Author Archives: alan

What Is Wright Brothers Day

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Wright Brothers

The celebration of flight is honored on Wright Brothers Day every December 17th, the anniversary of the first successful flights in a mechanically propelled airplane, piloted by Wilbur Wright at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina in 1903.

The Wright brothers are known as the fathers of flight, and with good reason. While man has been reaching for the stars for thousands of years, Orville and Wilbur Wright made such a possibility a reality. Wilbur was born in 1867, while his little brother, Orville, was born four years later in 1871. Both Wilbur and Orville nurtured dreams of building airplanes and flying, and in the early 1900’s they did just that. Orville is quoted as saying; “We were lucky enough to grow up in an environment where there was always much encouragement to children to pursue intellectual interests; to investigate whatever aroused curiosity.”

Flying was more than a curiosity to Orville and Wilbur Wright. It was their passion and their goal, one they obtained on the seashore of Kitty Hawk on December 17th, 1903. Despite years of failure and ridicule, the two brothers forged a path that today has taken mankind to the moon and back. The spirit of the Wright Brothers, born in the sands of Kitty Hawk, now reaches to the far corners of the earth and beyond.

Wright Brothers Day is a cause for celebration within not only the American flight industry, but around the world and anywhere airplanes fly today. If it were not for the determination and contributions of the Wright brothers, flight, as we know it today, could very well have been delayed by decades, if not more.

December 17th is a day when the nation observes and honors the brothers who dared to flaunt gravity, and succeed. Depending on where you’re from, the day is celebrated in different ways. In Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, memorials and civic events draw attention to the most famous location in the history of flight. School aged children across the nation learn about the historic flight at Kitty Hawk in school curriculum and fashion paper airplanes, kites and other designs meant to honor the discovery of flight. Older students learn about man’s attempts to fly, from the beginnings of Greek mythology to the current designs of the space shuttle.

The glory of flight is celebrated on Wright Brothers Day. Airports around the country honor the brothers by hanging posters or banners recognizing their great contributions to the aviation industry. Various ceremonies and activities at local and state levels bring honor to the memory of the brothers who changed the face of transportation forever. Aviation clubs and schools invariably speak of the event that brought mankind rapidly into the 20th century, and was the jumping off point for numerous inventions and discoveries.

While Wilbur and Orville most probably knew that their success would change the face of the nation forever, it is unlikely that they realized how important their experiment would become for all of mankind, regardless of country or language. Air travel today joins continents and peoples from around the globe. Today’s astronauts, descendants of the Wright Brothers, are able to walk in space. The Wright brothers deserve to be honored and remembered every December 17th, as pioneers for an entirely new way to look at the world around us.

Every time an airplane is seen or heard, remember the drive and determination by the pair of brothers who would not relinquish their dream of flight despite numerous obstacles and setbacks. The spirit of America lives on in the legacy left by the Wright brothers, and should continue to be passed down from generation to generation.

Why Personalized Maternity T-Shirts Are Fun and Great Gifts

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Funny maternity

Having a baby is an exciting time in a woman’s life. That enthusiasm is shared by her friends, family and acquaintances in a way that no other life experience is. Motherhood bond woman universally, and so strangers on the street will approach a pregnant woman to congratulate her, ask the sex of the baby or even be bold enough to rub her belly.

If you are looking for a fun and original way to let the expectant mom in your life know you are happy for her, here a few reasons why personalized maternity t-shirts are fun and great gifts.

It’s the Thought That Counts

When you take the time to have a personalized maternity t-shirt mad for someone, it is obvious that you really went out of your way to think about their wants, needs, and the details of the impending arrival. For instance, a maternity t-shirt that says, “Baby Number Four – Coming this Summer!” is very specific. It instantly shares mom’s important news with everyone and is a great conversation starter.

You can get as personal as you want with the details, right down to the name of the new baby. I would only do that if you are certain the parents are comfortable sharing that information, and already refer to the baby by name. If you feel that step is a bit premature, you could simply state, “Baby Tibble # 2” or “This Belly Contains a Future Soccer Player!”

Make ‘Em Laugh!

Another reason why personalized maternity t-shirts are fun and great gifts is that it’s a great way to inject a sense of humor into the occasion. “I’m Growing a Human Being -What Did You Do Today?” is sure to get a few snickers. Although the “Never Mess with a Pregnant Woman” message is one to be taken seriously.

Is your friend really struggling to eat right during the pregnancy, or lamenting the things she can’t have? “Kill for Coffee” or “We’re Hungry” are both cute and poignant. Anyone who has been pregnant should be able to relate to them instantly.

Make a Statement

Personalized maternity t-shirts are also a great way for the mom-to-be to get a message across to inquisitive friends and strangers. “We’re Not Finding Out!” or “Don’t Touch the Belly!” are pretty clear. And let’s face it, after about the fifth month, the most patient of expectant parents has dealt with enough unsolicited questions and belly rubs to shoot her hormones through the roof.

Other messages like “Got Mother’s Milk?” or “Miracle in Progress” may be appropriate depending on your friend’s plans and beliefs. Or perhaps simple is best. Messages like “Baby Diaz” or “Two Peas in this Pod” are simple but sweet.

If you are still wondering why personalized maternity t-shirts are fun and great gifts, remember this: even after the blessed event this shirt will be a keepsake for both mother and child. Unless she plans to recycle, then you can’t go wrong with the “Yes, I’m Pregnant!” version. It can be worn again and again.

How To Become A Wholesale Printer

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wholesale printer

If you are interested in becoming a wholesale printer, you need to realize that this is a highly competitive and constantly evolving industry that requires a great deal of commitment and research in order to generate the most beneficial outcome and profit margin.

In the late 15th century, the printing press was developed in Europe and perhaps no one truly realized the evolution that would occur the minute printed materials became readily available. Today’s common use of wholesale printing companies definitely evolved from the enlightenment that occurred when mass printing first became available.

