Category Archives: What to Wear

Canada

What To Wear In Canada

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Canada

Canada is a beautiful country with a wide variety of ethnic influences on the fashion styles found there. Because of its geographic vastness, the weather is very different from one province or territory to another. Whether you are the city or the country will also impact the choice of clothing you should make. These general guidelines will help you in choosing what to wear in Canada.

Your choices of clothes for Canada will depend greatly on the season and the weather forecast. Unfortunately many parts of Canada have unreliable summer temperatures, meaning that the weather may require summer clothes or you may need fall or spring outfits. Canada definitely has 4 distinct seasons and the choice of clothing differs from one season to the next with few items being appropriate for year-round wear. Jeans are definitely a year-round favorite.

Fall in Canada means long-sleeved shirts and pants. For dressing up, tights and pantyhose are needed with skirts and dresses. Dress boots will keep you fashionably in style. For guys layering a T-shirt and a regular shirt is a great fall look. You absolutely need to have a fall jacket, which is a light to medium weight jacket, to keep you warm until the snow flies. In fact, jackets that have a removable lining are perfect for this season, as they can adapt to warmer fall days or colder ones.

In winter, you will need to have a heavy jacket in most parts of Canada. A waterproof winter jacket is even better. This will provide you with the protection you need every time you go outside. Even your interior clothes should be chosen with care. Many buildings are not as warm as you would like in the winter and therefore extra clothing adds up to comfort. Layer as much as possible to ensure your comfort. Wool is a great choice to keep you toasty.

Spring clothing varies greatly, especially from one part of the country to another. Some places in Canada still get snow in May and occasionally early June. Others have experienced some very warm weather by the same point. While fall clothes may be logically a good choice, many people tend to gravitate towards lighter, more summery clothes backed up with a warm spring coat or cardigan. Canadians tend to be so excited about summer coming after the long winter that their wardrobe makes it to the season before the thermometer does.

Summer clothes for Canada are similar to other places, with the exception that nights still remain pretty cold for much of the summer in many places. This means a light jacket like a windbreaker is always good to have on hand. Canadians enjoy their short summer and like to get outside and soak up the sun, so you will often see them out in summer outfits long before you feel that it is warm enough to do so.

The province of Quebec is very unique. It is the only completely French province in the country and as such, takes much of its influences from France. Fashion is very important in Quebec and both genders take it very seriously. Quebecers dress up for everything. Whether they go shopping, to a restaurant, to work or just out with friends, they are always well-dressed, accessorized, coiffed and styled. The latest styles are what you will find on display in Quebec by people from all walks of life.

With these things in mind, you will be well-equipped about what to wear in Canada or as some refer to it, the Great White North.

Halloween

Pros and Cons: Rent Or Buy A Halloween Costume

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Halloween

Is it Halloween time again? If you’re a busy professional then preparing for Halloween can seem like another chore on your list. A lot of time is needed for even thinking what you’ll wear let alone putting it all together. And if you have one or more Halloween socials to attend, whether they’re personal or professional, you’ll need to put in some effort on costume preparation. You don’t want to look bad at work for something as silly as skimping on a Halloween costume. If you just don’t have the time, don’t worry. There are options for you. Costumes can be bought or rented. Let’s take a look at some advantages and disadvantages of renting vs. buying a Halloween costume:

First, ask yourself some questions. Is it cheaper to rent or buy? Will you use the costume again? What will I do with the costume after Halloween? Will I need to buy a new costume every year?

Buying Pros: If you’re a busy professional without a spare minute to your name then Halloween time seems like more work. Take some of the load off of yourself and buy a costume. If being the center of attention is not your thing, then there are a ton of generic type costumes available all the time. With themes that range from political to sports, you can’t go wrong. When the party is over you can donate your used costume to a school or local theater company. Or, consider giving it to a thrift store and get a tax deduction.

If this is a costume you think you could use again then you’re covered for a future year’s event.

Buying Cons: The truth is you’ll likely be buying a costume for one or two occasions. This could be a waste of money. If you decide to keep the costume, then you’ll need to find a safe place for it so it doesn’t become ruined. The space itself could be an issue. Halloween costumes can really take up a lot of closet space. If kept for a long time, some clothes change in color. Also, maybe this year’s style won’t be the same as styles in years to come. Different occasions call for different costumes so buying one costume might not be practical and very expensive. Something else to consider is that store-bought costumes usually look like they’re store-bought costumes. You won’t get noticed for being creative. Or worse, you will get noticed for a lack of creativity.

Rental Pros: There are those times when renting makes more sense than buying. If you are attending a theme party and you need something specific, then a theatre rental shop would be a great place to go if you’d like to put together an outfit that really hits the mark. Renting is certainly cheaper and more practical if you plan to use a costume for one occasion. Also, if you have a limited budget, renting is best because high buying prices might cause you to wear a costume you normally might avoid. Renting a costume will give you many more choices than you think. Finally, by renting you can save more and thus afford to have different costumes for different occasions.

Rental Cons: Of course there’s a downside to everything. Rental companies charge more per rental than if you were to simply buy the item yourself and own it. There could be associated deposit and rental fees, not to mention cleaning costs should any kind of spills or damages occur.

The point is, just give renting or buying some thought before you rush out to spend money on Halloween. Then have fun at your party.

New York

What To Wear In New York City

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New York

If you are planning to be in New York City for any occasion, prepare to be overwhelmed by the numbers of people everywhere you go, the excitement in the air, the sights, the smells and the pace of life there. It is a very unique, busy and exciting city to visit or live in. Being the fashion center of the United States you will find high fashion almost everywhere. Of course if you visit the garment district of New York you will notice this even more, however in practically every part of the Big Apple you will see true style.

