Category Archives: Fashion Advice

Advice for wearing and caring for your clothing and t-shirts.

Shenae Grimes

How to Dress Like Shenae Grimes

Shenae Grimes

An entire generation fell in love with the show Beverly Hills 90210. Now an entirely new generation gets to fall in love with the spin-off show of the original hit simply titled 90210. One of the main characters on the show is Anne Wilson who is played by Canadian actress Shenae Grimes. Grimes is rapidly climbing in popularity with both teens and women in their early twenties and many now aspire to look like the young actress and are attempting to dress like her.

Grimes has a great look and wears a combinations of different dresses and skirts in order to pull off her graceful style. Here are some things you can do to dress more like Grimes:

•    Dresses: Grimes goes with a wide variety of short skirts and looks great no matter what style she wears. She can be found wearing all types of dresses so you can feel free to experiment here and wear what looks best on you no matter if the style is sleeveless, strapless, or even spaghetti straps. The length of the dresses should be no longer than just above your knees and the shorter you go the better it is for the look. Grimes has no set color pallet here, but does seem to stick to solid colors.
•    Skirts: Grimes tends to wear her skirts a bit on the longer side and they commonly come down to her ankles. These skirts usually are a lot livelier in color than the dresses that she wears. You can go with all sorts of fun patters from plaids to checkers to polka dots. Then finish off the skirts with a nice frilly shirt and you have the look completed.
•    Shoes: Here you have a lot of leeway. She has been known to wear anything from heels to boots and occasionally is seen in simple sandals and flip-flops.
•    Accessories: Grimes wears a wide range of accessories and you can feel free to do the same. When wearing one of your dresses you can dress it up with a scarf. When wearing a skirt tie in the outfit with a big belt or sash. As far as jewelry goes you will want to go on the lighter and more conservative side as Grimes rarely wears a lot of jewelry.
•    Hair and make-up: This brunette has beautiful looking long hair. She parts her hair to the side and usually adds some curl to it. You can get this look by using your bigger curling iron and lots of hair spray. When applying your make-up go a little heavier than you normally would, especially around your cheeks. Grimes uses a good amount of blush here to accentuate her cheek bones and you should follow suit. Bring out your lips with a medium color pink and never go wild with your lip stick as Grimes is never found wearing loud lip stick.

The key to nailing the Grimes look is to have fun doing it. Her wide open dress and skirt approach to fashion can make getting dressed up a fun pastime rather than a boring chore.

Indianapolis

What To Wear In Indianapolis

Indianapolis

Indianapolis is home to one of the most exciting car races of the year. The Indianapolis 500 draws race fans from around the country. In fact this race is probably the thing that makes Indianapolis stand out for most people and is its best known feature. During race week, the fashion statement that most people make is a pair of shorts and a T-shirt rooting on their favorite racing team.

If you want to know what to wear in Indianapolis, your number one resource will be the weather forecast. The city gets four distinct seasons and you will need to dress appropriately for them. Summer experiences nice warm weather averaging mid-80s in the daytime. Spring and fall are comfortable seasons for spending time outside. You will find that it is much easier to dress for these seasons than for winter. However, spring can be a tricky season with huge temperature fluctuations in the same day. This fact reinforces the necessity of checking the weather.

Indianapolis is in the north part of the United States Midwest and receives its share of snow and cold weather. Because of the winter temperatures, it is important to equip yourself properly if you are going to the state in the winter. The things that are most important for anyone in Indianapolis to wear during the winter include a suitably warm winter jacket or coat, a hat, gloves or mittens and winter boots. Scarves, earmuffs and snowsuits are also good choices depending on what you plan to do and if you want to spend time outside.

Indianapolis is home to a large number of serious sports fans. There are several professional and semi-professional sports teams in the city, the two most prominent being the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts and the NBA’s Indiana Pacers. During the football season and basketball season especially, clothes sporting a team logo are commonly seen throughout the city.  During NCAA basketball tournaments that are held in Indianapolis, college team shirts are in abundance.

The city offers much in terms of cultural attractions and events. The arts are alive and well in Indianapolis, as is the music scene. Because of the prevalence of such influence and the fact that there are multiple colleges and universities in the city, fashion is a little bohemian in places. Many of the artists and college students put together eclectic looks from the used clothing stores and their own imagination. Jeans and T-shirts are commonly seen in much of the city, as they are throughout America. Layering is also a popular look and one that is very practical for changing temperatures.

Indianapolis is the state capital and as such has a large number of professional and government offices in the city. If you are visiting on business, chances are a business professional outfit will serve you well. If you know that the company you are visiting has a business casual environment, opt for a conservative look within that range. It is the Midwest, after all.

Enjoy Indianapolis and all it has to offer!

Pink singer

How to Dress Like Pink – The Singer

Pink singer

Since 2000 Pink has been putting out albums and rocking the music charts with her unique style of music. Her flair for music is almost as wild as her flare for dressing and when it comes to the way Pink dresses, there is never a dull moment. Her fiery attitude and self-reliant image makes her the envy of many women who would like to dress like her and be like her as well.

