Tag Archives: What to Wear

Hockey

What to Wear to a Hockey Game

Hockey

If you’re going to a hockey game, it can be a little confusing when you try to figure out what to wear. On one hand, hockey games can be hot because of the crowd. You may get into a sweat because all of the screaming bodies around you will be raising the temperature in the room. However, you also have to remember that hockey involves ice and ice can lower the temperature considerably. For this reason, dressing to go a hockey game takes some special consideration. Wearing a hockey jersey is always advisable, but there are other things to think about as well.

Near the Ice

The way you dress if you are sitting near the ice is far different from the way you dress up you’re sitting higher up. When you sit close to the ice, such as in the first 4 or 5 rows, the temperature will be much cooler than it will be if you are farther away from the rink. If you are in the front row it is particularly cold. However, this cold is generally only felt in the extremities. Because you are still in the arena and the crowds will make it warmer, you will likely only feel the cold of the ice in your hands and feet. If you’re going to a hockey game and will be sitting close to the rink, make sure to wear very warm shoes as well as thick socks. You may want to wear two pairs of socks and thick shoes just to make sure you don’t sit through the hockey game miserable because your feet are cold.

If you are sitting a few rows back from the ice, your feet still may get cold, though you may not have to double up on your socks. Just make sure you wear warm shoes and leave the peep-toe shoes and sandals at home.

Far From the Ice

If you are sitting considerably further from the ice, you should probably still forget about sandals because your feet can get stepped on by the crowd. You should expect it to be warm once the crowd gets going, but don’t expect it to be as warm as a basketball game or another indoor sporting event. It will be warm, but the ice will cool the temperature enough so that you should be comfortable in regular indoor clothing. Casual clothing items such as jeans and a t-shirt are heavy enough for most hockey game spectator seats.

Outerwear

If there won’t be much of a crowd, you may need to wear some outerwear if you are going to be within the first 10 or 15 rows. A crowded hockey game will be rather warm in many of these rows, but if the game crowd is sparse, it will be cold. You will need to wear gloves and a coat to stay comfortable if there is no crowd. You may also need to wear very thick socks and you may even be more comfortable if you are wearing a hat.

Salsa

What to Wear Salsa Dancing

Salsa

When you go salsa dancing you need to be sure that you not only dress to impress but that you also dress for functionality. The last thing you want to do is wear the wrong attire when salsa dancing because it could actually lead to an embarrassing moment or even an injury. The best rule of thumb is to call ahead to the salsa club that you will be attending and ask them if there is a certain dress code that they have as this is sometimes the case. More times than not though you can either dress to impress or go casual, it’s really up to you.

Here are some things that you should consider before you go out for your next night of salsa dancing fun:

•    Shoes: Your shoes will be the most important thing that you wear. You need to have comfortable shoes that do not have a rubber sole. Ideally you will want to go with salsa shoes that have a suede bottom. This will allow for greater movement and not have you twisting your ankle when you move and grove at the club due to the rubber catching on the floor. Besides, most salsa clubs will not allow you to wear sneakers or shoes with rubber soles as they will mark up the floors.
•    Dresses and skirts for women: Women can wear any number of salsa skirts or dresses that come in a variety of fun colors and fashions. Most of these skirts are on the shorter side so if you feel like it may flip up during the night you may want to wear a short pair of shorts underneath.
•    Non dresses for women: In some clubs it will be acceptable for you ladies to wear jeans and halter tops. If you are wearing a halter top just be sure it has adequate coverage for when you do any dips or bending over while dancing. Your jeans should be a loose fit to allow you the maximum amount of movement. Whatever you do, leave the skinny jeans far behind.
•    Pants for the guys: Guys can come in pants or even in jeans but be sure that whatever it is you are wearing will leave you with a great deal of movement. If you wear pants that are too tight you will risk tearing them and that will only leave you embarrassed.
•    Shirts for guys: You will want to go with a short sleeved shirt that is made of a breathable material. Never wear long sleeves as this will leave you as hot as can be and eventually nothing more than a sweaty mess.
•    Colors: Go with darker colors for skirts and shirts that will show a bit of your wild side. Colors such as red, purple, dark blue, and even orange will stand out and have you looking your best.

Remember the key to salsa dancing is comfort. Yes you want to look good, but if you are not comfortable then even the best dressed person will fail to have a good time.

Superbowl

What to Wear to the Super Bowl

Superbowl

The Super Bowl is undeniably the most popular sporting event in the United States each year. It is certainly the most watched and has the highest advertising revenue of any televised sport. America is fascinated with football and every year in late January or early February, the whole country practically is glued to their television sets watching this exciting game to decide the top team of the season.

For most people the question of what to wear to the Super Bowl is more about what to wear to a Super Bowl party. The easy answer here is to try to get a feel for the type of party that is being held. If it is a cocktails and finger foods reception for charity while the Super Bowl plays in the background, you may need to dress up. However, for an everyday Super Bowl party, a casual look is sure to fit.

For a guy, jeans and a T-shirt are a safe bet. For women, the same outfit could work or you could opt for something a little dressier. Just remember to stay comfortable. Typical Super Bowl parties mean a lot of time curled up on the couch eating snack foods. Super Bowl Sunday is the second largest eating day in America, right behind Thanksgiving. Another fantastic choice of what to wear for a Super Bowl party is to wear a jersey or T-shirt that shows who you are supporting. This is especially true if you are a fan of one of the teams who made it to the big game.

