Beyond jeans - Grab the hot denim trends this fall

Hard to believe that it's only July and we're already talking about fall clothing lines. As many of you fashionistas know though, many designers have already started rolling our their winter lines. I, for one, can't stand the thought of talking about sweaters and tights quite yet, so we'll ease in to it with a happy medium; denim.


Some top, high-end designers like Kippys, Pierce Jeans, and REOSTARR are flooding the market with their denim wares already, and whether it be jeans, jackets, or purses, its denim all the way. Some are even doing a throwback to the 80s and rocking out with rhinestones.


Kippys specializes in denim, leather and fur. Again, I have a hard time imagining leather or fur when it's a sweltering 90 degrees outside, but I can stomach denim; plus the awesome belts that go with it. In addition, Hollywood thinks Kippys is pretty hot too; just ask Elizabeth Hurley and Madonna, both of whom have sported their belts.


Rhinestone roses, hearts and celtic chains run across the pockets and legs of some of their jeans. Their belts come in a variety of widths from 1/2 inch wide to 4 1/4 inches wide and are embellished like no others. With crystal colors like Padparadscha, Heliotrope, and Volcano, who can resist this clothing line?

Another hot denim designer, Pierce Jeans, is rocking the simple and sophisticated look that only denim can bring to the casual girl. Carrying denim in dark, dark blues to upbeat reds, Pierce has it all covered. Their fall line includes both the revised, higher waisted jean with the slimming leg as well as the trouser jean that has become so popular. Featured in hot fashion magazines as well as being worn by the likes of Teri Hatcher and Eva Mendez, Pierce Jeans has secured themselves in the hearts of hot Hollywood fashion icons.


REOSTARR is taking another avenue and meeting those with simple and those with rhinestones half way. If their denim isn't plain, it has patches and strategically placed holes. Of course, no pair would be complete without their signature star on their pockets. Whatever they do, Hollywood loves them too! Natalia Livingston was seen wearing them at the "Into the West" premier and have been seen in magazines from Lucky to People.


All across the land, denim is loved by many. These are just a few examples of what some of the high-end denim designers are doing this year and I'm sure that other designers, like Lucky, Levi, and Seven will be sure to follow. While you're out picking up new notebooks and pencils, whether it be for yourself or your kids, pick up a pair of these great jeans and you'll definitely be on top of one of fall's hottest denim trends.

Prom dresses are for curvy girls, too!

Those of us who grew up as plus-size girls may have less than fond memories of proms, homecoming dances, or even our quinceanera. Back in our day, self-esteem and body image issues were compounded by the sheer lack of plus-size prom dresses and formal eveningwear. Plus-size fashion was an oxymoron, and most of the clothing that was available simply wasn't appropriate for formal occasions.

Thankfully, times have changed. Not only are curvy girls staking their rightful claims on the prom and homecoming scenes, but wonderfully fashionable prom dresses are available in all sizes. If you're a plus-size girl, there's no need to be a wallflower. You can dazzle and shine at your special event alongside your friends.

Choosing Plus-Size Prom Dresses
It's never too soon to start shopping for prom dresses. When you do, be sure to check out two of the best plus-size lines: Calito and Igigi. If you're looking for a long formal, first think about the bodice. Do you want wide straps, spaghetti straps, or a strapless formal? Would you prefer that the bodice be fitted or more flowing? (Remember, don't be afraid to show your curves!)

Next, think about the skirt. Do you want a long formal where the hem reaches almost to the floor, or do you want something more playful, like a handkerchief hem or an asymmetrical hem? Then, consider your fabrication options. A satin crepe will hug your body and show your curves to their best advantage, an organdy will make you feel ultra-feminine, and a shimmer fabric will have you sparkling inside and out.

Finally, find the right fit. Everyone's body is shaped differently, so don't be alarmed if you need to have your eveningwear altered. However, do make sure that you purchase the right size. You may need to get the advice of a trusted friend, sister, or even your mom in order to find the right fit - especially if you're used to wearing clothing that is on the baggy side.

Fashion From the Inside Out
Once you've finished shopping for prom dresses, it's time to consider other fashion elements. One of the biggest mistakes that women make (regardless of their size) is not giving thought to undergarments. The right foundations can make or break the look you're trying to achieve. If, for example, you're wearing a clingy crepe, make sure that your bra is seamless and smooth. If your prom dress is strapless or has spaghetti straps, but you need support, find a strapless bra or shapewear that will give you the support you need without unnecessary discomfort. If you're going barelegged, that's fine, but if you're wearing pantyhose, consider wearing thigh-highs so you can forego the panty line

Accessories
Prom dresses generally need few accessories, so keep it simple. A beautiful pair of earrings may be all you need, or you might want to add a choker as an accent. Handbags should be compact and complement prom dresses, while shoes should be in keeping with the dresses' style.

