Category Archives: What to Wear

Skydiving

What to Wear Skydiving

Skydiving

There is little that can compare to the rush you feel when you are free falling down to earth just before you open up your parachute and float blissfully down. Skydiving is a thrill that is certainly tough to match and to enjoy it properly you must wear the right apparel.

It is important to note that skydiving is not a fashion contest and anything that is worn should be in the line of function over fashion. Here is what you should wear when you get ready to go skydiving:

•    Pants: Depending on the time of year it is will depend on the type of pants you will wear. If it is warm out it is certainly acceptable to wear shorts and if it is cool out then a nice pair of jeans does the trick.
•    Shirts: The same weather rule applies with shirts. If it is hot out then you can go with a short sleeved shirt or tank top. Just be sure that the shirt is not collared. If it is cold out then wear a long sleeved shirt and again be sure there is no collar on it.
•    Jumpsuit: If you are a pro then you will have your own jumpsuit but if you are like most novices that don’t have one you can obtain one from the jump center that you will go through when going on your skydiving adventure. These jumpsuits will fit over any clothing that you have on which is why you can pretty much wear what you want underneath.
•    Shoes: Any pair of sneakers will do for skydiving so long as they lace up. A pair of high tops will give a bit more support on landing but for the most part any old pair will do.
•    Gloves and goggles: Again, you pros will have your own but for the rest of you the jump center will provide these as well. Usually you only need to wear gloves if it is on the chilly side.
•    Helmet: Again pros have them everyone else will get them from the jump center. If you have long hair it is best to put it up especially if you are doing a tandem jump where there is someone right behind you.

Along with knowing what to wear you should also know what not to wear:

•    Dresses: Girls should leave the dresses at home. Wearing one will not be very comfortable when you put the jumpsuit on.
•    Jewelry: This is for guys and girls. Leave all you jewelry at home as you don’t want anything to get caught up while you are in a free fall.
•    Shoes: As stated above you need lace up sneakers. No slip on shoes, flip-flops, or heels.

Again, skydiving is a great rush and you will get maximum enjoyment out of it when you wear the proper clothing. Remember that when you dress for your skydiving adventure you will want to go with functionality instead of style. No one will see what you are wearing under the jumpsuit anyway.

Mexico

What to Wear on Vacation in Mexico

Mexico

Mexico is a country that is filled with so much to do that you will definitely have to plan a few trips to soak it all in. While there are many customs held by the locals some of those customs are in the way that the Mexican people dress and in order to enjoy your visit to its fullest, you too should observe these customs.

Mexico is a place that messes casual and formal almost everywhere you look so it is important to know what to wear and when to wear it. Here are some clues:

•    Long dresses: When you ladies are walking through the towns and especially if you are venturing into a local church be sure to wear a nice long dress. This will not only show your respect for the Mexican culture but it will have you stick out a lot less then if you were to wear shorts.

•    Shorts:
Guys can typically get away with wearing cargos in the ‘touristy’ areas but for the most part should stick to a nice pair of cotton slacks. Ladies don’t typically wear shorts and when they do go that route it is usually in the form of some classy capri pants.

•    Beach wear:
This is the one place in Mexico that is pretty laid back. Your typical bathing suit that you are accustomed to wearing back home will probably be just fine. Leave behind the thongs and Speedos though; that is unless you want to offend someone. Whatever you do, don’t venture into town in your beach attire unless you want to be the wrong kind of focal point the entire time you are there.

•    Summer wear:
In Mexico it is as hot as it gets and still you will notice the locals wearing long pants and long sleeved shirts. In Mexico they make a lot of their clothing with cottons and other breathable fabrics as they are used to the sweltering heat and know what type of materials work best in that heat. Knowing that it may be wise to spend a few pesos and go to the local shops to acquire their summer wear. It will no doubt be more comfortable than what you own and the good thing is that you will be buying a memento too.

•    Gringo wear:
Leave all your, ‘Hi, I’m a tourist’ wear at home. Because you are what the Mexicans loving refer to as a ‘gringo’ you will already stick out somewhat. The last thing you want to do is to draw mass attention to yourself by wearing that tired old jogging suit with flashy white sneakers and cameras galore around your neck. This not only looks horrendous, but if you dress in this manner you will be setting yourself up to be an easy target for those that wish to rob the naive gringo.

To thoroughly enjoy all that Mexico has to offer you need to dress the part. A classy and sophisticated wardrobe that is also comfortable will take you a long way in the country and ensure a good time is had by all.

Liquid leggings

What to Wear with Liquid Leggings

Liquid leggings

Liquid leggings are just like regular leggings except that they are made of some sort of shiny material that gives them the appearance of being ‘wet.’  Thanks to start like Lady Gaga these liquid leggings are making their way into the mainstream of fashion at a very fast pace. Because there are a number of different colors of liquid leggings there are a number of different possibilities when you think about what you want to wear with your liquid leggings.

Liquid leggings are made to be noticed so when wearing them you need to pair them with garments that will compliment them and highlight them at the same time. Here are a few examples of how you can utilize liquid leggings:

•    T-shirts: This is the look that Miley Cyrus has helped make famous. Wearing black liquid leggings and a t-shirt that is on the long side, you too can accomplish this look. Use a wide belt to tie the outfit together and wear high top shoes like Converse to complete the look. You can also opt for a fun and stylish hat if you like.

•    Frilly blouses: Blouses that have frilly tops and frilly sleeves also go rather nicely with liquid leggings. If the blouse is long enough you can use a skinny belt if you wish. If you are wearing black liquid leggings then you can go with lighter colored tops such as white and yellow, but if you are wearing a metallic colored pair of liquid leggings then stick with black blouses as these will look great with the gold and silver colored leggings. Finish off the look by wearing a pair of high heels that compliments the entire outfit.