New York City is not the place to fade into the background with a plain, dowdy outfit that has no style. If you are visiting the city, choosing the right thing to wear is critical.  Review the current styles by looking in fashion magazines and online. Put together a hip look using the colors and styles of the season. You will blend in seamlessly in the big city. Be sure to dress for the weather also as New York can be very hot, very cold or somewhere in the middle depending on the season.

The influence of Wall Street and Big Business on fashion in the Big Apple is obvious. If you visit any of the business sectors of New York City or catch sight of the multitude of people going to and from work during rush hours, you will see a sea of business suits, both male and female versions. For many businesses located in the big city, professional business attire is the only option. Some companies do allow business casual but often the definition of this term is more conservative than in many other places. If you are in New York on business it is important to dress in the same style as the people you are dealing with.

New York City nightlife is one of the world’s most exciting nightlife scenes. Exclusive clubs abound and dressing up is essential. In fact, entrance to certain clubs is determined by how you look. Those in the line-up to enter who have the look are often escorted in by others who are well-connected. Without the look, you may never get in. So have a hot outfit ready that shows off your assets for the best nightlife experience ever. Have dressy clothes suitable for dining out also.

You will see an eclectic variety of styles and outfits throughout the city. If you visit the artsy areas of town, you will find vintage clothing and outfits that have been created with uniqueness in mind. In certain areas of town gangster clothing is the predominant style. Near colleges and universities, jeans and T-shirts, the uniform of college students will be most common. In working class parts of the city, fashion is less important and less attainable and therefore you will see looks that are common to small town America.

One of the most important things to remember when you are in New York is good footwear. The city is not conducive to driving and therefore people spend much of their day walking around. If you are a tourist in the city, you will definitely do a lot of walking. Bring along comfortable, supportive shoes. If you really want to wear more stylish ones, bring them along in an oversized fashionable tote and swap shoes when you get to your destination.

Get ready for the excitement of New York City with a careful eye to the clothes you bring.

Philadelphia

What To Wear In Philadelphia

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Philadelphia

Philadelphia is amongst the 6 largest cities in the United States. It is richly steeped in the history of this country. In the early part of American history, Philadelphia was the largest city in the original colonies. Many pivotal decisions were made there and have been commemorated there as well. Philadelphia is a popular tourist destination due to its importance in this country’s growth and development.

The City of Brotherly Love is located on the East coast of North America. It has a mercifully short winter which is snowy but typically mild. The summers have average daytime temperatures of mid to upper 80s. Spring and fall, like most parts of the U.S., are wonderful seasons for travel. The temperatures then make it easy to pack for Philadelphia, whereas winter especially requires more attention to packing warm clothes.

Philadelphia is very much a laid back city. You can easily spend a vacation there and never need to dress up. If you just plan on taking in the tourist attractions and eating genuine Philly specialties like soft pretzels, cheese steak sandwiches, hoagies and scrapple, you can easily bring along your casual clothes and never feel out of place.

In terms of the business world, many of the city’s workers work in manufacturing, food processing, tourism and oil refining. However, there are also a large number of government offices, financial services, medical research and biotechnology. Since there is such a wide range of major industries in the city, if you are coming for business, you should learn how those who work for the company you will visit dress for work. This will provide a good guideline as you pack for Philly.

Philadelphia is a huge sports town with sporting enthusiasts everywhere. There are a myriad of professional sports teams in the city including hockey, football, baseball, basketball and other teams. In terms of fashion, this means that any time a Philadelphia team is playing or doing exceptionally well its season, the team colors and clothing with team logos will be seen everywhere. On certain game days, many employers even allow their employees to wear their team clothes. If you are in Philly for any sporting event or are heading to a sports bar or other casual place, a team shirt is a great choice in clothes.

Many big name music artists are from the Philadelphia area. In fact, quite a few hip hop artists are from the city. Hip hop is very popular there and many fashion trends influenced by the music genre are commonly seen.

Over 120,000 college students go to school in Philadelphia during the academic school year and over 300,000 in the Philadelphia Metropolitan region. What this means is that trends which are popular with college aged students are often seen around the city. If you like some of the younger, trendier fashions, Philadelphia is the place to wear them.

Get your Philadelphia look ready now and visit one of the most historic cities you’ll see in the New World.

Cheerleader tryouts

What Should I Wear to Cheerleader Tryouts?

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Cheerleader tryouts

Cheerleading tryouts can be a tricky event to plan an outfit for. There are several aspects that need to be remembered during the planning. The first of these is that you will need plenty of freedom of movement in your outfit to be able to seamlessly do your planned tryout routine.

To have the most freedom of movement, try a short skirt that is like the cheerleading uniforms normally worn by the cheerleaders at your school. If you go the short skirt route, have something under them that will not make you limit your movements to keep your underwear from showing. You might wear a pair of bicycle shorts under them or a pair of dance bottoms that are often worn under cheerleading uniforms.

Another option is to wear a skort. A skort is a shirt and skirt combo that looks like a skirt in the front but is shorts underneath. This protects you from having your underwear showing, and it also allows you plenty of freedom of movement. Make sure the skort fits well so that it is not too tight to be able to do your maneuvers.

Just like your skirt or skort, your shirt must allow for plenty of freedom of movement. Many people choose a tank top so that they can move their arms quickly and show off all of their movements. Another tactic is to wear a spandex short because it is form fitting and yet allows you plenty of movement. Whatever type of top you wear, make sure it isn’t baggy. The judges will need to see your movements to judge how well you can do the routine.

Another important consideration is your team spirit. The judges will want to see that you want to be a part of the team and that you want to represent your school. Wearing your school colors is a good way to show both to the judges. Choose your skirt and top carefully with your school colors under consideration. You don’t have to show up wearing the colors from head to toe, but they should be represented in your outfit.

