Bus bicycle which fast?
Last night to see a cell phone text message, a message said that the bus as fast bike, and after reading it, I laughed, a few years ago know, and mental and physical experience also often In
03 still Jiuxianqiao work, to be always ride a bike to work from the outside) is located in Willow (Northwest tricyclic Jiuxianqiao bike that is 30 to 40 minutes, I was along tricyclic tetracyclic sub, then Jiuxianqiao bus, use the one hour or more, unless the bus, after 21:00, but the bicycle almost
remembered the days when riding car to work, is also very comfortable all the way anxious to tread, to see a buses or cars because of traffic jams I crossed. also Zhenshuang cool look.
Of course, I do not necessarily want bus is slower than a bicycle, after all the buses is to let it quickly, after all, not so much body good people like me to ride a bike every day to come and go if the government really let the bus get up, I would often go sitting people is a motor vehicle you.
bus speed lower than a bicycle fast
80% of the beach edition news 6 mad thin (08/01) to retrieve a dog had presented Mania (08/01) Occupational prolactin teacher posts in Nanjing (08/01) travel by air is subject to ratification (08/01) focus on addiction addiction (08 / 01)
font: [medium and small the comment edition PDF Beiqing, network – Legal Evening News: Guoyuan Dan (07/08/03 16:30)
Deputy Director of Urban Construction Department of the Ministry of Construction said mmm
WASHINGTON morning, Deputy Director of the Urban Construction Department of the Ministry of Construction Feng-Wu Wang said: The bus speed is getting lower and lower, an average speed of only 10km / h below the bike 12km / h and the car 20km / h.
at the same time, Feng-Wu Wang the introduction of China’s first Urban Public Transport Week and Car Free Day, said: criticism.

Dont disassociate with the title: Angry Whitened Boy Clothing isn’t to offend your gentle sensibilities. Creator and designer Jimmy Angry Whitened Boy isn’t someone to mince words and the Angry Whitened Boy clothing lines are designed with similar balls-out aesthetic.

I dont like government, I dont like anything mainstream,” describes founder and owner Jimmy Angry Whitened Boy. “I dont like mainstream media by any means. I listen to numerous Hardcore music lots of angry, aggressive music. Its quite simple: Im an angry person if this involves some things. I had been just fed up with everyone putting on exactly the same things. You appear around and all sorts of the thing is is Ecko, Erectile dysfunction Sturdy, Affliction If somebodys likely to put on that same ugly-ass shirt I’m able to make something better, various and they are able to purchase it from me rather.

Inspired by but for the Hardcore community, AWB gear represents that moments very DIY ethos. Its a reasonably simple concept: unsatisfied using the possibilities to him, Jimmy required his passion for hardcore and used their own talents and assets and set his energy into the love and made it happen for themself.

Angry Whitened Boy is much like my baby. I built it on your own in nov 2007 and that i made it happen all by myself cent. I produced the entire factor all by myself without any backing. It had been like F**k it, allow me to simply do this and find out where it is going. I am not attempting to function as the next Tommy Hilfiger or free. Im completely self-trained: no schooling, no training whatsoever. I actually do everything myself.

Obviously starting a completely independent clothing lines are not without its issues especially a line having a title as provocative as Angry Whitened Boy. Although it is apparent simply by searching in the clothes there’s no political agenda whatsoever within their design, you will find always likely to be individuals who misunderstand the content.

People misunderstand the title constantly, mainly in the beginning. Everyone was instantly labeling us a Nazi, a racist, and all sorts of that nonsense. There is a bio along with a story concerning the whole evolution of Angry Whitened Boy on my small website which people dont educate yourself onto it: they simply go ahead and take simplest interpretation and gone with it and then try to label me like a racist if this has practically nothing related to that. Its essentially a stab at political correctness because you aren’t designed to say something similar to angry whitened boy. It will get people all upset. I only say it, its blunt, and when somebodys too sensitive plus they get upset that sh*ts this is not on me. I wish to get my stuff available and type of break lower the walls of these myths.

The unapologetic attitude behind AWB is an ideal fit for that Hardcore scene. Jimmys custom-designed t shirts happen to be featured everywhere, such as the backs of probably the most well-known bands from the NYHC scene.

Lou from Tired of Everything rocked among my t shirts one evening in a offered-out show in the Blender Theater in New You are able to, that was real awesome. Kevin from Bulldoze wears my clothing constantly. Candace from Walls of Jericho is mad awesome. Her and Mike Rash rock my brand every so often. I’ve 100s of images of Candace putting on my t shirts at huge festivals in Europe and South Usa. All Used to do was request her if she’d rock it and that i sent her a shirt. I recieve lots of support from all of these bands, that is great. Between four festivals she used my t shirts before like 150,000 people. Thanks is not even enough for your.

The background music and also the clothing is symbiotic: it is the scene that inspired Jimmys designs and it is for that passion for the scene he will it.

Michelle Bombshell

I simply think its a genuine good match: my clothes and also the angry, aggressive feel of Hardcore, Punk, Thrash anything you want to refer to it as. I search heavy, angry music and thats type of what arrives during my designs. Its like bits of a puzzle they’re going together. Its gritty, street-level stuff.

Angry Whitened Boy also keeps the women in your mind. Theres a whole extension of AWB created for women known as, properly enough, Angry Whitened Girl.

When i first began making these t shirts for that Hardcore community and, particularly, the men. Out of the blue I’d each one of these women coming at me like How about us? And So I made Angry Whitened Boy stuff however in women styles. That went over OK however all of the women began flipping out again. They wanted Angry Whitened Girl stuff. Demand and supply. I began making the AWG stuff on their behalf the ones were liking it. That stuff continues to be removing a lot more than the men stuff recently!

2010 is anticpated to be an outbreak year for Jimmy and Angry Whitened Boy with many different different projects coming.

Hopefully this is my greatest year yet. I dont understand why it wouldnt be. Ive been doing a bit of layout and design stuff for many bands. I simply did C-Money from Slightly Stoopids solo record which ought to be being released soon. Ive been doing Compact disc designs lots of band fliers and graphics. I designed the brand new Sufficient Cause record which ought to be out soon. I additionally did design for that new All For Revenge record, a Hardcore band from upstate New You are able to. I additionally began a brand new line for AWB known as CrimeWear. I was raised watching old-school horror and slasher movies and Ive always were built with a passion for serial murders and sick sh*t like this. I understand a lot of everyone loves horror movies and that i know theres lots of individuals that are identical way.

Angry Whitened Boy isn’t for that average person. Its Brooklyn-born gear to have an independent scene and continues that same tradition of Hardcore excellence.

For more information regarding how to buy Angry Whitened Boy gear visit the website. Also to maintain the most recent AWB news visit their fanpage or follow AWB on Twitter.

Pet dogs are susceptible to parasites and certain diseases that can be easily treated with pet-safe products available in pet stores or from veterinary doctors in urbane scrubs. Before treating your pets, remember to carefully follow the directions indicated in the label and to consult your vet. Pet dog owners should be aware of the common parasites and illnesses that afflict dogs so that they can anticipate what to do in case it happens to their pet.

Fleas

You dog will get fleas at one point or another and it can recur from time to time. The most common symptom is itching but not all itching is caused by fleas. If you think insect bites is the reason why your dog is itching uncontrollably, see your veterinarian before you begin treatment as the itching may be caused by a number of things aside from fleas. The most common dog allergy is flea allergy. A lot of dogs are allergic to the saliva of fleas and a flea bite can cause intense itching, small red bumps, and redness of the skin. There are dogs that are more allergic to fleas than others and those highly allergic may have a severe reaction to just a few bites. Other common dog allergens aside from insects include pollen, certain plants, and certain foods. The treatment will depend on what caused the allergic reaction in the first place. To combat and help prevent allergies, you can also bathe your pet in Epsom salts or an oatmeal bath, vacuum and clean your home often, place activated charcoal around houseplants, and get a humidifier to decrease mold.

Ear mites

So called because they dwell on the skin lining the dog’s ear canal, ear mites are tiny parasites that pierce the dog’s skin and feeds on the dog’s blood causing discomfort and inflammation. If left untreated, it can lead to bacterial infections which can eventually lead to loss of hearing. Common symptoms of ear mites include head shaking, persistent scratching around the ears, foul-smelling odor, restless behavior, brown particles in the ears, and when the pet’s ears are painful to touch which when done may cause them to wince or cry out in pain. Dogs with long, floppy ears are more at risk of getting ear mite infections since air movement is more restricted and thus promotes bacterial growth and infection. If you have a household with more than one pet and one pet is treated for ear mites, it is likely that the parasite will move to another resident so it is best to treat all your pets for mites when one is afflicted.

Heartworms

Heartworm is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes and can be fatal to dogs, thus preventive measures are recommended. Curing dogs with heartworms can be very expensive and requires powerful drugs or even hospitalization, so the better course is heartworm prevention. You can go to your veterinarian and get an annual test to see if your dog is already carrying the worms. If the test is negative, your pet doctor can recommend a medication for preventing heartworms.

For many years, Black Friday has marked the beginning of the vacation shopping season, with a few consumers outdoor camping Thanksgiving evening to attain door-busting deals. However, this season many merchants are stretching sales through the weekend, although some are even offering discount rates with the remaining holidays. So for individuals individuals searching to stock on sports gear or discover the perfect gift for that sports lover in your list, you will find still lots of deals available. Just take a look at these stores below for deals, hrs and locations:

Sports Authority

Waipahu, Kapolei, Honolulu

Saturday, 11/27, 9 a.m-9:30pm

BOGO 50% off shoes, $200 off BodyFit Indoor Cycling Bikes, $1200 off Healthrider The elliptical machine, $150 off Perception 10 kayaks and much more

McCully Bicycle and Sports

2124 S King St, Honolulu

M-F 9am-8pm, Saturdays 9am-6pm, Sundays 10am-5pm

every bike on purchase as much as 50% off and 20-40% off every running footwear through 11/30

10-25% off fishing gear through 12/24

Hawaii Fighting Techinques Supply

2909 Waialae Avenue, Honolulu

Monday, Friday 8:30am-4pm, Saturday 8:30am-3pm

4ft punching bags $20 off and 5% served by every $50 spent

15% off swords through November

Blue Hawaii Surf

Waikele Premium Shops

Saturday 11/27 8am-10pm, Sunday 11/28 9am-8pm

50% Off choose men’s & women’s shoes plus bargains on tees through Sunday 11/28

Adidas

Waikele Premium Shops

Saturday 11/27 8am-10pm, Sunday 11/28 9am-8pm

$30 shoes deals, Kanadias trail running footwear socks & under garments: buy 3 get 1 free through 12/5

The cold temperature is on it’s way but you shouldn’t have to remain inside should you put on the best clothing for winter cycling

Although it might be tempting to remain inside and mind to a health club or continue the turbo trainer rather- you are able to really perform some great riding during the cold months several weeks. The easy secret is to make certain you dress properly for winter cycling training.

This informative guide will give you using your cold temperature cycling training necessities for road and mtb riding using the focus on keeping the cold out, dry and taking pleasure in your rides.

The very first error most bike riders make if this involves winter cycling clothing is request themselves

“what jacket must i upgrade on winter cycling?”

and subsequently buy a durable waterproof cycling jacket. The writer chose to make this mistake. You’ll get too warm and sweat abundantly which can make you uncomfortable. You do not always require a heavyweight winter jacket for cycling and you will discover why should you keep reading through.

Start while you mean to take- buy quality first layer

Winter Cycling Tip- Buy a high quality first layer

Bike riders who spend considerable time outdoors throughout the wintertime makes opportunities within the base layers they put on. An easy thermal vest is not ideal to help keep the cold out and wick away sweat out of your body. Therefore search for a thermal yet wicking lengthy sleeve first layer for winter cycling to supply the foundation of the winter cycling clothes. Your base layers don’t always have to be cycling specific like a great wicking baselayer can be used as a number of other pursuits like running, skiing as well as simply relaxing throughout the house in comfort.

A great first layer is going to be close fitting without restricting your movement

Brands to search for include Craft, Endura, Assos and my own favourite Falke who have fantastic top quality ergonomic sports base layers and socks.

Merino made of woll- like putting on your personal fleece!

If you possess the budget a merino made of woll first layer is ideal for cold temperature cycling. Merino made of woll has great thermal qualities and has the capacity to wick sweat from the body well. The advantage of merino made of woll is it stays odourless too. Consider brands like Icebreaker who make extremely good base layers.

Obtain a neck gaitor/ aficionado

Neck gaitors and buffs are a good addition the a bike riders winter waredrobe. The neck is among the most uncovered areas of a bike riders body throughout winter so it seems sensible allow it some protection. A nexk gaitor also safeguards against cold winter winds travelling lower the neck be responsible for the cyclist obtaining chills which could compromise their defense mechanisms.

A Aficionado is an extremely versatile outfit that may behave as a nexk gaitor or transform right into a simple winter hat or perhaps a balaclava. Giving great waredrobe options. Certainly useful for winter cycling.

Obtain a warm windproof cycling jacket

A windproof cycling jacket helps you to provide warmth and defense against the wind while cycling. While cycling you create enough warmth which will help help you stay warm regardless of the lightweight appearance of numerous windproof jackets. Frequently road riders might only put on a high quality lengthy sleeve first layer and windproof jacket for example an Assos 851 jacket or like the Santini jacket prictured below regardless of the temperature staying close to freezing. For added warmth a cyclist could put on additional thin base layers.

You have to own a light-weight packable waterproof jacket for winter

A light-weight, easily packable waterproof jacket should travel along with you throughout the wintertime several weeks to supply both a waterproof rain barrier in occasions of rainwater as well as an additional insulation layer if this will get very cold.

Most cycling jackets such as the windproof jacket pictured above have rear packets to let you stow away products of package while cycling which create a great reason for storage for any lightweight waterproof jacket. Always select a waterproof jacket you are able to pack or roll-up and slide right into a pocket and carry.

Keep individuals hands warm for winter cycling

Cycling within the cold temperature could be harsh to deal with so you have to do something. It may really require half an hour for the hands to achieve optimum temps while cycling however if you do not put on the best mitts they’ll never warm up which means you require the best winter cycling mitts possible.

Most cycling mitts are generally made to be waterproof or windproof for warmth. Whether it rains plenty where you reside prioritise a waterproof set of mitts his or her waterproof qualities will probably be needed sooner or later. Select the right winter cycling mitts that you should help you dry and warm in rainwater.

Tip from the winter cyclist- Buy some lining mitts for cold temperature cycling

Are you suffering with cold hands?

Buy a little affordable silk lining mitts that are non bulky and provide you with a few levels of additional warmth for cycling, skiing or other activity in cold temperature.

Put on a warm hat beneath your helmet for warmth

You will find lots of winter cycling hats in the marketplace which are created to be close fitting. A lot of warmth is dissipated with the mind while working out which means this must be stored warm whatsoever occasions.