If you want to dress like Pink then you have to be ready to get a little bit crazy. On her most normal day of fashion Pink can be more outrageous than most on their wildest day. Here are some ways that you can achieve the Pink look:

•    Pants and shirt look: Pink often wears a combination of pants and a shirt when she performs on stage. Her pants consist of loose fitting cargo pants and her shirt is always one that shows her stomach. Her color combinations can vary greatly so here is your opportunity to have some fun. You can mix camouflage cargo pants with a black top or black cargo pants with a loud and colorful top, it’s really up to you and your mood. Footwear for this combination can consist of combat boots or high-top sneakers but leave the high heels in the closet. Accessorize the look with a number of flashy necklaces and be sure that you have on some bracelets too.
•    Dresses: Another way to pull off the Pink look is to wear one of her favorites; a dress. Pink likes to wear a wide variety of dresses but her favorite is the kind that is tighter on the top and widens out at the hips and get poofy. With these types of dresses there is almost always some pink in them perhaps to honor her name. She is also fond of the tighter fitting dresses in darker colors and always wears fishnet stalking to compliment the look. With the dresses you can feel free to pull out those wild high hells you have been saving and wear them to your heart’s content. Accessorize with sashes and belts if you like and wear some bracelets, earrings, and necklaces that grab attention as well.
•    Hats: No matter what type of Pink look you are going after you can add to it with a hat. Pink likes to wear a lot of different types of hats and can be spotted in derby hats and baseball hats too. Wear your baseball hat with the bill to the side to achieve the perfect look.
•    Hair and make-up: Pink typically wears her hair short and gives it a lot of attitude. You can do this by spiking your hair in certain places and simply messing it up in others and getting some firm holding gel to help you keep it in place makes the process a whole lot easier. A nice touch is to put some pink highlights in your hair as Pink does this quite often. For your make-up go heavy or light depending on your mood because Pink goes heavy at times and ultra light at others.

To complete the illusion, become a vegetarian and join PETA and you will all set.

Disneyworld

What to Wear to Disneyworld

Disneyworld

It is hard to find anything that can compare with the fun you and your entire family can have when you take a trip to Disneyworld. Disneyworld is filled with so many different rides and attractions that there is sure to be something for everyone in your group to enjoy and the memories you form will ultimately last a lifetime. But in order to get maximum enjoyment out of your visit to Disneyland it is important to know what to wear when you go.

Though it may not seem like it, when you are attending any theme park, especially Disneyland, you will be moving around a lot. There will be rare opportunities for you to just sit and relax because you will be so busy enjoying everything that the park has to offer. Knowing that you will want to leave all the dressy clothing that you have back at the hotel room and prepare for your fun day by dressing in an ultra casual way:

•    Shoes: When it is all said and done you will probably walk a few miles while inside of Disneyland so you need to prepare your feet for that. Be sure you have on a comfortable pair of sneakers and be sure they are already broken in. A new pair of sneakers may look great on your feet but if you wear them for the first time while visiting Disneyland you will leave with much more that memories; you will leave with lots of blisters as well.
•    Shirts: T-shirts and tank tops are in tall order for Disneyland. Remember you will be moving around all day and anything that is thick is sure to be soaked with sweat before the day is done. If you feel the weather may get chilly you can bring a light sweater or a wind breaker with you and tie it around your waist. That way you will have it if you need it and it stays out of the way if you don’t.
•    Shorts: You will want to go with shorts even if it is a bit on the chilly side. With the constant movement from all the walking you will be doing your legs are not going to get a chance to get cold. If it is really cold then a lightweight pair of pants will do you better than jeans because you will still sweat and jeans are only going to absorb that sweat which will make for a sticky and uncomfortable day.
•    Accessories: Besides a camera and a couple memory sticks there are a few things you will want to bring with you. A hat can be a great way to keep the sun off your head and help shade your face. Be sure the hat is a lighter color as a darker color will only absorb the sun and make you feel hotter that you already are. Sunglasses with a high UV protection are a good idea too as you will be exposed to the sun for long periods of time. The most important thing to remember though is sun block. You will want to apply and reapply so that you don’t end your Disney trip looking like a lobster.

The last thing you will need to bring with you is lots of money. Disneyland is by no means inexpensive; but it sure is a lot of fun.

Taylor Momsen

How to Dress Like Taylor Momsen

Taylor Momsen

One of the most popular new shows on television today is the show Gossip Girl. Of all the characters on the show, one of the more popular is Jenny Humphrey who is played by Taylor Momsen. At 16 years old she is quickly becoming one of the most envied young women on television today.  For this reason there are now many younger teens that want to look like her.

Momsen has a very contemporary look and is usually dressed to the nines no matter where she goes. Here are some different ways in which you too can look like this future diva:

•    Short dresses: Momsen like to wear a lot of short dresses. These dresses are on the loose fitting side and tend to even poof out just a bit. As far as coverage goes she tends to go with the ones that cover less rather than more. Be sure that you choose dresses that don’t go down any further than the top of your knees. When choosing your colors go light and bright and stick to yellows, beiges, and white.
•    Artistic look: Momsen often looks like a true artist when she is just out walking around. To accomplish this you need to go with darker colors and wear a typical artistic outfit like Momsen does. Start with a pair of dark tights and then wear a white shirt and top it all off with a black leather jacket. Don’t forget to wear the sunglasses that look like bug eyes with this look.
•    Accessories: You have a lot to choose from in this department as Momsen likes to accessorize her stuff. A favorite accessory of hers is a scarf and she makes it look great no matter what she has on. When picking out your scarves be sure that they contrast in color with whatever it is you are wearing. You can also go with any number of different purses to tie in an outfit as Momsen likes them all. As far as jewelry goes, Momsen likes to wear a good amount of colored bracelets, hanging necklaces, and earrings that hang somewhat low.
•    Hair and make-up: At times Momsen’s hair is prim and proper and to get this look you need only part to one side and use your body enhancing products sparingly. Still there are other times where the young star has a serious case of bed head, though it is always intentional. To get that bed head look just towel dry your hair before you go to sleep and in the morning you will be all set. When applying your make-up go with dark red coloring for your lips and be sure to use a lot of darker colors around your eyes. Plan on spending some time in front of the maker-up mirror as Momsen may be a teenager, but she wears enough make-up to pass for someone ten years older.