•    Dresses:
You can wear any number of cute short dresses over your liquid leggings for a casual and cool look. Choose to tie in the outfit with a belt or be a bit different and use a sash. If the weather dictates, you can wear a lightweight jacket and still look great. Go with heels once again when choosing your footwear.

•    Miniskirts:
A sexy way to jazz up a pair of black liquid leggings is to wear a black spandex miniskirt over top. This can be topped off with a short white blouse and fished with a lightweight black leather jacket. This is the ultimate in sexy cool. You will of course want to go with a pair of very high heels that are black.

•    More liquid:
Lady Gaga often wears her black liquid leggings and a top that is made of the same material. This look gives her an overall wet appearance and everything is very tight. That said if you are not comfortable in everything tight then you will want to skip this look. If however you are confident enough to go for it then pair it with black heels and you will have the Gaga look down.

Liquid leggings are a sexy and fun alternative to the ordinary. Pairing them with the right outfits will have you too looking your best no matter where you roam in your liquid leggings.

Converse

What to Wear with Converse

Converse

Converse shoes are the shoes that won’t die. These classic style shoes have been dressing the feet of young and old for decades now and it seems everyone on the Disney Channel is fully stocked with these classic Chuck Taylors. The company is over 100 years old and it seems that their popularity has grown with every new generation.

Part of the attraction to these iconic shoes is how they look great with almost anything and with the casual shoes with the formal attire look being made popular by teen icons such as the Jonas Brothers it is no wonder that the shoes are seen everywhere you look. Here are some tips on what you can pair with your Converse to look absolutely fantastic:

•    Jeans: This is one for the guys and the girls. Wearing jeans with your high or low top Converse are a great look. Manny guys like to wear the high top style of Converse with a nice pair of form fitting jeans and top it off with really any kind of shirt they like. Girls tend to stick with the low top Converse and also go form fitting. A popular trend among the Hollywood starlets is to wear skinny jeans with their Converse low tops so if you too can pull of a pair of skinny jeans then go for it. Like the guys, top off your jeans with your favorite shit as really anything goes.

•    Business rebel:
This is the look that the Jonas Brothers are making extremely popular. To nail this look start off with a pair of Converse high tops that are a bright color like red and then wear dress pants. Up top you will want to go with a long sleeved button down shirt that is collared but leave the top two buttons undone and ‘pop’ half of the collar. A neck tie is a must with this look but be sure that it is tied loosely. Finally a mismatched jacket is worn.

•    Skirts:
So many Hollywood starlets can be caught wearing a various style of cute skirts with a short sleeved top and what is on their feet; high top Converse. When you go for this look you can go with red Converse and a ‘school girl’ style skirt or you can go with a black skirt and a bright color of Converse such as yellow. This is a fun style so when you are putting this type of outfit together you too should be having fun with it.

•    Dresses:
The ladies can also wear a number of dresses that come down to the top of the knee and match the dress with a low top pair of Converse. Stay with solid colors when tackling this look, such as an all white dress and white low top Converse.

If you don’t already have a pair of Converse on your shoe rack, go get yourself a pair. The shoes are timeless and will probably never go out of style and the best part is you can wear them with practically anything.

Atlantic City

What To Wear in Atlantic City

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is virtually a gambler’s paradise. Located on the Atlantic Ocean it offers beautiful scenery, a great beach, the world’s longest boardwalk, exciting casinos, fabulous restaurants and so much more. People of all ages and all walks of life are attracted to Atlantic City. Because of this you will see an eclectic display of fashion in the city, especially in the tourist areas.

Because Atlantic City is a total resort town, many people wear resort wear. You see lots of light clothes in bright colors and patterns. Men often wear Hawaiian shirts, while women favor sundresses. Shorts and T-shirts are also commonly seen. Due to the beach being right there you will often see people wearing a bathing suit and a cover-up. Those who use the world famous boardwalk are most typically dressed in sports clothes and sneakers.

Certain casinos have dress codes for those arriving after a certain time at night. This includes bans on work clothes, T-shirts, some sports clothes, work shoes and baggy jeans. This is in order to make their establishments seem more high fashion. However for the most part casinos have no dress code and most people go there in casual attire.

If you are heading to Atlantic City, your choice of what to wear is endless. Pretty much anything goes. However, since it is a vacation spot, dressing like you are on vacation is a good tip. Bring a swimsuit or several for trips to the beach or the pool. Make sure you have a cover-up in case you decide to stop somewhere to shop or for a bite to eat. For the beach, flip flops or sandals are a good choice of footwear, but bring along sneakers or walking shoes also for those long walks on the boardwalk or around the shopping centers. Bring some dressy clothes for dining out or shows in the evening. Some of the chic restaurants in Atlantic City will expect you to be dressed appropriately. If you plan to hit the club scene be sure to get a hot outfit that will turn some heads.

If you visit Atlantic City in the winter, things look very different. The beach and boardwalk are still breathtaking and there is still much to do however, expect it to be cold, windy and snowy. New Jersey in winter is definitely not tropical. Be sure to bring along a winter jacket, gloves or mittens, winter boots that are suitable for walking outside and a scarf. It is also a good idea to layer when you plan to be inside as some places keep the temperature high while others do not. A dressy coat is a good choice to bring along if you are planning to take in some exciting evening events.

Clothing choices for Atlantic City depends on the weather and your agenda. A family trip to the beach in the summer will require completely different things than a work-related convention for business professionals in the winter. Make your choices accordingly with such things in mind.

Marathon

What to Wear in a Marathon

Marathon

Running a marathon is a serious task that requires a lot of planning and attention to detail. Some of the planning of course is choosing the perfect outfit to wear during the marathon. The marathon outfit isn’t about looking great- it’s all about making yourself more comfortable and able to go the distance.