If you are one of the lucky ones who actually gets to go to the real Super Bowl, then the question of what to wear to the Super Bowl takes on whole new meaning. First off ask yourself about the weather and temperature for the day. Be sure to dress for the weather and bring an extra shirt or jacket in case you get cold. Another thing to keep in mind is to dress comfortably, including your footwear. Attending the actual Super Bowl spans a much longer period of time than you see on television and you will likely need to walk quite a bit to get to your seats.

In addition you will of course want to wear clothing in support of the team you favor, if indeed you are rooting for one or the other. If you happen to be in premium seating or luxury boxes, you will also need to dress accordingly. Don’t go overboard, but dress chic with comfort and fun in mind.

No matter where you are watching it you can get a great custom-made T-shirt for the Super Bowl. It can be the shirt you wear for every future Super Bowl too. You can have fun party favors made up for a Super Bowl party by creating matching T-shirts for your guests. Choose a color and select what you want printed on your custom shirt and in no time you’ll have exactly what you need. Just remember that you can’t use the actual words Super Bowl because it will infringe on NFL trademarks. So use your imagination to find clever ways to print something recognizable on your shirt for the Big Game.  Get your custom tshirt today for the Superbowl to be ready for the game.

Baptism

What to Wear to a Baptism

Baptism

A baptism is a Christian ritual that is performed with water by which one is admitted membership into the Christian Church and is said by some to have their soul protected from evil. A baptism is a very important day for all of those that are a part of it and just the fact that you get invited to attend this special day should be met with a feeling of gratuity. So what should you wear when attending a baptism?

What you will wear when attending a baptism will all depend on the role in which you play in that baptism. Here is how it breaks down:

•    Parents: Your child only gets baptized once and you will want to dress for the occasion. Dress to the nines but don’t go all out and rent a tux. A nice suit and tie will do the trick for the dads and the moms can wear an elegant dress that is a bright and cheery color.
•    God Parents: One of the greatest honors there are is to have the parents of the child being baptized to ask you to be a God Parent of the child. This honor is usually reserved for the closest friends of the parents or may even be a sibling or another relative. A God Parent will stand with the child and the parents at the baptism and will swear to take care of the child should anything happen to the parents. Because of this honor it is important that you dress your best on the day of the baptism. You will be in photos and the day will long be remembered so you will want to ensure that you look your best. Guys should therefore wear a suit with a neck tie and women should wear a nice day dress.
•    Attending friend: If you are a friend of the family that has been invited to attend you will want to dress up but not as much as the God Parents do. For guys a pair of nice dress slacks will fit the bill topped with a nice button down shirt. It is not necessary to wear a neck tie in this case. For women you can go with a nice pair of dress pants and a chic dress blouse that is not too casual. Never show a lot of skin as that will come off as tacky.

You need to remember that the baptism will take place in a church and that you will want to dress accordingly. Just think how you would show up for a Sunday service. Would you show up in your shorts and a tank top? Of course not, well a baptism should be no different. After all, there is a reason it is called your ‘Sunday best.’

Remember it is an extreme honor just to be invited to the baptism of another person. Take that initiation to heart and be sure that you are dressed appropriately so that you will help to honor the joyful day properly.

Ballet

What to Wear to Ballet

Ballet

When you are trying to figure out what to wear to ballet it really comes down to are you going to be a participant in the performance or a spectator of it? Ballet at any level is a wonderful display of art that almost anyone can enjoy but there is a certain dress code when attending a ballet for both participants and spectators alike.

Ballet for the most part is a semi-formal event and attending one means that you will have to break out your best clothes especially if you are planning on attending on opening night. Here is how you can look your absolute best when attending a ballet:

•    Participants: When ballet dancers are practicing they will generally wear a black leotard, pink tights, pink ballet shoes, and have their hair pulled back. Male dancers will wear thick tights, a tank top, and black ballet shoes. But when the actual performance rolls around these warm up outfits are tossed to the side and make way for a variety of different colors and styles which will all depend on the theme of the ballet.
•    Women spectators: Women can look their best in a nice dress that is one solid color. Really any color goes, but you want to be sure that the length of the dress is not too short. Go with a dress that is no shorter than just above the knees and compliment the dress with a matching pair of heels. Accessorize elegantly but lightly and wear jewelry that will compliment your outfit such as a simple string of pearls. Do your hair however you feel comfortable but remember you definitely want to dress to impress.
•    Men spectators: Guys need to at least go in a suit and tie especially for the all important opening night. If you are attending a very fancy ballet then you may even want to go with a traditional tuxedo or other type of black tie attire. Your shoes should of course be dressy as well and like the ladies you should be going for the knockout with your outfit.
•    Children spectators: Kids should be dressed up but you do not have to go crazy with renting your little guy a tux. When dressing your kids for a ballet, think of how you would dress them to go to church and you will have a good indication of what they should be dressed like to attend the ballet. Just be sure that you don’t have them going in shorts, shirts, and hats.

There is an exception to these dress codes. If you are attending a child’s performance you may want to ask the ballet teacher first how formal or casual the event is going to be. You certainly don’t want to show up in a tux when everyone else has on jeans and t-shirts and vice-versa.

Whether you are participating in the ballet or you are going to the ballet to be entertained you will enjoy yourself the most when you dress the part.

Cancun

What to Wear on Vacation in Cancun

Cancun

Cancun, Mexico was once a nothing more than a tiny little town that offered nothing out of the ordinary. Now Cancun is world famous and is the place to go when vacationing if you are into a wild nightlife, a balmy climate, water sports galore, and oh yeah the beach. A trip to Cancun can be a once in a lifetime experience that you won’t soon forget, so what should you wear when you vacation in Cancun?