Above all, remember that beauty is as much about attitude as it is about appearance. When you have the confidence that comes from appreciating your body inside and out, you're sure to be the belle of the ball!

Fashion trends in 2008: The 50's is back

The world of fashion is constantly changing, more and more designers are looking to the past for inspiration; what's old is new, and nowadays fashion is shaped by all the cultural influences from around the globe. The past continues to be the inspiration for the future but more than ever, designers are concerned about where fashion and beauty trends originate. The styles and trends you will see in 2008 will inevitably reflect modern interpretations of past designs, while also keeping an eye on emerging global trends in beauty and culture.

A fashion conscious person never misses the fashion trends for the year to come. If you are already reading this article, this means that you are interested in what to wear in 2008. Do you like the fashion of the fifties? Well, you should, because it will come back in 2008 and that entire craze will be in style again. As a matter of fact, this trend of the 50s comeback has already started before 2008, so you are at least a bit familiar with the concept. Such items as high heeled pumps, slim skirts, large belts, and loose blouses with puffy collars and sleeves appear to be becoming all the rage once again. It appears that the days of butts hanging out of low-rise jeans are ending and a more sophisticated look is returning to the mainstream.

Here are some of the latest staples of your wardrobe should be: * A slim skirt * A wide belt * A great fitting pair of slacks * A fitted jacket * Shaped t-shirts * Wrap blouses and dresses * Metallic accents including grey metals and gold * Denim items

The colors that are dominant for the style for 2008's spring and summer are the grey, black, red, white plus yellow. This color is a problematic color that does not suit with everything, so it must be worn with great care. Use these colors to add to your classic wardrobe in unique ways. However, next year, dare to wear yellow and see how it looks.

The accessories must match also the outfit. The oversized bags are still in style, while the super huge earrings and necklaces will compliment the overall clothing. The jewels may be made of plastic or more natural materials such as wood or even clay. These can be ethno influenced and create a great effect on the entire apparel, making the body look small and giving an interesting perspective.

So, are you ready for spring and the summer of 2008? Get your wardrobe ready for this year's style and buy some great new trendy apparel online or in the stores that you usually visit. For those who love to shop online, i recommend to visit Designer Clothing Shop like StyleRunway.com and feel free to browse from their wide range collection of designer items. Now you know what to hunt for, just go and get them.

The most adored fashion designers

Designers also may travel frequently to meet with fabric and materials suppliers and with manufacturers who produce the final apparel products. Designers must have a strong sense of the esthetician eye for color and detail, a sense of balance and proportion, and an appreciation for beauty. Designers need to be able to understand these skills so they can give proper instructions as to how the garment should be constructed.

Miuccia turned things around and steered the House of Prada towards the immense universe of men's and women's haute couture. By the 1990's, Prada became a leading force in men's and women's fashion. Valentino's men's and women's clothes rapidly become the aspiration of an international clientele that includes not only the Italian Royal family and Caruso, but also Josephine Baker, Greta Garbo and Fred Astaire. Armani also welcomed Hollywood stars to wear his men's and women's clothing designs at the Academy Awards, winning devotees such as Michelle Pfeiffer and Jodie Foster.

Guccio Gucci created most of his classic styles early during the 1950's; men's and women's clothing products such as luggage, ties, shoes, and the famous handbags sporting the bamboo handle. His collection for Yves Saint Laurent followed the lead of the previous season's Gucci women's wear, with form fitting Japanese kimonos and Asian patterned dresses, while the menswear collection featured classic-looking tuxedos and smoking jackets. Facchinetti was promoted to Creative Director of Women swear in 2004 and designed for two seasons before leaving the company after a management dispute. 32-year-old Frida Giannini, who had been responsible for designing men's and women's accessories, currently serves as Creative Director for the entire brand.

Diesel Founded by Renzo Rosso in 1978, the company now is an innovative international design company, manufacturing jeans and casual men's and women's clothing as well as accessories. Oscar de la Renta is a high-end fashion designer of clothing, luxury goods, fragrances and accessories for men and women. Widely considered the most prominent American fashion designer, Klein was first awarded the Council of Fashion Designers of America Award for outstanding design in both women swear and menswear in 1982, becoming the first designer ever to receive both honors in the same year.