Wear some waterproof overshoes for winter cycling

Winter months can cover the streets in rain water and silt which your tyres can enjoy on your ft. So that it may be beneficial to safeguard your ft and footwear out of this occurrence. A set of waterproof cycling overshoes will even offer an insulation layer when ever the mercury drops.

Photo credits

Winter cycling from Shaun Moser / BikeCarson.com on Flickr

Santini Metis windproof winter cycling jacket from Prendas Ciclismo

Winter training clothing for cycling from hr.icio on Flickr

HI i am Ahmad youssef

1. Black broadclothe with soutache braid embroidery is considered decidedly smart.

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2. In a pleated skirt a plain front and back panel is often combined with a plain, carefully fitted yoke.

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3. butterflies are still influenching fashion. some of the frocks with a fichu drapery on thr bodice show a sort of butterfly bow at the front.

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Acordig plaits are used in some of the silk and satain frocks. the lower edge of the skirt is usually bround or edge with ribbon, to give a flare effect.

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4. buttons are still called on to furnish a trimming element to one-piece frocks. they are much used on some of the new cape collars.

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5. the uneven bem still prevails.often it is shorter in front than in back, and it is still scalloped.

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6. aporn effects are used on some evening and afternoon frocks.

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7. the belero, which may be a big feature of spring styles, is effectively used now and then on midwinter frocks.

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8. smocking in a effective trimming for velour evening coasts.

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9. the fichu, which is used on many waists and bodices, is usually finished with a ruffle, a scallop, or some other rather fancy cdge.

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10. the fichu may be used to emphasize the high neck line by folding it to stand high at the back.

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11. low-heeled shoes may be brought back into fashion by skating ,it is true, whatever the reason may be, that low-heeled shoes are more in demand at the moment than they have been for months.

looped up skirts

In spite of the dominant idea of flare in the winter skirts-and the flare of the is their most char-acteristic feature whether they be fashioned of one layer or of two, tunic wise-there are some evening frocks with skirts that are looped up about the hips, almost like bustles,one on each side. usually these pufls side is higher or lower than that on the tulle or lace, roses, articial, of course, are used to accentuate under the puff. the v-shaped neck

The v-shaped neck line is still in evidence. it is, when everything else is left out of consideration, probably the most becoming neck line there is-some of the great designers to the contary. to be sure, as they contend, it does cut the figure-but what line doesn;t unless it be the line of neck affected by mother eve herself? And the v-shaped line is graceful and soft, and still persists even in some of the last frocks that were sent from paris.

Fashion designers Manish Arora, Anamika Khanna and Rajesh Pratap Singh are ready to set Paris Fashion Week ablaze under their own labels ?a sign of India growing presence in the crowded international arena.

Anamika and Manish will showcase their creative brilliance at this fall fashion extravaganza, while Rajesh will roll out his collection at next year event.

So far, Indian designers have been displaying their collections abroad under the labels of foreign fashion houses or retail chains.

t a great moment of glory,?Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) Rathi Vinay Jha said at a recent press conference.

or the first time, our designers will showcase their collections under their own labels. India will be there in its original form.?/p>

FDCI, which organises the highly acclaimed Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week, has facilitated the Indian designers?participation in Paris.

Chanel
Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel (1883-1971) created feminine fashion that provided the feeling of luxury and combined traditional women’s clothing with styles, fabrics, and articles of clothing used by men. She felt comfortable wearing sports jackets and ties worn by men in casual settings. Her fashion revolution liberated women to express their femininity with elegance and grace. Chanel’s logo is frequently seen in perfumes, purses, shoes, and jewelry.

Prada
Prada was founded by Mario Prada and his brother in 1913 when they opened a luxurious boutique in Milan. The shop included imported silver, Austrian crystal, and exquisite leather handbags and luggage. The tradition of high-quality distinctive goods is continued today.

The Hollywood film “The Devil Wears Prada”, starring Meryl Streep, has brought a lot of attention to the world of fashion. The film is a testament to the amazing transformations that can be achieved by wearing elegant clothing.

Versace
Gianni Versace (1946-1997) became interested in fashion working in his mother’s small dress shop. His first commercial success was the design of a line of clothes for Florentine Flowers in 1972. Versace continued a successful clothing design career in Milan. By 1978 he had become a design leader of women’s and men’s fashions. After Gianni’s death, his brother Santo Versace became the CEO of the Versace firm and his sister Donatella Versace became the head of design. Jennifer Lopez wore a sensational green dress by Versace to the Grammys in 2000.

Jean-Paul Gaultier (1952- ) is a French fashion designer who never received formal design training. He started sending sketches to famous couture stylists, and Pierre Cardin hired him as an assistant in 1970. His first individual collection was released in 1976. By 1981 he was known for irreverent, provocative designs, and for using unconventional models in his exhibitions, such as old and fat women, or tattooed and pierced models. Gaultier’s sheer lace design worn by Teri Hatcher at the 2006 Grammy Awards drew international attention. Gaultier was again in the spotlight with his design of the scalloped gown worn by Marion Cotillard, the Best Actress winner at the 2008 Oscars ceremony.

TEEN FASHION

Topshop have some great fashion styles on offer this Autumn 2009Winter 2010. Take a look at the great styles in these photographs which will delight younger girls. The Topshop girl is youthful in outlook, not just in age. If you are over a certain age, it does not mean these items are not for you, but that you must be more selective about your choices. There is cut off point where some styles look best on the young. Further down this page you will note the Celia Birtwell influenced Topshop items and some great new teen fashion looks for the Topshop girl.

Some Topshop girls just can’t see themselves in a dress. For those who can’t adapt to dresses, then this sequin tunic and leggings will keep you feeling in the party mood for the Christmas and New Year festivities.

Topshop are high street leaders and they are helping revive the beautiful prints of the 1960s. Topshop have launched a small number of limited edition pieces with lovely prints by Celia Birtwell the famous 60 print designer. The fabric prints are in the style of Birtwell signature hand-drawn prints that she created for Ossie Clark.

Casey’s Corner
Do you always feel like you never have anything hot to wear? Do you have tons of trouble finding your hippist shoes under all of your clothes piles? Now is the time to end the closet clutter and get ready for spring! Start with these simple steps to pure wardrobe bliss!

1. Start by taking everything out of your closet (but leave the clothing on hangers). Go through it all and set anything aside that you don’t like.

2. Then try everything else on. You never know if you’re favorite tee from last year makes you look like a walking fashion no-no now! But remember, you might want to keep around a couple of vintage pieces, ’cause you never know when they’ll suddenly be hot!

3. It’s time to make room and get rid of everything you decided was no longer “you”. Take everything in good-condition to a thrift shop if you want to make a little bling, bling, and trash the other stuff, or if you’re in a giving mood, take it all to a homeless shelter.

4. Now focus in on the stuff you do love! Think about why you love that baby-blue Gap cardigan sweater or hip, hot pink bo-ho skirt. Is it the shade? Fit? Designer? Write it all down in a “fashion” notebook. Next time you go on a major shop-till-you-drop spree, bring it along to help you find what you really like.

5. Back to your closet, divide your clothes into skirts, jeans, pants, tanks, tees, etc., then hang ‘em up by the colors of the rainbow, from light to dark. For the stuff you fold, don’t pile it too high, and arrange the clothes in a rainbow as well.

6. Move on to accessories. It would be smart to install a shoe holder, either on the wall or on your door (that way they’re up and out of the way). Categorize them by sandals, sneaks, slides, dressy, etc. Also, install four or five hooks to hold belts, ribbons, and necklaces.

7. Try to keep stuff that doesn’t have anything to do with your wardrobe out of your closet. It just takes up space you could use. One thing I make an exception for? My beloved Instyle, Harpers Bazaar’, and Seventeen magazines which take up the whole top shelf! I resort to them daily, so I just couldn’t give them up!

8. Also, to keep your closet clutter to a minimum, store all off your out-of-season clothes and accessories out of the way. Keep sweaters folded neatly in a cedar closet or chest, to keep the moths away. Tees, sweatshirts, pants, and shorts can simply be folded and put in a chest, closet, or the top shelf. Make sure you wash everything before storing it! For your winter coats, take them to the cleaners, then leave the plastic wrapping on them to keep ‘em protected.

Teen fashion trends

There are many articles dedicated to fashion trends: trends for men or women, trends for kids and even for dogs. What about teens? Try to do a web search and you will see that finding nice guidelines about teen fashion trends is not as easy as it may seem. Why is it this way? The reason for this lack of information is teen fashion being more complicated than any other. Teenagers are fighting against society; they put a lot of effort to be different, but they also invent new trends and fashion styles.

The latest trend is EMO (emotional) style. EMO style is definitely for those who adore bright colors. Green, pink, red, yellow matched with black will undoubtedly make you noticeable. If you are into this style, you must have an appropriate hairdo: Zelda hairdo for girls and jet black mop top for boys. Pencil or at least cigarette-shaped jeans with studded belt is also a must-have. Rules for top are not that strict, you may choose anything you want, just be sure it’s close-fitting and bright colored. You must wear large amounts jewelry and it’s even better if you pierce your face (small lip ring would do perfectly). EMO style is perfect for those who wear glasses – it’s a great accent and EMOs love nerdy ones.

Hip hop never goes out of fashion. Music that speaks street language is definitely for young rebellious souls. Hip-hop style for teen boys and girls is rather different. Boys are usually wearing baggy pants and t-shirt, while girls chose sexy outfits. Cap is a must for both. When it comes to colors – choose anything you want. Boys usually prefer blue jeans and white-colored top while girls are totally unpredictable. Girls wear big rounded earrings and boys must wear at least one ring.

What fashion designers have come up to this season is gothic youth. Although this fashion has existed for a number of years and has been discussed in various ways, it is the first time it is fashionable. Dressing all-black, coloring your hair black, using only black makeup means or even whitening your face to make everything else look even blacker is a hot trend. Choose big shoes with chunky heels; go for metal details all over your clothing and accessories and you’re a perfect goth. No matter if you are wearing a short or a long skirt, a close fitting top or a loose one – it’s ok as long as it’s black.

Bohemian style is also fashionable among teenagers. Loose light colored clothes, wraps and wooden, stone or amber accessories will make you look like a real bohemian girl or boy

As a star of NBC’s “Days of Our Lives,” 15-year-old Taylor Spreitler is one of the youngest actors on daytime TV, and her portrayal of “Mia” is garnering rave reviews. In real life Taylor is a cool, down-to-earth girl with an amazing sense of style and an eye for fashion! Here, Taylor Spreitler shares some of her fashion advice:

When she’s not working in Los Angeles, Spreitler is back in Mississippi at her home near Tupelo helping her parents raise and train working German Shepherds. Spreitler also enjoys horseback riding, bowling, hanging out with friends, shopping, and collecting Marilyn Monroe items.

15 (She turns 16 in October)

Born in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Taylor now lives in Los Angeles with her mom and sister.

How Would You Describe Your Style?
Taylor says: “It’s pretty much a Hippie/Boho/Gypsy style. I love boots and have them in every color imaginable! And I always throw on a lot of bracelets.”

What are Your Favorite Stores?
“My favorite stores are Forever 21 – especially their twelve by twelve line. Also Buffalo Exchange, which has both recycled and new clothes,” Taylor says, adding: “There is a very cool store in Burbank called “It’s a Wrap” which sells actual wardrobe from movie and TV sets – including Day’s [of Our Lives]!”

Do You Admire Anyone’s Style?
“I like the styles that people like Sienna Miller, Kate Moss and Kate Hudson wear. It’s just very laid-back, like they just throw something on but they still look great!” she says.

What’s Your Style Advice for Other Teens Out There?
Taylor says: “Don’t be afraid to take risks as long as you feel confident and comfortable in it!”

What’s it Like Being a TV Star?
“It really is a dream come true for me! Mia is such an interesting character and has dealt with some really painful issues lately. Becoming pregnant, giving her baby up and now having to deal with a girl bully spreading rumors about her,” she says.

What Advice Would You Give Teens About Following Their Dreams?
“Be sure it is a dream that you are willing to make a big commitment to!” Taylor advises, adding: “For me it was a lot of years of classes, auditions, learning how to stay positive even when coming close and not booking!”

Cloche Hat

Cloche hats were the most fashionable form of women’s headgear during the 1920s. They were close-fitting, helmet-shaped hats that hugged the skull. They had deep rounded crowns with no brim or just a small curve at the edge. Cloche means bell in French, and these hats were so named because they resembled large bells. They often were made of woolen felt.

Women’s hats of the early twentieth century were ornately decorated with deep crowns and wide brims. During World War I (1914?8) hats became less flamboyant. By the end of the war many women were cutting their long hair. They wore bobbed haircuts trimmed to the nape of the neck; shingled locks, layering their short hair into flat, overlapping rows; and the Eton crop, a severe, masculine style with hair slicked back close to the head.

With new short hair fashions, older style hats appeared old-fashioned and out of place. The tight helmet fit of the cloche hat complemented the new hairstyles. The round crown of the cloche followed the natural curve of the head. Trims were simple. Some cloches were trimmed with a ribbon band and some featured small jeweled brooches on one side or in front. Others were unadorned. Women wore their cloche hats pulled down over to just above their eyes so that the forehead was hidden under the hat. The back of the cloche hat skimmed the nape of the neck. Sometimes the cloche was worn tilted over the right eye. The cloche hat gave women an air of mysterious appeal, but wearing the hat so low made watching where one walked difficult. To counteract that problem, women began holding their heads back as they walked, a mannerism that led to a new slant in female posture. Cloche hats became very popular attire for weddings. Such bridal accessories were trimmed in lace or composed solely of veiling.

During the 1930s cloche hats still were popular but in modified versions. Some had pleated folds on the sides and back, and some dipped over one eye. Trims of veiling or lace sometimes were added, as hat fashions returned to more elaborate designs. The cloche faded from fashion in the late 1930s and 1940s but was revived as a fashion trend in the late 1950s.

National Sources

Museum collections of major national museums and private institutions show actual costume and accessories. In the UK the Victoria and Albert Museum in Kensington, London is one of the prime sources of costume. The other great costume collection is held at the Costume Gallery in Bath, in the West of England. Both venues house superb collections of costume.

In Bath, the Costume Gallery provides individual audio controls with up to 6 language translations. The costume displayed is only one quarter of the actual costume available and it is all used in regularly rotated displays.

Additionally the Research Centre at Bath connected to Bath Museum Educational services has wonderful resource material such as original C19th accessories as well as published material such as La Belle Assemblee , Moniteur de la Mode, Englishwoman’s Domestic Magazine, Le Petit Courrier des Dames, Le Follet, Godeys, The Queen and Chic Parisian. In addition they hold many fashion catalogues of the C20th.

Prior to the medieval era those seriously researching costume details, need to resort to written sources. These are often difficult to use and are usually in Latin or medieval English. For example many royal household accounts have never been translated into modern day English. They do not always translate well as they were often written by monks and other educated clergy. Sometimes the references to clothing are lost in the translation.