The shoes you wear should be athletic shoes that are clean and in good condition. The ideal color for your shoes is white so that they don’t clash with your outfit or call too much attention to them. You want the judges’ attention on you and your movements instead of on your shoes. Make sure the shoes aren’t too heavy and cumbersome or they may make it harder to get through your routine. Try a lightweight shoe that is flexible enough to let you do your footwork easily.

Wear a ribbon or bow in your hair that corresponds to your school color. The ribbon or bow you choose should be large enough to be noticeable but not large enough so that it could make your head feel heavy or limit your movements. Tie it securely so that you don’t have to worry about it coming loose during your routine and you’ll be ready for tryouts

Mummy costume

How To Create A Mummy Costume

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Mummy costume

It’s Halloween and you need a costume. Maybe you want to be a little more creative than the store-bought cookie-cutter outfits that are offered at a lot of the major retail chains. To be a hit at your costume party, or to simply make your child stand out when trick-or-treating, a mummy costume might be the way to go.

Creating a mummy costume will require time, but not a lot of time. You are probably picturing the fancy, purposefully antique-looking dark monsters from mummy films you’ve seen and thinking it would be impossible to recreate something like that. Actually, it’s a lot easier than you think.

Don’t get overwhelmed. The creation of a mummy costume can be broken down into simple steps, all of which don’t have to be completed at the same time.

1)  First, gather the materials. You’ll need white everything. Get a twin set of white sheets, a pair of white pants or jeans, and a long sleeve white shirt or sweatshirt, preferably a turtleneck. All of these materials can be collected from a thrift shop for under 10 dollars.

2)  Next, color the whites to achieve that rustic, having-sat-in-a-coffin for centuries look. To do this, dye all of these white materials in black tea. Add black tea bags to warm water in 3-5 gallon buckets, add the materials, and steep for about 4-6 hours. After soaking in the water, lay the now off-white clothes out in the sun to completely dry.

3)  First you’ll need a lot of mummy bandages. Start with the white sheets. Cut 2-3 inch slits down one side of the sheet. It doesn’t matter if it’s the long side of the short side. Then tear the strips up the length of the sheet . You’ll find that the strips will tear evenly and also have a very authentic looking frayed edge.

4)  With the turtleneck shirt laid out on a flat surface, wrap the mummy bandages around the shirt loosely up to the level of the armpit. To hold them in place you can use safety pins. Then, using a sewing machine, sew the strips to the shirt. This can be time consuming, but keep in mind that all you want to do is make sure the strips don’t fall off. Also, the more sloppy and haphazard you can do this will make the costume look better in the end. Feel free to overlap the strips and make some look longer than others. Avoid perfection at all costs!

5)  Now the arms. Cut along the inseam of each of the sleeves up to the armpit with a pair of scissors. Spread out the sleeves and then wrap around the mummy bandages in the same fashion. When finished, turn the shirt inside-out and sew the sleeves back together.

6)  For the pants, rip or cut the inseam all the way up to the crotch. Spread the material out on a flat surface and wrap or cover with more mummy bandages. Start from the bottom and begin sewing strips onto both legs. You can stop at the crotch because the shirt will cover the rest. Then turn the pants inside out and sew the legs back up again.

7)  At this point you’ll be running out of mummy strips. With any that are left-over, cover your face.

8)  When you’re wearing the suit, sprinkle baby powder all over for that ancient mummy effect.
That’s it! Simple! Now have fun!

Fishing

What to Wear to Go Fishing

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Fishing

They say that a bad day of fishing beats a great day at work and nothing could be truer. Fishing is a wonderful way to relax and is a sport that anyone can get into regardless of age or experience. The wonderful thing about fishing is that there are no rules and you can pretty much use what you want for bait and you can throw your line in wherever there is water. This no rules approach also applies to how you dress to go fishing because there are no hard and fast rules as to the way you are supposed to dress. But if you want to get the most out of your fishing expeditions, there are some things you should know before you go on your next fishing adventure.

While any apparel will do when it comes to fishing, you can enhance your fishing experience by dressing the following way:

•    Shirt: One words here; lightweight. You should always wear light colored shirts that are made of a breathable fabric because when the sun beats down you will know it. There are actually ‘fishing shirts’ that are short sleeve button downs and on the back they have a mess lining and a flap that opens, allowing air to rush in and cool you off. If you don’t want to go that route, then a comfy white cotton undershirt does the trick every time. If it is cold in the morning when you set out, grab a good old flannel shirt to wear over your t-shirt as this will keep you nice and warm but will also allow you to quickly shed it once the sun starts heating things up.

•    Pants: Again, you want to go lightweight. Wear cargo shorts if you can pull it off but if not get yourself a good pair of cargo pants. Cargo pants will not only be lightweight but the extra pockets make for great storage space for things like pliers and extra tackle. Wearing jeans will do the trick too, but remember that denim will not wick away sweat as a lighter fabric will, instead it will absorb it and can make you rather uncomfortable.

•    Shoes: Don’t wear flip-flops or sandals, wear shoes. You never know what kind of fish you are going to catch and you don’t want to have a spiny fin fish stick you in the foot. Not to mention the fact that there is almost always stray hooks lying around when you fish. Have you ever seen a hook in a foot….not a pretty site. You don’t have to go nuts here, just get any old pair of sneakers will do but make sure the entire foot is covered. Here’s a little tip, bring an extra pair of socks just in case your foot gets wet as the day goes on.

•    Hats and sunglasses: Wearing a hat is a great way to keep some of the sun off of you and you can wear anything here from a ball cap to a fishing hat. Get a good pair of sunglasses too as these will help you to fight the glare of the sun as it reflects off the water. If you can, pick a pair of polarized sunglasses as these will improve your vision as you look into the water and help you locate fish.

All you need now is some sun block and some bug repellant and you are ready to go. Just don’t forget to bring your pole and tackle box too.