Cancun is the ultimate place for rest and relaxation, but it is also a place to party your tail off. If you are planning a trip to this Mexican paradise, here is what you should wear:

•    Bathing Suit: Cancun is actually an island and is only a mere 16 miles long so if you think you can go there and avoid the beach, think again. That being known you better pack your bathing suits as you will be spending a great deal of time in them. For guys a really cool pair of board shorts will keep you comfortable and have you looking cool and for the ladies, go for it with a sexy bikini that compliments your figure.
•    Shorts and t-shirts: Cancun is hot, hot, hot! Even when you are not on the beach you will want to be wearing as little as possible. This is where a nice pair of cargo shorts and a regular old t-shirt will do the trick. Women can go a little classier than the guys and wear a nice pair of capris that will look great and still keep you cool.
•    Comfy shoes: You are going to be on vacation after all. Again, if you are not at the beach then chances are you will be walking around and visiting one of the many shops and stores that Cancun has to offer. Make sure you pack a cozy pair of sneakers for your trip and don’t leave behind your flip flops because you will need those too.
•    Night wear: For those nights out at the clubs you will want to get just a bit dressier, but not much. A pair of nice jeans and a cool button down shirt will fit the bill for the guys. Feel free to leave that shirt un-tucked and make sure that your shoes are easy to move in when you hit the dance floor. Women can get away with jeans and a sassy t-shirt or can even go for ultra comfort with a cute skirt or dress. Same rule applies for your shoes ladies.
•    Sun block: Probably the most important thing you will put on while in Cancun is your sun block. Bring an SPF that is greater than you would normally use and don’t be shy about re-applying. Failure to always have a good coat of sun block on will have you coming back looking like a lobster and feeling like a walking blister. Of course, you don’t have to wear any sun block at night if you don’t want to.

As important as all those things are to make sure to pack, it is equally as important to leave behind your cares and troubles; you won’t need them in Cancun.

Ice skating

What to Wear Ice Skating

Ice skating

Ice skating is a wonderful winter sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. When you are ice skating you need to remember that you will be on ice and that means that you will be cold if not dressed properly. If you go ice skating and you are not dressed the right way you won’t have much fun because you will be shivering in your skates the entire time.

Here is how you should dress when going ice skating:

•    Skates: Ok this one is obvious. You can’t ice skate without sakes. The type of skates you will need will depend on the type of skating you are going to be doing. If you are only planning on casual skating then you can probably just rent the skates from the rink. If however you get into figure skating or hockey, then those types of skates are different all together. Whatever type of skates you do wear, be sure that you wear socks when you ice skate. A good thick wool pair usually does the trick and helps to keep your feet nice and warm and also very well padded, which in turn keeps the blisters away.
•    Pants: When ice skating a big mistake in the pants department are jeans. If you fall on the ice, and you probably will a time or two, then the denim in your jeans will actually absorb the moisture from the ice and that is going to leave you rather chilled. Instead you can get special ice skating pants that are made of a specific material that is designed to repel any moisture away from your skin and thus keep you warm. If you still want to go with the jeans looks, then wear them over top of the ice skating pants.
•    Tops: Here you will want to layer. Go to the rink with a t-shirt first, a long sleeved shirt over that, a sweater over that, and finally a lightweight jacket. When you first get onto the ice you will no doubt be fairly chilly. But as you skate around and your body gets heated up you may want to start shedding some of your clothing. By layering you will be sure that you always have the right amount of clothing up top to help keep you warm.
•    Hats: This is totally optional but if you tend to get cold ears quickly you may want to wear a wool cap. This will allow you to skate around freely without having to worry about your ears freezing off.
•    Gloves or mittens: To keep your hands warm it is a good idea to wear gloves or mittens. Nothing will spoil a day of ice skating faster than frost bitten hands.
•    Accessories: A nice accessory that can easily be added or removed to help keep you warm or cool is a trusty scarf. You may also want to wear some clear glasses as this will help shield your eyes from the cold wind and keep them from getting dried out.

Ice skating is a fantastic time but that fun can be cut drastically short if you are not dressed warm enough.

Luau

What to Wear to a Luau

Luau

When you are getting ready to attend a luau the easiest thing to do is figure out what to wear. A luau is definitely the ultimate in casual where you are not only accepted if you wear a grass skirt, you are pretty much expected to do so.

Luaus are great fun and the fun you have can be enhanced by dressing the part. Of course how you dress will depend on what gender you are so here are some ways for everyone to tackle the luau look:

•    Men: Leave the suit and tie at home fellas because a luau calls for neither. A great outfit for a guy to wear to a luau starts with a comfortable pair of shorts. Any color you like fits the bill but the more colorful the better. If it is too chilly for shorts you can also wear a white pair of all cotton pants. For shirts you will definitely want to go with a Hawaiian shirt that has a wild pattern and very loud colors. It is also acceptable for the guys to go with no shirts at all so if you are brave enough to do so then go for it. You will want to get a handful of different color leis to go around your neck and you can also put a Hibiscus flower behind one ear to complete the look. When it comes to footwear go for ultra comfort and grab a pair of flip-flops.
•    Women: The ladies have a couple of different options when dressing for a luau. If you want the look of a traditional hula dancer then go for a grass skirt being worn over regular bikini bottoms and go with a coconut bra up top. Too revealing? You can also go for a long Hawaiian dress and just like with the guys, go for wild prints with loud colors. You too can wear a Hibiscus flower behind the ear, but beware because the ear you wear it behind tells of your marital status. If you wear the flower behind your left ear you are telling everyone that you are taken and if you wear it behind the right ear it means you are single. Flip-flops compliment either look and will keep you comfortable all night long. A floral anklet and lots of different colored leis completes the look.
•    Kids: Kids love the fun of a luau too. To dress them appropriately have the boys wear a matching outfit to dad with the same kind or shorts and shirt and the girls can either match mom or get any number of cute floral dresses that are available at almost any department store. The kids, like the adults, will need plenty of leis and flip-flops as well.