Pulling off this contemporary look isn’t always easy, but if done in the proper manner you will have more than one guy checking you out as you walk down the street.

Wool sweater

How to Wash a Wool Sweater

Wool sweater

When washing your delicate wool sweater you have to use the utmost of care to avoid the dreaded ‘fulling’ effect. Fulling is when there are patches of your nicely woven wool sweater that have been allowed to fluff up and look horrendous. This is easily avoided and contrary to popular belief, this is really caused by abrasion and not water temperature.

Follow this process to ensure your wool sweater comes out as good as new:

•    Preparation for wash: Fill your bath tub with hot water…yes hot. Again, this is not the cause of fulling, it is abrasion that causes this. Hot water has the power to dissolve grease and other grime so don’t be afraid of it, use it.
•    Soap: Soap will hurt the sweater, even the most supposed ‘gentle’ soaps available. Woolite is not as gentle as they say but is definitely better than regular washing machine soap. Even better though is good old detergent. The best brand to use is Dawn. Stay away from the colored and fruity fragrances and stick with original blue or yellow if blue is not available. Use one squirt in the tub of hot water and only give a quick swish to dispense the soap, but avoid sudding up the water.
•    Washing: Here is where you have to have discipline. Gently place your wool sweater in the hot water with Dawn and let it be. Don’t swirl it, mash it, or ring it as that is abrasion and a sure path to fulling. Let the Dawn do its job by letting the wool sweater just soak. Soak it for several hours and overnight if it has been a while since the garment has been cleaned.
•    Rinsing: Once the sweater has soaked for a while, gently transfer it onto some clean towels and be sure it doesn’t bunch up. Now empty the tub and re-fill it with fresh hot water. Then gently take the sweater and place it in the clean water and let it sit for about 20 minutes. You may have to repeat this step two or three times; basically until the water looks clear.
•    Drying: Get some towels! Gently lay the sweater down on a big towel and then carefully roll the towel and press the towel to assist in the drying. Make sure to use pressure only and do not rub or shift your motion as this will cause fulling. Once the sweater is only damp, place it on dry towels and let it sit being sure to flip it every 12 hours or so. The air will do the rest and in about 24 to 48 hours your wool sweater should be dry.

If this all sounds like it is too much or your wool sweater has a significant stain on it, consult a dry cleaner that is better able to handle you sweater and will have access to chemicals that you can’t get. Just remember that when it comes to your wool sweater, patience is your friend and abrasion is your mortal enemy.

Rachel Green

How to Dress Like Rachel Green

Rachel Green

Rachel Green was a character on the fictional TV show, Friends. Friends was one of the most popular sitcoms in TV history and Rachel was one of the most popular characters on the show. Played by actress Jennifer Aniston, Rachel came from a privileged background but had to learn to live on her own and support herself in New York. Rachel starts out as a ditzy self-absorbed daddy’s girl but evolves into a savvy fashion buyer who is a loyal and loving friend with complex relationships.

Aside from being stylish on her own, the character Rachel Green also works for the designer Ralph Lauren, which makes it possible, and necessary, for her to have a sophisticated and somewhat trendy look. Though not everyone can work for a designer and have access to high end clothes, with a little creativity it’s possible to have Rachel Green’s look and style.

The “Rachel” was one of the most popular hair styles in the 90’s. Women across the country wanted to duplicate Rachel Green’s hair. To get her look, try to style your hair with volume on top, parted in the middle and worn straight, framing your face. If you have short hair, a wig from a wig or costume shop can help you get the look of Rachel’s hair.

Another way to get the Rachel Green look is with trendy stylish clothes that were popular in the 90’s. From lingerie under cardigans to pencil skirts with tights, Rachel wore outfits that fit her body and made her look comfortable and edgy at the same time. Vests over t-shirts and short skirts with boots is another example of Rachel’s look. Jeans with vintage t-shirts is something you can also wear to have her style. Body hugging tank tops with dark wash jeans were also a staple in her wardrobe and something you can easily find to get her look. In all of your choices, keep the color palette simple and earthy, including gray, taupe, and black that were very popular for her character.

For going out, Rachel would wear a variety of little dresses. From a classic little black dress to a sequined dress, this is something that you can find at most women’s boutiques that would help you style yourself like Rachel Green. And with the dresses, don’t be afraid to wear really high heels. Rachel never met a pump she didn’t like!

Finally, when Rachel was pregnant, she wore lots of designer maternity wear. You can get this look by shopping for classic tailored maternity pieces at discount maternity stores. Pair sophisticated tops with comfortable classic pants and skirts and you can look like pregnant Rachel.

The character of Rachel Green became a style icon in real life fashion. Her streamlined classic look can be achieved by combining classic pieces that you can find at many department stores. Pull them together and you too can look like Rachel Green!