Halloween 1

How to Decide What to Be for Halloween

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Halloween 1

Halloween is a really great chance for you to step out of your usual boundaries and become something you’re not, which is why people of all ages love this strange but fun holiday. Instead of waiting until the day-of to pick up some cheap, plastic get-up from the costume aisle, plan ahead for a Halloween costume that will leave everyone terrified, charmed, screaming with laughter, or even turned on — all depending on the crowd and the reaction you’re going for.

•    Set aside some time to plan and shop. Don’t wait until the last minute if you want to have a costume that will wow on the big night. If you are creating a couples costume, you will want to coordinate the planning with your partner also.

•    Do some research. Check out Halloween costume websites to see what’s available and check out the most popular styles. You might just find the perfect costume for you, or get a really great idea for a unique design of your own creation.

•    Think about what interests you, such as hobbies, favorite celebrities, favorite characters from the movies or television, or famous historical figures. Choose a character that you are familiar with so you can imitate that individual’s dress, mannerisms and speech. You might also consider characters with whom you share a physical resemblance, such as a bald head or pregnant belly.

•    Determine how much money you want to invest in your costume. If you have an unlimited budget, a company specializing in costume rentals may be the place to get the outfit that will blow everyone away at the party.

•    If renting is too expensive an option, consider a visit to your local thrift store to search for uniforms, suits, out-of-date dress clothes and accessories. With a little imagination, your own closet may even turn into a costume gold mine. Consider what you could repurpose or alter with scissors and tape.

•    Keep in mind the type of event you will be attending and dress appropriately. A horrifying, gory mask will not be appropriate for a children’s event, for example, and neither will your super-sexy French maid costume.

•    Weather can be a major factor when selecting a costume. If you will be wearing the ensemble outdoors, be careful to choose clothing that is warm enough, depending on your location. Many locales will be experiencing winter weather at this time of the year.

•    Pay attention to the details. Small touches including hair, makeup and accessories can make or break your costume. What’s a pirate without the eye patch and peg leg, or Dorothy without Toto in a basket?

With a little time and effort, you can come up with an awesome costume that will make heads turn on Halloween. Plan ahead, get creative and have fun!

Tourist

How to Avoid Looking Like a Tourist

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Tourist

When you are traveling abroad, the last thing you want to do is stick out like a sore thumb and look like a tourist. There are a number of reasons behind this like safety for one, but for the most part, looking like a tourist just isn’t cool. Just as you may think it is goofy to see other people from different countries come here to the United States and show how touristy they are the same holds true for them when you visit their country.

It is very easy to avoid looking like a tourist and here are some tips to help you:

•    Leave the map behind: Nothing screams tourist louder than a person walking aimlessly down the street with their nose buried in a map. Instead of bringing the map with you try mapping out your day the night before in your hotel room. If you get completely lost, just go into a local store and ask for directions.

•    Dress like a local: The first thing you should do when traveling abroad is to find out how the locals dress. Then you can either buy something before you go or buy something as soon as you get there. If you walk around the streets of Paris wearing short and a t-shirt that says Red Sox on it with your favorite Red Sox cap, do you really think you are going to blend in?

•    Avoid cameras around your neck: Another sure sign of a tourist is the video camera and regular camera hanging around your neck. With today’s technology there is no excuse for you to be walking around looking like a member of the media. Keep your cameras and video cameras in your purse or out of sight and only take them out when you intend on using them.

•    Eat what is served to you: Avoid asking for ‘American’ condiments such as ketchup and mustard as this is a sure way to out yourself. You are on vacation after all and in a whole new part of the world, so do as the locals do and try the food the way they prepare it.

•    Observe local customs: When you meat people don’t just jut your hand out and expect that it will get shook. In some countries this is taboo so it is wise to observe the local customs and do what they do. This really should be researched before you go on your trip.

•    Know the language: If you can, learn the native tongue before you take your trip. If this can’t be done, just try to converse with those who speak English as well. Using a translation book not only says you are a tourist, but if you aren’t careful you can unknowingly call someone a name when all you are trying to do is ask where the bathroom is.

Seeing the world is truly a wonderful thing, but if you don’t want to look like a tourist then you have to do your best to blend in with the locals. Do some research ahead of time and remember the old saying, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.”

Italy 1

What to Wear on Vacation in Italy

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Italy 1

Italy is a place that is filled with culture and history and a trip to this great country will have you coming back with memories that you won’t soon forget. But Italy is more than just great food and great romance it is a place where you need to look as though you are a local. The rules for dressing in Italy are not as strict as other foreign countries but if you want to ‘blend’ in then you do have to follow some rules.

Knowing what to wear and when in Italy can mean the difference in being labeled as ‘a tourist’ or blending in and coming off almost as though you are a local. Here is what you will need to know:

•    Casual wear: When you are in Italy and you want to dress casual you need to keep in mind that the Italians definition of casual and Americans definition of casual are as different as night and day. If you dress in your normal casual manner and throw on a jogging suit that is complimented by bright white sneakers you will be diagnosed as a tourist in about two seconds flat. In Italy there is a lack of closet space for many and clothing tends to be on the expensive side. For those reasons, many Italians buy only a handful of clothing from high end retailers and mix and match what they have. There clothing is usually clothing that can be worn at any time of the year and their ‘casual’ look is more like an American formal look. Not that you should walk around in a tuxedo, but slacks go a long way as do nice button down shirts.

•    Shorts: This is a somewhat touchy subject in Italy. Some Italian men can be spotted in shorts but their shorts will always come down to their knees at least and most Italian women won’t wear shorts unless they are at the beach. If possible avoid the shorts, but if you feel you must wear them at least follow the local customs.