The biggest thing with attending a luau is to be sure that you wear what you will comfortable in and that you also wear a smile. If you are not having fun at a luau then there is definitely something wrong.

Bahamas

What to Wear on Vacation in the Bahamas

Bahamas

The Bahamas are the place to go if you are looking for great beaches, great nightlife, and a lot of rest and relaxation. A big mistake that many people make when visiting the Bahamas is that they tend to over pack. The Bahamas is a much laid back place to visit and when planning your trip there you should follow one simple rule; less is more.

Here is all that you will need for your trip to the Bahamas:

•    Shorts: The Bahamas are hot so bring a few pairs of shorts. Guys can always look great in cargos and gals can get away with short shorts if they can pull them off. If not, then go with a nice pair of carpris pants that will keep you feeling good and looking good as well.
•    Bathing suits: The number one reason that people visit the Bahamas is the beach. Bring your suit and be ready to get wet. Guys typically look great in a cool pair of board shorts and women can go about as bare as they dare. Be warned though, there are some nude or clothing optional beaches in the Bahamas so be sure you go to the beach you want.
•    Walk around wear: As tempting as it may be to wear your beach wear into the towns and local churches, don’t so it. Some nice casual slacks made of cotton topped off with a nice button down shirt for guys and a fun skirt or dress for the ladies will do the trick every time.
•    Night wear: The Bahamas tend to be cooler at night so make sure you pack a light sweater or jacket. Some resort restaurants will require guys to wear a jacket and tie before entering so check with the place you are staying at beforehand to see if you need to pack these items.
•    Shoes: You’ll definitely need your flip flops and a good pair of walking shoes as well. You’re flip flops will come in handy at the beach and you will want a nice pair of walking shoes for all the window shopping you are bound to do as the Bahamas seem to have an endless array of shops and stores. Don’t forget a nice pair of shoes to wear when you go out at night.
•    Sun block and bug repellent: Bring a good bottle of sun block and bug repellant with you as you will need both. For the sun block go with an SPF that is 30 to 45 as the Bahamas has plenty of sun to offer and anything less could result in a burn. Reapply all the time and don’t be shy on the amount. You will use your bug repellant at night and thank yourself for bringing it as some of the bugs in the Bahamas resemble a B-52 bomber coming after you; well not that bad, but you get the point. If you happen to run out of either, don’t worry, the Bahamas carry most major brands of both products.

Remember, when it comes to the Bahamas, pack to relax and go with no worries or cares.

Snowshoeing

What to Wear Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing can be a great way to exercise and get some fresh air but it can also be dangerous. In order to be prepared for the danger you have to dress appropriately for the occasion. Remember that anytime you are dealing with the outside cold elements there will be a chance of hypothermia and other cold related dangers. When dressing for snowshoeing you need to go for comfort and warmth while you maintain your dryness. By doing so you will cut down on all the cold related dangers that can occur.

Here is the proper way to dress when you want to enjoy a day of snowshoeing:

•    Feet: Starting with the feet first you will want to wear a breathable pair of socks as a first layer to help wick away any moisture you get when sweating. You can then put on wool socks over those and that will give you maximum warmth. Your boots should be weatherproof so that the snow doesn’t penetrate to your feet as that could cause frost bite.
•    Legs: Fleece pants do the trick here every time. They are a great garment to keep you warm and will also help you ward off moisture. At the bottom of your pants you will wear what is known as gaiters which will cover your pants at the bottom and also cover the top of your boots. These gaiters are water proof and keep any snow from creeping in the top of your boots or up your pants.
•    Upper body: Begin with a breathable cotton shirt and then top that off with a fleece or wool pull over sweater. Then you will want to wear a weather proof jacket that will keep you as warm as can be and as dry as can be too. Because snowshoeing is an aerobic sport you will sweat a lot and at times you may want to remove the jacket. Just be sure that you stay as dry as possible when you do so.
•    Hands: A good thick pair of weatherproof mittens is in tall order for snowshoeing. Your hands will be exposed to cold and wetness from snow so it is vital that you keep them dry and warm so that you avoid frost bite.
•    Head: A nice wool cap will keep the heat trapped on top of our head and thus help to keep your entire body warm.
•    Fanny pack: These sure are funny looking but they can hold a good deal of food which can come in handy when you find yourself tired and in need of a quick pick me up.
•    Water bottle: Even though it is cold out you will still be sweating a good deal and it will be important for you to stay hydrated. Carrying a water bottle with you will allow you to take frequent drinks and will ensure that you stay hydrated which will help prevent you from getting cramps.

While any activity in the cold comes with risk, if dressed for properly, you will enjoy the activity and stay safe as well. By dressing to stay both warm and dry you will ensure that your day of snowshoeing will go off without a hitch.

England 1

What to Wear in England

England 1

As the old saying goes, ‘When in Rome do as the Romans do.’ Well when you are planning on visiting England you should know how to dress so that you don’t stick out like a typical American tourist. It is important to note that many people in England get their sense of style by watching the starts of television and screen. That being said the fashion is one that tends to change on a fairly regular basis.