The Weather

An important component of marathon clothing is how to dress for the local weather. You should dress warmly enough that you will not be uncomfortable while running. However, you also have to remember how heated your body will get after running mile after mile. Think about the different times of day that you will be running. Even if you begin during daylight, it may be dark by the time you finish. Depending on your running time, it could be several hours before you reach the finish line, and the weather could be quite different by that time.

For cold weather, consider spandex pants that go all the way to the ankle. This will insulate you from the cold wind while not providing too much bulk during your run. If you’ll be running in hot weather, choose short spandex pants that won’t leave you overheated. There are also running skirts and skorts available that can take the place of running shorts. Wearing a short running skirt can keep air circulation to your legs in hot weather without constricting your movements.

Some women prefer to wear a short running skirt over a pair of spandex pants. This can be a way to stay warm as well as to not be uncomfortable with the amount that is revealed. In warmer weather, there are also short running skirts that come with capri-length spandex pants. This keeps you cool and provides a little extra coverage.

Hats

If your marathon will take place in cold or very windy weather, wearing a hat is extremely important. Much of the body’s heat is lost through the head, and keeping the head covered will ensure that you keep enough body heat to stay comfortable. Even if you take no other cold-weather precautions, you will need a hat. A small hat that doesn’t add bulk to your head will not adversely affect your aerodynamics. It may also help to absorb some sweat and keep it from running into your eyes.

Another option is a thick headband that goes over the ears to protect them from the cold. This will also absorb sweat same way that a hat would.

Jackets

You may want to bring a jacket for your warm-up period and then get rid of it before you start the actual marathon. In cold climates, people often wear a jacket and then remove it before they run. The easiest way to handle this is to wear a thick jacket to the race that you do not plan to keep. This can be a thrift store jacket or an old jacket that you no longer want. Some races actually collect these leftover jackets and give them to charity.

Los Angeles

What To Wear In Los Angeles

Los Angeles

Los Angeles brings to mind sun, glamour, glitz and high fashion. The city is known for being home to countless celebrities. It is also a Mecca for healthy living and exercise. Having a great body is a must in Los Angeles and the styles that you see on the streets and just about everywhere you go will prove it.

Many people are surprised to learn that there is very little temperature fluctuation in Los Angeles throughout the year. Winter daytime temperature averages are mid-60s, while summer averages mid-70s. It is quite comfortable year-round. No matter when you go remember to bring a light jacket or sweater for the evening because it can get chilly.

If you are planning to go to Los Angeles you will need to choose the right clothes in order to fit in there. That means clothing that is form fitting and shows off your physique, which of course must be buff. Short shorts, figure hugging capris, skinny jeans, tank tops, tight T-shirts and mini-skirts are all acceptable for shopping, hanging out with friends or sight seeing if you have the figure to pull it off. If not, choose outfits that are comfortable, lightweight and camouflage what needs to be camouflaged while accenting your assets.

Los Angeles is known as being a laid-back city and California casual is pretty much the standard for dressing there. You can go almost anywhere in the city in jeans. In most good restaurants you will find patrons in jeans or other casual outfits. However, some of the very upscale restaurants may require business casual type outfits before serving you. When opting to go the jeans route, you can always opt to dress up the outfit with heels or fancy sandals and a pretty top. For guys, pressed jeans and a shirt with buttons is a great dressy casual look.

If you are packing for a trip to LA, remember to bring a bathing suit and cover-up. Flip flops or sandals are also a good choice for the pool or beach. You will also want to bring along a hat for sunny days if you plan to spend a lot of time outside. Comfortable shoes or sneakers are a must if you plan to do walking tours or go shopping. Keep your sunglasses nearby also because even though the temperature is not extremely hot, it is usually sunny in the City of Angels.

If you plan to check out the nightlife in LA, get dressed up. You will want to bring along a nice dress or a hot skirt and a dressy top. High heeled shoes should complete your outfit. Guys have more freedom in what they choose to wear clubbing with jeans being the most common choice. Remember, in the entertainment capital of the world you never know who you’ll run into when you are out on the town.

Have fun in sunny LA, stay out of the traffic and relax in one of the most exciting cities in the country.

Christening

What to Wear to a Christening

Christening

A christening is similar to the baptism ritual that is performed by Christians where water is used to give acceptance to a person in a church and is meant to protect that person’s soul from evil. The biggest difference is that a christening is lined up by the parents of an infant where a baptism can be for anyone regardless of age. Like a baptism a christening is an extremely important event for Christians and just the fact that you get invited is an honor in itself. So what should you wear to a christening?

A christening will usually take place in a church so you should dress accordingly. Just as you would not show up to a church on a Sunday morning dressed in shorts and flip-flops you should not dress down when attending a christening. Here are some tips on what to wear when you attend a christening:

•    Women: Women can wear a number of outfits similar to what they would wear to go to church. One can’t miss outfit is a nice pair of dress slacks with a blouse that is sophisticated looking and that may even have some frills on it. For shoes a nice pair of closed toe pumps will look rather nice and always accessorize moderately. Again, you are going to be in a church so dress that way.

•    Men:
Men too can revert to what they would wear if they were going to church. A pair of dress slacks topped off with a nice long sleeved button down shirt is a sure fire outfit that can’t go wrong. You probably don’t want to go with a neck tie but if you think you might want to simply carry one in your pocket and see what everyone else has on. This way you will not feel out of place if you are the only one to have on a neck tie. At the same time if you see that most men are wearing a neck tie you can quickly go to the restroom and put yours on. Be sure that you are wearing black dress shoes with your outfit and leave the sneakers at home for the christening.