•    Shoes: The historic cobblestone streets in Italy are definitely not easy on the feet. If you plan on doing any type of walking around you better have a pair of shoes that have a thick bottom but not so thick that you lose the feel of the ground. Be sure that your shoes offer great ankle support so you don’t turn your ankle as that can lead to a nasty sprain. As far as those sneakers, flip flops, mules, and other cozy American style shoes are concerned, go ahead and leave those behind. If possible try to get your shoes before you take your trip to Italy so that you have ample time to break them in. Even if you have the right kind of shoes for Italy a pair that is not broken in will lead to many blisters and much discomfort.

When all else fails, see how the locals dress and spend some of your money at a local shop and mimic the local fashion as best you can. While Italy always promises a great time, your trip will be even more enjoyable if you do your best to blend in.

Shopping

What to Wear When Clothes Shopping

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Shopping

Many times when people go out clothes shopping they pay no mind as to what they put on before they set off to the mall. This is a mistake that can end up costing you some time if you are not careful. Being aware of what you have on can actually help you to make better decisions and can get your shopping spree done in a faster amount of time as well.

The next time you go clothes shopping consider what you are going to wear to the mall for these reasons:

•    Changing rooms: This is where you can cut your shopping time almost in half. If you wear an elaborate outfit to the mall there is no doubt you will look great but if it took you a long time to put it on before you left your house it will take you just as long to take it on and off numerous times in the dressing rooms. If you are going out to get a whole new wardrobe, save yourself some time and wear clothing that can easily be taken off and put back on.
•    Accessorizing: If you are looking to accessorize some of the new clothes you are going to go shopping for then it may be in your best interest to wear clothes that are similar to what you are going to buy. This will make choosing a purse, a watch, jewelry, or any other accessory a breeze. If you think a certain accessory looks good with your older clothes, then they will more than likely look great with your brand new ones.
•    Mix and match: Let’s say you have a pair of jeans you love and a top you love but the two have been combined already numerous times. Wear that outfit to the mall one last time and you can then find new tops to go with those jeans and new jeans or other pants to go with that top. The end result is a new look with the same old favorites that you already have.
•    Sizing: If you are going after a certain brand of clothing and you already own some of that brand, then wear it when you go clothes shopping. This will enable you to know exactly what size you need as you can simply look on the tag if you forget. If the clothes you wear there are too tight or too loose, you can adjust the size accordingly. This trick will save you from trying on three or four different sizes and thus will save you time.
•    Avoid a disaster: This sounds weird but you may want to wear the outfit you hate the most when you go clothes shopping. Why? By doing so you will avoid certain colors and styles that you obviously think you don’t look good on you and this will help you to avoid the disaster of choosing the wrong clothes all over again.

Think about what you are wearing the next time you go clothes shopping and dress in an effort to save yourself some time. Remember, the faster you get done shopping, the faster you can sport your new outfits.

Dark complexion

Best Colors for Dark Complexions – What to Wear and What not to Wear

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Dark complexion

When it comes to what color of clothing you should wear you should always consider your complexion. If you have a dark complexion you are in luck as there are full spectrums of colors that will look good on you. There is however no one size fits all rule as there are different levels of what would be considered a ‘dark complexion.’ While the best outfit to wear is always the one you get the most compliments in there are some general guidelines that can help you to determine what to wear and what not to wear with your darker complexion.

If you have a dark complexion there are basically three categories that you will fall in. Determining which category you fall under will help you determine what types of colors are going to look best on you. Here is a quick guide:

1.    Cool Toned: A cool toned individual will have a much darker complexion that the any other type. When you are cool toned, you will find that colors such as red, pink ,blue, and lavender look great with your complexion. On the other side of the fence, you will find that colors such as yellow and orange do not. Cool toned individuals usually find comfort and style with the many different shades of red as well as blues, purple, and maroon.

2.    Warm Toned: A warm toned individual will have a lighter skin complexion in comparison to a cool toned individual but will still have an overall dark complexion. When you are warm toned, you will look great in orange, yellow, and even apricot colors, but you will not look particularly good in the colors that the cool toned individuals look good in. Being warm toned you will want to avoid the darker colors like reds, blues, and even maroon. Choosing earthy colors is usually a safe bet. Colors such as gold, brown, green, orange, and apricot usually fit the bill.

3.    Mixed Tones: This type of skin complexion is both unique and harder to determine which color of clothing looks best with it. The reason is that if you are a mixed tone your complexion will tend to change somewhat throughout the year. You may be one tone in the summer and a totally different tone in the winter. Because of this you can wear all the colors that look good with cool toned and warm toned individuals, you just have to take more care as to what your current tone is before you get dressed. Mixed toned individuals are generally on the warmer toned side but if you can tell when you have a sun burn or people can see you blush, then this describes you.

Whatever color you decide to wear with your dark complexion you should be comfortable in it. It is after all your body you are dressing up. But there is no reason why you can’t feel great and look your best and let some of the colors of the rainbow help you out. Being a darker complexion can be challenging when it comes to deciding what to wear, but knowing your tone ahead of time may help you to decide just a bit easier.

San Francisco

What To Wear In San Francisco In The Day

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San Francisco

San Francisco is one of the most interesting cities in the United States to visit. It is a very picturesque big city, with hilly streets leading to a beautiful bay. The scenery is unlike practically any other place. Even the temperature is San Francisco is pleasant. Daily averages range from mid-50s to about 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore no matter what season you decide to go to San Francisco your wardrobe choices will be pretty much the same. Low rainfall accumulation also makes San Francisco a joy to visit. Expect fog, especially in the morning, so bring a jacket to keep warm before the sun burns through it.

San Francisco offers a lot to do in terms of outdoor activities. It has lots of parks and beaches to enjoy. Great surfing is found there too. It is a city very much full of sports enthusiasts, so be sure to bring sports clothes suitable for outdoor sports. Whether you are into running, biking, sailing or in-line skating, there are many great activities to enjoy in San Francisco. Whether or not you plan to exercise, be sure to bring comfortable sneakers or shoes for walking, because as you visit the city and its attractions you will be on your feet a lot.