Here are some tips to help you decide what to wear when you are in England:

•    Loud colors: In England the colors of choice seem to be loud and bright. Many countries overseas like to stick with the darker and drabber colors, but England isn’t one of them. Yellows, purples, blues, and reds seem to be a favorite among many the locals.
•    Wild design: This is especially for the woman. Don’t be afraid to go with a totally wild and outrageous design or pattern. Many people in England sport styles and patterns that may be considered to over the edge here in America, but over there it is just another day in the life of England.
•    Get a good coat: It seems that everyone over in England has a coat on them most of the time. These coats can range from a sports jacket to a nice half-coat, or even a leather jacket, but they are almost always wearing them.
•    Shoe wear: Men tend to gravitate towards the boot look or the low top sneaker look. Their low top sneakers that they like are the same style as the low top Converse that can be found at almost any store right here in America. Women like to wear a lot of closed toed heels that are a variety of wild colors.
•    Scarves: When it is cold out it is very common to see both men and women sporting scarves. These scarves will serve two purposes. The first will be fashion and the second will be function by way of helping to keep the person warm.
•    Accessorize big: Women in England like to accessorize in a big way. They will wear big hanging necklaces and flashy jewelry. They also tend to cut their hair on the shorter and wilder side these days.
•    When in doubt: A great rule of thumb for anyone about to visit England is to pack lightly and bring some extra money. This way you can check into your hotel and then hit the streets and get ideas on how to dress by seeing what the locals are all wearing. Keep in mind that one region may dress a bit differently than the others so if you are planning on visiting more than one area in England than you will not want to spend your entire bankroll on the first day.

The good thing about dressing in England is it seems to be all about fun. The styles and colors over there are wild and vivid and allow for a great deal of leeway when choosing what it is you want to wear.

Country skiing

What To Wear Cross Country Skiing

Country skiing

Cross country skiing is a great exercise and a lot of fun for anyone who lives in a part of the country that gets a decent enough snowfall for the sport. It uses almost all the different muscle groups and can give a good cardiovascular workout when done correctly. It is a sport that fits well for individuals of all ages and can be adapted to varying levels of physical fitness. More good news is that getting equipped for cross country skiing is relatively inexpensive, especially when compared to some other sports. While the skis and boots can be more costly, there are many good deals to be found also on new equipment and especially on gently used equipment.

Knowing what to wear for cross country skiing is very important. While you can invest in skiing outfits, it is completely unnecessary, especially if you are skiing for the fun and exercise of it. The most important thing to know about cross country ski attire is that layering is essential. It is not only a matter of comfort, but by doing so you can also protect yourself from possible frostbite.

How cold it is when you go skiing will greatly help to determine what you should wear as you practice your sport. If the temperature is very cold, you will want to wear heavy layers and possibly even a hat and facemask to protect your skin. If the temperature is just below freezing and the sun is shining, you will want to dress in lighter layers. You will become warm very quickly once you get moving. However keep an extra layer in your car or wherever you start from because you cool down quickly in any winter temperature.

Your layers of clothing should include a synthetic layer of clothing next to your skin. Cotton absorbs moisture and keeps it next to the skin, making you cold, damp and uncomfortable. Synthetic fabrics will aid in wicking away moisture from your skin and drying quickly so you remain dry and warm. Additional layers may be cotton, wool or other fabric.

A waterproof winter jacket, preferably of a streamlined cut will allow you to comfortably move as you are skiing. The waterproof exterior will protect you from added moisture from melting snow and provide extra warmth. Comfortable, slim-fitting pants or specifically designed cross country ski pants of a waterproof material are also a good choice for optimal movement.

Well-insulated gloves are essential to your skiing adventure. They will provide the dexterity you want without any added bulk. A hat may be necessary at the beginning of your outing, but typically you will find that you will quickly need to remove it. Headbands that cover the ears are a good choice. Be sure to use ski goggles to protect your eyes. A ski belt with zippered pockets will give you space to carry necessities and to store hats and other small items that you remove.

With the right cross country skiwear, you will enjoy an exciting and comfortable season of outdoor adventure.

Ireland

What to Wear in Ireland

Ireland

Ireland is a great place to visit and the people there are very laid back. Because of that the fashion there is also very laid back. This is great because it allows tourists to simply relax and pretty much dress the same way they always do but there are some things that you should know about how to dress when you visit Ireland.

Though Ireland is laid back and casul is alright here are some tips to help you in your packing for Ireland:

•    Pack light: Most places in Ireland that you will stay at will require you to lug around your own luggage so keep that in mind when you are packing. The more you pack, the more you will have to lug around. Besides if you pack lighter that gives you an excuse to go buy some authentic Ireland clothing to bring back with you.
•    Bring an umbrella: One essential piece of clothing in Ireland is a good sturdy umbrella. It rains quite often in Ireland and it is no fun being caught without an umbrella in hand. A good raincoat goes a long way too as sometimes it is too windy for an umbrella.
•    Think in layering terms: Even in the summer time Ireland can get quite cool so you will always want to layer your clothing. The mornings tend to be brisk so you can begin the day with the most amount of clothes on such as a shirt, sweater, and jacket. As the day warms you up you can then begin to remove some of the layers and then put them back on as the evening hits and it gets cool once again.
•    Bring extra in winter: During the cold months you will want to be sure that you have plenty of warmer cloths with you. Sweaters, jackets, hats, gloves, and even scarves. You should also never underestimate the power of a nice pair of thermal underwear. While you may feel a bit silly wearing them, they will keep you nice and warm.
•    Watch the water: The coasts of Ireland tend to be on the windy side. If you are planning on visiting these areas be sure that you have enough on to keep you warm.
•    Casual is ok: Remember that unlike many foreign countries it is perfectly acceptable to dress much in the same way you do right here in the United States. Jeans, sneakers, t-shirts and sweaters all fit the bill when it comes to Ireland.

