the recession in full swing it can be a little more than just difficult to come by those designer fashions that you love so much. In fact, it may even be hard to come by those same fashions on discount sales. So what is a guy to do in order to indulge in cool male fashion and do it on the cheap?

The notion behind it all

The notion behind looking and feeling good without breaking the bank is that you don't actually need designer fashions or even new clothes at all. And where it really is a must, you can shop around for bargains at a local store instead of on the designer shelves. So let's get down to revamping what you have and scouting what you need at the best prices.

Something old

A tuxedo is something that is very necessary, especially if you are constantly on the invitation list to black tie affairs. However, the tux from a few years back may not fit all that well anymore. What you need to do is simply have it tailored. Tailoring is far more cost effective than buying a new tux. Break the separate parts of your old tux up and you have fantastic new cool male fashion. Need a smart casual look or just a cool addition to spice up your look for a hot night out?

Simply pair that tailored tux jacket with a one of that vintage look screen print t-shirts and a pair of neat, fitted boot leg jeans. It is smart, yet casual and bound to grab the ladies' attention all night long. Pair up that old tux trousers with a plain, button down shirt and tie for a simple yet sophisticated look. And what about the vest? Well, that is a versatile gem. Wear it over a vintage printed tee, a polo shirt or even a button down shirt. This little fashion find offers you a cool look that build character with your outfit and personality.

Something new

When you are biting the bullet in the midst of a recession, there is no excuse for frivolous spending of any kind, especially not on overpriced fashion. When you are looking for one or two new items to spice up your revamped wardrobe some more, look for sails.

Seasonal sales, end of range sales, bargain bins, never be afraid of these things. You are certain to pick up a few items of cool male fashion among the sales and at good prices too. A recession is time to tune in to financial survival and not into luxurious living. However, that does not mean that you have to walk the streets looking drab and yesteryear.

Dita Von Teese Is the Epitome of Vintage Style

Dita von Teese is the epitome of vintage style. She is the walking, talking example of how to portray a modern girl living in a dream of a vintage fantasy. Being a professional burlesque artist, she has made her name by using her fantastic wardrobe to create her over-all immaculate style.

You will never see Dita out of place, distressed or dishevelled at anytime. Unlike her contemporary celebrities, who often cry at will, fall drunk on the pavement or are generally disorderly, Dita has made her name by being a glamorous persona like her favourite old Hollywood idols. In her book, 'Burlesque and the Art of Teese', she wrote, 'I advocate glamour. Every day. Every minute. If I am chilled, I nuzzle a fur stole. I pull steamed stockings over my gams.'

Made famous by her liaison with Marilyn Manson a while ago, she has become known as the darling of the red carpet, best friends with all the couture designers, and one of the most tasteful Hollywood personas in existence.

Transformed from a tanned, blonde Californian girl, to become this pale skinned, dark haired vixen, we can say she has truly mastered the art of transformation. We can all learn a little from our icon. Her book is filled with beautiful photographs, teamed with lots of advice on how to dress yourself as a modern girl but in vintage style. She advises us how to choose the right undergarments, like seamed stockings or whether to buy a corset. She states how important a seamed stocking is to how we feel and walk, or what an alarming shade of red lipstick can do for our confidence.

She shows us the correct way to apply make up that will make all the difference to creating the right tone of vintage style from the different eras, with methods to emulate the different style icons. She advocates movies stars from different eras to those we usually associate her with, which is 40s style. She puts her own famous, elegant style into these different eras.

With her famous quote sounding in my head, 'Vintage might be a faze but you will see me dress like this in my 80s'. Remind yourself with the old Hollywood by channelling her style. She is truly a Chameleon with her own changeable vintage styles, and she's on her own crusade to keep the elegance and style of the good old days.

Jewelry Gifts and Fashion Trends - Making Informed Decisions

Gift giving is always in season and as summer continues to peak, so do people's appetites for the latest and greatest in jewelry and fashion styles and trends. When looking for a gift, the question we all have is, what does the gift recipient want and what will look good on them? Identifying styles that look good on a person might be easy if you know the them well, but finding out what they really want can get tricky.

The fact is, finding out what a girl really wants is a matter of two elements - ample time and calculated questions. Imagine asking your girlfriend what she is thinking of wearing for that big event you have planned in a few months. She will likely say something along the lines of, 'I really want to wear my purple and black dress but I don't have a matching necklace. The only matching jewelry I have is the pair of earrings you gave me last Christmas, so I will probably just wear my blue cocktail dress since I already have matching jewelry for it.' Bingo, you just found gold by extracting some valuable information that will allow you to concentrate your search on the right necklace that will match the dress she really wants to wear. If you need advice on which necklace to buy, find the dress when she is not home, take a picture and send it to us. We will find a few necklaces for you to choose from at a price you can afford.