Because competition is fierce, and thanks to electronic file transfer methods, there is no longer a guarantee that local companies will choose you as their wholesale printing company.  This is not to say that everyone will look to non-local printers for bids on their printing, but large companies who are driven by cost-saving measures will most likely try to find the best possible price.

There are many types of printing methods available today, and the technology is ever-evolving.  Because wholesale printers frequently offer not only finished project printing, but also design services, a wholesale printer will generally need to provide optional design services. Utilizing outside designers may or may not prove cost-effective depending on the volume of design work requested by clients.  But, printing is the main business of a wholesale printer.

Printing options range from LaserJet printers, to large scale printing presses with expensive computer interface software. The price can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars into the millions of dollars range.  Quite honestly, the right type of equipment depends on the type and amount of printing that a printer will be producing.

A common area of specialization for wholesale printing is office stationary, including business cards.  For these types of printed material, often a LaserJet printer will suffice and provide a high-quality, low cost print of the requested materials.  However, some wholesale printers work in cooperation with direct-mail advertising companies that produce high color, large quantity orders of postcards, flyers, etc. for direct mail purposes.  When a wholesale printer begins to accept these types of projects, it is probably time to upgrade to a press printer and to save that Laser Jet for smaller projects.

Because competition is rough in wholesale printing, and because most customers shop online for wholesale printing needs, it is definitely most important to pay attention to current rates and delivery timeframes.  Estimation of these two things can win or lose you potential customers.  Most people expect to receive business cards in a few days, and when ordering them from a wholesale printer they do not expect to pay much for the product.  Wholesale printers have setup and overhead costs, and if you are going to become a wholesale printer, you will need to know what these costs are. There is a cost associated with using the services of a designer, and that cost may be substantial for some projects depending on the time required.  There is a cost to operate the printing equipment, a cost for the ink or toner and a cost for the paper.  All of these costs must be passed on to the customer in order to generate a profit; however it’s a matter of finding the right balance in fees.  It is very advisable to investigate what other wholesale printers are charging, and the types of projects they are producing. If you can determine the type of equipment they use, and where they are located, you should find out as much as you can.

Wholesale printing is one of the few businesses that can afford to be completely online.  Many wholesale printers do not offer a storefront. Rather they handle their orders and quotes electronically though a website. This can substantially decrease operational overhead costs, because you only need to operate when you have projects to be completed.

It is important to stay current on technology – and to stay aware of the business practices of other printers in order to maintain your competitiveness.

What Is Wholesale Printing

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wholesale printing

The world of wholesale printing has evolved significantly since the invention of the printing press in the late 15th century.  Technology is always improving, and if Gutenberg took a look at what wholesale printers are using today he would most likely not even begin to recognize the equipment.

The process of printing involves “pressing” text, images and designs onto paper and other materials.  Initially, the process was actually pressing. A plate-maker would assemble an actual printing plate with individual letters and etchings, which was then coated with ink and pressed onto paper.  Newspapers were commonly made with this technique well into the early 1900s.  The process of manually creating the press-plates was replaced over time with computer generated plates, or screens.  Today’s printers employ highly technical and sophisticated computer systems and design software in order to lay out the printed materials.

The other major difference that Gutenberg might notice is the availability of color printing.  Naturally, when applying ink by hand to a press-plate was the common technique there was little room for multi-colored design. This is simply not the case today. Today, wholesale printers have access to technology that allows them to blend millions of difference colors from cyan, magenta, yellow and black inks, giving them the ability to print in any color the customer requests.

What you need to know when searching for a wholesale printer is the type of equipment that they utilize, what technology they have for design work and color blending and also the size of their customer base.  The reason that this last item is so important is that when you approach a wholesale printer with a print job, they will prioritize the larges jobs with the shortest timeline first.  Therefore, if you only need a few thousand or even less items printed your job could take much longer than if you needed tens of thousands of items printed.  Wholesale printers earn a majority of their income from direct-mail companies who will order items in quantities of millions.  Therefore, it is always best to know the size and type of the company’s customer base.

Speaking of quantity, many people not involved in the printing world do not realize that per-item cost reduces significantly with higher quantity orders.  For example, if you were to order 1,000 postcards you might pay 40 cents per item for the printing. While, if you order 10,000 of the same postcard the price drops to 2 cents per item.  Why is this the case?  Well, remember that when you order a print job from a wholesale printer, they need to prepare the printing plates.  This is a timely and costly part of the project known as setup.  Setup also includes preparing the inks, cutting the postcards and starting up the presses.  These things all require people and power.  Thus, your startup cost is distributed across each item of your order.  When you order a high quantity, the start up cost is identical to when you order a low quantity.  Thus, after a certain point you are only paying for the printing and the cost savings are quite significant.

There are many wholesale printers located throughout the world and unlike the first printers in the 15th century – these companies generally all employ electronic file transfer systems and overnight shipping. For this reason, you have the option to select a printer that might be located in a different city, state or even a different country.  This ability is definitely a benefit to those looking to find a wholesale printer. At the same time, competition in the wholesale printing industry can also prove beneficial to printers, who are able to obtain equipment and supplies at a lower rate than they would if the field was restricted.

Overall, the business of wholesale printing is necessary to the spread of printed information across the globe.  It is important when you are looking for a wholesale printer, to look for the best rates and quickest turnaround time.

When to Give Maternity T-Shirts

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So there’s a baby in your future? Ok, it may not be yours, but if someone you love is pregnant you are undoubtedly sharing in the excitement and anticipation. You’ve probably thought of several different ways to show you care and are considering getting one or two of those cute maternity t-shirts for your special friend. Now you are wondering when to give maternity t-shirts, how to choose and what options are out there. These are great questions and here are your answers.

How Soon Can I Give a Maternity T-Shirt?

If mom has decided to announce the pregnancy, it’s not too soon to start giving gifts. Although she may not even be showing yet, receiving gifts will make the impending pregnancy feel more real. Granted if she is having morning sickness it may seem pretty real already! So a positive reminder of the event would be particularly helpful.