It is important to note that even if it is hot outside the local pubs and restaurants in Ireland tend to be a bit on the cooler side as the air-conditioning is generally cranked way down. Always be sure that you have a light sweater or jacket with you at all times when visiting these local establishment and you will never be too cold.

Ireland is not only a wonderful place to visit; it is also an easy place to pack for. Just remember when you think Ireland; less is more.

Broadway

What to Wear to a Broadway Show

Broadway

The next time you are in New York you may feel the bright lights of Broadway calling your name. When this happens you will no doubt want to know what to wear to a Broadway show. While Broadway has no real dress code you still don’t want to show up looking too formal or too casual so you have to find that perfect balance in between.

Many times at a Broadway show it is not unusual to see the occasional tuxedo and it is also not unusual to see the occasional jeans and t-shirts, but the people that wear these seem to stick out. In order to better blend into the crowd you will want to go with dressy-casual attire so you not only look your best but you also feel comfortable as well. Here is how you too can pull off the Broadway look:

WOMEN
•    Dresses: You can always look your best in a dressy, but not formal dress. This type of dress can range from a sun dress for when the weather is hotter, to a longer flowing dress that comes down past your calves. You can compliment this look with a nice pair of strappy sandals.
•    Work attire: If you are coming straight from work then shed your work blouse and replace it with a satin or sequin top. Trade your work shoes for a pair of sling-back pumps and you will be all set.
•    Accessories: You will definitely want to accessorize, but don’t go all out. Try to find a nice mix of low key jewelry and stay away from big hoops or things that hang too low. You should also choose a smaller purse that won’t be so cumbersome when you are sitting down to enjoy the show.

MEN
•    Work Attire: If you are coming straight from work just leave on that suit and tie as it will look great going into the show. If that’s too dressy for you then shed the tie and unbutton a couple of top buttons on your shirt and trade your suit jacket for a sport coat.
•    Pants and shirts: If weather permits you can wear a nice pair of dress pants and a great looking sweater up top. Of course if it is hot out you will want to go with some sort of lightweight button down but you will still want to go with long sleeves. If you are feeling ultra confident you can also go with a classy looking pair of jeans with a button down shirt and top off the outfit with a sport coat.
•    Shoes: This is a no brainer for the guys; wear your dress shoes. Leave the sneakers, flip-flops, and even the cowboy boots in the closet. If your shoes look dull, give them a quick polish and shine just before you head out for your night on Broadway.

Now you are ready to go enjoy that Broadway show you have always wanted to attend. A word of warning; silence your cell phone as soon as you arrive. While you want people to check you out, you don’t want it to be because of your cell phone blaring out in the middle of the performance.

Winter

What To Wear In The Winter

Winter

Winter is a season of beauty where the earth is robed in a clean new cover. Winter holidays, winter sports, playing in the snow, cuddling up by a roaring fire to warm up, snow days and catching snowflakes on your tongue are all lovely winter images. However there are many other things associated with winter that are less than ideal. Frozen locks, slippery roads, scraping ice and snow off cars, shoveling snow, high heating bills and being uncomfortably cold are some of the downsides to winter. However by knowing the right thing to wear in winter, you will be able to avoid at least one of these drawbacks.

Exterior garments are the most important ones for the winter. You may be concerned with looking good, and if you are on your way to work or a social event that may be important, but being warm is much more critical to your everyday existence. Therefore you need to make good exterior clothing choices from top to bottom.

Opt for a warm hat that covers your ears and forehead, especially if you plan to spend time outside. A cold forehead leaves you with a headache and ears are susceptible to frostbite. If you do not like hats, headbands that cover the ears or earmuffs are a great alternative. If a hat alone does not give enough warmth, you may want to consider a face mask, especially on extra cold days. However this is not a good look if you are planning to do any banking. Scarves are also a good choice and can be pulled up to protect a part of your face. If your neck is exposed to the air, a warm scarf is a must.

You must also choose a good pair of gloves or mittens. The difference is dexterity and warmth. Mittens are warmer than gloves because most of your fingers are together and help to keep each other warm. However, you lack dexterity. Gloves are a better choice for movement and elegance. Opt for insulated gloves for maximum warmth. Leather gloves are also warm choices.

Choose a good winter coat and/or jacket. A coat is necessary for dress-up occasions and for work if you have a more professional workplace. A winter jacket is an all-around necessity. They come in different weights and you should choose one that meets the temperature needs for your area at its coldest. Some jackets are insulated yet streamlined while others are down filled and puffy. There are a multitude of other styles in between. The current fashion and your own preferences should determine the type of jacket you buy. However a waterproof one is always a good investment.

If you plan to spend time outside, invest in snow pants. These should be insulated and waterproof to allow you to play in the snow and do winter sports while staying comfortable and dry.

Finally footwear is essential to get right. While fancy winter boots and shoes are always nice to have, especially for dressing up, practicality reigns in footwear. Boots with a non-slip grip will protect you from falling on ice and compact snow. Insulated boots will keep you warm while waterproof ones will keep you dry. Choose the right footwear and your feet will be happy all winter.

Choose your winter wardrobe carefully and you’ll be comfortable and enjoy the season of snow and cold!

Chicago

What To Wear In Chicago

Chicago

Chicago is nicknamed the Windy City and if you visit at certain times of the year, you will have no doubt as to where the name came from, although in reality it was named such because of local politicians there. It is an exciting place to visit. However, knowing what to wear in Chicago is very important. Chicago may be in the Midwest, however, it is definitely a big city and as such fashion is different than in small towns.