Until the 16th century most evidence is taken from the following:-MetalworkStoneworkSculptureMosaics
WoodcarvingsSketchesCeramicsPaintings
EmbroideriesTombsWeavingsStumpwork
Body JewelleryCave DrawingsBrass RubbingsCave Drawings

Actual Costume Artefacts

Few artefacts before 1600 AD have survived. Those that have, were usually found in extreme environmental conditions where either intense cold or dryness preserved articles. Such items have been found in freezing areas of Russia or the contrasting dry sands of Egypt. Sometime jewellery or hard body equipment such as ivory beads and armoury survive, whilst the surrounding fabric may have disintegrated.

Costume Plates and Fashion Plates

From the 16th century costume plates appeared.

It is important to understand that costume plates represent fashion as it was worn.

In contrast fashion plates like pre 20th century fashion dolls promote and publicize possible future fashions.

It is still possible to collect good costume and fashion plates in antique shops and at auction sites and is discussed in my vintage section. Prices vary and are dependant on the quality and rare value of the print. As an example I paid 12.50 in 2002 for the page of 8 illustrated mantles shown on the page Victorian Pictures of Mantelets.

However the plate from La Mode Illustre shown above which is almost A3 size compared to the A4 Mantelets above, cost me 15 fourteen years earlier.
The main newer fuller section of 18 pages on the history of fashion plates.

One of the easiest ways to see fashion plates is by visiting a museum site or commercial site that sells them on the internet.

For the collector who is interested in a particular era and maybe who just wants to enliven their decor with a set of fashion plates then there are great reproductions of fashion plates on the market. Learn how to spot difference between modern reprint fashion plates at my page here.

Some of the most attractive examples of reproduction print fashion plates I have seen are for sale at alldressforms.com and some examples are shown below.

Late Victorian Dress

The two late Victorian pictures above are of fashion plate reproductions of the originals found in La Mode Illustre and sold by alldressforms.com in their fashion Art section.

Fashion Dolls

Fashion Dolls date from as early as the 14th century. They were widely used in the 17th and 18th centuries as a primary means for supplying the last word in:-
Fashion
Hairstyles
Millinery

Paintings

In the UK visit the National Gallery, Country Houses and Galleries. Paintings.

Written Costume and Fashion Information

Visual representations of dress need to be cross-checked with other information. The problem of artistic license has always existed and even the photographs available after Kodak’s camera invention of 1888, are not always a true record.
Written references :-
Essays
Satires
Biographies
Contemporary Novels
Memoirs
Historical Works
Philosophy Books
Etiquette Manuals
Personal Conduct Manuals
Records
Newspapers
Magazines
Posters
Event Programmes
Accounts of Travel and Exploration
Religious Manuals (often a very rich source of information on dress)
Diaries e.g. those of Queen Victoria, Jane Austen, Samuel Pepys.

Where legend and fact have blended all can play a part in validating authenticity of representation.
Exhibitions

Exhibition Catalogues such as those from the Great Exhibition of 1851 give facts that are frequently illuminating. Auction houses produce catalogues and Sotheby and Christies have catalogues with detailed information of sales collections such as Wallis Simpson jewellery and the sale of the clothes of the late Princess of Wales, Diana.
Trade Cards and Advertisements

There are collections of trade cards and advertisements in national and local collections. Companies, especially long established ones, often have a written history or records that they will allow the public to access. Old catalogues of shops such as that of Sears or Harrods or Selfridges are a rich source of information.
Cartoons

In addition cartoons, especially those by Punch magazine, can encapsulate fashion or current ideals of modesty or immodesty. Similarly moral writers of today still describe fashion as right or wrong just as writers of 1000 years ago did.
Local Sources

Public libraries, museums, galleries and private collections may contain family records with account books and local business archives. Newspapers both local and national have always carried articles on fashion and the materials used in fashionable dress. Centenary celebrations and the like sometimes reveal huge collections of photographs that someone found in an attic.

By its very nature this information is constantly changing, but some of my favourite museums of costume are below. For a full list of museums in UK with costume go here.

There are also other collections in the UK too many to mention, but some of my favourites that I have personally visited and always enjoy are:-

The Costume Collection in central Nottingham.

The Potteries Museum and Art Gallery in Hanley, Stoke on Trent where you can compare ceramics of the era.

Prada spring/summer 2009 ad campaign

Spring/Summer 2009 ad campaign for luxury fashion label Prada was inspired by ancient stone bas-reliefs – depicting everyday life scenes and in this case dancing (?!). Well, anyway, the crinkled, glossy, textured fabrics and leathers Miuccia Prada planned for this season really go together with this idea.
Same goes for the sculptured hair-styling and the rigid, statuesque postures of the 7 topmodels that look so alike. Photographer Steven Meisel did as always a great job in capturing the mood – but I’m just glad crinkled is in again, you know. No more ironing, yay!

The goal is to revive the now-comatose basic human urge to snap up lipstick, socks, neckties, designer gowns, jewelry, handbags and all the other goodies that people cutith a certain priderom their household budgets after the financial markets crashed last fall and the recession set in.

In the first time for such an event, 700 stores in the U.S. and 11 other countries, including the U.K., Greece, Japan, China, Russia, India and Brazil, will keep their doors open until at least 11 p.m. on Sept. 10he eve of New York Fashion Week.

They will hold special events to entice shoppers. Vera Wang says she will have a DJ and “American Idol” judge Kara DioGuardi at her Mercer Street boutique in New York. Roughly 40 designers will wander around chatting up shoppers at Saks Fifth Avenue in New York. All 41 Neiman Marcus stores will participate, offering entertainment to shoppers. Ten Judith Ripka stores around the U.S. will offer a free change of nail polish infused with diamond dust, and serve food and champagne while raffling off rings worth $700. Details of all the evening’s events will be posted on the Fashion’s Night Out Web site (fashionsnightout.com) on Aug. 17.

The stores have a tacit agreement that they won’t launch sales that eveninghough they won’t hide sales racks with items that are already marked down. “We told retailers, this [event] is not about discounting,” says Steven Kolb, executive director of the Council of Fashion Designers of America, which is helping organized the evening.

This is all an effort to end the cycle of deep-discounting that began last Thanksgiving, when stores slashed prices because there was no other way to get rid of the inventory they had purchased six months earlier, when the economy was stronger.

Apparel sales in the U.S. fell 7% to $84.8 billion for the six months ended in June, according to NPD Group. The only bright spots in the market were sales of men’s underwear and fleece products, which rose slightlyuggesting, perhaps, the very practical bent among shoppers these days.

As a result, retail employment has been one of the hardest hit sectors of the economy, leaving one-out-of-10 retail-industry employees out of work. Every level has been affected: Circuit City went out of business, and so has Christian Lacroix, which is currently on the sale block. Also, fashion advertising sales are down double-digits at CondeNast Publications, which owns Vogue, and McKinsey & Co. has been brought in to consult on possible restructuring.

Ms. Wintour, editor in chief of U.S. Vogue, seems grounded in a new world order. “We had a lot of wonderful moments,” she says of the now-past economic boom, with an air of moving on to solve the problem at hand: “Another thing we need to counteract is that even among wealthy people, it is not really the thing to go shopping right now.”

Ms. Wintour says that discounting at stores has “almost got out of hand.” In a public forum several weeks ago, she wondered aloud if the U.S. should consider the systems in place in France and England, where sales are government-regulated and held only during sanctioned time periods.

She and Mr. Kolb note that no one will enforce the hold-the-line stance on pricing during Fashion’s Night Out because that would violate U.S. antitrust laws.
Shoppers Still Queasy

The concept for Fashion’s Night Out was initially Ms. Wintour’s, and it came from Paris White Nights, during which museums stay open all night. She enlisted the help of Ms. von Furstenberg, who chairs the Council of Fashion Designers of America, and they approached New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who asked them to be sure to include all five boroughs of New York. Ms. Wintour brought in the editors of every Vogue edition, which spread the event internationally.

It is a sign of both the industry’s desperation and Ms. Wintour’s clout that participation in Fashion’s Night Out is expected to be so strong. (The Wall Street Journal is co-hosting an event that is on the evening’s calendar.)

But can fashionable entertainment persuade people to pay full price when they are still feeling queasy and bloated from over-spending?

Discounting is a matter of supply and demand. During the boom, luxury goods and fashion brands became so plentiful that they turned into commodities. Stores, carrying the same items around the world, were left to compete on little more than price when the recession set in. It is no coincidence that two brands that carefully control access to their productsermes and Louis Vuittonave fared well, even increasing revenue since the crash.
Placing Early Bets

For the upcoming season, stores placed their betsheir clothing ordersonths ago, cutting back their purchases by about 20%. They hope that is adequate to accommodate shrunken demand.

If consumers continue to cut back on shopping this fall, which seems possible given the poor employment situation, stores could be forced to discount to get rid of their inventory.

Still, it seems unlikely that shoppers will see the sort of deep discounting that happened last fall, when stores were chock-full of goods that had been ordered before the financial woes set in.

“Last year, it was et’s get out of this inventory at any cost,’ ” says Macy’s Inc.’s Chairman and Chief Executive Terry Lundgren of the discounting situation. “But now here we are nine months later, and we have inventory back in line so there isn’t a need for clearance,” he says. Ken Downing, fashion director for Neiman Marcus, says the “feeding frenzy” is over.

During the 1820s in European and European-influenced countries, fashionable women’s clothing styles transitioned away from the classically-influenced “Empire”/”Regency” styles of ca. 1795-1820 (with their relatively unconfining empire silhouette) and re-adopted elements that had been characteristic of most of the 18th century (and were to be characteristic of the remainder of the 19th century), such as full skirts and clearly visible corseting of the natural waist.

The silhouette of men’s fashion changed in similar ways: by the mid-1820s coats featured broad shoulders with puffed sleeves, a narrow waist, and full skirts. Trousers were worn for smart day wear, while breeches continued in use at court and in the country.

During the first half of the 1820s, there were slight gradual modifications of Regency styles, with the position of the waistline trending successively lower than the high waistline of the Regency (just below the breasts), and also further development of the trends of the late 1810s towards giving skirts a somewhat conical silhouette (as opposed to earlier more clinging and free-flowing styles), and in having various types of decoration (sometimes large and ornate) applied horizontally around the dress near the hem. Sleeves also began increasing in size , foreshadowing the styles of the 1830s. However, there was still no radical break with the Empire/Regency aesthetic.

During the second half of the 1820s, this neoclassical aesthetic was decisively repudiated, preparing the way for the main fashion features of the next ten to fifteen years (large sleeves, somewhat strict corseting of the natural waist, full skirts, elaborate large-circumference hats, and visual emphasis on wide sloping shoulders). Around 1826, fabrics with large bold checkerboard or plaid patterns were seen on various fashion plates (another contrast with the previous fashion period, which had favored small delicate pastel prints). A bustle was sometimes also worn. Belts accentuated the new defined waist.

Day gowns were often worn with a round ruffled linen collar similar to a soft Elizabethan ruff.

The late 1820s fashion plate (right) gives examples of late 1820s fashions; the rightmost outfit, with its smaller, shorter sleeves, non-whitish color scheme, and slightly lower neckline, is the evening dress.

Madame Marie Marcotte wears a brown gown with a wide buckled belt, full sleeves, and a sheer collar with shell buttons. Her hair is worn in elaborate curls on the sides and on top. 1826.
Viennese fashion plate of 1826. Stripes run in different directions on the skirt, hem and sleeves, and the hat is lined with plaid fabric and trimmed with a matching ribbon.
Comtesse de MacMahon wears a satin gown with a conical skirt trimmed with horizontal frills at the hem. Matching frills accent the new wide-puffed sleeves. She wears a large hat decorated with ostrich plumes, latter half of the 1820s.
Auguste Strobl wears a sheer overdress with full sleeves in the new fashion over a white gown with short puffed undersleeves. A wide ribbon sash is fastened with a gold buckle. German, 1827.
Sarah Stanton Blake wears a frilled indoor cap trimmed with sheer ribbon and a high-necked chemise or chemisette under her black gown and scarlet shawl. Massachusetts, c. 1827.
Evening gown of 1828 shows the beginnings of the dropped shoulder and wide sleeve puff that would flower in the 1830s. Hair is worn in elaborate side curls, and the knotted bun is higher on the crown of the head. German.
Regina Daxenberger wears sheer blue oversleeves with short puffed undersleeves. Her fitted bodice has pairs of waist darts, 1829. Men’s fashions

Overview

By the mid-1820s, men’s fashion plates show a shapely ideal silhouette with broad shoulders emphasized with puffs at the sleevehead, a narrow waist, and very curvy hips.

A corset was required to achieve the tiny waistline shown in fashion plates. Already de rigueur in the wardrobes of military officers, men of all middle and upper classes began wearing them, out of the necessity to fit in with the fashionable gentry. Usually referred to as “girdles”, “belts” or “vests” (as “corsets” and “stays” were considered feminine terms) they were used to cinch the waist to sometimes tiny proportions, although sometimes they were simply whalebone-stiffened waistcoats with lacing in the back. Many contemporary cartoonists of the time poked fun at the repressed nature of the tightlaced gentlemen, although the style grew in popularity nonetheless. This was the case especially amidst middle-class men, who often used their wardrobe to promote themselves, at least in mind, to a higher class – hence the dandy was born.

Shirts and cravats

Shirts of linen or cotton featured tall standing collars and were worn with wide cravats tied in a soft bow.

Coats and waistcoats

Coats and waistcoats had high shawl-like collars to frame the face and were cut straight across the waist. Waistcoats were buttoned high on the chest. Cutaway coats were worn as in the previous period for formal daywear, but the skirts might almost meet at the front waist.

Frock coats had the same nipped-in waist and full skirts. Very fashionable sleeves were gathered or pleated into a slightly puffed “leg of mutton” shape. Coats could be made of wool or velvet, and jewel colors like bottle green and midnight blue were high style. Double-breasted coats were very much in fashion throughout the decade.

Trousers and breeches

Full-length light-colored trousers were worn for day; these were cut full through the hips and thighs, tapering to the ankles. They were held smoothly in place by straps fastened under the square-toed shoes. Dark trousers were worn for evening wear, and breeches were worn for formal functions at the British court (as they would be throughout the century). Breeches were also worn for horseback riding and other country pursuits, especially in Britain, with tall fitted boots.

Hats and hairstyles

The crowns of tall hats also became curvy in keeping with the new style, and began to flare from the headband to the top. Curled hair and sideburns were fashionable.