Wedges

What to Wear with Wedges

Wedges

Wedges are an extremely popular shoe style, but not everyone knows just what makes a wedge a true wedge. Before you go shopping for one of this season’s hot shoe trends, let’s do a bit of research. On most shoes, the heel of the shoe extends from the heel of the foot to the ground. Wedges are designed differently. A wedge heel extends under the foot, from the back of the shoe to the middle or front, and provides total foot support.

Wedges can vary in height. Many are high-heeled, giving them the familiar triangular “wedge” shape. When the front of a wedge is also elevated, it is called a “platform wedge.” High heeled wedges tend to be easier to walk in than stiletto heels while still offering lots of height to those who are vertically challenged! Not all wedges are high heels, however. It’s the shape and length of the heel that determines if a shoe is a wedge or not. This shoe style is wonderfully versatile and comes in a rainbow of designs and heights, making it adaptable to most any outfit, from dressy to casual.

Wedges add instant cosmopolitan flair, so be sure you’re ready to up your fashion quotient before slipping on a pair. They work best with certain outfits, depending on the look you’re going for.

Jeans. Wedges add a cute, fresh look to jeans. If you want to go casual with your favorite jeans and a tee or tank, try a pair of canvas wedges. They’ll not only be a great alternative to sneakers, high heeled wedges will add instant length to your legs. And for the best of both worlds, try a pair of sneaker wedges! For a dressier ensemble, wear your jeans with a pretty silk top (or other flowing fabric), then add coordinating wedges in leather or with embellishments. Because their unique design gives wedges a very sophisticated and sexy edge, they are a great choice for a night out on the town.

Skirts. Wedges are a perfect complement to skirts because they offer a more casual look than the traditional high heel. For a balanced look, wear wedges with a flowing skirt rather than a tight pencil skirt. Because of their size, wedges tend to make your feet look clunky when paired with slim skirts, so definitely stick with a loosely fitting skirt. There are wedge styles with straps that wrap up the leg, adding even more interest and sex appeal to an outfit.

Pants and capris. Pants and capri pants go nicely with wedges. But remember what we discussed when wearing skirts with wedges: wedges add visual weight to the foot area, so go with a wide-legged pant or capri to pull this look off. Don’t pair wedges with tight pants or capris or they’ll end up making you look like you’re standing on concrete blocks.

If you’re dressing for a formal event, wedges probably are not the best shoe choice. They tend to send out a fun, flirty casual vibe. In these cases, a stiletto heel would be the better match for your gown or party dress.

Sweat

Tips on Shirts That Don’t Show Sweat

Sweat

Excessive sweating can be an uncomfortable and embarrassing problem. If you experience this on a regular basis, chances are it affects your behavior and your relationships, not to mention it ruins a lot of shirts! And you’re not alone either.

It’s estimated that 2-3% of Americans suffer from hyperhidrosis (the medical term for excessive sweating), a condition that usually starts around puberty. Unlike a lot of medical conditions, hyperhidrosis generally occurs in people that are otherwise healthy. Triggers can include the most obvious – high temperatures – or situations where the person is nervous, scared or otherwise emotional, but there are some individuals who sweat almost non-stop, regardless of the weather or their emotional state.

If your sweating problem is one that is interfering with your daily activities, it might be time to visit with a doctor about the problem. There are some medical treatments which can manage this annoying condition and improve your quality of life. If your sweating problem is annoying but not life-altering, you’ll want to try the following clothing tricks that will help you stay cool and keep sweating to a minimum.

Shirts are the items of clothing most often affected by perspiration, so it’s a good idea to find shirts that will conceal your sweat and help you to stay cooler. If you’re donning a t-shirt for working out at the gym, color can help you to camouflage your sweating tendency. Grey and light pastels are the colors that betray sweat the most because they make sweat marks appear darker than the dry areas of the shirt. White t-shirts and black t-shirts are best at disguising sweat marks, though white t-shirts will begin to show telltale sweat stains without the proper care. If you don’t want the world to know you’re a sweat fiend and you don’t like to spend time in the laundry room dealing with yellow pit stains, then black is the color for you.

Another consideration if you’re coping with excessive perspiration is the type of fabric you select. When shopping for clothes, take care to stock your wardrobe with shirts that are made of “breathable” fabrics. These fabrics are made from fibers that allow moisture to move from one side of the fabric to another. As the body sweats, the fabrics “wick” away the moisture from the body, allowing you stay drier and more comfortable.

The most breathable fabrics are made of natural fibers, and include 100% cotton, pima cotton (an extremely durable and absorbent type of cotton), seersucker, linen, 100% wool, merino and cashmere. Cotton is the best choice and also the most widely available, so find a light, loose-fitting shirt in a nice cotton fabric for the ultimate in breathability.

Another technique for hiding sweat marks is to wear an undershirt with your shirt. A cotton undershirt will act as a sponge, wicking away moisture from the body and preventing telltale sweat stains on the outer shirt. You might think wearing two layers would heat you up when temperatures are high, but this method will actually help to keep your body cooler.

Emily Browning

How to Dress Like Emily Browning

Emily Browning

Emily Browning is a 20 year old actress who was born in Australia and is best known for her part as Violet Baudelaire in the hit movie Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events. Her latest role has her playing a part in the movie Uninvited and it seems that this young actress’s career is going to go ahead full throttle. Browning has an elegant yet simple way of dressing and for the many women that admire her, looking like her really isn’t all that hard.