•    Kids:
Even the kids should be dressed as though it where a regular church service. This means cute Sunday dressed for the girls with nice church shoes. The dress can be a cheery color like yellow and a nice touch is a matching color bow in their hair. Boys can wear slacks with a long sleeved button down shirt and should be wearing black church style dress shoes. This will keep them looking as sharp as the men and they will be more than adequately dressed for the christening.

Remember that a christening is a very important day for the infant and the family and the fact that they asked you to be a part of it is something to feel good about. Show them that you are glad to share in their happy day by doing your best to dress to impress.

Tanning

What to Wear Tanning

Tanning

When you don’t have the time or the patience to go out and tan at the beach, or the weather makes it too cold to do so, a great alternative is to go tanning at a tanning salon. These salons have you lay down in a tanning bed and instead of having to spend hours in the hot sun you can get a great looking tan with just a few 20 minute sessions in the tanning bed. But when you are getting ready to go to a tanning bed, what exactly should you wear?

The whole idea to going to a tanning salon is to get tan. That said there are a good number of people that like to tan in the nude. If you are not comfortable with tanning in your birthday suit, here is what you can wear:

•    Tanning oil: The first thing you will want to wear is tanning oil that is specifically made for indoor tanning only. If you wear sun block that is meant for outdoors you will not tan properly so you need to be sure that you are using the right type of tanning oil. The tanning oil will not have any SPF in it so it is not to be worn when you do go to the beach as it will only help the sun cook and burn you.

•    Bottoms only:
If you don’t want to be nude but also don’t want tan lines on the top, one option is to tan with your bikini bottoms or panties on only. Guys of course should either wear just underwear or a Speedo.

•    Entire bikini:
If you don’t mind tan line then you can wear your entire bikini and this will give you the coverage you want and still allow you to get a tan over almost all of your body.

•    Goggles:
You can buy your own or the tanning salon can supply you with these. They are very small and very dark and only cover your eyes but need to be worn to ensure that your eyes are protected from the rays that the tanning bed emits. You could opt for regular sunglasses here but keep in mind that you will then have those hideous looking sunglasses tan lines.

•    Towel:
While you will not wear this you will need it when you get out of the tanning bed as you will work up a pretty good sweat by laying in one. Having a towel handy will make for a quick dry down once your session is over.

Basically when it comes to tanning indoors you can wear as much as you want to. If you are comfortable going in the raw then by all means do so. Don’t let the fact that someone else before you tanned in the nude disturb you as federal law mandates that all tanning salons give a good disinfecting to the tanning beds in between each client. The only thing keeping

Seattle

What To Wear In Seattle

Seattle

Seattle, on the Northwest coast of the United States is a city that is known for rain. It is reputed to be foggy and wet most days of the year. However, despite the fact that it is often overcast, actual rain accumulation is surprisingly not as high as you would expect. In fact there are cities in Florida which receive much more precipitation yearly than Seattle. In addition, the warm currents of the Pacific Ocean tend to protect the city from harsh winters, unlike its neighbors more inland. If you are heading to Seattle you should get some advice on how to dress.

Outerwear is essential in Seattle. If you are planning to go to Seattle in spring, winter or fall, you will want to bring along a raincoat and an umbrella. If you go in winter, plan to bring a waterproof winter coat and waterproof boots. Two pairs of gloves, two scarves and two hats are advisable also. By having the second of each, you can allow them to dry if they become wet and still be protected from the elements.

Summers are warm and relatively dry in Seattle. Bring lots of lightweight clothing, shorts, T-shirts, tank tops, summer dresses and the like. Sandals or comfortable shoes are also a good choice. Flip flops are a popular choice unless you plan to do a lot of walking. Bring along a sweater or long sleeved shirt for inside in case the air conditioning in public places makes it too cold.

Being health-conscious and environmentally concerned are two of the major passions for people in this area. You will find that many people are obsessed with eating organically and locally. Many such individuals will favor a look that is very laid back. Those who are extremely into saving the environment will often wear clothes made of hemp, organic cotton T-shirts with green messages on them or may also be advocates of shopping only for second-hand clothes. Such attitudes have an impact on the type of fashion you see locally.

The music genre “grunge” was started in Seattle. The grunge look is also very commonly seen there. If your look is best described as grunge you will find that the clothes you already own are perfect for Seattle.

Seattle is a city that offers much in terms of outdoor activities and sports. Therefore you will see a great number of people in sports gear almost everywhere you go. If you are planning to get outdoors in Seattle and get some exercise, choose appropriate sports apparel to keep you comfortable and dry.

The rather outdoorsy feel of the city, combined with the fact that there are many colleges and universities in Seattle means that the casual look is in abundance. Even many workplaces enforce a business casual guideline for dressing. This fits well with the West Coast mentality.

Pack your comfortable casual clothes and maybe a dressy outfit for a special evening for your next trip to Seattle and you’ll be all set for a great time.

School

What to Wear to School Non-Uniform Day

School

It’s a non-uniform day at school, and you have the freedom to wear just about anything you want. So is that a good thing … or a bad thing? You have to admit that uniforms take a lot of the stress out of dressing for school. Just slap on your uniform, add a couple of accessories, do your hair and makeup, and you’re ready to go! But having to wear a uniform can also limit the personal expression you enjoy when you can dress the way you feel from head to toe. A school non-uniform day can be a bit intimidating, but with a little planning you can use it to showcase your true personality and have fun while doing it.

Plan ahead. Don’t wait until the morning of to decide what you’re going to wear. You’ll need some time to put together a look that looks “put together.”

Decide what sort of clothes personality you are. If you’re a girly girl, you will want to get out the skirts, dresses, cute shirts, cute shorts, and whatever is feminine and frilly. The more pink, the better. If you tend to lean more toward punk or goth styles, go with dark, somber colors and metallic accessories. Or maybe you’re somewhere in between, which is fine too. Have fun combining different styles to create your own unique look.