So go ahead and give a maternity t-shirt early on the pregnancy. The mom will appreciate your excitement on her behalf. And having some cute and fun maternity clothing will help her look forward to the day her clothes no longer fit rather than dreading it.

A Maternity T-Shirt for All Seasons

Once the mom-to-be starts to show is another time to give maternity t-shirts. “Baby Bump” or “Oops! I Did It Again!” can be cute sayings for maternity t-shirts. You might even consider giving two or three t-shirts to cover the different stages of pregnancy. Try starting with “Under Construction” for the first trimester, then “Mommy in Training” for the middle part, and finally, “Are We There Yet?” for those final couple of months. Your friend will get a kick out of the different sentiments, and really appreciate the time and thought you put into this gift.

When to Give Maternity T-Shirts to an Active Baby

Does your pregnant mom complain that this baby is constantly kicking, jumping or dancing around in her belly? This is a great time to help her enjoy and make light of her situation with a cute saying like, “Belly Dancing in Progress” or “Future Soccer Player.” By playing up the specifics of the pregnancy, mom can be proud of every jab and kick she receives.

Showered with Love

Of course if you are still wondering when to give maternity t-shirts to that future mom, the baby shower is a perfect venue. Amidst the soft baby blankets and cuddly stuffed bears that she is sure to receive a personalized maternity t-shirt is guaranteed to be a hit. Since most baby showers will take place in the third trimester, you will want to make sure the maternity t-shirt you choose is a good size fit, and appropriate to see mom through these final months.

Remember, she may continue to wear this shirt after the birth of the child, so consider that factor as well. To make it very personal consider labeling the shirt with the family name like “Baby LaPointe” or expected date, “Due in June!”

When it comes down to knowing when to give a maternity t-shirt you just need to think of your friend’s needs at this point in her pregnancy. Simply announcing “Baby Bulge” might be all it takes to make her smile.

What to Wear with Sweaters

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sweaters

While the main purpose of a sweater is to keep you cool, sweaters can also be worn to help make you look cool. There are many different styles of sweaters to choose from these days which is good news because it means that your options for what to wear with your sweaters are pretty much wide open.

What you will wear with your sweater will depend on the type of sweater that it is and what the occasion of the day calls for. Here are some different ways in which you can look good in a variety of different sweaters:

Sweater vest: A sweater vest can be a great alternative to a full and bulkier sweater. Sweater vests look especially good when worn over top of a white button down shirt and tie such as one you would wear to the office. A sweater vest can also be worn over top of a long sleeved collared shirt on the golf course to provide you with the warmth you need without hindering your play like a bulky full length sweater might do.
Cardigan sweaters: Cardigan sweaters look great with a variety of outfits. You can wear them with khaki pants and your favorite shirt or you can use them to dress up a pair of jeans and a t-shirt. The important thing to remember with cardigans is that they tend to be a bit on the formal side so when choosing your outfits to go with your cardigans, choose accordingly.
Full length sweaters: These sweaters are a great fashion piece and sort of resemble a sweater trench coat. They go great with anything that the ladies like to wear from jeans to dress pants. If the sweater is a dark color then you will want to go with a lighter colored undershirt and vice-versa. This look is tied in perfectly with a black pair of high heels. Depending on the situation you may want to have the sweater opened or closed slightly.
Multi colored sweaters: Most of the sweaters you see these days are solid colors but there are still a good deal available that have multi colors or patterns such as stripes, especially for the ladies. The perfect pairings with these types of sweaters are a white pair of pants or white colored jeans. You can choose to go with heels or pumps with this look and either will look great.
Holiday sweaters: Ok these are a bit much at times but if you get hit with the holiday bug then go for a nice holiday sweater. You can wear your holiday sweater with jeans or even a pair of khaki pants and you will look both festive and great at the same time. For the holiday look go for a pair of comfortable flats if you are a woman or a pair of cozy loafers if you are a man.

While the main function of the sweater will always be to keep you warm, sweaters will always have the ability to help you look better if you just take the time and let them.

What to Wear with Sperry Topsiders

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Sperry Topsiders

When you hear the words ‘boat shoes’ you probably imagine a pair of Sperry Topsiders. Though the company now makes other types of shoes, their staple is still the classic Topsiders. The shoes are slip on and made or a durable leather on top and a non-skid bottom that is tough enough to withstand the wind and pounding rain on the deck of a boat and yet look good enough to hit the yacht club in.

You can wear your Sperry Topsiders with more than just clothes for the boat and still look great in the process. Here are a few examples of outfits that go great with Sperry Topsiders:

Preppy look: This is a classic look that involves the Topsiders. Start off with a pair of dress shorts that are beige or tan colored and wear a bright colored Polo style shirt tucked in. A brown belt contrasts the outfit nicely and will also match the color of the typical Topsiders. When wearing the Topsiders you should not have on any socks, but if you insist on doing so wear the kind that are below the ankle so that they stay as hidden as possible. Finish off the entire preppy look with a sweater cross draped over your shoulders.
Casual with jeans: A great casual look that utilizes the Topsider is jeans and a nice button down shirt. The shirt should be tucked in and again you will want to go with a brown belt to match the Topsiders. The jeans should be a comfort fit and not be worn too tightly as doing so will ruin the appearance of casual. No need to wear a tie with this look and a couple of buttons being undone on the shirt is just fine. Again you shouldn’t wear socks but if you have to opt for the ones that won’t be all that noticeable.
Khaki pants:  No matter what color your khaki pants are, you can enhance the look with a pair of Sperry Topsiders. You can wear a Polo style shirt tucked in or you can go with a button down shirt that is long sleeved depending on how formal you wish to look. A nice lightweight jacket completes the look if it is chilly out. You can also wear a plain black scarf that is simply draped over your neck and allowed to hang evenly without tying it at all. The no sock rule still applies.
Get cute with skirts: Ladies can get cute with any type of skirt they wear as Sperry Topsiders now come in a wide variety of colors and not just the classic brown that everyone is accustomed too. Pair your favorite cute skirt with your favorite top and depending on the color find the perfect pair of Topsiders to compliment the outfit. If it is chilly out then a cardigan sweater will do the trick every time. Like the guys, if you wear socks, be sure they are hidden as much as possible.