Browning does not dress that much differently than the average woman might which makes her style an easy one to copy. Here are the different ways that you too can emulate this Hollywood starlet:

•    Short dresses: Browning is a big fan of short dresses. She seems to wear these the most when she is not filming and they range in style from strapless to sleeveless. She seems to prefer lighter colors such as white and beige but she has also been known to sport a black dress or two. When choosing your dresses you want to make sure that they don’t come down too far and should never go below just above the knees. While you can go longer if you wish, that won’t be accomplishing the Browning look.
•    Jeans and shirts: Another favorite way that Browning has to dress is in good old jeans and t-shirts. She seems to like what many of the younger crowd these days does and goes for skinny jeans much of the time. If you do not like skinny jeans, then a pair of tight fitting jeans will certainly do the trick. Her t-shirts tend to be plain so if it is hot out you can go with a plain white shirt or any other color on the lighter side of the color spectrum. When it is cold out you can do what Browning does and go for a multicolored sweater or even a solid colored long sleeved shirt. Unfortunately there is just no getting away from those skinny jeans.
•    Shoes: Lace up style heels are Browning’s pick of the litter when it comes to shoes. No matter what she is wearing these types of heels will accompany the outfit. She always matches the color of the shoes with the outfit as should you but again; make sure that you are in heels.
•    Accessories: Browning doesn’t really go all out in this department. If you do decide to accessorize you should take a page out of Browning’s book and go very low profile. Aside of some bracelets and maybe a nice toned down pair of earrings; Browning is seen in little else.
•    Hair and make-up: Browning is about 50/50 when it comes to putting her hair up and leaving it down. Either way, her straight hair makes for an easy going hair style so when you do your hair, don’t go crazy with the gels and the hair spray. Simple is better. As for make-up you should go for a more natural look on most fronts. The exception here is the lips. While she doesn’t go with fire red, Browning is a bit bold on the color she chooses for her lip stick. Feel free to accentuate your lips as well, just don’t go overboard.

Now you are set to go out and conquer the world looking like Emily Browning, the confidence, well that’s up to you.

Germany

What to Wear in Germany

Germany

If you are going to be going to Germany and are wondering what you should wear while you are there, the first question you must answer is what time of the year will you be going. Germany is a country that has four seasons and each season requires you to dress a certain way. To add a wrinkle to the fold the weather will vary from region to reign depending on the altitude.

When preparing your attire for your Germany trip keep these tips in mind about the different seasons:

•    Winter: Germany can be cold and certain parts of Germany can be bitter cold in the winter time. Depending on the region you visit you will more than likely see some snow if visiting in the winter time. It is therefore important that you pack accordingly. You will want to dress in wool slacks for warmth, several layers of top clothing, have heavy socks, gloves, hats, scarves, and boots in case the snow gets deep. Another essential in the winter time is an umbrella or raincoat as it tends to rain a lot in the winter as well as snow.
•    Summer: The weather is warm and also unpredictable in the summer time. It can go from blistering hot to nice and cool so you should think in terms of layers. You will want to wear clothing that is easily added or removed and that will keep you comfortable at all times.
•    Spring and Fall: These are the most unpredictable seasons when it comes to weather. Again think in layers and you should also make sure that your rain gear is with you at all times as this is the rainiest part of the year in Germany. Just as with any other time in Germany be sure that you have a sweater or a jacket handy as you never know when you will need it.

As far as protocol goes it is important to note that Germans tend to dress more on the formal side than most Americans do. When going out to eat you will want to stick with slacks as opposed to jeans. When choosing your colors go with darker colors like grays, browns, and black as the Germans tend to stick to the darker side of the color spectrum. You should also bring a comfortable pair of dress shoes as a pair of white sneakers will immediately out you for the American tourist that you are.

When visiting the German churches and other local spots remember to be respectful. Never wear anything that is too revealing and leave the shorts back at the hotel room. Dressing in a disrespectful manner may have many a German feeling a bit of contempt towards you.

While the weather can be somewhat unpredictable you can check the weather before you go over to Germany and try to plan your trip accordingly. If you should neglect to pack something don’t fear. There are many wonderful little shops all over Germany that will be able to outfit you with whatever it is you need.

Basketball

What to Wear When Playing Basketball

Basketball

Playing basketball is a great way to get some exercise and there are many courts that are outside so you can even get some fresh air in the process. As fun as the game is it is important that you dress properly to get the maximum pleasure out of the game. Dressing the right way will have you feeling great and also have you receiving a lot less trash talk from opponents as well.

While there is no set in stone rules for how to dress when you are playing basketball, here are some tips that will help you to look great and feel great too.

•    Shoes: Starting with the feet first is essential as the entire time you play basketball you are running and jumping. For this reason you must be sure to have the proper foot wear. There are actually shoes at the shoe store that are called basketball shoes and these are easily spotted by the high top design on an otherwise sneaker looking shoe. While you can play basket ball in low tops, it really isn’t recommended and doing so is almost always a recipe for a twisted or sprained ankle. A good pair of high tops is the key to enjoying many games of basketball.
•    Shorts: With the amount of sweating you will be doing, you will definitely want to go with a good pair of shorts. Just as with the shoes there are shorts that are called basketball shorts. These shorts are typically longer than normal shorts and are made of a lightweight, breathable material. There are generally no pockets and there is usually an elastic waist bald and a draw string to help cinch up the shorts. They should be very loose fitting as this will allow for maximum movement.
•    Shirts: While any old t-shirt will do the trick you may want to go with a, you guessed it, basketball shirt or jersey. These types of shirts are sleeveless and usually made of the same lightweight materials that the short are made of. You can jazz up your look here and get a basketball shirt that features your favorite team on it and even get one that has your favorite player’s name on the back. There are even some companies online that will custom print your last name, or any other name that you want, on the back of the shirt.
•    Other equipment: If you tend to be a big sweater then you will want to pick up a headband and some wrist bands. A headband may look a little funny, but it will absorb the sweat and keep it from running into your eyes. Wrist bands will also absorb sweat and this will keep the ball and your hands dry while you are dribbling or handling the ball. If you wear glasses then you will need to talk to your eye doctor about getting sports goggles that are in your prescription. This will allow you to see what you need to see without the risk of you breaking your expensive glasses.