Chicago is a city known for its architecture and elegance. It is the booming “New York of the Midwest” and as such, fashion is important. Those who live and work in Chicago will attest to the fact that most people there pay attention to fashion. They keep up with the trends, dress with care and accessorize beautifully. If you are going to Chicago, you will want to have a variety of well-put-together outfits ready for all occasions. Whether you are going to a show, restaurants, sight-seeing or shopping, you will see city-dwellers dressed up.

The city itself offers a variety of boutiques, featuring renowned designers. There are also a multitude of places where you can find less expensive but still stylish outfits. Chicago is truly the biggest fashion Mecca west of New York. Well-dressed individuals are wherever you go.

As with every place, the season dictates more precisely what you will wear. Those who live in Chicago will tell you that they have two seasons summer and winter, with a week or two of milder temperatures separating them. While this may be a bit of an exaggeration, it makes for easier clothing choices when you are shopping. With a wardrobe of true summer clothes and true winter clothes you will be able to manage the tiny spring and fall with a little mix and match creativity.

Summer is very warm in Chicago, so keep your clothing choices light and airy. If you plan to sightsee, be sure to take an extra sweater or blouse to cover up when you go inside. You may get cold in air conditioned buildings. Wear comfortable supportive shoes, because even though the L is a reliable form of transportation in the city, you will still find that there is quite a bit of walking to do to get to some of the places you will likely want to visit.

In winter, Chicago can get bitterly cold. Be sure to have winter boots with good traction to make sure you don’t slip on ice. In addition, a long very warm winter coat is needed. Be sure to invest in good warm winter clothing for optimal comfort. If you plan to spend extended periods of time outside, a snow suit and possibly even some long underwear will be welcomed also.

If you are visiting Chicago on business, keep in mind that this city is a financial and business center and as such, many companies, especially ones located in downtown Chicago, require business attire. For women this will include pantyhose, even in the summer, with a business suit. For men business suits are a requirement.

When eating out, expect to find dress codes in the nicer restaurants. Shorts are often a no-no, especially for evening dining. Many places will require men to wear a jacket.

As you prepare for what to wear in Chicago, be sure to check the weather so you know what the Second City is bringing your way.

Black tie

What is a Black Tie Dress Code

Black tie

Black tie events are a semi-formal event such as a wedding or dinner part that requires those in attendance to dress up a bit on the fancy side. While there is a bit of leeway in what you can and cannot wear to a black tie event there is still somewhat of a dress code.

Of course your dress code will depend on if you are a woman or a man, here’s how it breaks down.

WOMEN: Women can typically get away with wearing one of two types of dresses. The type will depend on the situation of the event and whether the event is more on the casual side or formal side.

•    Cocktail dress: If you are attending a dinner party it may be acceptable for you to wear a cocktail dress. These types of dresses are usually reserved for the most laid back formal events and are generally dictated a great deal by current fashion.
•    Evening gowns: If you are attending a high class black tie event then an evening gown is on the menu. Evening gowns can be worn in a wide variety of colors and even fashions but should always compliment your shape and hopefully the man you are attending with.

The unofficial rule in determining which type of dress to go with is how well you know the people at the event. If everyone attending is a close knit group of friends then it will probably be more laid back and you can opt for the cocktail dress. But if you are attending a high society fund raising event for example, it will probably be more on the ‘stuffy’ side and require the nicer of the two options.

MEN: The black tie dress code for a man is also determined by several factors. A tuxedo will usually fit the bill for the guys and the color of the tux is usually black or dark midnight blue but there are a few exceptions to the tuxedo rule.

•    Kilts: At formal Scottish events the dress code for the men is a black tie and jacket on the top and a kilt on the bottom. This tradition has dated back throughout time and is still strong today. Anybody that has attended a Scottish wedding will have been witness to many a grown man wearing a kilt.
•    Military: The military has what is known as ‘mess dress’ that is worn at semi-formal events. These types of formal looking uniforms will sport a jacket and of course a black tie.

In all cases for the guys two things hold true. In any type of black tie dress code you will have a jacket of some sort and a black bow tie. As these are the two main components of the black tie dress code for the guys, they will always be constant no matter what.

Dressing for a black tie event usually means dressing up. Whether you are a man or a woman the fact remains there is a certain dress code when attending a black tie affair and dressing appropriately will keep you from being underdressed and sticking out like a sore thumb.

Swing dancing

What to Wear Swing Dancing

Swing dancing

It’s hard to believe but swing dancing is almost 100 years old. Swing dancing started in the 1920s and is still thriving today in many area of the country and there are even nightclubs that are dedicated to the athletic style of dancing. Because the style is so athletic and requires a lot of jumping, flipping, and dipping, it is important to wear the proper clothing to get maximum enjoyment out of your next night of swing dancing. Plus it is always fun to look the part.

The say it takes two to Tango and the same holds true with swing dancing. Here is how you can look like an authentic swing dancer regardless no matter what gender you are:

MEN

Alright guys, your style of dress for swing dancing is pretty easy. To look like the dancers back in the day you need to get a really comfortable suit. The traditional suits that the swing dancers of old wore where called Zuit Suits and they consisted of loose fitting pants, a jacket, and a traditional swing dancer’s hat. The pants should be baggy and can come up rather high if you wish. The jacket should hang very low and should also be very loose. Under the jacket, go with a white button down shirt and a tie. Accessories the outfit by wearing a feather in your hat, and get a wallet that has a chain or two hanging way down. Remember, when it comes to Zuit Suits, the brighter and louder the color, the better. Greens, purples, yellows, or whatever, really nothing is off limits.