You can use a similar technique to find the right jewelry and fashion gifts and styles for your man. The idea is to get them to start thinking about their desired look, style and matching jewelry ahead of time and provide valuable information you can use to help them achieve the desired result.

In case of proposal, many individuals nowadays don't want to make large purchases without their loved ones. They will often buy engagement rings under $100, such as solitaire engagement ring with cubic zirconia and, later they will select a more upscale diamond ring together. A simple solitaire CZ ring may cost them less than 20 dollars.

In a way, your gift is not just the jewelry or fashion style itself; it's the time and effort you put forth to go the extra mile for them - to plan and execute the purchase in a way that will make your significant other really happy to get exactly what they want.

Men's Fashion: The Difference Between Trends and Style

The relative complexities of women's and men's fashion

Both men and women can feel the pressures of keeping their wardrobe up-to-date and in season, yet men's fashion often feels a lot less complicated. Of course, for both genders, outfits and fashion choices can be equally as intricate, and there are many 'trendy' items that can quickly become fashion faux pas - who can say they often see people walking around in 70s flares? On the other hand, men's fashion has a few staple items which will exist forever - which man is going to look out of place with a good-quality, tailored suit, for example? Choose classic cuts, colours and fabrics and you'll never look out-of-place.

Why classic men's fashion is timeless

The classic man's suit has barely changed for over a hundred years. True, there are several varieties for different occasions, but they are all common in their pursuit of a smart, sharp look for the wearer. The great thing about classic fashion for men is that it is effortlessly stylish; effortlessly cool. A well-groomed gentleman will almost always look his sharpest in a well-tailored suit, and this is a testament to the design of such clothing. A suit will be worn to work in many careers because of the professional look it affords to the wearer, instilling a sense of respect and trust. Equally a suit will be worn to many social occasions, such as a tuxedo to a black-tie event. This incredible versatility that allows suits to be worn in almost all occasions is what gives it its timeless edge and a permanent place in men's fashion.

Contemporary trends in classic men's fashion

Whilst classic men's styles will never be replaced, it is interesting to note that shifts in men's fashion trends have brought certain classic garments back into fashion. The popularity of vintage clothing, particularly, has brought back a wide-variety of classic styles into men's wardrobes, such as that of the dandy gentleman. 'Dandy' is a term used to refer to men who dress in a classic yet extravagant way, placing importance on appearance and acting in a refined manner. This trend for almost 'over-the-top' classic fashion for men is evident from events such as the 'Tweed Run', where men and women of all ages dress in notably Victorian-style attire and take to the streets on vintage bicycles - with many of the men sporting impeccable mustaches! This is just one of many examples of evidence displaying the resurgence of such styles. There are also numerous blogs online which focus on gentlemanly style - such as 'The Dandy Project' and 'Dandyism' - as well as entire websites such as 'The Art of Manliness' dedicated to providing articles on classic men's fashion and grooming.

In summary, whilst certain facets of classic men's fashion can be brought back as new trends, the fundamental garments that they are based on will never slip out of fashion.

"All it takes are a few simple outfits. And there's one secret - the simpler the better." - Cary Grant

Fashion Marketing on the Internet

There are some great tools to do fashion marketing on the internet. You can really make an impact if you market the right way. While there are many different ways to accomplish this, we will discuss 3 really good ones here.

1) Articles - There is nothing quite like article marketing on the internet. You are able to talk about your industry in a way that sets you apart as an expert. While you discuss trends, fashion, and style, you are also giving your reader more information about you. They will get to know you and then trust you. They will begin to look to you for advice on their wardrobe and then look to see what you are selling at your marketing site. It is a really great way to build a rapport with your customers.

2) Videos - If a picture is worth a thousand words, then video is worth even more. You can not find a better way to show your products to thousands, all at once. You can also use the power of video to get your message out. Reinforce your advice by saying it to the camera. There is an entire generation who is using video for information more than the written word. Use this tool to reap the benefits of this new internet group.

3) Social - Social Marketing has been around for a while. It used to be called word of mouth. The difference now is that there are a lot of mouths all talking about you to a lot of people. The types of coverage you can obtain with this tool will amaze you. So get the word out on your social sites and watch the messages fly.

Fashion marketing on the internet has really gotten large in the past few years and we can see it growing even more in the near future. Use the tools we discussed here to get your share of the profits. Be sure you get a good education on these and other marketing practices to maximize your efforts online.