Basket ball is a great sport and it is enjoyed the most when you dress for courtside success.

New Orleans

What To Wear In New Orleans

New Orleans

New Orleans has a unique cultural history and is steeped in tradition. The city is a study in contrasts with very wealthy areas and very poor ones. New Orleans is also known as a city that knows how to party and celebrate. Numerous festivals are held annually that attract tourists from around the world. Despite the fact that the population of this southern city is still greatly reduced in the post-Hurricane Katrina era, it is still a lively place full of joie de vivre.

If you are visiting New Orleans you will find that it is important to dress for the weather. Summers are very hot with average daily temperatures in the 90s. Even winter is mild, with 60s for daytime averages and no snow to contend with. However, as commonly found in the south, all buildings are air conditioned and even in summer you will need to tote a shirt or light sweater to wear inside, especially if you are easily chilled.

New Orleans is a very laid back city where practically anything goes. You will see a wide variety of clothing and styles on both the residents and tourists in the Big Easy. Local musicians influence the style of the city with their Bohemian looks. Artists who strive to look unique by putting together some unusual looks are also commonly seen, mixed in with business professionals and other more straight-laced individuals.

New Orleans is very much a college town, being home to multiple colleges and universities. The abundance of young people in the city are there primarily for post-secondary education. However their presence gives the city a youthful appearance. They also make the fashions of the younger generation more common around the city. You will see lots of students relaxing and studying, dressed casually in jeans or shorts and a T-shirt. The casually dressed tourist can easily fit in.

When it comes to going to New Orleans on business, note that many companies require professional business attire. Others opt for business casual, but don’t let the reputation of the city lure you into dressing too casually. The workplace is still taken seriously and people dress appropriately. Learn the guidelines for the company you will visit before making a mistake.

If you are planning to go out on the town, plan to dress up. Clubbing is serious in New Orleans. However, natives will warn you against wearing Mardi Gras beads or dressing in an overly revealing outfit. For dinner in upscale restaurants, expect to dress up. Many will require men to wear a jacket and tie. Women will need to wear dress pants, a skirt or dress.

If you plan to explore the city on foot, be sure to choose shoes that are supportive and comfortable. High heels are not the best choice. The streets are often uneven and you may hurt yourself. If you make the right choice in footwear you’ll be able to do more and see more and enjoy your stay to the maximum.

Get your stuff ready now for the Big Easy and enjoy your stay in a one-of-a-kind

Carnival

What to Wear to a Carnival

Carnival

There is nothing more exciting for the entire family than when the carnival comes to town. Carnivals are filled with riders, games, attractions, and fun. While there is no certain dress code to attend a carnival wearing the proper attire will have you enjoy your trip to the carnival that much more.

Here are some different ways in which you can dress to attend your next carnival:

•    Tops: The whole idea behind going to a carnival is to have fun and forget about the stresses of everyday life. When you choose a shirt to wear it should be a fun shirt that you really enjoy wearing. Of course if the weather is warm then you will want to go with a nice t-shirt and if the weather is cold then a long sleeved t-shirt will do just fine. Since carnivals are primarily outdoors it is a good idea to wear shirts that are made of a breathable fabric such as cotton.
•    Pants: Again, anything goes and you have to have fun with it. If it is cool out and you feel like wearing jeans then by all means do so. Cargo pants are also a great option as the extra pockets can come in handy for holding your wallet or other personal effects and can also hold any tickets that you may get. If it is too hot for pants then a nice pair of cargo short for the guys will do the trick and the girls can wear a nice pair of capri pants.
•    Hats: Hats are not a good idea to wear to the carnival if you plan on riding any rides. Many of the rides at the carnival will take you on some high rates of speeds and if you are wearing a hat it can quickly be gone for good. If you do wear a hat, be sure to hold on to it in your lap while riding the rides.
•    Shoes: This is probably the most important piece of apparel that you will wear. A carnival requires you to walk around all over the place and knowing that you should be sure that you are wearing the most comfortable shoes you own. A good pair of lace up sneakers usually does nicely and you should avoid wearing slip on shoes or flip-flops as they will not only be uncomfortable but they can also get lost easily on the faster ride.
•    Sun glasses: this is often overlooked, but if the carnival is a daytime one then you will be squinting all day long if you do not have a good pair of sunglasses with proper UV protection.
•    Purses: Bringing a purse to a carnival is just asking for trouble. Instead go with a fanny pack. Yes they may look a bit goofy, but they are a great alternative to lugging around a purse and will still allow you to ride on all of the rides without having to worry about losing all of your personal effects.

Now all you need to do is walk around and enjoy the show by taking in some attritions, rides, and good old fashioned family fun.

Skiing

What to Wear Skiing

Skiing

Skiing is probably one of the best ways to enjoy the snow that comes to the upper states every winter. If you are getting ready this winter to enjoy some skiing you need to know how to properly dress for it so that you don’t risk freezing to death.