Start at the bottom. Decide what you’d like to wear on the bottom of your outfit, whether it’s jeans or a skirt. If you’re going to wear a dress, this won’t be an issue. School clothing should be somewhat casual, so save the sparkly, strappy outfits for your next party. Baggy pants aren’t in for girls, but your bottoms should not be so tight that skin is oozing out the top either. Skinny jeans are very hip right now, as long as they fit right. Wear clothing that is comfortable, since you will be walking and sitting in it all day.

Add the right shirt. Choose a shirt that complements your bottom piece. If you’re wearing jeans or a jean skirt, you can choose just about any top and it will look great. Be sure the colors coordinate. Don’t wear shirts that are too revealing. If your shirt is low-cut or a little short, layer it with a tank or cami underneath to solve the problem.

Pick a pair of cool shoes. If you’re wearing jeans, a pair of sneakers or sandals will work well. Skirts and dresses look better with sandals, ballet flats or low heels. Steer away from shoes with high heels unless you don’t do much walking at school and you don’t have gym class.

Add subtle accessories. Dangly earrings in interesting shapes and colors are a lot of fun, or go with some strings of pretty beads and a bracelet. If allowed, try a cute hat that matches the rest of the colors in your outfit. Don’t overdo the accessories though or you’ll look like a Christmas tree.

Match your hair to your outfit. Plan a hairstyle that goes with your clothes, depending on whether you’re looking sophisticated or more casual.

Be yourself! Don’t look like you’re trying hard to be someone you’re not. Dress in a way that is comfortable for you.

French fashion

French Fashion Made Easy

French fashion

Paris is the unquestionable fashion capital of the world. It’s no wonder that the women of Paris are some of the best dressed women on the planet. After all, they have to keep up their reputation of being beautiful and fabulous, right? Otherwise, they might have to move the fashion capital of Europe to some other, less illuminated European city. That, by French standards, would be positively tragic.

Women all over the world have spent thousands of dollars trying to look as put together and fashion-forward as a Parisian mademoiselle. For those with a little more cash at their disposal, they can go straight to the source and stock their wardrobes with one-of-a-kind pieces from French dwelling designer labels. Anyone can look French when dressed in head to toe haute couture.  But since most of us don’t have a six figure annual clothing budget, we have to get a little creative when it comes to recreating that ultra feminine look you see on the streets of Paris and in fashion magazines.

With a little bit of a padded wallet, you might even be able to hit up a consignment shop or thrift store and find an original Chanel suit or a Burberry coat. But the heart of French fashion is creativity and uniqueness. If you really want to dress like a French woman, it’s time to put a little bit of thought and originality into each ensemble.

Now, most of us don’t have an on-call live-in seamstress that can whip up our own personal designs at the drop of a hat. However, there are ways that every American woman can have a wardrobe full of French-inspired fashions that are all her own. Here are some tips on how to do so.

•    Make sure you invest in classic looks that are timeless. Trendy items are not typical to a French wardrobe. Choose classic styles and colors.
•    Know your body type and dress for it.
If you have wide hips, downplay them by dressing the right way. If you’re a little overweight, focus on slimming techniques in your clothing choices.
•    Wear mostly solid colors, in neutral or dark shades.
Bright colors do not always portray a French look, especially bright prints. However, if you want to interject some color into your outfits, do so with accessories, especially printed scarves.
•    Accessorize richly. Hats and sunglasses make for a great look. Scarves are an absolute necessity. Classic jewelry is also a chic touch. Be sure to invest in great shoes, purses and belts.
•    Classic tailored coats,
A-line coats, blazers and shawls make the perfect French-inspired cover-up when things get chilly.
If you are lookin

Houston

What To Wear In Houston

Houston

Houston is a bustling city,  and is in fact the biggest city in the state of Texas and amongst the 5 biggest in the country. It experiences nice weather year-round and those living there have the luxury of not needing to worry about snow. The temperature greatly affects the fashion styles you see there. However there are many other influences also on Houston fashion. If you are going there it is important to know what to wear.

Houston is home to more Fortune 500 companies than any other American city, with the exception of New York City. This fact impacts the way people dress in the city. If you are there on business, be prepared to dress professionally or at least business casual. Be sure to research the company you are visiting to make sure you are dressed appropriately. If the company has a professional environment, the choices are obvious: a suit for men and for women a skirt or pants suit with hose and dress shoes. If it is business casual, dig a little deeper to see exactly what that means. If in doubt, err on the side of conservatism. Houston is known for its conservative dress in the workplace.

For anyone heading to Houston on vacation, you will need to check the weather before you go. The winter has typical temperatures in the 60s during the day and 40s at night. Therefore it is necessary to bring along some warm clothes and a jacket. In the summer temperatures are up in the 90s in the day and 70s at night. Shorts, T-shirts, tank shirts and anything lightweight are perfect. Just remember to bring along a long-sleeved lightweight sweater also as indoor locations are air conditioned and you may be too cold.

If you are planning to attend a wedding, shows or other special events, be prepared to dress up. Houston is a city with wealthy neighborhoods and many people who are passionate about fashion. You will see individuals in designer outfits if you happen to attend certain events. Even many Houston restaurants will require proper dress, meaning no shorts or tank tops and often even a jacket for men. Certain nightclubs are also the scenes for designer duds.

Sports are huge in Houston. Almost every type of professional sports teams is represented. This tells you that the city is made of up a large percentage of people passionate about sports. If it is game time, you can bet that the style is team clothes and things like team jerseys, T-shirts, hats and jackets can be seen in every walk of life throughout the city.

There is a distinct college influence to fashion in Houston. Home to over 60 colleges and universities, there are more than 350,000 college students in the city. This means that young fashion trends, jeans, T-shirts and casual wear are in abundance.