WOMEN

You women out there have it pretty easy too. Dresses, dresses, and more dresses. You too can go crazy with the colors to get that authentic look and really any patterns go too. Back in the day, it was not uncommon to see many swing dancing gals decked out in polka dotted dresses or other cool patterns. The key with a swing dancing style of dress is to go more form fitting on the top and big and poofy starting at the hips. This is not only designed for ultimate comfort, but it also has a certain look to it when the swing dance is being performed.

SHOES

This is for anyone regardless of gender. In order to enjoy swing dancing, you have to have comfortable shoes. This doesn’t mean to wear sneakers and you certainly want to choose shoes that are a little on the dressy side, but first and foremost they have to feel good on your feet while you are moving and grooving. The bottoms should be somewhat slick as this will help you to twist and turn. If you have a shoe that grips the dance floor too much, you will risk twisting an ankle.

Now all you need to do is grab some of your closest cats and head out for a fun filled night of swing dancing. If you don’t want to go with the traditional look, you can always dress in your own way as there are really no rules when it comes to swing dancing except for comfort and fun.

Disneyland

What To Wear At Disneyland

Disneyland

If you have a Disneyland vacation coming up, you are sure to be asking yourself what to wear. Since Disneyland is located in sunny Southern California, the obvious answer to that question would be a tank top and a pair of shorts in order to be comfortable in the hot temperatures and to get a little tan at the same time. However there is much more to think about than just that.

If you are visiting Disneyland in the summer, you will definitely want to wear shorts and a tank top or a lightweight T-shirt. Opt for lightweight shorts, especially synthetic ones which dry quickly and help to keep to cooler. Remember to also bring a lightweight shirt with either long or short sleeves, especially if you are wearing a tank shirt, for a number of reasons. It will provide a little more warmth if you are in an air conditioned room or restaurant for a long period of time. It also provides sun protection if you notice that your shoulders are beginning to get sunburned.

Here is the surprising thing that you need to know about dressing for Disneyland. Southern California does not always have scorching hot weather. During the winter months, daytime temperatures go down to the 60’s and nighttime temperatures go to the 40’s. Therefore you need to dress accordingly. If you are planning to take in any of the early evening Christmas events at Disneyland, you will need long pants and long sleeves. A jacket is also typically needed. You may also need the same clothing on certain cool winter days in Anaheim. Be sure to check the weather before you go so you can be prepared. Layering is the best strategy for staying comfortable.

What to wear on your feet is a major concern. While many people think that sandals are a great choice for a day spent mostly outdoors, in reality sneakers are a much better choice. By wearing good supportive sneakers your feet will be comfortable all day long. Be sure to wear cotton socks also to absorb perspiration and to keep your feet dry. Sandals and new shoes are poor choices for Disneyland because they are a recipe for blisters and sore feet.

In terms of accessories, your visit to Disneyland is one of those times when you really want to dress for comfort and not for style. Leave pricey jewelry at home. Even costume jewelry is not advisable because you may damage your pieces through perspiration, getting wet or getting them caught on something. Be sure to choose a small lightweight purse for maximum comfort. Get one that you can wear across your body for extra security. Thefts do occur in the happiest place on earth.

By preparing well for your trip to Disneyland, you can be sure to enjoy the absolute best visit possible. Comfort is key. By taking care of a few small details ahead of time and making good clothing choices, you will be ahead of the gang.

Pilates

What to Wear to Pilates

Pilates

Pilates is a form of exercise that focuses on core strength to build balance in the body and flat abs to boot. Most people that do Pilates on an ongoing basis find that their overall strength increases as does their flexibility and the exercise is great for anyone regardless of age. To get the most out of Pilates, those who attend dress a certain way and if you have been thinking about taking Pilates up you too will need to know what to wear.

There is a wide range of acceptable clothing for Pilates and these articles of clothing can be found at many retailers and sports store across the country. Here is what you need to get started in Pilates:

•    Tops: Many people like to wear tank tops or shirts known as ‘singlets’ that are form fitting. This is fine, but it pays to consider just how much skin you will leave uncovered. Sweaty skin has a tendency to stick to the Pilates mat and that can make for an uncomfortable session. There are also a number of Pilates instructors that will give hands on tactical cues as part of their instruction and if you have a lot of skin exposed you risk the instructor touching your sweaty shoulder, back, or any other exposed body part. T-shirts work well but you must be sure that they are form fitting enough to stay in pace when you go upside-down on your mat. If you find that the Pilates studio you work out in is chilly, then wear layers such as ballet wrap tops. This way you can start out warm and shed some layers as you begin to heat your body up during the workout.
•    Pants: When you choose your pants for your Pilates workout you will want to go with form fitting. Yoga pants are a good choice here and will allow for maximum flexibility. If you go with another type of pants be sure there are no buckles or belts or anything else that can get caught up while performing the exercises. You also don’t want to go with loose fitting because these will ride up when you are performing a good number of the moves that are executed during a Pilates session. Shorts are not typically worn but if you want to wear them then go with tight fitting bike shorts. You can also wear leggings underneath if you so desire.
•    Footwear: There are several different types of Pilates shoes that can be found at almost any sports store. You can also get toe-socks that are grippy on the bottom. Whatever you decide to go with be sure that it allows for maximum comfort and flexibility.
•    Hairstyle: If you have long hair you will want to wear it in a style that will keep it off your back. If your hair is short you may want to consider a headband so that your hair stays out of your eyes.

Pilates is great fun and great exercise and will be enjoyed even more when you dress appropriately.