The work environment of the San Francisco area is highly professional. It is the banking center of the United States and also is very active in technology and medical research. These highly specialized domains often demand business professional dress. However some companies are fine with a more business casual look, more common to California in general. If you are visiting San Francisco for business purposes, do your homework to find out about the culture of the companies you will visit.

The city of San Francisco is a very liberal place and is well-known for having a large gay and lesbian population. There is a gay village, many gay establishments and even many cultural events specifically for this sector of the population. Even many of the tourists who choose to visit San Francisco are gay and lesbian, as the city is a Mecca for many of them. High fashion is common in the gay community, as is some very flamboyant clothing. Such trends can be seen throughout the city. If you are into high fashion, San Francisco is definitely the place to wear it.

The standard of living is one of the highest in the nation, with a much higher than normal percentage of wealthy individuals and families living in San Francisco. High society events are prevalent and haute couture is seen often. Expect to see designer outfits on ladies who lunch, shop and even some of those in the workforce. If you are planning to frequent the high-end boutiques or upscale restaurants, be sure to bring along trendy clothes and great accessories from big name designers (or at least really good imitations).

Be ready for all the excitement of San Francisco by bringing along a variety of clothing from casual to formal. You never know what is waiting for you there.

Costa Rica

What To Wear In Costa Rica

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Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a Central American country that is at the forefront of the world’s efforts to live a greener lifestyle. Presently placed first in the Americas and 5th in the world for the Environmental Protection Index, it is also tops in the Happy Planet Index. It is a hot vacation spot and a popular choice for companies willing to invest overseas. If you are planning to go to Costa Rica, however, there are a few things you should know.

The weather in Costa Rica is very nice and is one of the contributing factors that makes the country amongst the top Central American tourist destinations. There are four different parts to the country in terms of climate. None of them are severe enough for a true winter, but each area is different from the others. Due to the differences in climate, you will need to bring a variety of clothes if you plan on visiting more than one area of the country. Those who intend to stay on and near the beach will have much fewer wardrobe requirements than those who want to explore the highlands or the volcanoes.

Because of the environmentally friendly aspect of Costa Rica, any shirt that promotes living green is a great choice to wear while in Costa Rica. You can have organic T-shirts printed with a variety of green messages. These are sure to be popular choices to wear just about anywhere. Hemp clothing is another wonderful option in environmentally friendly clothing to wear in Costa Rica. Be sure that you have a reusable bag to carry around when shopping as plastic bags are definitely not green.

Despite how advanced the country is in terms of being environmentally friendly, it is still a developing country and as such the clothes that you will see Costa Ricans wearing is not cutting edge fashion. The median household income there is too low to be overly concerned with fashion. However, tourists to the region are a different story. Resort wear is most commonly seen in tourist areas. Clubs and restaurants are often full of individuals on vacation who are dressing up in summer clubbing outfits.

If you are vacationing in Costa Rica it is important to bring along comfortable clothing for warm weather, as well as swimsuits and cover-ups for the beach. Bring some sandals or flip flops to wear on the beach, as well as sneakers or shoes for walking and hiking. It is advisable to bring a lightweight sweater to keep warm when the nights get chilly. In addition, if you are planning to go out for dinner you may want to bring along a jacket for the men, and either long pants or a skirt for the women. There are places in Costa Rica with a dress code. Invest in a large-brimmed hat for in the sun and remember to use sunscreen to protect your face also.

Get prepared for going to Costa Rica. With a little research you will find the ideal wardrobe for anything the country throws your way.

Washington DC

What To Wear In Washington D.C.

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Washington DC

Washington DC is the capital of the United States and the hub of the American government. Centrally located on the Eastern seaboard in the mid-Atlantic region, Washington enjoys four seasons, with a pleasantly short winter. If you are planning to visit the nation’s capital you will need to pack a variety of clothes depending on what you are planning to do there and the season in which you visit.

Washington in the spring and fall is very comfortable. On many days you can get away without a jacket, though one will usually be needed at night. Pants and a long-sleeved top are often sufficient to keep you comfortable both inside and out. If you visit during these seasons you will enjoy the fact that you don’t need to tote extra clothing around each day.

Visiting Washington in the summer means you will get to enjoy very warm temperatures. However the city does tend to be humid also. While you will want to dress for the weather, avoid the temptation to dress too scantily. It is a very conservative city and you will find that people dress modestly, even in tourist areas. Remember to bring along a sweater or shirt to keep you warm if you are indoors because of the air conditioning. You will also do a fair amount of walking as you visit the museums, monuments, the National Zoo and so many of the other sites in Washington, therefore comfortable shoes or sneakers are an absolute must.

If you are traveling to the nation’s capital on business be prepared to dress in professional business attire. Washington is a very formal, conservative business and government environment, so you will need to dress accordingly. For men this simply means a dark suit and tie. For women a dress suit is in order, with hose and pumps.

If going to special events, out for dinner, to shows or parties, be prepared to dress for the occasion. Washington is a busy city with a wide variety of cultural events. Many of those who attend cultural events are dressed formally. In order to fit in comfortably you should do likewise. You will need to dress in at least business casual clothes for most restaurants. However many will require a jacket and tie for men.

Going to the bars to socialize after work is very common, so you will want to be well-dressed as most people are still in work clothes, especially for bars close to downtown Washington. If you plan to go clubbing later in the evening, chic outfits are recommended also.

During football season, plan to wear team clothes for professional and college teams on game days. There are also professional baseball, hockey, soccer and basketball teams. Casual wear is the choice for taking in such games and team colors can be seen throughout the city, especially when the team is playing at home.