One simply can’t forget the influence of the state of Texas on what to wear in Houston. Cowboy hats are prominent and are an accepted accessory in many places whether the wearer is in jeans or a 3-piece suit. So grab you 10-gallon hat and head out to a city that combines sophistication and the Texas lifestyle.

Underwear

When Thongs are Wrong – Underwear Alternatives that aren’t Granny Panties

Underwear

There are many times in a woman’s life when she may want to wear a pair of thong underwear as that is what she is used to, but a certain situation dictates otherwise. Perhaps it is inappropriate at her place of work, her place or worship, or maybe her child’s school. Whatever the case may be there are times when a thong is wrong, but what are some underwear alternatives for women that aren’t granny panties?

Just because you can’t wear a thong doesn’t mean you have to go with the fluffy white cotton granny panties. In fact there are so many alternatives these days that you never have to wear granny panties again if you don’t want too. Here are some alternatives to wearing your thong:

•    Bikini: You can always go with a nice pair of bikini panties as an alternative to a thong. Bikini panties are made to ride on the hips and fit in a snug fashion so they won’t bunch up like the traditional granny panties do. Bikini panties can be very comfortable as they will fit you, as the name implies, like your bikini bottoms would. You can even go with a string bikini cut which still sits on the hips but the sides of the panties are reduced to a string. This decreases the chance of panty lines appearing on the sides and tends to fit and feel more like a thong.

•    Hipsters:
Hipsters obviously rest on your hips and are another great alternative to thongs. They tend to cover the hips a bit more than the bikini panties do and there is also a little more coverage in the rear. The only drawback to so much coverage is an increased chance of seeing panty lines. You also have the dreaded riding up of the panties that can occur which leads to the ever embarrassing wedgey pick.

•    Boyshorts:
Boyshorts are a great alternative to a thong and are usually a bit more comfortable as opposed to the hipsters and bikini panties. Boyshorts sort of resemble men’s briefs but are meant to fit snuggly and offer great coverage in the rear without the hassle of riding up.

•    Cheekees:
Similar to boyshorts in that they offer great coverage in the rear they are called cheekees for a reason. Usually cheekees are not as snug fitting as boyshorts and because the cut is different, cheekees tend to let, well, your cheeks begin to show.

•    Commando:
Another alternative to wearing a thong is wearing nothing at all or ‘going commando’ as they say. While it is an alternative and you certainly won’t have to worry about panty lines, if a thong is inappropriate for an occasion, then going commando would be a cardinal sin.

Just because a thong is not in order it doesn’t mean that you can’t still wear a comfortable pair of panties. With all the options that are available these days, the death of the every hated granny panties are only a matter of time.

Anchorage

What To Wear in Anchorage

Anchorage

Anchorage is the biggest city in the United States’ most northern and coldest state, Alaska. Its citizens make up over 40% of the state’s population. This beautiful city offers amazing scenery, parks, wildlife and outdoor activities that are unparalleled in many other parts of the country. Anchorage is considered to have a sub arctic climate, which can be witnessed by its long winters and short summers. Winter days are very short and very cold with the sun appearing very little, while summer days are characterized by very little darkness and a cool temperature.

Visiting Anchorage during their very long winter definitely requires preparation. Heavy winter coats are a must. Thermal gloves or mittens, hats, scarves and lined winter boots are also necessary. In fact the temperature can get so low that winter clothes that would prove to be fine in many other places does little to protect you from the cold. If you live in the Southern portion of the United States and are planning a winter expedition to Alaska, be prepared to purchase outerwear that may be hard to find in your part of the country.

Visiting Anchorage in summer for most people will require fall or spring outfits. For Southerners, summer in Anchorage means wearing winter in the south clothes. Long pants and shirts, light jackets and even a warm sweater for chilly days and nights are ideal. There is very little occasion for tank tops, shorts, swimsuits (unless your hotel has a pool) or flip flops. That is not to say that you won’t see Alaskan residents wearing such things but if you are unfamiliar with such tepid summer temperatures, chances are you won’t be comfortable scantily dressed in 60 degree weather.

Much of the attraction of visiting Alaska is exploring the unique geography of the area. In order to do so it is important to wear appropriate footwear, such as newer lightweight hiking shoes or good sturdy sneakers. Wear several layers of clothing, including a synthetic layer closest to the skin to keep you dry, comfortable and warm. A waterproof exterior layer is also a very good choice. A hat and sunglasses are very important, especially during the long periods of daylight in the summer. Wear sunscreen to protect your skin also.

Even though Anchorage is a city, due to the temperature and the lifestyle in Alaska, high fashion is not commonly seen. It is much more important for people to dress according to the temperature than to be on the cutting edge of fashion. The predominance of outdoor activities like fishing, hunting and hiking that people spend their free time doing are not typically activities that one tends to dress up for. Casual dress for both men and women is acceptable. Jeans and a sweater can take you most places. Business casual is the norm for most work environments, however be sure to check how a company defines business casual before showing up overdressed or even worse, underdressed.

No matter when you go to Anchorage, you can be sure that you will need some warm clothes, how warm exactly will depend on the season. Relax and forget about fashion while you enjoy the unspoiled nature around Anchorage.

Jacksonville

What To Wear In Jacksonville Florida

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is one of the biggest cities in the South. Geographically it is very spread out and while it is on the ocean, one may drive more than a half hour to get from one point in Jacksonville to the beach. Because of this it is not the typical beach town. In fact the city is becoming more and more of a study in contrasts, as there are many different styles and influences in this Northeast Florida city. Big business, a busy downtown, a relaxed beach environment, a small town feel in certain areas, an inner city and wealthy neighborhoods all combine to make up the diversity there.