Whether you are going out on the boat or just out for a night on the town, the Sperry Topsider is the ultimate shoe that can encompass both situations and then some.

What to Wear with Sneakers

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Sneakers

It used to be that wearing sneakers meant that you were going to do something athletic like play basketball or go running. While that still holds true, the sneaker can now be seen in everyday fashion and thanks to timeless classic sneakers like Converse even a type of formal wear can sport sneakers.

Knowing what to wear with your sneakers is really a matter of the type of sneakers you have and what it is you intend on doing for the day. Here are some tips that will have you looking your best in your sneakers:

Go sloppy formal: This is the look that teen icons on the Disney Channel such as the Jonas Brothers are making famous. Wearing a pair of dress pants, put on a white button down shirt. Leave the shirt untucked and leave the top two buttons undone. Wear a neck tie, but do so in a loose manner. Wear a sports coat but don’t button the front. Finally, wear a pair of Converse high top sneakers and you have the sloppy formal look pegged.
Go casual: Going casual in your sneakers is relatively easy. This can be accomplished by wearing a pair of cargo shorts and your favorite t-shirt that will of course be untucked. High top or low top sneakers here are up to you, but most seem to prefer the low tops with this look. This ultra casual look also gives you the perfect opportunity to wear your favorite ball cap.
Go with jeans: Jeans always look great with sneakers with one exception; skinny jeans. The problem with wearing sneakers and skinny jeans is that the skinny jeans tapper down and end up hugging your ankles. Then you go and put your bulky sneakers on and your feet have the appearance of being ten times too big in proportion to the rest of your body. Avoid skinny jeans, but all others generally go with sneakers. A looser fit is nice because they will cover the top of the sneaker even if you are wearing high tops and therefore won’t bunch up at the bottom. You can wear almost any top you like with this fashion from shirts, to sweater, and everything in between.
Go for dresses and skirts: Here is one for the ladies. Wearing short dresses and skirts are always fun and make a great combination to a pair of Converse high top sneakers. For the dress look you may want to add a lightweight jacket and for the skirt look you will want to add a t-shirt or a blouse. This look is seen all over in Hollywood by some of the younger actresses that are popular today. This look can be further enhanced by wearing a black pair of leggings underneath. You can go all out and finish off the look with a black scarf and just let it hang down in front of you evenly without tying it at all.

While athletes will always have the need to wear sneakers when performing their sports, sneakers will still always have a place in fashion and by pairing them with the right clothes in your closet you too will look great no matter what you put on.

What to Wear with Pumps

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Pumps

Pumps offer a great alternative to high heels as pumps still have a heel, but the heels are just generally on the shorter side versus a full-blown high heel. This allows for a great look but better overall comfort as you walk throughout the day. That is probably why these types of shoes are the choice of the professional working woman everywhere. But pumps can be worn on more than just work occasions. In addition to the office, they can also be worn when just out and about.

Knowing what to pair your pumps with will have you looking you best no matter where you find yourself from day to day. Here a few ways to look great in your pumps:

Pants suit: This is a great look for the office. Nothing says sophistication like a nice dressy pants suit and a matching pair of pumps. While you can go with any color that best suites you, colors such as beige and tan seem to be the colors of choice by many professional women.
Dresses and skirts: When just out and about a great garment to wear is a shorter dress. Pumps look great with these types of dresses and if the dress is the right color you can use it as an opportunity to go with a fun and wild print on the pumps. Skirts paired with nice white blouses also look extremely nice and offer a welcomed change to the typical pair of jeans. Again wear any color pump you like and don’t be afraid of fun and interesting patterns.
Jeans: Even jeans look great with a nice pair of pumps. Typically though you should go with a fit that is not tight at the ankles like skinny jeans are. Going with a nice form fitting boot cut pair of jeans and topping it off with your favorite blouse or t-shirt will be the perfect compliment for your favorite pair of pumps.
Work attire: A great outfit for sporting your pumps is a gray work skirt, a white blouse that is frilly at the top and a gray blazer. Go with black pumps for this outfit and accessorize lightly. This will have you looking your best at any work related event you attend.
Leggings: Another popular garment that is accompanying the pumps of many of those in Hollywood these days is the leggings. Leggings can be worn with a multitude of different style and fashions of pumps and depending on how fancy you want to look, the leggings and pumps can help. You can add a pair of black leggings to your typical work skirt and attire or wear leggings under your dresses or miniskirts. The pumps that are worn with the leggings should offset the leggings in regards to color.

Pumps offer a wide variety of options for women whether they are going out for a night on the town or are on their way into the office. With such style and versatility every woman should have at least one pair of these wondrous shoes.

What to Wear with Gold

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Gold dress

Gold is a color that is often associated with wealth and prosperity. Gold is also a color that many people are afraid to incorporate into their daily fashions. But wearing gold doesn’t have to be such a challenge; you simply have to know what to wear it with.