Getting ready to ski means more than throwing on a pair of jeans and a ski jacket. As well as staying warm you need to stay dry as well. This is accomplished by dressing in a three layer approach. Here are some tips on how to dress for your upcoming ski trip:

•    First layer: The first thing you will want to put on is long underwear otherwise known as thermal underwear. Long underwear has the ability to wick away moisture that will come in the form of your sweat and will not allow it to absorb into the material. This is essential so that you stay as dry as possible.
•    Second layer: Your second layer of clothing will consist of sweaters and pants. Choose a good wool sweater for the best warmth and when going with pants do not choose jeans. They may start out keeping you warm but the denim will actually absorb any moisture that comes its way and eventually leave you wet and uncomfortable. Instead you can opt for a pair of polyester pants that will help you to repel any moisture that finds its way to you while keeping you warm at the same time.
•    Third layer: Your third layer should consist of your ski pants and your ski jacket. These will be the thickest of all and therefore provide you with the most amount of warmth. They will also help you ward off moisture as they are made with a water resistant material that will repel a good amount of moisture.
•    Footwear: When you ski you wear thick and ridged ski boots. These boots are designed to clip into your skis and are made of a material that is water proof. To keep your feet warm and protected wear a thick pair of wool socks and you will be all set.
•    Other apparel: Don’t forget to wear the little things that can easily be overlooked. First and foremost you will need a good thick pair of ski gloves to keep your hands warm. You will also want to get a wool cap so your head holds in heat and thus keeps your entire body warmer. Lastly you don’t want to forget to get a good pair of ski goggles as these will keep your eyes from getting dried out in the cool winter air. You may also want to consider getting some lip balm and sun block so that your lips don’t chap and your face doesn’t get sun burnt.

Skiing is a ton of fun but that fun can be cut severely short if you do not have the right clothing on. By going with the three layer approach and remembering the little things you will ensure that you day of skiing will be filled with fun and that you will stay warm and dry.

Baby shower

What to Wear to a Baby Shower

Baby shower

How you dress for a baby shower all depends on the baby shower itself. While some showers will be held in a more formal setting and other a more laid back and casual setting, showing up either under dressed or overdressed can be embarrassing. So how do you decide how you should dress to attend a baby shower?

Here are two specific tips that will help you decide what you should wear to the next baby shower that you attend:

•    Read between the lines: Look at the invitation you received for the shower. How nice is it? If it is inviting you for an evening of cocktails and finger foods then it is obviously a more formal setting and semi-formal attire will more than likely be required. If however the invitation is for a backyard picnic followed by cake and punch then it is more than likely a more casual setting.
•    Ask a friend: The nice thing about baby showers is that there are more times than not going to be one or more of your friends that will be in attendance. A great way to decide what you want to wear is to call your friends and see what they are going to be wearing. If you can come to a consensus then you will be in the clear and will not have to worry about whether or not you will be over or under dressed.

Once you figure out how you are going to dress here is how you can pull it off:

•    Formal: When going with the formal look you will want to wear a really nice dress. If the shower takes place after work then keep in mind that many people attending will be coming in their work clothes so you will want to dress in a business formal way. Try to wear bright and cheerful colors as a baby shower is a celebration of a new life to come and should be met with happy and cheerful colors.
•    Casual: If the baby shower you will be attending is going to be a casual one then really you can wear what is most comfortable to you. If it is a close knit group of your friends then you will more than likely be fine in a pair of jeans and a t-shirt. You can always go with a more casual sun dress if you want to dress down but not too down.

If all else fails you could call the expecting mother and ask her how she wants everyone to dress at the shower. But a word of caution here, many times a baby shower is a surprise so you have to be sure that it is not a surprise party before you call the mother to be and ruin the whole thing.

Once you are dressed and ready to go to the shower, go pick up a gift such as a baby  t-shirt or onesie or even create your own custom t-shirt and enjoy your day at the baby shower that is sure to be filled with friends, fun, and games.

Lingerie

Tips for Men Buying Lingerie for their Partner

Lingerie

For a guy there is nothing sexier than seeing the woman he loves wearing some hot lingerie. Bringing home some lingerie for your girlfriend or wife can be a great way to show her you care and that you are willing to spice things up just a bit, but it can also lead to you getting kicked in the privates if you do not go about it in just the right way.

Following these tips will help you make a better decision when buying lingerie for your partner:

•    Make sure she likes lingerie: Before you even go to the mall to look, make sure your partner is into lingerie. If you bring home some sexy lingerie and your wife or girlfriend is not into it, you risk hearing, ‘What, you don’t like me the way I am?’ Not worth it. Drop a subtle hint or two if you have to, but find out for sure if she likes the stuff and remember just because you do, doesn’t mean she will.
•    Never guess on the size: Whatever you do, never guess on the size. Find out what size she is before you go as this will certainly help you to divert an absolute disaster. If you bring home a size that is too big for your partner you will not be having the fun you envisioned but you will be convincing her to not leave you and trying to get her to stop crying. If you have to guess a size, go smaller. You may get it wrong, but she will probably be flattered that you think of her so tiny. This of course could backfire too and have you hearing that same phrase from earlier, so do yourself a favor and find out what size she is beforehand.
•    Watch what you say: When you go into a lingerie store, the best place to get ideas is from the women who work at the store. While this is fine and dandy, don’t go home and say, ‘Yeah, this looked great on the sales girl, or the sales girl said you would like this.’ Lingerie is an intimate gift and even if you are not a mushy guy, don’t announce that to your partner.
•    Keep your receipt: Make sure you keep your receipt so if your partner doesn’t like what you picked, she can take it back and get what she wants.
•    Don’t go overboard: Unless your wife or girlfriend tell you otherwise, go conservative on what you pick. Going too risqué at first can be a big mistake. Start out with something nice and sexy, but stay on the more conservative side. As the time goes on you can attempt to get sexier outfits, but it’s not recommended right out of the gates.
•    Pick colors she likes: You may love that candy apple red teddy you saw, but if your partner hates red, don’t bother. The idea is to get her to wear what you buy so go with colors you know she likes.