President James Monroe wears a high shirt collar and white cravat tied in a wide bow. His jacket collar and lapels form a continuous curve very like a shawl collar. 1820-22.
Country clothes in the city: In this caricature by Richard Dighton, a stout man wears country clothes (breeches and riding boots) at the Royal Exchange in London. Hats of 1823 are not yet curvy, and the straight-bottomed waistcoat shows slightly below the coat in front.
French fashion plate shows an evening cape or manteau with a fur collar and shoulder cape, worn over dark formal breeches and double-breasted coat, 1823.
Conte Ninni wears a black coat with a tall collar and a slight puff at the sleeve head over a tall-collared white shirt and white cravat, 1825.
Francisco de Goya wears a gray coat over a satin single-breasted waistcoat and a tall-collared shirt that reaches to his ears, with a white cravat. Spanish, 1826.
Baron Schwiter wears a dark cutaway coat, waistcoat, and narrow fitted pantaloons or trousers. His flat shoes have square toes and bows on the instep, and are worn with white stockings, 1827.
Goethe wears a coat with a slight puff at the sleeve head, a satin lining turned back to form lapels, and a high contrasting collar over a patterned waistcoat. His white cravat is fastened with a gold pin. German, 1828.
In his self-portrait, Ferdinand Georg Waldmller wears a striped cravat and striped waistcoat, both in dull gold and blue, 1828.

Key Fashion Trends for Spring Summer 2009

For many people, the 2009 fashion season will be one not of ‘flaunt it’, but of ‘savour it.’ Spring and Summer 2009 is a season for ownership of carefully selected fashion garments and accessories at a cost conscious price point, but where quality counts.

By all means have your garment, but do wear it. It is more important than ever to make sure that your purchase is right at the till point, as one more unworn ‘brand new with tags’ garment six months later, is not an option for a tightly pulled purse.

The subtle, but futuristic refinements that are emerging have given a fresh impetus to fashion styles and trends, whilst embracing the need to abandon conspicuous consumption in the subdued economy of 2009. Observe how worthy fashion elements have been given the ultimate polish by designers and manufacturers.

In the credit squeezed world of 2009 the most noticeable fashion trend is of individuals grasping the fashion essence. The zeitgeist reaction to the recession economy has been to tune into the very best fashion trends which took hold in 2008.
The One-shoulder Dress 2009 Trend (Michelle Obama)
Leading Fashion Trend 2009

The one-shoulder dress is already the hot style of early 2009.

Right – A photo of the radiant and proudly beautiful Michelle Obama, a C21st woman, wearing her Jason Wu white Swarovski embellished CRYSTALLIZED evening gown for the Inauguration Evening Ball of the President of USA. Jason Wu is also the designer of the fuchsia pink dress Mrs Obama wears on the cover of Vogue. Fuchsia, a top spring colour is featured several times on this page.

Above Right – SS2009 – Aquascutum one-shoulder dress in the top tone of blue this year. The styling of this blue dress has been widely copied by retailers. You are reading an original Spring Summer Fashion Trends 2009 article by Pauline Weston Thomas at www.fashion-era.com
Yellow the Colour of 2009 – Michelle Obama Yellow

Yellow is THE Colour of 2009. Watch how it injects new vigour into fashion. Like the yellow glow of a dawn rise, citrine lemon and buttercup gold are the colours of hope, optimism, and new beginnings.
Michelle Obama – The New Fashion Icon

Michelle Obama has shown a clear eye for the newest of fashion colours. Take for example her choice of dress and coat for the Presidential Inauguration Ceremony on 21 January 2009. Mrs Obama’s lemongrass wool coat and dress of wool guipure lace, reflected yellow hues in the play of light on the wool guipure raised surface.

The true colour of her coat is hotly debated amongst the fashionistas, because in some images the colour looks citron green and in others lemon yellow. In yet different photographs (there were plenty) the tone appears an almost creamy yellow. The respected Isabel Toledo confirmed the colour was lemongrass. And everyone who has bought a stick of lemongrass or a lemon fruit, knows that colour shading well. To my way of thinking Mrs Obama’s coat has several tints that meet each other.

Those familiar with textile yarns know that quality wool yarns are often made of fibres dyed to be several different related colours. When carded, blended and spun together, this creates a more mesmerizing lively effect to the yarn, and in turn to the end material. The play of light on the helical wool fibre will also affect the colour tones reflected when viewed from different angles.

More Fashion Trends for Spring 2009
Paint Box Colour Blocking and Fondant Colours

Adamant fashion designers trod the path of soft fondant tints. For Spring 2009 they favour blushing pink beiges, neutrals, creamy whites, and tones of slate blue. Such softer dusty tones are easy tints to mix and match with existing black, navy or other neutrals, the result is a new more ladylike wardrobe.

Richard Nicoll was a prime example of a designer using colour blocking. However, many other fashion designers have injected statement colour into Spring 2009 clothes by using bright bold hues. While a few other creators played to the neutral palette.

Left – The pink way, striking colour blocking with blushing pink beige, rose to hot pink. All three pant variations are by Richard Nicoll. Note how we have two looks working here – the mixing of fondant tones in large colour blocks, and also the mixing of vibrant brights. Observe also the important boyfriend blazer style jacket.

Colour blocking with strong brights of hot pinks, orange, mango, tangerine and lime are popular. You will also see other brights such as lapis, Yves Klein blue, Santorini blue, lemon yellow, lime, orange and aqua jade tones. These garments can be worn alone or blocked together with the enthusiasm of the Dutch designer Mondrian.

In conclusion, expect bright colours that pop, shock and electrify to cheer up dull days. Mix and match bold colours in the latest silhouettes to add zest and a new tang to your existing wardrobe.
Top Tip – Black and White or Monochrome

Black and white has always been a winning colour scheme, and this year it combines animal prints with Mondrian style colour blocking. In particular look for monochrome effects based on zebra or giraffe prints with stripes and spots. The recent Spring 2009 Chanel Couture, show by Karl Lagerfeld, was an endless stream of white, and then black and white ensembles The high street has paid homage to the monochrome scheme as a foil for those who will never adopt neon bright colours. The monochrome look also translates well into the nautical / yachting / maritime themes which designers celebrate every year. This black and white fashion look is classic, and easy to develop on a budget, or by adapting existing wardrobe items.
Trends in Pant Shapes – Spring 2009

All three pant variations above are by Richard Nicoll. Wide legs, or narrow pants mean each silhouette can be equally fashionable on the right body shape. As usual, fashion is accommodating every purse. Some trousers may have more edge than others, but whether a wide, or narrow leg pant, 2009 is the ultimate year to wear the women’s trouser style that suits you most. For many this will be the pair of previously unworn wide pants already hanging in their closet, especially so if they are already in a strong colour. One trouser fashion to steer clear of is the nappy style pant.

Read more about the latest new styles of pants here.
Modesty in Fashion – Changes for 2009
Peek-a-Boo Sheers – More Modesty and Less Skin Coverage

In Spring 2009 you will see a trend developing for greater skin coverage. The bare-all too exposed fashions of previous seasons are now considered pass.

What we are now seeing are peek-a-boo sheers, sleeves and more modest, less revealing cuts. Many women protested at the bare-all fashion and went for self-styling where they covered up those bare arms with shrugs. Designers have finally taken notice of consumer mood and are reworking sleeves with new vigour, adding sheer fabrics to dcolletage and bringing hemlines down.

Ladylike cover up is in fashion. It is a signal of the more self assured woman. Even the latest jumpsuits are cut in many lengths from playsuit length, mid calf to ankle length. The new trophy jacket is the timeless alternative.

Left – Peek-a-boo sheers and texture are a big trend for 2009. The dress is a Swarovski embellished CRYSTALLIZED Jason Wu Spring 2009 catwalk dress and has textured sheer fabric to dcolletage. Images courtesy Swarovski.
Top Trend – Be Yourself & Live in Your Own Skin
Tan No More

Now that the orange glow, and fake mahogany tans, are truly dead in the water there is less desire to show flesh; instead there is a new desire to simply display the natural skin tones of birthright. Indeed, natural skin is the most acceptable. Women like Michelle Obama and Dita Von Teese are very different, but each is beautiful and very fashionable in their own skin. You may have noticed a trend in this year’s publicity shots – all the models are showing their own glowing skin base colour, whatever their race. Whether honey, brown, black, pink or milky white, living in your own skin is the biggest fashion trend of all.

KEY FASHION TREND ALERT
Heavy Embellished Hem Emphasis

Now is the time to embrace wearable glamour in the form of texture with crunchy lace fabrics, guipure lace, crinkled chiffons, raised brocades and tucked raised pleating trims.

Folkloric, blackwork and ikat embroidery, fringe and feathers are other textures to consider.

Add drama with silk foulard satin fabrics with surface sheen which glisten and gleam.

Texture, sheen and print is found on everything from dresses to earrings and belts to shoes, bangles and bags.

Left – Asos.com SS09 evening dresses – Textured ribbon lace Oriental Embellished Dress 65.
Centre Right – Prize winning black feather frill dress from the Royal College of Art in association with Oasis collection.
Far Right – Erdem simple 20′s inspired shift dress with Crystallized Swarovski decoration and pleated raised fabric appliqu areas to hem.
Note that lemon grass colour again.

This year exotic, animal and Amer-Afro tribal prints will also continue to be seen across women’s fashion and accessories and giving options to those who are more minimalist in outlook and never wear florals.
Important Trend for Shoulders

Shoulders have been gaining considerable attention from designers.

The importance of the changing sleeve and now the widening/wavering shoulder line has been growing over the past few years, first with three quarter and elbow lengths and blouson or ruffle flounce frill effects. Now the clear development is toward puff, leg of mutton, batwing fullness and kimono drapery. Kimono sleeves grace dresses, tunic tops and coats.

Right – Erdem dress with Crystallized Swarovski surface raise decorated sleeves creating fuller shoulders.
KEY PIECE FASHION TREND – The Dress

There is a continued love affair with the dress, in particular the simple shift and now the A-line shift dress has gained a following. Women have always loved the way a dress is so easy to wear, but the newest lines transform it swathes of fabric that twist and wrap. The result is to make a Grecian goddess out of the most ordinary woman whether the dress is cocktail occasion or maxi style.

Even two shoulder dresses are given the asymmetric look, as this pink cocktail dress left by Vera Mont shows. The first impression is of the dress being one shoulder, yet it firmly covers both shoulders. Look out for innovative dresses that are inspired by the one-shoulder look.

Right – Vera Mont Spring Summer 2009 ‘Fatal Attraction’ sheath dress 360/IRL ?10.00 – Material: 63% polyester, 33% polyamide, 4% Elastane. Dress Style No: 2163/3130.

The feminine styling of this figure-hugging dress in stretch taffeta enhances the natural silhouette. Unusual gathering, an asymmetrical neckline and the brooch as an extra highlight, reinterpret the classic sheath dress.
Asymmetric Fashion Trend – Dresses with One Shoulder

The full prom skirt has become a norm for special occasion wear. The bare shoulder prom look dress is making way for the ladylike silhouette of the one shoulder dress. The bandeau bustier bare shoulder look has been in vogue for bridal and evening dresses for over a decade. Time to move those occasion dresses and prom gowns on into the next fashion decade of the twenty-teens. 2010 will be here before you know it.

The newer dress styles favour more interesting one-shoulder detail or attention-grabbing skirt layers. Tops, swimsuits and floor length maxi gowns are all a sign of the strength of this trend.

Left and near left printed blue dresses worn by guests at Swarovski sponsored function.
Bright Blue ‘Hare Place’ dress by Aquascutum. Far right print dress – River Island Clothing Co. Ltd Spring 2009 – 80s Paint splash dress 59.99.
The Dress Silhouette
The 60s A-line Shift Dress Fashion Trend – Spring Summer 2009

For this summer 2009 the dress fashion trend most likely to win over every age group is the 60s A-line shift dress like the central blue dress below. The A-line styles are often embellished at the jewel neckline. This is such a wearable silhouette whatever the age group – no wonder Michelle Obama selected the style for her lemongrass coat and matching Inauguration dress. It is a silhouette that helps the wearer feel at ease, and that A-line is much more forgiving of creasing and crumpling. It is also a good disguise over heavier hips and thighs, smoothing and flowing over lumps, bumps and bellies.

Another great disguise for lumps and bumps is drapery and this is evident in a gradually widening skirt silhouette. This style is achieved through designers employing double layer skirts.
TOP TREND – Draping
The Goddess Draped Dress Fashion Trend – Spring Summer 2009

Drapery focusing on the waist or side waist was a catwalk special in Autumn/Winter 2008/9. Now this fashion style has been taken up by retailers everywhere.

Along with the one shoulder dresses observe how the dresses show more modest bodice lines offering plenty of coverage. Note too, the use of a gradually wider A-line silhouette, side or centre drapery in the form of gathers, tucks pleats and bow ties. The changes are subtle but the inclination toward more modest looks is gaining ground.

Left – Wallis Spring Summer 09 – Metallic One-shoulder dress 55/?0.
Centre Left – Matalan Dresses – Et Vous ruffle asymmetric shoulder dress 25 – Matalan SS09 Women’s Apparel.
Centre – Wallis Spring Summer 09 – Beaded neck shift dress 60/?5.
Centre Right – Wallis Spring Summer 09 – Draped deep v-neck dress 40/?0.
Far Right – Dorothy Perkins Spring Summer 09 – Pink bubble hem dress with bow 45 ?0.

Dresses of various styles and colour types are a continuing important fashion trend for 2009 and you can see many more on the dress page. Hot colours include lapis, shocking neon pink and flesh tones as above.
Draped Drop Shoulder Tops, Kaftan Lines and Draped Skirts

It’s worth noting how this draping is affecting every silhouette not just the dress. These tops and skirts are all defined by architectural draping and the newer peg top trousers make use of the same swathe and folding qualities.

Kaftan silhouette tunics with easy batwing flowing sleeves, or dropped shoulder 1980s style tops and kimono sleeves are relaxed and easy to wear. All are ideal fashions for summer wear, perfect with jeans, shorts or other trousers. They are especially utilitarian as beach and spa wear worn over swimwear.

The rose printed floral materials or exotic tribal prints are such strong patterns that they can easily compete with the bold brights. There is a fabric and colour suit every woman.

Above Left – River Island Clothing Co. Ltd. Floral sculpture dress 34.99. SS09 WW Hero Pieces
Centre Left – Principles Spring Summer 2009 Asymmetric draped top in orange.
Centre Right – Next Spring Summer 2009 – Womenswear Ruched Skirt 35/?0.
Far Right – Littlewoods Direct Spring Summer 2009 – Seam detail jersey top 22.
KEY PIECES – New Trouser Styles/Jumpsuits
Narrower Pant Leg Silhouettes & Peg Top or Carrot Top Trouser Styles

Tapered narrow pants first edged their way into fashion with leggings and skinny jeans. Last Autumn/ Winter 2008/9 saw the rising popularity of coloured and textured tights. Hosiery looks became more popular than since the 1980s and the fashion history progression is proving to be very similar.

If you have loved wearing dark coloured tights for winter consider pastel hosiery options for spring. White tights were a big look in the 1960s and their time may well have come again as a transitional fad for cool spring days.