Whether you choose to wear your gold as part of your garments or part of your accessories there are literally hundreds of possibilities with gold. Here are just a few ideas of what you too can wear with gold:

Going casual: For typical day wear gold is best worn in the form of accessories by detailing. You can turn a very plain looking jean skirt into a fabulous casual dress that can be worn out just about anywhere by having small gold beads sewn across the pockets or even along the back seem. The process couldn’t be easier and the supplies can be found at any craft store. Alternatively you can buy a skinny belt that is gold and that too will jazz up the ordinary.
Carry gold accents: If you are going out for the evening and wearing black, a great way to incorporate some gold is by carrying a purse or handbag that is gold or has gold accents. If a pure gold purse is too much for you, try a black purse that has gold accents such as different gold beadings or even some gold on the strap. Some purses will even have a gold chain in place of the strap and this can make for a great gold accent as well.
Wear the gold: Of course the most obvious way to incorporate gold into your outfits is by way of gold jewelry. This can be accomplished with expensive rings and necklaces, but if you are going for a look such as the popular Bohemian look in which you layer several gold necklaces, this can tend to get a bit pricey. Luckily there are a number of great looking faux gold necklaces that can be purchased for a fraction of the price of real gold. Acquiring several of these faux gold necklaces and layering them with traditional beaded necklaces will have you pulling off the Bohemian look flawlessly and rather inexpensively. If you are wearing formal wear that is black then a simple gold necklace, gold earrings, and a couple of gold bracelets really help to not only bring out the black, but they will help tie in the entire outfit in an elegant manner.
Step out in gold: Gold shoes are another great way to add gold into your ensemble mix. A pair of gold heels, wedge sandals, or even gladiator shoes can be the perfect pairing for your hot little black dress that you like so much. Gold shoes also make for a great addition to jeans of any color, especially the darker ones.

Gold is nothing to be afraid of, it is to be cherished and used. Remember that everything that glitters is gold and that gold is glorious so wear it and enjoy it.

What to Wear with Flats

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Flats

Flats where once only known as the shoes that women wore when they wanted ultra comfort, but as fashion often does, flats have made a complete 180 and have now made it to the forefront in women’s footwear. This is probably due to so many famous actresses now gracing a great looking pair of flats both on and off the screen. Flats are a very versatile shoe and can be worn with a number of different outfits and deciding what you want to pair you flats with is simply a matter of where it is you may be going for the day.

While flats go with almost anything, here are a few ideas for you to experiment with when wearing your flats:

Skinny jeans: This look is sweeping through Hollywood and making its way quickly to the mainstream. If you like to wear skinny jeans then this is the look for you and your flats. Pair your skinny jeans with your favorite t-shirt and finish it off with a lightweight leather jacket. As for the flats go crazy and try different looks. Skinny jeans look great with animal print flats, metallic colored flats, and even bright solid colored flats. Mix and match here and find what works best for you. If you don’t like the look or feel of skinny jeans on your body you can still accomplish about the same great look by just going with a tighter fit of jeans than  you normally would.
Dresses: A great way to compliment almost any dress you have in your wardrobe is by pairing them with a great looking pair of flats. Really it doesn’t matter how long the dress is what is important is the color. Go with solid colors on the dress and match them with the flats. This combination works equally as well with light and bright colors like white and yellow, as it does with darker colors like blue and black. For a great look and a cozy feel try ballerina flats with your favorite dress.
Capris and shorts: You can wear flats with capris and shorts to complete a cool and casual look. You can wear a simple t-shirt with this look and top it off with a light jacket if the weather is cooling off. Most of the time when wearing flats you will not wear socks but in this case it is totally up to you. If you do choose to go with socks go with no higher than calf high.
Leggings and tights: This look is great and easy to pull off. Simply start with a black pair of tights or leggings and top it off with a miniskirt or dress and your favorite pair of sassy flats. The result will be a hip but casual look. You can also go for a bit of a wilder look and dress in animal print leggings with a solid color flat. This look will spice up your appearance and definitely have people doing a double take.

Flats look great no matter how you decide you like to dress. From casual to formal, flats will have you covered.

What to Wear with Dunks

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Dunks

Dunks have been a part of the Nike line of shoes since the 80s. These shoes were originally meant to be for athletes only, but now they are worn by athletes, skaters, and both men and women with a number of different outfits. Because they come in so many colors now, it really isn’t too hard to mix and match them into your wardrobes lineup.

Both high top and low top Dunks are available and the patterns and colors seem to be endless. Here are some ways that you can incorporate your dunks into your outfits:

Jeans: This is a no brainer and really any style Dunks go with jeans. If you are like many these days that likes the look of skinny jeans then you will want to go with a low top pair of Dunks so that your feet don’t look like they are ten times too big. Typically with the jeans look you can wear whatever as far as a top goes, but most prefer a loose fitting t-shirt. You can get really creative and fins a t-shirt that has a saying on it like, ’Wear your Dunks.’
Skirts and dresses: This one is obviously for the ladies. Cute miniskirts with your favorite tops look great with high top Dunks. You can also wear a shorter style dress and the same pair of Dunks.  This is also a great opportunity for you to wear different layers as the weather gets cooler.
Leggings and tights: Wearing black tights or leggings with a miniskirt goes really well with dunks. High top or low top is a personal preference and these days you will see many women wearing both. Wear a brighter colored top like yellow or pink and be sure that those colors are in the Dunks. This look is also usually seen with the shoe laces untied on the Dunks. You can add even more pizzazz to the look by wearing bright colored shoe laces that contrast the top.
Shorts and t-shirt: When it is all said and done, Dunks are still great athletic shoes. You can wear a plain black pair or any other solid color with your basketball shorts and basketball shirt and hit the courts in style. You can also just wear cargo shorts, your favorite t-shirt, and any type of multi-colored Dunks you like.
Capris: Even capris fit into the fashion realm of Dunks. Women can wear a light colored pair of capris with a bright colored top such as red and either wear a pair of Dunks that matches the shirt or go with a pair that is lighter like the capris. The choice of low tops or high tops is again up to you but this look seems to be better paired with low tops.

Dunks are the perfect all around shoe and can be worn in almost any situation you like. If you don’t already have pair of these versatile shoes you may want to pick up a pair or two and start enjoying your wardrobe even more than you do now.