Pull out a variety of your best clothes and put together some dressy outfits if you are heading to Washington. Only the best will do for our nation’s capital.

School 1

Dress for School in 30 Minutes (or Less!)

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School 1

Getting out of bed in the morning can be killer, especially if you were up late the night before, working on an important project (or finishing up that awesome movie you just couldn’t wait until the weekend to watch!). Morning comes much too quickly, and hitting the snooze button a couple of times is a habit that can really put a crimp in your clothing style. With just a few minutes to throw on some jeans and run a brush through your hair, you end up looking like you feel: tired and rushed.

If you want to get out of the wake-up-and-go-out-the-door rut, here are some ideas to help you get your day off to a smoother start. With a little practice and a lot of preparation, you can be dressed and ready for school in 30 minutes or less!

Stop hitting the snooze button. It’s a hard habit to break, but it’s one that you have to change if you want more time to pull yourself together. Be sure that you are consistently getting enough sleep. Try to go to bed at the same time every night (at least on school nights) so your body can establish a sleep pattern that will help you to wake up refreshed.

Shower in the evening. Taking your shower at night will add loads of time to your morning routine. If you are clean when you wake up, all that’s left to do is splash a little water on your face, brush your teeth and style your hair. Oh, and don’t forget the clothes.

Choose your clothes the night before. Lay out the items that you want to wear and locate any accessories you need, including shoes. This way you won’t waste time standing in front of the closet, trying to decide what looks good, or running around looking for your other sandal. Your fabulous outfit will be ready to go…just add you!

Keep hair polished but simple. Leave hair down and add a bit of spritz for shine, or do a ponytail. If your hair is curly or requires more maintenance, be sure to get up earlier so you will have more time to style it. Guys have it easy: just comb through a bit of gel and go.

Be ready to go. Make sure you pack your backpack with all of the items you need for school the night before. Don’t forget to include books for classes, homework, pens and pencils, musical instruments, athletic gear and money for lunch. Keep your backpack in the same place so you will know where to grab everything and go.

Take breakfast to go. Keep on hand breakfast foods that are quick to prepare and easy to eat on-the-go. Bagels, muffins, granola bars, fruit and yogurt are all good choices.

1980s

How to Dress 80’s

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1980s

In the 80’s, moderation was the key to nothing. The 80’s was known for its extremes in clothing styles. If it wasn’t bright and attention-getting, it wasn’t worth wearing. Some of the most well-known 80’s styles involve neon colors, strange clothing combinations and plenty of random splashes of color.

Tops

There were several interesting styles of 80’s tops that were popular. These included the asymmetrical top which had only one sleeve and the off-the-shoulder shirts which were pulled down off the shoulders but worn with long sleeves. Wearing either one of these shirts is a way to start an 80’s ensemble.

Crop tops were also big throughout the 80’s. Some crop tops had a solid color under them with a different color mesh over it. This would often be a contrasting color such as a pink crop top with white mesh laid over it.

Shirts were often neon colored and bright enough to burn the retinas. For a very authentic 80’s look, wear a neon yellow shirt with paint splattered all over it. Paint splatter was a very popular style that could be found on shirts, pants, handbags, shoes and everything else worn in the 80’s.

Another interesting 80’s fashion was the Hypercolor shirt. The shirt changed colors with the air temperature and with the wearer’s body temperature in different areas. This often led to embarrassing darker colors under the arms, but it’s an authentic 80’s look if you can find it.

Socks

The 80’s was all about socks. The more pairs of socks you can wear, the more authentic your look will be. You can pair two or three different pairs of slouch socks stacked so that the top of each is visible for a true 80’s fashion. Once you have on your pairs of socks, put on legwarmers so that they come down just above the socks. Make sure all of the socks are brightly colored, polka dotted or paint splattered.

Belts

Everyone loved to wear belts in the 80’s. It didn’t matter if you actually needed to wear a belt or not. It also didn’t matter if you were already wearing one. Wearing two or three belts at the same time was considered perfectly normal. If you wear the layered belt look, try to position them so that they crisscross each other across your middle. Make sure all the belts are visible just like all of your pairs of socks. The belts can be thick or thin, but thin belts together usually look best.

Shorts and Skirts

Miniskirts and surfing shorts were the hot items throughout most of the 80’s. Girls wore checkered, striped, polka dotted or neon miniskirts. In the summer, everyone wore Jams. The more pairs of Jams you have, the better the look will be. The Jams should be extremely brightly colored and should go down to your knees. These shorts can be worn with a Hawaiian-style shirt or with a brightly colored crew neck t-shirt. If you do choose to wear jeans instead of Jams, make sure they are tapered jeans that are as light blue as possible.

Night club

What to Wear to a Night Club

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Night club

Going to a night club should be a fun time for anyone. You don’t want to get there and then regret your choice of clothing. In order to arrive wearing an outfit that can make your evening more fun, plan in advance exactly what you will wear.

Night Club Clothes for Women

Most women like to wear something formfitting to a night club that will show off their figures. A shirt that is tight is usually expected in a night club. A short skirt is also a perfect item to wear. Some women prefer to wear short dresses that come just above the knee. These are great for dancing and will swirl around you as you dance. For a more casual look, some women choose jeans and a V-neck shirt that fits tightly.

The shoes to wear to a night club can be a tricky choice. Many women want to wear high heels and will show off their legs and to make themselves look taller. High heels usually attract more attention than any other type of shoe, making them perfect for a night club. However, if you expect to do some dancing, high heels can certainly get in your way. Wearing flats or shoes with very short heels can make it much easier to dance if that is your aim at the night club. If you are wearing jeans, you might opt for tennis shoes in order to stay dancing all night.