For summer, ankle length narrow pants or jeans rolled up for an edgier look are beating a path to a retailer near you. Worn with a full skirted dress or top, cropped leggings or calf length trousers and jeans are still one of summer’s fun ways of wearing the pants.

Narrow pants can be made extra snug fitting at the ankle with zip or button trims. Multiple haberdashery on clothing is big news this summer. Many of these styles also have peg-top waist styling and button closures without zip.

Left – Principles Spring Summer 2009 – Grey printed hook up skirt dress 75.00/ ?15 Grey multi strand waist belt 32.00/?9 Pewter peep toe shoes, all from a selection at Principles.

Above Right – Principles Spring Summer 2009 – Fashion model wears a Neutral hook up shirt 55.00 with a Chocolate suede all over tassel cross body bag 45.00 and Chocolate silk washed trousers 55.00; Pink paisley print silk scarf 29.00. Shoes and jewellery selection from Principles.

Summer Dresses 2009 – Latest Fashion Looks

This article is about pretty and sophisticated summer dresses for 2009. I will cover the latest silhouette, the fabric type, colours and patterns. It is interesting to compare trends of previous recessions with those of fashion looks in 2009. For example, increased modesty in dress with longer, fuller skirts, more reserved necklines, wider shoulders and billowing sleeves capping or encasing arms. Despite recession hardship there will always be women who want fashionable clothes at affordable prices.

The 2009 Summer Dress Silhouette

In fashion history terms it is now very easy to see how the dress for 2009 is moving from a straight silhouette to A-line. The profile is getting much wider at skirt and shoulder level, and is balanced with a longer hemline.

Observe how many of the dresses on this page illustrate the use of a wider A-line silhouette, drapery, tucks, pleats and bows. Almost all are combined with that other strong new fashion trend of greater modesty at the neckline. Most of these frocks have more modest sweeping jewel or boat necklines rather than ultra low revealing dcollet.

Less formal dresses are the easy A-line 60′s shifts, or Kimono sleeve dresses that morph into tunics when worn over trousers.

Asymmetric one shoulder dresses are leading the way for occasion and evening wear styles, although there are also plenty of prom fairy style dresses and maxi dresses too. You are reading an original article about fashions in summer dresses for 2009, author Pauline Weston Thomas at www.fashion-era.com Copyright 2009
Bold Dresses for Spring 2009

All manner of styles have appeared for Spring 2009 with both customers and retailers taking the dress to heart. These two dresses above right are by Celine. Both Celine dresses illustrate the fashion trendsetter elements with the loose painted on dye fabric effect, the widening longer line skirt and wider shoulder line.

This is a pivotal change in the everyday silhouette and worthy of note. For not only is the dress now a norm, but it also comes in a wide array of silhouette styles.

Paint Box Watercolour Brushstroke Colours

Plain bold colours, or monochrome schemes, produce powerful yet summery looks. Newer fabric decoration gives full rein to the paint box. Painted-on colour using wide brushstrokes of watercolour, plus soft dreamy Ombre effects, create a kaleidoscope of colour yet are blended to art palette perfection.

Floral roses, trailing blooms of sweet peas and daisies combine to create watercolour like prints. Fabrics done in a painterly manner allow whole gardens to be brought to dresses, as shown by the dresses above. Such patterns suit the classic waisted fifties dress so well.
Right – TK Maxx Floral Print Dress. 49.99 Spring Summer 09 Dresses.

The tunic dress above left, by Michael Angel, is in an abstract wet-on-wet watercolour material similar to the styles of fabrics from Celine shown top of the page.

These dye print/ombre/brushstroke/tie-dye effects are so new they blur the boundaries of traditional pattern and prints, the result is to invent fabrications that have the look of hand painting and hand-screen printing.

Blue is an important colour this year, and fused with aquamarine green or purple mauve it becomes like a vibrant psychedelic dream.

The blue and sea green dress right, and which reflects all the colours of the sea, is from Warehouse Spring 2009 Womenswear.
Warehouse Impact Print Dress 60/?5, Necklaces start from 14/?2, Sandals 28/?5.

Prints help to fashion a more ethereal and exotic effect. Fabrics are layered or given additional texture with brocade surface interest and the play of metallic, satin and silk fabrics combine to add surface depth.

Designers are using the artist palette in its full range even in animal prints. We are seeing patterns from zebra to leopard, which are much more exotic than in previous years; what makes the difference is the rich jewel hues.

Bright colour is one of the strongest fashion statements of the season. This vivid blue paint brushstroke halter maxi dress left is from TK Maxx and bears striking print imagery similar to the designer fabrications above.

Left – Multicoloured blue mix halter-neck maxi dress 29.99 Spring Summer 09 Dresses TK Maxx (Limited availability on items at TK Maxx).
Japanesque Details

Stylised statement is the key to Japanesque detail, for example, print fabrics with meandering motif ornamentation that have bold Ikebana styled flora and grasses like this Monsoon maxi dress. Maxi dresses offer a large canvas of fabric, and are wonderful to display the largest of lone motifs as a bold single work of art

Fashion Colour 2009
Key Trends for Spring & Summer

Fashion Colour Trends 2009

2009 is awash with the colour of bold brights and lively hues; the result is to make a dull gloomy economy seem brighter, even when optimism is low. Like the sixties, the eighties were littered with large canvases of the boldest and brightest colours. Then the sombre dark urban looks of the nineties reduced the fashion colour palette to a diet of black, navy, camel or taupe. What a relief it was earlier in this decade to see colour re-emerge and bring back variety to a woman’s wardrobe, lighting her face, enabling her to make the best of herself.

Whilst some designer opted for soft pastels for Spring 2009 fashion others, including Sinah Stanic, selected the boldest of vibrant brights including Fuchsia Red a top colour for Spring Summer 2009. This glorious statement making, asymmetric Sinah Stanic designer dress is available at Harvey Nichols. See more bold brights on the main Spring 2009 Looks page.
Spring 2009 Top Colour Trend Tip

My top tip for forward looking outfits in fashion colours for 2009 is to either choose colour blocking with daring striking hues, or opt for more subtle monochrome looks of black and white/cream. The monochrome scheme is the perfect solution to those who will never step out of their comfort zone of black, faded black and greige.

In all areas of lifestyle products companies produce colour cards for designers and manufacturers to work with. For 45 years Pantone, has been the world colour authority offering precision colour charts that mean the same thing to supplier and buyer even if they are working in different continents.

If you want accuracy with your colours for any industry requirement, then Pantone is the service that provides a world recognised system of colour charts. Referencing Pantone colours will ensure accuracy and consistency when manufacturers create their commodities. Pantone colour directions are a reliable guide to the colours we will see in the next year. Left – Pantone’s Spring 2009 fashion colour report, available from the Pantone website. Press information is courtesy of www.pantone.com/spring2009.
Pantone Press Release for Spring Colour 2009

Colour fashions evolve from season to season, and the autumn of 2008 saw blue and purple rise to the forefront of fashion. Each season, Pantone surveys the designers of New York Fashion Week to collect feedback on prominent collection colours, colour inspiration and colour philosophy. Blue was clearly a winner with both Pantone’s Palace Blue and Lavender the hot blue favourites for 2009.

According to the Pantone Press Release for Spring Colour 2009, blue and purple lead the top 10 hues for spring 2009. The fashion palette includes pops of vibrant colour which represent the optimism of new life that comes with the spring season. This is combined with sophisticated neutrals and a spectrum of fresh greens.

Pantone list their top 10 spring ’09 fashion colours as:

Palace Blue, Lavender,
Super Lemon, Dark Citron,
Vibrant Green, Lucite Green,
Salmon Rose, Fuchsia Red
Rose Dust and Slate Gray

To the eight brights, Pantone add neutrals Rose Dust and Slate Gray. Neutrals are always necessary to add contrast and impact to these vivid and stronger colours. Left – The colours of Spring Summer 2009 shown here all in one garment. Stills Maxi Dress and available from John Lewis stores.
Above Right – The colours Pantone favour for Spring 2009.

Key Trousers and Pant Style Fashion Trends for Spring & Summer 2009

Even with world in recession, people still have to wear clothes, so if it’s trousers that you are choosing you select a style which suits you. The secret is to tune into the best of trouser fashion whilst keeping an eye on value and quality for money.

KEY PIECES – IMPORTANT TREND ALERT – New Trousers Style /Jumpsuits

At the close of the noughties decade several changes are occurring in the fashion history of ladies trouser wear. Pants are reinventing themselves, although the current styles are still too new to compete with the importance of the dress.

The first trend to note in 2009 sees is the rise of the trouser leg to above ankle. What fabric has been lost at the ankle has been added above waist, with high bands and peg-top carrot shaping. Secondly, trousers have joined up with tops to form the retro all-in-one jumpsuit, flying suit, or playsuit. Because of the high street availability of the jumpsuit in so many different styles I have written a page just about the fashion trend for all-in-one jumpsuits.
VOLUME – Narrower Looking Silhouette to Trouser Legs

2009 is the year of wearing any pant style you fancy. Go retro thrift, or buy new. Whichever option you take will be spot on fashion wise.

The noticeable trend is the return of narrow legs and peg top waists. But these too sit happily beside wide leg trousers.

Skinny jeans and footless tights/hosiery were the forerunner of some of autumn 2008 pant styles with a much slimmer lower leg and often cropped above the ankle. The legs are frequently so narrow that a zip or button fastening aids dressing.

The new narrower pants for 2009 combine several ideas, and variations lend themselves to alterative names, such as carrot top pants, dhoti or harem pants.

Right – River Island Clothing Co. Ltd Spring 2009 -
Fuchsia one shoulder satin top 34.99, Black ‘Nicola’ three quarter zip detail trouser 34.99, Blue snakeskin ‘Whoop’ platforms 54.99.

Above Left – Miss Selfridge – Fashion styles for Spring 2009.
Carrot Top Trousers Style – Peg Top Looks

A popular 1980s fashion trend was the easy peg top trouser which today returns in several guises.

Right now the peg top is growing as the newest pant style to be seen wearing. Most new slim leg pants have upper fullness or volume usually tapering to a narrow leg or cuff. Some harem pants (shown further down) have great lower volume too.

Note how plenty of ankle is on display.

Expect to see plenty of carrot-top trousers, so called not because of their colour, but because they have similar silhouette to a tapering carrot. The peg-top fullness is at the waistline and some trousers can be moderately streamlined. Others drape into extra gathers at ankle or have a low calf tapered finish.

Left – Dorothy Perkins – Buy of the Month using the hottest colour of the year lemon yellow. Dorothy Perkins Spring 2009 – Origami top 28 ?4, Grey peg leg trousers 30 ?5.

Far Right – Denim homage – Peg Leg Jeans 28, Peep Toe Sling Backs 60, Crop Top 16, Denim Quilted Bag 18 all from Asos.com Spring/Summer 2009 Womenswear Fashion Collection.

Glamorous Satin Pants

Note how these pants are made in every fabric from denim to lustrous fabrics such as satin. Sometimes these satin versions are called pyjama pants.

Far Left – Flat shot of Littlewoods Carrot trousers.

Far Right – Flat shot of Wallis Peg satin top trousers 35/?5 – Wallis Spring Summer 09.

Centre Left – Rocha – John Rocha cropped leather jacket 190/?94 Star by Julien Macdonald embellished top 35/?4, Satin trousers 35/?4, Red Herring scarf 15/?3.50, Rocha. John Rocha shoulder bag embellished circle detail 65/?01.

Centre Right – Grey pants from Spring/Summer 2009 Womenswear within Debenhams.

All items by Designers at Debenhams Spring/Summer 2009 Womenswear.
Dhoti Pants

As you can see from the styles illustrated here that the main fashion trend factor is that the leg, from waist to ankle, resembles a carrot in shape.

One step from the carrot style is the dhoti pant, and then the harem pant. Some dhoti pants taper to such tight narrowness they have many buttons to ensure an ankle hugging close fit.

These pants right are from Benetton and look fresh and new in style. These and other even fuller pants available at Benetton and elsewhere owe much to the original rapper styling designed for dance movement and handstands.

Be warned, the lines between these styles are fine. The pair shown right are very moderate in crutch depth, but extra deep dhoti styles are on offer. Just take care you don’t step into ranges that owe much resemblance to baggy diaper nappies.
Volume – Wider Leg Trousers & Harem Pants

As you can see any width of pant is a fashion hit.

The most important trend within wide trousers is of strong bold colours. Rich bold bright wide pants in pink, blue and Santorini blue or lapis shout 2009 styles of wider leg pants.

Any Width of Pants

Summer of course also means holidays, and in these relaxed carefree days white pants look wonderful in summer sunshine. White trousers are frequently designed to be very wide legged.

The white wide leg trousers above left are from Phase Eight Spring Summer 2009 Campaign Shots.
Details – Phase Eight – Kay Linen Jacket 75.00 Linen Trousers 50.00.
Right – White trousers by New Look Spring/Summer 2009 Women’s Collection – Patent hooded jacket 25, Limited Edition pearl embellished T shirt 28, Limited Edition trousers 25, Navy pumps 10.

Many stores also show pants with high waists set on deep buttoned bands flowing into wide flared legs. Another variation are the pants with turn-ups or button only closures adding a true maritime feel.

Above:- Far Left/ Centre Left – French Connection SS09 Navy Wide Leg Trousers- 70 Ladieswear Spring 2009.
Centre Right – Wallis Spring Summer 09 – Ivory White wide leg trousers 40/?0.
Far Right – French Connection Ladieswear Spring 2009 White Wide Leg Cotton Trousers – 80.
Blue Trousers Fashion

Blue trousers in any fabric are a summer fashion must-have.

You can opt for denim, like these dark navy denim boot flares from Linea at House of Fraser.
Purple dip dye scarf 25 Linea Weekend, Flower print top 29 Linea Weekend, Indigo crease front jeans 45 by Linea Weekend – House of Fraser Womenswear & Accessories SS09.

Near Left – Boot-cut jeans from Linea Spring Summer 2009 Collection.

But don’t forget blue silk, or blue linen trousers, which have a summery feel without the industrial toughness of denim.

Distressed Denim Jeans

One of the looks for summer is the retro denim theme.

This year you can choose from any jean texture, dark coloured, acid distressed or stone washed denim fabrics with, or without extra Lycra.

You can also select the style from skinny to boyfriend baggies; the ankles can be flared boot leg or cropped or turn ups. All are the right jeans and if peg-top styles suit you, then find denim jeans made up in the carrot pants silhouette too.

If you don’t have the patience to distress and shred the jeans yourself, UK high street retailers like Oasis, Benetton’s and Miss Selfridge all have versions to suit.