What to Wear with a Pencil Skirt

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Pencil Skirt

The pencil skirt is a garment that has gained much popularity over the past few years and is really a piece that should be a part of every woman’s wardrobe. Pencil skirts are great because they hug and flatter the natural curves of the hips and make you look your best no matter what the shape of your hips are. The garment can be worn to the office, or dressed down and worn on an everyday basis, or you can dress it up and wear it to a cocktail party. However, just as with any other clothing in your closet, this versatile piece of clothing can look unappealing if worn with the wrong outfit.

Because the pencil skirt is so versatile it is extremely easy to mix and match different articles of clothing that you now have in your closet to make for a great look. Here are some examples:

Tops: If you are dressing to go to the office then choose a blouse with a professional look. Long sleeved blouses that have a collar are perfect for the office environment and look great when tucked in. When you are simply going out and about go with a colorless blouse that you do not tuck in. Boat necks and cowl-necks look great and both tight fitting or loose fitting will work and your choice should be based on what you feel the most comfortable in.
Shoes: When it comes to footwear and pencil skirt the topic is really wide open. If you are wearing your pencil skirt to work then you can pair it with a nice sensible pair of heel that will compliment the entire outfit you are wearing. When you are going out with your pencil skirt on you can go with sandal heels or a low cut ankle boot for a more risqué look. You can even go for an ultra-casual look and wear a pair of ballerina flats which will not only look great but will allow your feet maximum comfort.
Belts: Wearing a belt with your pencil skirt is a great way to help define your waist. You will want to go with a skinny belt over a wider belt as this will help to define the precise lines of the pencil skirt. When choosing the color of your belt, consider the occasion. Go with a neutral colored belt when going to the office and bright and fun colors when out and about. You can also give your legs the illusion of being longer by wearing your belt up higher on the pencil skirt, or make them seem short by wearing it down on the pencil skirt.
Colors: Again this will depend on the occasion. Black is very versatile and can usually be worn anywhere. Neutral colors look great for the office and brighter colors are usually reserved for the more casual look.

Pencil skirts can be worn in a number of different ways all designed to make women look great. Being sure to pair your pencil skirt with the appropriate top and shoes will have you too looking fantastic.

What to Wear with a Leather Jacket

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leather jacket

There may be no garment that can compare with the versatility of a nice leather jacket. A leather jacket can be worn in the most casual of circumstances and can also be worn to some semi-formal events. You may be wondering what to wear with your leather jacket, but the options are so vast perhaps you should be wondering what not to wear with it.

Leather jackets come in all kinds of colors now but the most popular and the most timeless color is black. Here is what will look great with your black leather jacket:

Pants: If you typically go out for a night on the town in your semi-dress pants and a button down shirt, try jazzing it up with your leather jacket. Really any color goes. Dark colored pants look great with the black leather as do lighter colors. Try to stay with solid colors though as a pattern won’t look right. If all you have is a lighter colored leather jacket such as white leather then stick with darker colored pants.
Jeans: With jeans you can accomplish a couple of different looks. Wear darker colored jeans such as black with a darker colored t-shirt and top it off with your black leather jacket. This will have you come off looking like a biker or at the very least a rebel of some sort. If you wear your black leather jacket with a white t-shirt and a true pair of ‘blue’ jeans you can pass yourself off as a ‘greaser’ like in the movie Grease.
Skirts: Here’s one of the ladies. If you are wearing a cute white or any other light colored skirt that is frilly at the bottom you can go for the skater girl look by topping off the outfit with a black leather jacket and a wild hairdo. If you have a darker colored skirt then try to go with a different color of leather such as red or white. Just as with pants, you want to stay with a solid color. Skirts that are too busy in the design department will take away from the leather jacket and leave you looking awkward.
More leather: What looks better than a great looking back leather jacket? Pairing that black leather jacket with a dark colored t-shirt and some black leather pants. This will give you that ‘rocker’ look and if you have the build to pull off the look, then by all means go for it. A word of warning here, this look is one that is on the warmer side and you will sweat, so be prepared for that.
No shorts: Weather you are a guy or a girl don’t wear your leather jacket with shorts. It simply doesn’t look right and doing so will have people looking at you for all the wrong reasons.

A great leather jacket can enhance almost any outfit you can put together. Just stick to solid colors and leave the shorts behind and you too can sport your leather jacket in style.

What to Wear with a Fedora

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Fedora

It seems every time you turn on the television these days you can see a number of the stars from stage and screen wearing an infamous fedora. A fedora is a hat that is made of a felt like material and is creased down the middle and pinched on both ends in the front. The brim of the hat is somewhat flexible to create different looks and everyone from Humphrey Bogart to Indiana Jones has graced this type of hat.

Finding a fedora is as simple as going to any department store and choosing one as they come in a wide variety of colors. Knowing what to pair with your fedora with is another story. Sure you could just wear it with everything you put on, but to get a great look you can dress to compliment your fedora. Here are a few ways to do so:

The suit look: This is a classic look that began with the Blues Brothers and is still seen frequently today. To accomplish this look all you have to do is start with a black fedora and then get a black or navy blue suit and a white long sleeved button down collared shirt. Finish off the look with a black tie, black dress shoes, and of course black sunglasses and you will have the unmistakable cool look that has seen many generations.
Jeans and tank look: This look is for the ladies and is being made quite popular by the who’s who in Hollywood starlets. The look is easily mimicked and consists of a lighter colored fedora such as white and paired with black jeans and a black tank top. Strappy heels seem to be the shoes that go with this look and many of the younger women in Hollywood like skinny jeans with this look. It definitely takes a certain type to pull off skinny jeans and if they are not your thing just go a bit on the tighter side with your jeans and you will be all set.
Relaxed formal look: This is what many of the guys in Hollywood are doing these days. They begin with a black or dark gray fedora and pair it with a sort of ‘sloppy formal’ attire. To get this look you need to wear dress pants and a white button down collared shirt. Leave the collared shirt untucked and the top two buttons undone. You will want to get a neck tie but secure it loosely and over the shirt you can go for a sweater vest. In the shoe department you can either go for a pair of dress shoes or you can go for a pair of high top Converse.
Untouchables look: Back in the days of prohibition fedoras graced the heads of many of the police that raided illegal liquor taverns as they went after the likes of such criminals as Al Capone. Even the great Elliot Ness is depicted as always having on his fedora. To get the look of these Untouchables you need only wear dress pants, dress shoes, a long sleeved white collared shirt with a tie and instead of a jacket or blazer go with a long style rain coat. They typically wore tan fedoras but any color you like will fit the look just fine.