Wear colors and fabrics that get a little attention. Satin or silk are nice choices for your shirt, skirt or dress. If you expect to sweat a lot, you might opt for cotton instead which will breathe better and absorb the sweat. If you have clothing with some sparkle to it, this will work perfectly. Anything sparkly will look great under the night club lights. You can also achieve this effect with some sparkly jewelry or rhinestone clips worn in your hair.

Night Club Clothes for Men

For men, it may be tempting to wear their street clothes without planning a night club outfit. However, planning the outfit in advance can make the experience more enjoyable. Make sure your shirt is not too loose. Like women, a tight-fitting shirt is the perfect choice for men at a night club. You can wear a t-shirt or a button-up shirt that fits tightly and pair it with a pair of khaki pants or dark jeans. Your pants should be straight leg or boot cut. Men should avoid tapered leg jeans at a night club. You want to show off your shape with your shirt rather than with your jeans. If the pants are slightly baggy, they are perfect for a night club.

Wear shoes that you can dance in, but that are in very good condition. A guy with beat up tennis shoes will not get the same attention from women than a man in a smart-looking pair of polished shoes will. Consider dark-colored shoes that will coordinate with your dark pants and your shirt.

Jeans 2

What to Wear with Jeans

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Jeans 2

Jeans aren’t just for school kids and yard work anymore. With so many designers coming up with sophisticated, stylish takes on this American perennial, jeans can work for you from morning until late into the night. The key is what you pair them with. Wearing jeans to cocktail parties and restaurants is fun, but the look falls flat without the right accessories. Here are a few ideas for what you can wear with your favorite pair of jeans.

•    With the Bohemian look hot right now, tunics are a fun choice to wear over straight-leg jeans and heels.  Keep in mind that a longer jean is necessary to balance out the longer top. Avoid tunic-style tops that pass the mid-thigh area as they will make you look disproportionate. It’s also important to wear flat-front jeans with this style to prevent weird bumps and lumps in the tummy area.

•    Consider the color of the denim. Generally, dressier jeans will have a darker wash. Dark, nicely tailored jeans and a collared shirt could even be a good choice for Casual Friday at the office. Jeans that are more faded and distressed are a good choice for wearing out-and-about and to informal events.

•    Men and ladies can dress up dark jeans with a blazer or tailored jacket. To go to a more relaxed look instantly, just remove the jacket.

•    High heels will add pizazz to jeans every time. If you’re going for an upscale look, avoid pairing jeans with athletic shoes unless you’re wanting to look like Jerry Seinfeld.

•    During the colder months, try layering a button-down shirt with a tee, a jacket and jeans. Low heels and a classic handbag complete a warm yet sophisticated look.

•    A tiered, ruffly tank top and heels are a fun match for a pair of sexy jeans, and perfect for a night out on the town. For a dinner date or a casual evening out, pair well-fitted jeans with a sweater or dressy blouse.

•    Create a cuffed jean by rolling up your jeans, then add leather ankle boots and an elbow-length top for a fun, adventurous style.

•    Belts can go a long way toward making your jeans look sassy or polished. A nice leather belt can finish off a dressy look. Metallic, sequined, studded and various other kinds of belts will draw attention to that curvy silhouette for the nighttime.

•    If you have a pair of “skinny” jeans, try wearing them with ballet flats and a tunic for a casual day look. For a more modern look, wear knee-high boots with the jeans tucked in.

Small details such as contrasting stitching, interesting pocket designs and sparkles can add a great deal to the overall look of a jean. Less is more in this department though, as too much detailing can make jeans look tacky. If you are bottom-heavy, avoid large back pockets or other design elements that draw attention to that area.

Hangover

What to Wear When Fighting Off a Hangover

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Hangover

If you tend to go overboard with the hard stuff (only on special occasions, mind you), the morning after can turn into a foggy haze of “where am I and what did I do.” Unfortunately, sometimes those morning-afters require you to actually function, as in get up and go to work (boy, shoulda thought twice about hitting that bar on a Sunday night, huh?) or to the grocery store (less threatening but still presents the possibility of running into someone from church or your kid’s school). So what can you wear that will be comfortable and attractive, while not screaming “I was out drinking heavily last night and that’s why I could only muster up enough brainpower to put on this old hoodie and sweatpants”?

Believe it or not, there are people who actually have “hangover clothes.” They’re what those who party less frequently refer to as “grubbies”: clothes that they wouldn’t be caught dead wearing in public, but that they wear around the house on the weekend when they’re recovering from a hangover. These folks have a drawer reserved especially for hangover clothes, usually near the bottom of the dresser, because that’s as far as they can lift their pounding heads in the morning (if they get up and get dressed at all).

There are things you can do to make the effects of a hangover less noticeable to the rest of the world. Here are a few ideas for outfits and accessories which will make you look better than you feel on a day when you’re fighting off a hangover.

Wear outfits with bright colors and patterns. OK, so bright colors and patterns make your head feel like it’s going to explode, but throwing on a pair of faded sweats isn’t going to do much for your image. Choose colors that convey a strong, powerful message, such as red. To draw attention away from bags and dark facial circles, be sure to choose a color that complements your complexion.

Do a long tunic or sweater. If you’re feeling as bloated as the Goodyear blimp, slip on a pretty, flowing tunic, one of the latest hot looks. You’ll feel comfortable and still be stylish.

Go for glasses if you wear them. There’s not a lot you can do for those bloodshot eyes since too many eye drops can actually worsen the problem. If you have a pair of glasses that look especially sophisticated, try to camouflage the redness with those. It won’t disguise the problem completely, but they will add a bit of polish to an office look. If you can go casual, a pair of cool sunglasses will do the trick.

Don’t stuff your hair under a hat. If you wake up and your hair looks like it’s been through a tornado, don’t try to disguise the problem with a ballcap. Instead, comb it back into a low ponytail and twist it into an updo for a quick fix that’s ready for the office or errands.