Details Above:- Far Left – TBC. Centre Left – Benetton – Cotton mousseline shirt with boat neckline, Style n: 5BW15QW03, Sizes: XS – L. Delav denim trousers with vintage effect, Style n: 4D08Z7105, Sizes: 38 – 48.
Centre – Benetton Wide delav denim trousers with turn-up, Style n: 4F6FZ5324, Poplin cotton empire-style top with print, Style n: 5A1LST024, Sizes: XS – L. Centre Right – Oasis torn jeans – TBC.
Far Right – Dark jeans from Principles Spring Summer 2009 – Taupe tape cardigan 49.00/?9, Ceylon mixed print tunic 49.00/?9, Slim boot cut jeans 39.00/?9, Chocolate suede all over tassel cross body bag 45.00/?9.
Top Denim Tip – Do It Yourself Distressing

DO-IT-YOURSELF denim makes the ultimate credit crunch chic opportunity. Therefore give your imagination full rein and start shredding, bleaching, stonewashing those old jeans. So get trashing that denim.
Jumpsuits Are Coming

It is not just jeans that get the denim treatment, but also jumpsuits and shorts make up beautifully in this material. Read more about jumpsuits on the next page.

Both these all in one jumpsuits have 80s flying suit influence.
This blue denim jumpsuit left is from www.asos.com and is hot off the press.

The military influenced natural jumpsuit right is from the value for money store Matalan.
Right – Matalan Papaya linen blend jumpsuit 18 from Matalan SS09.

Teen Fashion, Body Piercing and Tattooing

Body piercing, dyed hair, shaved heads and tattoos. Should teen fashion be cause for concern or celebration?
For many teens, hair and clothing is as important to them as food and water. Whether it’s tattooing, body piercing, or the latest look in clothing, teens express themselves through what they wear and how they look. And if we remember, so did we. That’s because adolescence is a time when kids are creating their own separate identity , and a large part of that is expressed through fashion.

This self expression is a short lived phase, which parent educator Sue Bourque believes should be celebrated. “In our whole life, in our one time, there is a very small window of opportunity between the years of 13 and 19 where it’s okay to have blue hair, a shaved head, holey jeans. This window of opportunity is an opportunity for us as well to celebrate the changes that our teens are going through and their growth into adulthood.”

While it may not be too difficult to accept teens shaving their heads or dying their hair, many parents become concerned when their teens want a tattoo simply because they are aware that a teen’s tattoo will still be there well after the fashion fad has faded. Bourque suggests that “when a child comes to you and says I’m thinking of getting a tattoo, educate that child. We can do that by telling them to talk about it with a doctor and ask about medical concerns (such as) if you go to a tattoo parlor and you get a dirty needle.”

Bourque also suggests discussing with your teen “what happens if once you have tattoos you go out and are looking for work. How will that employer view you? Our teens need this information and they should go out and find it themselves.”

Overall, Bourque reminds parents and all adults to not judge a teen by the cover. “Parents can focus too much on the physical things that are happening to their kids and the styles they’ve taken on and forget that this is a commendable young person who is struggling valiantly to reach adulthood.”

Hair Styles Your Personal Hair Style

One of the most important things to remember, whether you are trying to freshen up an existing look or redefine your image with a new cut or hair color, is your hairstyle should fit your lifestyle. In other words, think about the kind of activities you enjoy the most. If you are active, sporty and do not enjoy taking time getting yourself ready for the day, you need a low maintenance hair style; consider a short cut that is wash and go, or a long, straight look that can be swept back with a simple headband. On the other hand, if you are a teen who loves to constantly change your look, adores time spent with the blow dryer and can’t decide whether to crimp or curl, you can probably handle a cut that requires more daily attention; you may want a medium length or long hair style since you will be able to vary it daily and you can handle the maintenance that a longer layered cut or highlights will require.

Next, think about the image you want to convey. Certainly, you want to be attractive and a good hair cut is a great step toward that goal. However, there is more to personal style than that. Do you want people to see you as practical? Romantic? Sporty? Edgy? Emo? A good teen hair style, along with your makeup and clothing, can say any of these things about you. Assessing Your Tresses

Remember that your hair has some say in the matter of the style you ultimately wear. The texture of your tresses will affect the type of cut that will work the best for you. While curly hair may be straightened and straight hair can be curled, choosing a style that is at odds with your hair’s natural state can mean longer hours spent coaxing and cajoling your locks. For example, if you have thick, curly hair, a wispy pixie cut may just not be the right teen hair style for you.

You should also look at your facial shape and bone structure and follow the classic rules for picking hair styles.
If you have a round face: look to styles that lengthen and slim; an off-center part can help with this, as can cuts that build height and volume. Avoid anything that poofs out to the sides since this will only make your face look wider.
If you have an oblong face: you want to add some width to the look. Avoid long, straight, hair with no tapering; on the other hand, long bangs or face-framing layers can be great choices.
For triangular faces: teens with wide chins may want to choose cuts that balance the proportions between the forehead and chin. Medium and long hair cuts are better at this, especially if the hair is tapered around the face. Picking the Best Teen Hair Style

Once you have considered all of these factors and have some ideas, you are ready to decide on your hair style. Look for pictures of teen hair styles you think are attractive. Do your favorite celebrities have hair styles you want to emulate? Do the models have similar facial shapes? Does their hair texture seem as though it may be like yours? Clip a few of your favorite choices from magazines, or print looks you find on teen web sites to show to your hair stylist. Discuss your goals with your stylist since he or she may have some personal suggestions that will work well for you.

Want to take some of the risk out of your new hair style? Take a digital picture of yourself and use an online hair style service (most have a small subscription fee) such as Stellure to try different hairstyles with your face to get an idea of how you’ll look.

Hairstyles

Caring for hair can be time consuming… more so if you’re active in sports and find yourself showering a lot. Naturally, long hair takes considerably more time to care of while short hair is easy to manage and can be styled quickly. So choose a hairstyle that fits in with your lifestyle.

Facial shape:
This one of the most important factors when deciding on a haircut. Hair can be easily manipulated to highlight or de-emphasize certain features. It can add angles to a round face or play down a large nose. The possibilities are endless.
Usually faces are of three shapes — round, long and square.

If your face is round, add length to your face by having fullness on the top of head. It can also be achieved by either having no parting or one which is placed to one side. Avoid styles where hair is very long and straight or flat at the top of your head.

For a long face, the forehead, cheek bones and jaw are often of equal width and this can be hard, so a soft hair style is usually more flattering. Avoid center parting and dead straight shoulder length hair but aim at a short one.

Square face has an angular shape and any hairstyle should be gentle to soften the outline. Shoulder length hair, flicking at the ends or straight, is flattering and so is a short style flicking away from the face at ear-level. Hair swept to one side or with a diagonal fringe is attractive.

Personality:
Particular hairstyles project certain looks. Long hair is perceived as being feminine and sexy. Short, cropped hair is seen as being sporty and/or business like. But rarely sexy.

When you go in for your next haircut, tell them what “personality” you want your hair to project. A good stylist can give you what you want.

Versatile Haircut The all-around haircut

Our hair frames our face and the way it is cut and done should highlight the best features of our face.

However, inasmuch as there are so many hairstyles out there that we can pick and choose from, there are some haircut styles that may look good on some but not on others. A hairstyle we may like may not look good on us, and mainly because that haircut does not flatter the shape of our face.

A woman with a round face should wear her hair in such a way that it lessens the width of her face and should go for hairstyles that add length. In contrast, hairstyles that add length should be avoided by women with long faces, and these women should go for hairdos that add width to the face.

Read more on best hairdos for your face.

But whatever the shape a woman face may have, there are indeed a few haircuts that would look good on her regardless. This all-around hairstyle is so simple and versatile that it would look good not just on any type of face, but also on any kind of occasion.

What are the elements of this all-around haircut that goes well with any shape of the face?
There are two elements to the all-around hairstyle.

The first element is layering. The layers of the hair should act as arrows that direct the eyes to whoever is looking at you to the best features of your face, such as the eyes, the lips or the cheekbones. So, the layers of your hair should be done to the front of the face, rather than in the back. However, avoid having your layers done too short; hair layers should not fall above the eye or above the earlobes.

The second element is length. Try to keep the length of your hair to just about your shoulders. Long hair that falls to the middle of the back and cut without any shape or layers should be left to teenage girls.

But if you want to wear your hair long, wear it with layers around your face. Also, have the length at the back cut to a round shape, or a V-shape. Long hair cut straight and without any shape can make a woman look either too old or too juvenile, but long hair that is done with layers and with the ends shaped at the back can make you look sophisticated and sexy.

The all-around haircut is perfect for any face, regardless of the shape. Why don you try it and see for yourself?

To Blow Dry or To Air Dry?

Should the hair be blow dried or air dried?
It is a matter of preference, actually. Some people do not have much time to devote to styling their hair, or want to achieve the maximum styling they can get for their hair, so they opt for blow-drying it. On the other hand, there are some people who think that blow-drying is a waste of electricity and is the quickest way of damaging the hair, so they opt to have it air dried.

Which is better, you may ask?
Both ways of drying the hair have their advantages and disadvantages, and there are proper and improper ways of doing both. Read on and find out what these are.

Air drying. Air drying is usually done by people who have short and low-maintenance hairstyles, or by people with curly hair. There are also people who have long hair yet have their hair air dry, as air drying does not subject the hair to excessive heat. Therefore, the hair is not as susceptible to damage as hair that is blow dried.

If you are going to have your hair air dried, it is very important to remember that the hair is at its weakest when it is wet. So, take care not to rub your hair dry with the use of a towel. The friction caused by rubbing the hair with a towel will make the hair brittle and eventually break. Rather than rubbing it, you should instead blot the moisture out of your hair with the towel. Also, be careful not to tug or pull at your hair that much when it is still wet. Once the water is blotted out of the hair, fluff it out with your fingers.

Blow Drying. Blow drying the hair is the most convenient way of doing it, and because most people live fast-paced lives, blow drying the hair is the way most people want to do it. Moreover, drying the hair using a blower adds volume to the hair. But inasmuch that blow drying is very convenient, it is also dangerous to the hair, especially if overdone. It can make the hair very brittle.

If you blow dry your hair, make sure that it is not soaking. Blot the water out with a towel first. Do not hold the dryer too close to your head; keep it at least six inches away from your hair and move the dryer constantly around your head. Protect the outer strands of your hair from being over-dried by bending over and blow drying your hair with your hair hanging upside down. Also, try not to dry your hair completely with the blow dryer. Stop while the hair is still slightly damp.

Whether you air dry your hair or you blow dry it is completely your own choice based on your own lifestyle and preferences. But whatever you do, always remember that the hair is fragile. Be careful while handling it.

Blonde Sheer Blonde

Ok blondes, we all know you love to soak up that sun but so does your hair. Natural sun and heat damages your hair vaporizing all the moisture needed for your hair to look healthy and shiny. Texture doesn really matter nor does the shade of blonde, as they all are more prone to damage in the sun. Frizz is common in the summer and with good conditioner and frizz control you can look like any celebrity.

Try Frizz-ease or Split Ends by BC Bonicure to control frizz after or before your blow dry. For added protection apply a blow dry sealer before you start to blow dry your hair. It will protect your blonde hair from heat and this is for high damage control. There are also newer sprays and conditioners specifically formulated with SUV protectants helping your hair from damage. For a great feel try Back to Basics – Kiwi

If your hair starts to go a green from being in the water a little too much, Resolve by JOICO is highly recommended. It will strip the chlorine buildup letting your hair breathe. Eventually you’ll get back to your great color.
Sheer Blonde is available at most drug stores. It’s formulated to enhance your blonde while protecting it from further damage.

Frederic Fekkai Baby Blonde Conditioner is a daily conditioner and enhances your hair with a great shine. Using sunflower seed oil, lemon peel and other natural products it helps with your hair’s elasticity and this product is used specifically for color treated blonde hair.

For further protection, use a wide toothed comb or pick while your hair is wet. If you need a great detangler, BC Bonicure Spray Moisturizer is the best product on the market for detangling those hard annoying tangles.

Blonde will always have high maintenance and expensive to maintain. The tips above are to help you in between visits to your stylist. It still more fun to be blonde at any cost!

Hair Color Hot Tips on Hair Color

There just something so sexy about being a woman. Buying new lingerie, donning a new look with a great makeover, trying out a new hairstyle or hair color? We all need a change sometimes, and what better to change than the color of our hair?

Dyeing our hair a new shade shifts us into a new sense of being, gives us a new persona to assume and fulfill. We can be the boisterous blonde we never were, the seductive brunette, the electric redhead or the mysterious ebony-haired beauty. And with this exciting new shade also comes a stunning blast of self-confidence and invigoration.

Changing the color of our hair gives us freedom and a sense of renewal, even if the only thing different from yesterday to today is the color of the strands on our heads. Depending on your comfort levels, you can try at-home coloring kits or you can make an appointment with your stylist. Opt for highlights only or color your entire mane for the ultimate head-turning factor.

Tips and Tricks:

Try to stick pretty close to your natural hair color if it is your first time. This way it won be the end of the world when your roots start growing in.

Also, you might consider a temporary washout color treatment if you are a beginner. This gives you the freedom and flexibility to remedy the situation if you don like the new color of your hair.

If you opt for do-it-yourself highlights, have a family member or a friend help you, if possible. It is always nice to have another set of eyes to guide you through things you cannot clearly see. Mirrors may be deceiving, so having someone there to help really could be the difference between an okay dye job and an excellent one.

Follow the instructions closely and thoroughly. No skipping steps. Test a small area of your hair as instructed, just to be sure you aren allergic to anything in the dye.

Leave your hair down as you color it and you will achieve a more even look. Pinning your hair on top of your head leaves more to chance.

Part hair into sections and apply color from roots to ends, starting near the temples. Double-check the instructions to be sure you are following them properly.

To prevent hair from dripping on your skin, apply a thin layer of moisturizer or petroleum jelly to the skin at your hairline. Most hair dyes will not drip, but in case they do, this makes cleanup so much easier!

If you want beautiful blonde tresses, consider seeing your stylist for best results. Dyeing darker hair into a lighter shade, especially blonde, can be a tricky task. Even if youe an at-home hair dyeing professional, remember that it easier to do it right the first time than to cover up any boo-boos.

More Home Coloring Tips: Deep condition before you color your hair. Wait two days after shampooing before coloring. The color will adhere better, since your scalp is more sensitive after shampooing, it will make the process more comfortable. Plus the natural oils in your hair will protect it.

A new hair color is fun … enjoy!

How to Wear Skinny Jeans

Skinny-leg jeans look great on models and celebrities, but can real women pull off this runway look? Sure, if you follow a few guidelines:
The most slimming look comes from skinny jeans in a dark blue or black wash.
You don’t have to go with skin-tight jeans to get the look of the trend: jeans vary from super-skinny (usually about a 10″ leg opening) to a kinder, straight-leg cut (about 14″ leg opening).
One of the key elements for pulling off skinny jeans is to balance it with volume on top including dolman-sleeve tops, bell-sleeve tops or tunics.
Disguise heavy thighs by wearing a longer, belted tunic over skinny jeans.
Cover up thick calves by tucking skinny jeans into tall boots.
Wear heels with skinny jeans for a leg-lengthening look; pointy-toed flats also work.