Fedoras are a timeless classic that can look great with almost anything you wear and when paired with the right clothing you too can look calm, cool, and collective.

What to Wear to the Kentucky Derby

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Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby is an exciting event for horse lovers; however it is also a very big social outing for Louisville residents and horse lovers from around the country. The most popular horse race in the United States, the Kentucky derby is one of the oldest also. It is the first of the three races that make up the Triple Crown and is an annual event. This race that is held the first Saturday of May has its own share of traditions which are not just about the horses. It is imperative that you know about these traditions if you plan to take it in this spectacular event.

Fashion is a huge part of the Kentucky Derby. Just about everyone who is everyone, even celebrities, come out to see this exciting 2 minute race. The rest of the time they are socializing, seeing what others are wearing and being seen. Therefore you must dress for the Derby. For men, the race is definitely a suit and tie occasion. In fact, the man who is not wearing a suit and tie is conspicuous because of that fact. Many gentlemen gravitate towards summer weight suits and lighter colors than one would wear for work. Tuxedos and bowties are also seen in the Millionaire’s Row section of Churchill Downs.

For women, fashion is a little more complicated, as usual. Women attending the Kentucky Derby will of course wear cocktail dresses for the occasion. However, beyond this it is a commonly known fashion guideline that those dresses must be sleeveless. Typically this provides comfort for a warm Kentucky spring day, however even if the day is unseasonably cold, fashion dictates that you wear a sleeveless dress regardless. Those years when there is wind and rain on the day of the big race, there are many ladies who are quite chilly.

The biggest fashion trend for women attending the Kentucky Derby is the wearing of wide brimmed hats. In fact for many people the wider the brim the better, but it definitely has to match the rest of the outfit. Big ribbons and bows add interest and details to the derby hat. Getting dressed for the Kentucky Derby is akin to preparing for a summer wedding. You must be dressed up and comfort is sacrificed. You’ll be standing in those high heels that go perfectly with the sleeveless dress for hours despite how quickly the race is finished.

Whether you are looking forward to enjoying a mint julep or two from a souvenir glass or a bowl of burgoo, the tradition Derby stew made of pork, chicken, beef and vegetables, you must be dressed for the occasion. The Kentucky Derby is recognized far and wide as a major social event and as such attendees must dress appropriately. You never know who you will see there.

Get started now looking for that perfect suit and tie for the men and the irresistible sleeveless dress and wide-brimmed hat for the ladies. You’ll blend in seamlessly with the other well-dressed horse racing fans at Churchill Downs on that lovely first Saturday in May.

What to Wear to a Class Reunion

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Class Reunion

When your class reunion roles around it is a great opportunity for you to see your old friends and school mates and it is sure to be a fun time had by all. You can take the time spent there and learn about what everyone has done with the past ten years of their lives and compare stories with everyone you run into.

Getting ready to go to a class reunion can be stressful though as you may run into a problem deciding what to wear. This stress can be eliminated by doing a little planning ahead for both guys and gals alike. Here are some tips to get you on the right track to class reunion success:

Primp up early: Before you decide what you will be wearing, be sure you will look your best in it by getting all your primping done before the reunion rolls around. This means getting your hair done and colored, getting a manicure, pedicure, you name it. Don’t wait until the last minute and scramble, instead start the week before the reunion. This will give you plenty of time and leave you much less stressed. You should also try on your outfit and be sure that it fits you before the actual night of the reunion.

Women: A safe bet is the little black dress for the women. The length should be about down to the top of the knee and whether or not you want it sleeveless or just short sleeved will be a personal preference on how much skin you are alright with showing. If it is chilly out you can jazz up the look with a bright wrap. Dress up the look with a nice pair of sandals that are on the risqué side and carry a small purse that matches. Bring out the black in the dress by wearing silver colored jewelry and go with a bold bracelet to tie in the whole outfit. This will leave you looking as great as the day you graduated from school.

Men: Men can’t go wrong with a nice suit that is topped off with a stylish looking neck tie. Of course you may not want to get that fancy in which case you can probably get away with just wearing a pair of dress pants and a long sleeved button down shirt. As for the tie, if you are not sure whether or not you want to wear one simply put a good looking one in your pocket. Once you get to the reunion take a minute or two before you get out of the car and observe what all the other guys are wearing. If the majority of them have on a neck tie then you can wear yours, if not you can keep it in your pocket just in case or you can leave it behind in the car.

Above all else be yourself and have fun. You certainly want to dress to impress but you should never feel like you have to act like you are something you are not, not even at your class reunion.

What to Wear Sailing

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OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Sailing can be enjoyed year round so long as you dress accordingly. Of course what you wear in the summer will be the total opposite of what you wear in the winter time but by being prepared you can enjoy sailing no matter what the climate is throwing your way.

Basically there are two types of sailing that you can get prepared to do, warm weather and cold weather. They break down as follows:

WARM WEAHTER

Shirt: A lightweight short sleeved collared shirt is perfect for a hot day of sailing. Be sure that you go with a lighter color though as a darker color will absorb the sun and make you extra hot.
Shorts: A good loose fitting pair of shorts goes perfect in the summer time. Cargo shorts are nice as they allow for easy movement and the extra pockets are great for stowing extra gear and tools.
Shoes: Deck shoes are in order for a hot summer day. You can get what are known as ‘sailing shoes’ which are actually designed to grip a wet surface and will allow for easier movement on the boat.
Hat: A good hat will help keep the sun off your head and out of your eyes too. Again you will want to go with a lighter colored hat so that it doesn’t absorb the heat of the sun.
Sunglasses: A pair of sunglasses with good UV protection will ensure that your eyes are not over exposed to the harmful UV rays of the sun.
Personal Flotation Device: Also know as a PFD this is the most essential piece of clothing you can wear. This is what will keep you afloat should something happen and you need to bail out of your boat.
Sun block: Get a high SPF sun block to cover all the exposed skin you will have due to the lighter way you be dressing.