Where you are in the city and what you are doing will have a huge influence on what you wear in Jacksonville. However one thing is the same citywide. The number one rule of dressing in Jacksonville is layering. Regardless of the season or the occasion, it is important to layer or at least bring an extra layer of clothes with you. In winter, toasty warm days lead to evenings that demand a coat. Brisk winter mornings lead to warm midday sunshine that leaves you too hot if you are wearing the same thing you started the day with. Even in summer, it is important to bring something long-sleeved with you any time you will be inside for an extended period of time because many places have air conditioners running at full capacity when it’s hot outside.

For most of the year, Jacksonville is hot and humid. Therefore your wardrobe should be made up of lightweight fabrics. Even if you are choosing business wear, there are always lightweight options available. It’ll make for much more comfortable days. If you plan to be outside, consider opting for light colored clothes also. It’ll attract less heat than black or other dark colors.

In Jacksonville, winter is short and greatly resembles Indian Summer, for those who are not lucky enough to live in a snow-free zone. You will need a light jacket for a few winter days and for most winter evenings. However, for much of the winter, long sleeved shirts and long pants will keep you comfortably warm. Heavy jackets and winter boots are never needed, much to the pleasure of those who have moved to Jacksonville from colder climates.

For a casual look, shorts and capris are always a hit. You’ll be comfortable in the heat wearing either. In fact, a dressy pair of capris can take you almost anywhere: out to dinner, to work, to church or on a date. When it comes to shorts, where you are going will determine the shorts you wear. Short shorts are great for the beach and some of the open air Jacksonville nightspots, however they are not appropriate for most other places. Long shorts like Bermudas or cargo shorts are much more versatile and can be seen in almost all locales. However, a good portion of businesses still have a no shorts at work rule.

Jacksonville is a very outdoorsy city, with a multitude of parks and beaches that are perfect for playing outside. Casual clothing and lightweight sports clothes are the items of choice for a day outside. In fact, the city overall has a very laid back feeling. Certain restaurants, churches and special events like weddings and charity fundraisers tend to call for dressy outfits, but in most neighborhoods on most days, fashion is very relaxed.

Pretty much anything goes for Jacksonville outfits, as long as it’s not too heavy. Remember that sweater and you’ll be ready for just about anything.

Boxers or briefs

The Age Old Question – Boxers or Briefs

Boxers or briefs

It is the timeless question that is asked to so many, ‘boxers or briefs?’ This seems to be a loaded question these days as now there are many different types of underwear that a man can choose from. Today’s underwear world has the likes of:

•    Thongs: Yes for guys too, but really, are you concerned about your ‘panty lines?’
•    Bikini briefs: Again, sounds like it are for the ladies and they really don’t appear to be all that cozy.
•    Edible: If this is your bag, keep it to yourself.

Even though there are several other types of underwear these days, these two styles remain the most popular and which type of underwear you wear can say a lot about you. While it really all comes down to comfort, the following breaks down the main differences between boxers and briefs and what it says about you:

•    Boxers: The old boxer style underwear seems to be the underwear of choice by most men. Not that it is a hard fast rule, but it seems that men that are in their early 20s to mid 30s wear boxers as opposed to briefs. This could be because the women in their lives prefer it them or it may just boil down to peer pressure. Boxers wear more like shorts than they do underwear and it may be this feeling of freedom that sways many of the younger generation to wear them.

•    Briefs: These are also known as tighty-whiteys. As far as men go, these are typically worn by those in their late 30s and beyond. This could be that they are just used to their women and simply don’t care about peer pressure anymore but it is really probably because they are more comfortable for them. Briefs do after all ‘hold’ everything in much better than the boxers do. Briefs have really received a bad rap as the ‘boring’ underwear but many brands these days are anything but white and cotton or boring. They now come in a wide variety of colors and fabrics so if you haven’t considered wearing briefs in a while, you may want to take another look as the times have definitely changed.

•    Boxer briefs: Ah, least you forget about the boxer briefs. If you are on the fence about what type of underwear to get check these out as they offer the best of both worlds. Boxer briefs wear like boxer shorts, but hold like briefs. This type of underwear seems to be preferred by athletes, but with such a variety of colors and styles, they are quickly gaining popularity among all men.

Whatever type of underwear you prefer, you should always make sure to have clean ones with no holes. There is really no excuse to have either boxers or briefs or any other type for that matter that are stained and full of holes. It is also unacceptable if you are a grown man to have underwear featuring super heroes or Sponge Bob, leave those types of Under Roos for the kids, you had your turn.

Again, it all comes down to what is the most comfortable for you. One man’s pain is another man’s pleasure. So which is it, boxers or briefs?

Japan

What To Wear In Japan

Japan

Japan is a country on an archipelago, made up of almost 7000 islands, in the Pacific Ocean. It is an Asian country, rich in heritage, tradition and culture. It is an exciting country to visit or live in. However, if you are going there for the first time you need to know a few things about what to wear in Japan. The Japanese tend to be a well-dressed culture. Opt for mix and match outfits in classic styles. Women should avoid shorts, even in the summer, if they do not want to stand out. Cover up all visible tattoos if possible.

Knowing what to wear when you go to Japan is largely a matter of the weather and the part of the country that you go to. There are 6 different areas on the islands of Japan and the climate is very different in each. Some parts receive heavy snowfalls, others light winter snowfalls while other parts have warm winters with no snow. Summers are equally diverse with some areas having mild summers and others with very hot summer temperatures. Check the forecast for the specific region before choosing your wardrobe.

While casual clothing is fine for tourists, one thing to remember is that in the Japanese tradition, you remove your shoes when you go in many places. This includes in homes, temples, traditional inns and even certain hotels. It is important to make sure that your socks are without holes and are clean when you remove your shoes. You may also want to choose footwear that is easy to take on and put off because of doing it so often.