Jeans: A man’s view ‘Does my bum look big in this?’ what men really think of skinny jeans

As a rule of thumb, if it takes longer than 20 minutes and you have to displace a couple of major internal organs to get them on then they are not for you. No, not even if you promise to drink Slim Fast until Sienna Miller makes a film worth watching. Ladies, trust me, if your dress size is in double figures, you’re wearing skinny jeans and you hear a whistle as you walk past a building site, it’s not necessarily a compliment. If you’re still convinced men think those skinny jeans look great, then take this quick test to see…

When you were trying on your jeans, did the stick-thin teenage shop assistant…
a) Smile, bring you three or four pairs in different colours like nothing was too much trouble, text her friends and then hang around just to see what you looked like
b) Grimace, suggest a pair of ‘boyfriend’ jeans and then disappear
c) Cough, ask ‘Are they alright?’ through the changing room doors, hang around just to see what you looked like and then text her friends

What did you say to yourself before you bought them?
a) They sag a bit at the back but I’ll get a couple of days’ wear out of them
b) 80 for a pair of trousers I can’t get past my knees? That’s okay, I’ll keep them in the cupboard and wear them when I’ve lost a few pounds. It’ll be an incentive
c) Hmmm, I could always use them as patches for my other jeans

What did you say to the assistant when you bought them?
a) You didn’t. Your P.A. said, ‘Black Amex okay sweetheart? Can you deliver?’
b) Have you got any long baggy tops that might go with these?
c) They’re for a friend

Mostly a’s) OK, you win. You’re Kate Moss and the whistle actually was a compliment
Mostly b’s) The last time you were a size 8 you had just won an egg and spoon race and it was just an exhausted brickie exhaling through his false teeth
Mostly c’s) Let’s be honest, it’s not happening. With your jeans inside your boots you look like a carrot, with them outside you look like a python that has just swallowed a badger. You’re hearing things?/p>

I’m not being cruel, quite the reverse. I am just trying to push you in the right direction. Skinny jeans are only marginally less forgiving than a woman who has just found her husband in bed with his ex-wife, her sister, his sister and the paper-boy. If you have the figure of a supermodel, go for it girl. If you haven’t, don’t kid yourself but don’t worry either. Going to bed with a woman who looks great in skinny jeans is like going to bed with a bicycle. Give me a woman who fills jeans built for a woman rather than a woman who fills jeans built for a child every day of the week. To size 10 and beyond?/p>

The Perfect Pair of Blue Jeans

It can be stressful.

Dealing with all those terms that blue jeans aficionados use so casually, and wondering if you’re the only one that has no clue what they mean: tight fit, low rise flares, with artful distressing, slightly frayed, button fly, wide yoke, signature flap pockets………… well, you get the idea.

Then you have to accept the fact that you just can no longer squeeze into the size that “is rightfully yours”. And all you really want is to find a pair that fits well and makes you look great!

We have no “one size fits all” answers, just some simple guidelines on how to find jeans that fit.

At Jeans and Accessories we aim to clear up what this “denim-speak” is really all about and get past the hype. What more, we don truly believe that there is a erfect pair? except as it relates to your specific body type, size and personal style.

Step One: Understanding Jeans Sizes

Without a little note about jeans sizes and a womans size chart this site wouldn be complete.

This is generally not much of an issue for men, especially with traditional cuts and brands like Levis, Wrangler and Lee. It not unusual for a man to buy the same size jeans (inseam and waist) for years. My husband doesn even bother to try them on. Guy jeans generally have a looser fit. Now, if youe into low risers or skinnies, jeans sizes become an isssue, so try them on and test them. You should be able to crouch and do some other routine movements in them without feeling too constrained. I don think I can teach guys much here, but as for women designer jeans sizes, that another story.

Consumer Reports conducted a study on jeans sizes and came up with what, to most of us, should not be totally unexpected conclusions. They tried on 24 women and men jeans priced between $11 and $50 and came up with the following observations on jeans sizes:

A difference of up to 2 inches in waist
A difference of up to 1 inch in length

And this is comparing the same style and size of different brands!

Jeans Sizes as a Psychotactic

They concluded that the fit guide of some makers is a little on the generous side, so that we can it?into a pair one size smaller than our actual size. The psychological effect is obvious. Who wouldn swear that these are the best fitting jeans they have ever owned for their size 10 body, even though they are really size 12!

This creation of “vanity sizes” to flatter the buyer has made jeans sizing even more of a guessing game. No wonder there is an estimated 36% return on clothing due to fit.

There is, however, a method to this madness!

Some experts believe that women shop at fewer stores and buy less clothes than they would if sizing issues were cleared up. Retailers and manufacturers alike have their own reasons for not wanting a “uniform sizing code”, if such a thing were even possible. And that is to perpetuate the mystique of the perfect fit. They believe that a brand’s “sizing” is an integral part of its identity. It distinguishes one designer from the other in the eyes of the consumer. A Lucky Brand jeans fit is very different from a Rock & Republic. They each shoot for a segment of the market that will, when they find them, swear that they are the best jeans ever.

That is the way it should be, just think of how difficult it would be for one brand to satisfy all shapes and sizes, and how dull. That is also why, when we find a brand whose cut, fit and sizing fits us perfectly, we become loyal advocates for his label. The whole sizing mess is unavoidable, creates customer loyalty, and, to my taste anyway, makes searching so much more fun.

My attitude is, “if they fit, great, it doesn matter what the tag says”. ( I do, however, love the labels!) You simply cannot tell from the tag if the jeans will fit or not. This is why trying them on is so important, at least until you get to now?how each designer defines his jeans sizes. If youe shopping online and have a doubt, ask the retailer for details on how any specific brand is sized. Also make sure that their return policy is fair and hassle free.

We’ve included some sizing charts for specific labels on the following pages:Antik Jeans, FrankieB, Joe’s Jeans, Lucky Brand, Rock & Republic Jeans, 7 For All Mankind, and True Religion.

More will be coming soon.

Measuring Yourself

I including the women size chart below as a guide, mostly for conversions. As obvious as this may sound, I have to say it: to get the best fit, you have to measure yourself correctly:

Measure your hips and waist a bit loosely with a flexible measuring tape
It a lot easier if a friend helps you
To measure your hips, circle the tape around the fullest part of your body, between your waist and the top of your thighs
Some brands use your low-waist measurement, which is usually a couple of inches greater than your natural waist
The actual jeans sizes for most brands will typically be one size higher than what the tape says.
Measure your inseam from the crotch down. It easier to do this directly on a pair that fits you well.
They should fit perfectly where you are the largest. Other measurements can always modified.
Refer to the seller sizing chart to find the size that is best for you for each specific brand.
You can also save yourself a great deal of time by measuring the main parameters on a pair that fits you well. Do this on a flat surface, carefullly flattening out the pants along the direction that you are measuring.

Women’s Size ChartX SmallSmallMediumLargeX Large
Size U.S.024681012141618
Size Europe30323436384042444648
Size UK24681012141618-
Size France3234363840424446–
Size Italy34363840424446485052
Waist2424.525.526.527.528.530.531.53334
Low Waist2626.527.528.529.530.532.533.53536
Hips34.5353637383940.54243.545
Bust3232.533.534.535.536.53839.54142.5
Belt24-2828-3030-3232-3636-38

Measuring Low Risers

Remember that the rise, or crotch to waist measurement of a standard pair of jeans is 10 to 12 inches. The earlier versions of low rise jeans had a rise of about 7 inches, and the ultra low risers have fallen to 3 or 4 inches in rise. Some Brazilian jeans manufacturers advertise 2 inch zippers (probably a 3 inch rise). Low rise jeans in general should always be much higher in the rear than in the front, for obvious “exposure” reasons. Every brand handles this differently, even from one model to another. A difference of up to 3″ or even 4″ from the front rise to the back rise should not surprise you, especially with the ultra low rise jeans with a 3″ or 4″ front rise.

Hem Mayhem

Shrinkage is usually not a problem as most jeans on the market today are preshrunk, but some may still occur. Just make sure that they have been preshrunk. I like buying my jeans an inch longer, they can always be taken in if needed.

With some brands you may not have a choice. Some manufacturers, especially the smaller companies, are making them as long as 34 inches. They are going on the assumption that it always possible to have a tailor shorten a pair, and so they cover a wider market with less inventory.

Having the pants hemmed may not be as cheap or as easy as you may think. It could cost you anywhere from $6 to $20, and sometimes it impossible to match the original hem. If you ultimately have no way of avoiding this very delicate procedure, wash your jeans before hemming. Put the denim through it final shrinkage. It also always safer to take off a little bit less than you think is necessary, say one quarter of an inch.

The best length will also depend on the shoes you plan to wear them with, but in general your pants hem should rest comfortably on the top of your shoes.

Be aware that if you take off too much, the knee break will end up too low and just not look right, especially in flared pants. It may also be very difficult to reproduce the frayed edges of the original distressed pair that you paid so much for, but with our guidelines to distressing your own jeans, you can surely come close. I doubt any tailor will venture into these grounds.

What About Tight Jeans?

As youl learn in our discussion on cut and fit, “tight jeans” refers to a type of cut, and as such still must achieve the correct fit for your body (assuming you should even consider this cut at all). A tight jeans cut should still satisfy the criteria listed below, in spite of the snug fit. To say it another way, tight jeans should be the right size, they should fit, or they are oo tight? Remember, one refers to the cut, the other to an unacceptable fit. This may be clearer if you refer to them as kinnies?instead of tight cut. Ultimately, if the size is right, it’s the magic of stretch denim that makes “tight” and “comfortable” possible, so if you want to join this new trend, make stretch a priority.

There’s no doubt about it, skinny jeans are back, and with a vengeance! The trend is one that emphasizes long, lean and narrow silhouettes (why doesn’t that surprise me?). The deep indigo and black washes seem to be the most popular. The new look is smooth and clean, without fraying or rips. It seems like the straight leg is the prefered cut of the season, but you can make up your own mind. For the right body, skinnies are sexy, and are great for showing off your boots. It’s kind of difficult to tuck in a bootcut leg, which is meant to be worn outside the boots.

How do you know if youe gotten the right size?

Your new jeans should:

Be just a little bit longer than you need
Be the right length for the shoes or boots that you plan to wear them with
Not wrinkle or fold excessively, which would indicate a problem area where they are too tight.
The zipper, or buttoned fly, should lie flat
You should be able to sit down or crouch in them comfortably, without your rear end peeking out.
Low risers don necessarily have to expose your rear. If they do, you need a higher cut in the back or that pair is too small. Another brand may offer what you need.
Your waist button should snap easily (without having to lie down)
The pockets should also lie flat. If they don, they may not be the right cut for your body type.

Pull them up as high as they go, then crouch in them. How do they feel when you walk around? They should be snug but comfortable. This is how you should feel all day long. After all, what makes jeans so fabulous is their ability to let us look and feel great without sacrificing comfort.

Jeans Sizes and The Best Fitting Jeans

Remember, the first step in your quest for the perfect fitting jeans is to find the right fit, (this is a matter of jeans sizes, not style, cut, latest craze or even the tag). With this info on hand, you can now focus on understanding your body type to find the most flattering styles for you.

Gap’s new – 1969 – premium jeans debut

Gap is updating its denim, and in August re-launches the 1969 premium jeans collection, with a wider variety of hip fits and washes. Named for Gap debut year, the ?9s?will offer improvements from year to year (new buttons, trendy washes) but sizing and silhouettes will stay the same (It is a move towards what denim enthusiast are looking for a simple five-pocket pair without unnecessary logos and higher quality denim.)

And it’s all pre-’70s here–not just the name but the price (all jeans, less than $70); at Gap stores. Australian Nobody Brand Celebrates 10-Years

Australian cult denim label Nobody is celebrating its 10th anniversary with the launch of its Australian Heritage collection.

Nobody was founded 10 years ago by Melbourne brothers John and Nick Condilis and was based on the pair’s extensive knowledge and technical skills derived from years in the Australian denim industry. Refurbishing your Designer Jeans

Anyone who knows fashion is sure to tell you denim jeans are an indisputable wardrobe necessity. Although the process of choosing the right style, fit, or color can be extremely frustrating and very time consuming once that special pair is found a true love relationship is formed.

Then out of the blue the inevitable happens, your jeans rip or the hem starts to fray. With the cost of some jeans hovering over $100 it can be devastating when they seem to be ruined. Don throw them in the back of the closet or cut them into shorts; there is a solution to rejuvenating that special relationship. Cotton and Tencel combine for denim first

Fibre specialist Lenzing has teamed up with Spanish textile processor Tejidos Royo to develop a new denim fabric that claims to combine organic cotton and Tencel fibres for the first time.

Due to be unveiled at the Bread&Butter show in Berlin from 1-3 July, E[DOS] Hybridenim fabrics are said to combine the properties of both fibres, such as eco-friendliness, being comfortable to wear and easy-care. They are also said to have a “shiny and luxurious” appearance.

Together with organic cotton, the special properties of Tencel, such as its smooth fibre surface and its naturally pure composition, make it an ideal fibre for next-to-skin apparel. Tencel fibre is also hydrophilic and gives good moisture absorption combined with optimum moisture management properties.

Significantly, the fibre combination in E[DOS] denim also requires only a low laundering temperature and has a reduced need for ironing, both of which contribute to a lower environmental impact during the garment life cycle. Bright and Neon-colored denim’s

We are probably all for wearing bright colors in the spring and summer. There isn’t a better way tot shed those cold-weather blues. However, most of us normally opt to wear vibrant hues on top instead of on bottom. We tend to stick to basic denim all summer long.

But recently I’ve been noticing a lot of women sporting neon-colored jeans and I have to admit that they are really cute. Colored denim is a great way to make an outfit fun and carefree. Throw on a pair of bright blue skinny jeans, a gray tee and some big accessories and your ready for some summer fun, right? Skinny jeans can cause nerve damage

Though skinny jeans look great doctors say they can be dangerous for our health. According to some experts tight jeans might cause a nerve problem called meralgia paresthetica, meralgia paresthetica is a condition characterized by tingling, numbness and burning pain in the outer part of your thigh. Lucky in most cases the condition can be relieved by conservative measures, such as wearing looser clothing.

Together with high stilettos skinny jeans put great pressure on the femoral cutaneous nerve that runs through the thigh. As a result ladies often feel tingling and burning through the leg.

The affliction has already been named as ingling thigh syndrome. A woman who developed the one said: t felt really strange – it felt like my leg had gone to sleep.?/p> The denim jacket is back with a bang this season!

Alexa Chung, Nicole Richie and Diane Kruger are just a few our celebrity friends that have been rocking their denim jackets this spring.

Thankfully it one of the easiest trends to pull off, all you have to do is team it with your peg or harem trousers, add some brightly colored wedges and voil, your new look is totally spring ?9.