COLD WEATHER

Layers of shirts: Start with a t-shirt and then go with a turtle neck shirt and follow that with a heavy wool sweater or synthetic jacket. This three layer approach will keep you both warm and dry.
Foul Weather Gear: Also known as ‘float coats’ these resemble thick rain coats. They go on over your pants and there is also a jacket that can be worn as well. This will give you added protection from the cold weather and will also block any moisture from getting to you.
Sailing boots: These will slip right on and have your feet stay nice and dry the entire time you are sailing. To keep your feet extra warm you can wear a thick pair of wool socks.
Wool cap: This will keep your head nice and warm.
Sunglasses: Just like with warm weather a good pair with adequate UV protection will keep your eyes safe.
Personal Flotation Device: Yes you still need a PFD. A float coat is not a substitution for a PFD.
Sun block: You will still need some sun block for your face and neck area. Remember, any sunburn is a bad sunburn.

While some prefer sailing when it is warm and some prefer sailing while it is cold, they can both be equally as fun provided that you wear the right gear.

What to Wear on Thanksgiving

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Thanksgiving family

Is there any holiday that is better than Thanksgiving? Thanksgiving is filled with family, food, and football and it is usually the food that everyone looks forward to the most. From turkey to mashed potatoes to stuffing and everything else in between, Thanksgiving is truly a day where you want to wear loose fitting pants. But the fact that your family and friends will be about does mean that you really should dress a bit on the nicer side for the food filled holiday.

Of course you will wear clothing in accordance with your gender, but here are just a few tips to help you out whether you are a guy or a gal:

Go with dark colors:  No matter how careful you are you will no doubt have some of your Thanksgiving dinner find its way onto your shirt or your lap. If you are wearing light colored clothing you will risk looking like a bit of a slob where as with darker colors you can get away with it a bit easier.
Be casual: As well as sitting around and eating, Thanksgiving also involves sitting around and recovering from the eating. After everyone is done with the food they will generally make their way to the couches and chairs and take in some football, even if they don’t like it. Thanksgiving also includes kids and having them around will mean that at some point you may want to get on the floor and play with them. By wearing more casual attire you will be able to do so and not worry.
Loose is the word: Be sure that your waistline can expand somewhat. If you go with a belt be sure that there is an extra belt hole or two so that you can adjust after your third helping of turkey. You can also opt for a pair of slacks with an elastic waistband but don’t go with sweat pants as that is a little too casual.
Wear cozy shoes: Since you will be walking all over the house and making several trips back and forth to the food table, wearing a comfortable pair of shoes is essential to your feet being as happy as your stomach will be.
Get in a festive mood: Part of the fun with Thanksgiving is the festive mood it sets. Be a part of that by going out of your way to dress a bit festive. You can find shirts or sweaters that sport turkeys, pumpkins, or anything else that relates to the holidays. A nice touch for a guy is a festive neck tie that features something from the holiday. The point is to have fun with this. If you have kids, a fun thing to do is to make pilgrim hats and then have everybody that comes over put one on. Of course you will want to take them off at dinner time.

Dressing for thanksgiving can indeed be fun. It is usually family and friends so casual is ok, just be sure you are going a little bit classier than shorts and a t-shirt.

What To Wear In The Fall

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Fall

Fall is arguably the most beautiful season of the year. The jewel tones of the trees create a welcoming landscape that warms the heart. The harvest season tends to bring joy to people as they remember to be thankful for their many blessings. The beginning of getting ready for Christmas, the most exciting time of the year, is also a part of what makes fall such an enjoyable season. However, the weather is starting to turn colder and winter is just around the corner. It is often harder and harder to predict how the next day’s weather will be and therefore choosing clothes is difficult. Yet, you can make some great choices that will easily carry you through any fall day.

Early fall often has some days of Indian Summer, where the temperature is still as warm as real summer. However, the nights will typically quickly remind you that it is indeed fall. Therefore if you are enjoying a warm early fall, it is nonetheless important to keep a light jacket or sweater on hand for the evening. If you are wearing shorts and plan to get home late, a pair of jeans to change into is a good idea also. The good part of Indian summer is that you get to wear your summer clothes a little longer and more slowly move into fall fashions. For those who live in areas that are very hot, often fall doesn’t come fast enough and they will wear fall clothes before the weather is truly cool enough. This is workable if you remember to layer so that you can remove some clothes if you are too warm.

Regular fall clothes are just simply those items that you might continue to wear in the winter but with heavier outerwear. Sweaters, jeans, long pants, skirts with tights, long-sleeved T-shirts, button-down shirts with a T-shirt underneath and blazers are all typical fall clothes. Heavier weight fabrics are also a hallmark of the season, as the skirts and pants you wear in the summer will be much lighter than your fall ones. This season also is often marked by wearing socks. In summer, socks tend to collect dust in the drawer as we enjoy sandals and flip flops. Fall brings closed shoes and matching socks. For business wear, it means back to hose or tights.

If you tend to get a little down as the fall wears on, opt for clothing in the warm, rich tones of autumn. Golds, burgundies, browns and oranges are warm, happy colors that will elevate your mood. Often fall fashions are found predominantly in these colors. Explore the colors that are popular this fall and choose the ones that make you smile or relax.

Get your fall wardrobe out of the back of your closet and update it with a few choice items to make it fashionable again. Take joy in familiar textures, substantial clothes and the feel of more fashionable garments. Enjoy fall and all the wonderful styles that make it a fun season.