When you are in Japan you will likely be doing a fair amount of walking. Because of this you should choose a good pair of walking shoes or sneakers for maximum comfort. If you are there in the winter, opt for lined winter shoes or waterproof boots with good traction for added security.

If you are visiting most of the country you will need to bring along a jacket for the evenings in the summer. In spring and fall a jacket or raincoat is a good choice to bring. In winter a heavier coat is usually needed, along with gloves and a scarf unless you happen to be in the part of the country that experiences warm winters.

In terms of accessories, a hat and sunglasses are good choices if it is sunny outside, as well as sunscreen for protection. Tote an umbrella all year round as you never know when it might rain. An extra layer like a sweater in case a building is overly air conditioned in the summer is a good choice also. By bringing an oversized bag along, you will be able to carry these extra items comfortably and have a place to put anything you may take off as the day warms up. Before you go to Japan it is advised to purchase these items because many things are overpriced there.

If you are in Japan on business opt for business professional dress. Men should wear dark suits and be clean shaven. Women should also wear dress suits, hose, closed toe shoes and blouses with sleeves. Avoid wearing all black or black ties, as this is a look reserved for funerals.

Choose your clothes carefully and be ready for a truly different cultural experience when you get to Japan.

Boston

What To Wear in Boston

Boston

Boston is a beautiful historic city that offers much to those who live there and much to those who visit. The harbor is breathtaking year-round. The old buildings are a testimony to days gone by and give a feeling of permanence, unlike many other American cities. The humid continental climate means that Boston enjoys 4 very distinct seasons. It is snowy and cold in winter, warm and humid in the summer and quite comfortable and scenic in both the fall and spring.

Boston is very much “The Walking City”. Traffic is generally heavy and parking is at a premium, therefore it is much more expedient to get around on foot or by bus, water shuttles, trains or the subway system referred to as the T. What this translates to for fashion is the fact that typically people need to truly dress appropriately for the seasons Also, you will more often see sneakers and comfortable walking shoes on the streets of Boston than other more fashionable footwear.

Winter in Boston dictates warm clothes. Drafty old buildings mean that even if you are inside you will want the advantage of a warm sweater and long pants or tights. If you venture outside, a heavy winter coat is a necessity. Waterproof outerwear is also highly recommended especially during snow storms. Remember gloves, hats, earmuffs and scarves, as well as insulated winter boots with a good rubber sole for traction when walking.

Summer in Boston is perfect for shorts and T-shirts, Capri pants, summer dresses or any lightweight ensemble. Expect warm temperatures but be prepared for air conditioning inside with a light sweater. Remember to wear comfortable shoes if walking.

Fall and spring are well-loved seasons in Boston. The temperatures are typically comfortable enough to not need to worry about needing extra layers of clothes. It is also not uncomfortably warm. Both seasons are great for getting outside and enjoying the changing scenes of nature, while in comfortable jeans and a T-shirt or sweater. A light jacket on windy days or a rain coat on rainy days is all you’ll need.

Sports are huge in Boston and the city is home to a variety of professional sports teams. What this means for fashion is that it is fashionable to wear any Boston team clothes for any casual event. In fact when home games are being played, team colors are seen everywhere throughout the city.

Boston is very much a hub for post-secondary education and medicine. Some of the best hospitals in the country are there, as well as top colleges and universities. The abundance of college students living in the Boston area means that fashion in the city is greatly influenced by that demographic. Casual fun looks, jeans and the hot trends of the moment are commonly sported by Boston students. Preppy looks and business casual is also very popular amongst faculty and young professionals in New England’s biggest city.

Heading to Boston? Check the local forecast before you pack your suitcase.

Seasons

Tips for Dressing Fashionably Between Seasons

Seasons

There is perhaps no better time to dress up than in between seasons. When you think about it, what could be better? Unlike the winter or summer months, in that in between time you are not confined to a certain part of your wardrobe due to the weather. It is for this reason that the time between seasons should be the time were you decide to dress a little bit riskier and take some chances that you may not otherwise take.

Dressing in between the seasons can offer you a whole host of options that you may not otherwise have. Here are a few tips for dressing in the off-season so to speak:

•    Combine the seasons: Because it is not winter the days and nights will be cool but not freezing and because it is not summer the days and nights will be warm but not hot. This is the perfect opportunity to combine the fashions of the different seasons. While it may be cold enough for you to still wear a jacket, it may not be so cold that you can’t wear a nice summer top underneath of that jacket. If it’s too hot for a jacket, you can break out some cool sweaters and wear those. No matter what the weather, a nice looking leather jacket is almost always a great compliment to any outfit and can easily be removed if the weather so dictates.
•    Mix it up with skirts: If you ladies find that it is still a little too cold for just a skirt, you can mix it up by wearing a really hip pair of leggings. This will allow you the warmth you need and still let you wear that sexy skirt you’ve been dying to break out. If you don’t like leggings, try wearing some hosiery provided it isn’t too cold.
•    Use layers: This is for that time where the weather doesn’t know if it wants to be hot or cold. Start off the morning by wearing great looking tops that can be layered and pair them off with a really nice pair of jeans or pants. As the weather heats up, if it does, you can begin to ‘peel off’ layers. This technique will keep you cooler and will also have you constantly changing your look throughout the day. If the weather begins to cool as the day goes on, add the layers back in any fashionable way you like.
•    Get funky with accessories: There is not a lot of times during the year were you can wear light and fancy scarves, leggings, and gloves that have the fingers cut away, but the off-season is the perfect time. Wear things that you normally don’t get a chance to wear and remember to get funky with it an experiment a little bit. Who knows, you may actually start a new trend.

When the off-season comes, enjoy it. There are too many other times of the year where you are forced to dress one way or another. When your opportunity comes to let loose, go for it, you only live once.