Alexander Wang, Balmain and Marc By Marc Jacobs all included denim in their collections. Who could forget the frenzy caused by the Balmain ripped jeans that have been seen on the slender legs of Victoria Beckham and Rihanna. Eco Friendly Hemp Jeans Apparel with Great Properties

So, what makes Hemp Jeans so eco friendly? According to the North American Industrial Hemp Council, hemp fibers are stronger, more absorbent and more mildew-resistant than cotton. Naturally resistant to most pests and out-competing weeds, it typically doesn’t require pesticides or herbicides to grow.

One of hemp’s greatest properties is that it’s naturally bacteria resistant. That means it resists bacteria that creates odors. Hemp clothes can be worn many days without developing odors. This has the added benefit of reducing washing and water consumption. Reducing washing also means clothes last longer due to less wear from washing.

How does hemp clothing promote healthy lifestyles or fair for people with sensitive skin, allergies or multiple chemical sensitivities (mcs)? according to our expert, “They are great choices! Hemp, as well as bamboo and organic cotton, are non-irritating to the skin due to the absence of the chemicals used in many conventionally produced clothing.” Also, there’s no fear of skin absorbing cancer causing toxins while wearing clothes since the farming and manufacturing processes are also eco friendly. Indonesia Gains, while China Loses

The Indonesian textile industry may benefit from the global crisis as buyers from US, EU and Japan relocate US$648 million of orders from China.

Indonesian Textile Association (API) deputy chairman Ade Sudrajat said Tuesday that relocated orders could amount to a total of US$648 million — equivalent to about 6 percent of Indonesian’s $10.8 billion total textile exports in 2008.

his relocation of orders is partly triggered by social instability with crime figures in China increasing due to the impact of the global economic crisis, which has caused big manufacturers to collapse and massive unemployment,?Ade told reporters Tuesday, saying rade and investment are sensitive to security.?/p>

Ade said that the more stable social and economic conditions in Indonesia had attracted buyers to relocate their orders to this country.

Teen Fashion 2009

Fashion is one word that almost every female adheres to, right from a 15-year old teenager to a 50-year old woman. In fact, females and fashion have always been inseparable. When it comes to teens, who have to attend school or college, going by the latest fashion trends is really important. This is why; we have provided information on the teenager fashion trends that are going to be evident in 2009, in the lines below. Just go through it, follow it and make sure that you sport the ‘in’ look now and always!

Teen Fashion Trends 2009
In the coming year, blue is the color to look out for. Blue dresses, blue jeans, blue t-shirts – anything will do. Just make sure to pair it with bright colors like orange, yellow and red.
2009 will see floral prints being back in vogue. Go ahead and buy that dress in floral print that you have been eyeing for long. Just remember to pair it up with sexy shoes and accessories.
Multi-colored ‘maxi dress’ is another teen trend that is going to be popular in the coming year. As for the prints, apart from floral, you can go for unusual geometrical patterns.
If you are looking for party wear, then 2009 is all set to welcome the one-shoulder dresses with open arms. You can use belts and stiletto heels to spice up the look further.
Talking about embellishments, sequins are going to rule the roost in 2009. Short dresses, adorned with a lot of sequins and combined with suede ankle boots, is just the look for you.
Denim was, is and will be popular as long as humans continue to exist. However, the cut in jeans has tapered down to make way for slim pants, especially the ones that can be worn with knee-high boots.
Capris will continue to be popular in the coming year as well. If you team it up with a casual, but stylish t-shirt, you are ready to rock and roll all the way around.
There was a time when accessories used to be reserved for that ‘special look’. Now, they form a part of your everyday wear. Belts, chains and scarves, along with chunky earrings and bracelets, will dominate 2009.
When the talk is about accessories, how can one forget the quintessential handbag? In 2009, fake crocodile or patent leather are sure to make heads turns. You can also go for plain monogram purses, suitable for any and every occasion.
Flat shoes are very likely to be seen in 2009. You can go for patterned slip-ons, strappy sandals or ballet shoes, the choice is entirely yours. Comfortable and stylish canvas flats are also something to look out for.

Teen Dresses

Teen wear is a challenge to any designer brand. Sporadic and sudden changes affect this customer line with much variety to explore, be it the fabric or attire. Fusion works are infectious trends universally.

Teenage is an exploration process and most items are unisex wears. Gadgets, shoes and hand bags become coveted accessories and team as day wear and evening party wears. Hairstyles go on from razor cuts, messy hair, gelled look and other feminine short bob styles. The look has to be complete. Grunge looks also do not allow any faux paux like stilettos on gypsy skirts. The coordination here to has to be perfect with fake or real tattoos and piercing fetishes.

Teen wear is trendy and cotton wears and lycra ones are most preferred. College trends happen in T in full sleeves or cut sleeves. Short cool tank tops in summer colours include sky blue, sun yellow and mint green. Denim and jeans scream ashion?with motifs, embellishments and graphic designs. Tear offs and frayed bottoms are all time fashion except one should be able to carry them off without looking scruffy.

Recent pencil fit jeans and corduroys in pink, blue and browns are fashion colours for the season. Tops come in halter, lycra fits, tie ups and tight bodices. Tunics are going to stay with the vagabond kind of prints and huge bold geometric shapes. Leggings have been here for some time with body fits and suit all body types.

Shoes are essential for protection and form signatures too. Formal styles for girls come in matching metallic tones, fruity colours for beach parties and strappy comforts. Flat shoes are making a comeback with lot of tie ups. Quality has to be maintained at all times and the price on footwear is an investment. Men wear come with trek boots, mountaineering heavy ones, feather light sneakers for daily use and other formal ones for distinguished evening wears.

Inner wear is an exclusive collection coming with sports section, regulars and other detachable shoulder straps. Formal evening wears light up with assorted prom and pageant collections complete with styling helps. Hand bags and clutches form other essentials.

Woolen wear for teens are warm cardigans, shawls, stoles and turtle necked pull overs. Zip wear uppers are also seen in amazing colours and corduroys feel. Denim jackets in plaid, tweed and shades of blue are casual coats. Trench coat adds style to a skirt and formal top or a short dress. Beach wear swim suits are other cool fashions with more trends catching up each season.

The Greens – Fashion Colours 2009
Dark Citron

Pantone’s Super Lemon merges wonderfully into Dark Citron, and all the greens that Pantone offer perpetuate the idea of freshness and renewal.

Read more about Michelle Obama’s choice of this colouration for the President’s Inauguration day outfit on the 2009 Spring Trends Main page.

Pantone’s Dark Citron, is a citrus-inspired green, offering an element of sophistication to the mix of three greens, each with their own distinct personality.

Above Left – Citron Colours.
Above Centre – Shoes from Asda.
Above Right – Green prom dress with floral detail from TK Maxx from 24.99/?8.48. Spring Summer 09 Dresses at TK Maxx.

Above Left – Principles Spring Summer 2009 – Neutral sheen boyfriend jacket 89.00/?40, Green silk Habotai skirt 55.00/?5, Cream organza blouse 55.00/?5, Pewter metallic snake and stones clutch 32.00/?9, Glam large buckle belt 32.00/?9, all from Principles Spring Summer 2009.

Above Right – Grecian maxi asymmetric shoulder dress 55.00 – Per Una Collection Spring Summer 2009 at Marks & Spencer.
Vibrant Green

Left – A clear view of Pantone’s Super Lemon, Dark Citron, Vibrant Green and Lucite Green Tones. More information on these green Spring 2009 colours is available at www.pantone.com/spring2009.

Pantone’s Vibrant Green, is the quintessential spring hue of revitalization. And in these occasion garments the spring garden has moved onto the pieces.

Monsoon Spring/Summer 2009 have captured all the best greens in their one should asymmetric dress from their Spring 2009 Originals Collection. It is a beautiful blend of all the rich vibrant colours of summer.

Right – Monsoon Spring/Summer 2009 Originals Lele Greens Cocktail Dress with one shoulder styling – 160/?71.

Near Right – Matalan also have this rich green blouse with a halter neck. Matalan Blouses – Be Beau butterfly & swallow print top 14 – Spring summer 2009 – Women at Matalan.

Lucite Green

Pantone’s reflective Lucite Green is a clean, clear more subtle green tone.

Left – Tropical Palm – Jane Norman Aqua Top – Spring Summer 2009.
Centre Left – Drop Earrings by Dior.
Centre Right – Miss Selfridge Party Dress Spring Summer 2009.
Far Right – March Monsoon Spring/Summer 2009 – Jade Attie Dress 160/?71 (Eire)

Above Centre – Shoe selection from Dune Spring/Summer 2009- Ladies & Accessories.
Left – Strut 85/?15, Centre – Scintillate 85/?15, Right – Sky 90/?20. All by Dune.

Coloured shoes have a true 1980s vibe – get yours at stores like Dune or Mode in Pelle.

Fuchsia Red

But it’s not just coloured shoes that have the 1980s colour edge, fuchsia and all the related nuances of this blued pink is back with a vengeance.

With its blue undertones, Pantone’s cool Fuchsia Red is a real show-stopper, adding a sense of elegance to the palette. It is a colour which is perfect for clothing, accessories as well as lipstick and nail polish selections.

The fuchsia beaded clutch shown right, marries several tones making it a good bag for mixing and matching against all the many pink versions of this colour.

Right – Butterfly by Matthew Williamson 25/?9 Spring/Summer 2009 Women’s Accessories- bags Debenhams.

Roses and beading feature heavily in Summer 2009 fashion and this fuchsia bag by DKNY is just one of many rose bags in shops now. Boden also do a lovely textured rose covered bag in several bold bright colours.

Other accessories where fuchsia is a great pick include belts, where it will quickly jazz up a neutral outfit, or help tie together several bright colours. Gladiator sandals a hot style of last and this year take on an exotic touch when beaded with fuchsia pink crystals.

Near Right – Linea Gladiator Pink Sandals at House of Fraser.
Far right – Fuchsia DKNY bag at House of Fraser.

Below Right – Jane Norman Leather covered cross keeper buckle belt, 20 Spring Summer 2009 – Lady Vamp Collection .
Above Right – Fexton (Pink) Patent Ballerina 45 Spring/Summer 2009 at Moda in Pelle.

Below Left – Marrianne (Pink) – 85 ?03 Buckle Detail Gladiator Moda in Pelle Spring/Summer 2009.
Below Centre – New Look Sandals 40 from the New look Spring/Summer 2009 Collection (Accessories).
Below Right – Shoe by Dior Spring Summer 2009.

Different fabrics, and especially leather materials, each give fuchsia a different look.

Below Far Left – Harvey Nichols – Fuchsia cut out strappy dress by Galliano.
Below Centre – Fuchsia Pink flower print halter neck swimsuit incorporating many shades of fuchsia, 38 from Linea Womenswear & Accessories Spring Summer 2009 at House of Fraser.
Below Far Right – Jane Norman SS09 Collection Sequin trim oversized dress, 35 Spring Summer 2009 – Lady Vamp.

Salmon Rose

Salmon Rose is an enlivening fashion colour for spring 2009, see how it also conveys an optimistic outlook. The subtlest of oranges, Salmon Rose is a very pretty colour, flattering to most complexions and is beautiful with a summer glow.

Colour blocking is a growing fashion trend, and this short shift dress far right, blocks three harmonious colours. The result is far less shocking, and much more wearable than some random-mix, high-contrast paint box versions.

New Look Limited Edition shift dress 35, Spring/Summer 2009 Collection.

Easy cut loose Kaftan style tops are the summer’s must-have. Note how some of the volume is pulled in either at waist or under the bust creating an empire-line top. Draped off-the-shoulder sleeves give an eighties touch of styling.

Cut out with lace braid top 38/?9 from Miss Selfridge Spring Summer 2009 and featuring the delicious salmon rose. Centre model wears a similar shaped Kaftan top from Miss Selfridge, but one covered with every colour of Spring 2009 in a Batik print.

The three other tops are all from Wallis Spring Summer 2009 collection. They show directional lines of the relaxed kimono and Kaftan silhouette in knitwear and tops, a feminine contrast to the long lines of boyfriend cardigans and jackets.

Patterned Kaftan top – Wallis Spring Summer 09.
Bottom left -Wallis Spring Summer 09 – Metallic fine knit jumper 45/?0.
Bottom right – Exotic Tribal Paisley Beaded Blouse 40/?0 – Wallis Spring Summer 09 Paisley beaded blouse.
Cool Slate Gray

Cool Slate Gray is a nuanced neutral with bluish-green undertones. This neutral is terrific when paired with any of the other nine colours in the Pantone report. Alternatively, you could pair with softer pastels based on dilutions of the colour. It is an expensive looking colour, but check before you buy it that the colour really lifts your skin rather than drags it down.

Warehouse Gloss – Dress 45/?0, Belt 30/?5, Shoes 75/?15.

Originals Indria Prom Dress 200/?39 Spring/Summer 2009 – February Monsoon Spring/Summer 2009.

The 2009-2014 Outlook for Teen Fashion

This econometric study covers the latent demand outlook for teen fashion and lifestyle magazines across the states and cities of the United States. Latent demand (in millions of U.S. dollars), or potential industry earnings (P.I.E.) estimates are given across some 13,000 cities in the United States. For each city in question, the percent share the city is of it state and of the United States is reported. These comparative benchmarks allow the reader to quickly gauge a city vis–vis others. This statistical approach can prove very useful to distribution and/or sales force strategies. Using econometric models which project fundamental economic dynamics within each state and city, latent demand estimates are created for teen fashion and lifestyle magazines. This report does not discuss the specific players in the market serving the latent demand, nor specific details at the product level. The study also does not consider short-term cyclicalities that might affect realized sales. The study, therefore, is strategic in nature, taking an aggregate and long-run view, irrespective of the players or products involved.

This study does not report actual sales data (which are simply unavailable, in a comparable or consistent manner in virtually all of the cities in the United States). This study gives, however, my estimates for the latent demand, or the P.I.E., for teen fashion and lifestyle magazines in the United States. It also shows how the P.I.E. is divided and concentrated across the cities and regional markets of the United States. For each state, I also show my estimates of how the P.I.E. grows over time. In order to make these estimates, a multi-stage methodology was employed that is often taught in courses on strategic planning at graduate schools of business.

Additional Information

This econometric study covers the latent demand outlook for teen fashion and lifestyle magazines across the states and cities of the United States. Latent demand (in millions of U.S. dollars), or potential industry earnings (P.I.E.) estimates are given across some 13,000 cities in the United States. For each city in question, the percent share the city is of it state and of the United States is reported. These comparative benchmarks allow the reader to quickly gauge a city vis–vis others. This statistical approach can prove very useful to distribution and/or sales force strategies. Using econometric models which project fundamental economic dynamics within each state and city, latent demand estimates are created for teen fashion and lifestyle magazines. This report does not discuss the specific players in the market serving the latent demand, nor specific details at the product level. The study also does not consider short-term cyclicalities that might affect realized sales. The study, therefore, is strategic in nature, taking an aggregate and long-run view, irrespective of the players or products involved.