Basically when you buy lingerie for your partner, just use common sense and remember that women sometime have very delicate feelings. Approaching the subject of lingerie with the utmost of caution will increase your chances of her wearing it the first time and many times after that.

Capri pants

Guide to Capri Pants

Capri pants

Capri pants were given a huge boost in recent years with more and more A-List movie stars being spotted in them when they are out and about just being casual. Capri pants can be a great alternative to wearing the same old same old and have that look of being in between too casual and too formal.

Believe it or not there are certain ‘rules’ when it comes to wearing capri pants though they are not hard and fast. Here are some things you should know about capri pants:

•    Don’t go long: Capri pants have to be just the right length. If they are too long, then you are wearing slacks and if they are too short, you are wearing shorts. So how long should they be? The ideal spot to have the bottom of your capri pants rest is the mid-point between your knees and your ankles, also known as the calf muscles.
•    Don’t go tight: One of the absolutely best things about capri pants is the fact that wearing a loose fitting pair can hide some of that extra weight that you may be carrying that you don’t necessarily want to show off to the rest of the world. That said you just don’t want to go tight with capri pants, even if you are skinny. The reason is simple; it will make your legs appear to be heavier than they are. If you have really nice legs and tone calf muscles than by all means go semi-tight, just not ultra tight.
•    Pick your passion: The traditional capri pants were all the same hum-drum kaki looking pants but today it is an entirely new ballgame. Today’s capri pants come in almost every color under the sun which makes them an extremely easy article of clothing to accessories. You can also choose capri pants that have the traditional solid look, or go with one’s that have laces hanging down the legs, or even with ones that have a laced up side, it’s really all up to you and what you think looks best on you.
•    Accessorize right: When it is hot outside a nice tank top will almost always does the trick to compliment your capri pants. When the weather starts getting a bit nippier then a cute long sleeved button down shirt fits the bill. You can choose to use a regular belt with your capri pants or you can find a fun wrap to help tie your outfit together. As for your shoes, really anything goes. Just stay casual and leave the high heels at home. A nice pair of wedge sandals always brings out the best in capri pants. When it’s too cold for sandals try a sassy pair of ankle high boots.

Capri pants can look good on almost any woman provided she wears them right. By choosing fun colors that you like and ensuring that the capri pants are the proper length and are not too tight, you will look your best anywhere you go in your capri pants.

Sperry topsiders

What to Wear with Sperry Topsiders

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.

Mardi Gras 1

What to Wear to Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras 1

Mardi Gras is a festive occasion that calls for letting go of your inhibitions and acting as wild as you want. It also calls for some specific clothing to make the celebration comfortable, safe and fun.

Mardi Gras colors

The traditional Mardi Gras colors are gold, purple and green. You’ll see this theme everywhere when you go to a Mardi Gras celebration. For this reason, many Mardi Gras goers like to wear clothing in those colors. You might choose a casual outfit such as a pair of purple pants, a green T-shirt and a gold jacket or gold necklace to represent these colors. You might also choose a Mardi Gras costume that embodies the spirit of Mardi Gras as well as the traditional colors.

Comfortable Clothing

One of the most important things to remember is that your close will probably get quite dirty during Mardi Gras. The trash and dirt that is left in the streets during the celebration is legendary. You will be wading through trash throughout the celebration and you may even have food thrown at you. Don’t wear anything that is very expensive or that you don’t want to get dirty, stained or torn.

Many people choose very casual, inexpensive clothing for this reason. Others make a yearly stop at the thrift store to buy inexpensive clothing that can be thrown away after Mardi Gras over. However you get your Mardi Gras clothing, make sure it is comfortable and easy to move it. You may be jumping for beads, you may be jumping over something dirty in the street or you may want to run alongside a parade float. Make sure your pants are not too tight for these activities and are not loose enough to catch on something and get you injured.

Leave the expensive jewelry at home. It may very well be stolen in the crowds, particularly at night. For Mardi Gras, accessorize with giant plastic beads. Even before Mardi Gras starts, you can buy lots of Mardi Gras beads at any souvenir shop. And once the parades start, you should be able to catch them from the floats. Wear as many Mardi Gras beads as you can for the ultimate Mardi Gras experience.

Shoes

There are two schools of thought on Mardi Gras shoes. The first is that you should wear very tough boots because your feet will get stepped on and you will be wading through garbage. A strong pair of boots will make sure that your toes come through just fine and the dirt in the street doesn’t touch you. However, the garbage can be hard on a pair of boots and they may end up ruined.

The other school of thought is to buy the cheapest pair of shoes you can and then to throw them away after the celebration is over. Whenever shoes you choose, they should be a dark color so that the stains aren’t as obvious. Even if you are keeping the shoes, you may not want to look at dirty, stained shoes all night.