Klein has received many accolades for his work and contribution to fashion: he won the Coty Award in 1973, 1974 and 1975 (making him the youngest designer to win these awards), and was awarded the Council of Fashion Designers of America Award for design in women and menswear in 1982, 1983, and 1986 (making history as the first designer to receive both awards in the same year), as well as the CDFA in 1993 for both women and menswear, and the America's Best Designer of 1993 Award. Most women of means had a dressmaker who would create garments according to the latest fashions. Those fantasies are constructed in glossy magazines oriented to professionals in general (Vanity Fair) and to women who follow the trends (Elle).

Color trends often originate in the fashion industry as a result of a fashion designer's inspiration. During the 1960s and 1970s the firm popularized fashion trends such as the beatnik look, tweed suits, tight pants and tall, thigh-high boots, including the creation of arguably the most famous classic tuxedo suit for women in 1966, Le Smoking suit.

Celebrities and their clothing lines

Fashion and celebrities work hand in hand, either of them is incomplete without other. Celebrities rely on fashion to become celebrated and plug in the social circuit whereas fashion uses celebrities to brand their products, they are like two sides of the same coin, both have mass appeal, everyday reach and a quotient of unprecedented glamour attached to them. To give an example a brand of jeans wore by a celebrity becomes a hot cake within hours on the internet shopping sites. People dream to be dressed like celebrities and they take pride in identifying and imitating their dressing style. There are thousands of Blogs which features garments apparels wore by celebrity and the look alike available in the online stores; if at all the brands are unreachable for the common public. Celebrities have become the trend makers of the 21st century.

Magazines bank on the information of what the celeb would be is or was wearing at particular event. Parties are being organized to exhibit flashy makeup and different looks of the celebrities which become trends for the coming season. Celebrities clothing lines are the outcomes of exploiting publics obsession with particular celebrity style. Celebs with distinguished style of their own (at time even those who do not have one) can license their name to product lines and earn millions. The articles talks about few of the most famous celebrities who have successfully introduced their clothing lines.

Celeb clothing lines go way back to 1970s with Arnold Palmer, famous golfer of that time. He introduced his clothing line for the golf clothes. One of the Charlies angel Jaclyn Smith, following footsteps of Arnold palmer introduced her line of womens clothing for K-mart which has become number one selling brand because of its low prices and exquisite statement attached to it. As a matter of fact she has become more famous today because of her clothing line than her acting career. Puma signed up supermodel Christy Turlington's and introduced NUALA line to encapsulate her her love for yoga and fashion style.Currently some of the celebrities making mullah out of the same strategy are Paris Hilton, Sarah Jessica Parker, Gwen Stefani, Jennifer Lopez and Jessica Simpson. Style icon Sarah Jessica Parker has taken fashion to newer heights. In 2007 she launched her own low priced high fashion line Bitten exclusively at Steve & Barrys stores. The key concept behind the label is Fashion is not about just luxury. The collection comes in sizes 2-22 and majority of the pieces cost less than $20. Sarah says "It's really, really important to us that it be good, feel good, have a life, that it make a difference in your life and that you have money left over to live."

Paris Hilton can do anything, the heiress puts her name on everything one can ever imagine be it fragrance, bags, jewelry, clothing and you name it. She launched her clothing line teaming up with vision of comfort and affordable but an average person would find it expensive. The collection encompasses tight jeans, colorful satin tops, t-shorts with portraits of Paris on it. The cheapest items are the T-shirts which start from $34. They are sold at Kitson Boutique (where else?) in LA, her favorite place to shop. Twisted seam skinny jeans which Paris wore while returning from Jail can be bought for $88 while the pink ribbon which she wears for the mini mouse look is available at the boutique for $68.

Jessica Simpson collaborated with Camuto Group to launch her Princy clothing line, the Simpson brand was licensed for a record $15 million, the largest celebrity fashion advance in history. Camuto said, "I think Jessica really is America's sweetheart and I think her fans will grow with her. There is an opportunity to make this the hottest brand out there." The brand includes denim in the price range of 59 to 99, knit tops from 24 to 58 and jackets from 69 to 89. Jennifer Lopezs clothing line is called JLO with sales in billions every year. The line has trendy pieces with youthful appeal at reasonable prices. Her new brand Sweetface is targeted at the higher end market featuring bejeweled clothing and fur laden pieces.

Another icon taking the fashion world by storm is the ultra-trendy Gwen Stefani who achieved world-wide success fronting the Ska-punk pop band. Her personal style is mix of Skater punk and 1940s glamour. She launched her clothing line L.A.M.B (Love Angel Music Baby- all things she love the most in the world) in late 2004. L.A.M.B includes pieces priced in the range of $100-$300 with her signature style including bikini tops, Rasta-inspired colors, low-slung pants and bum flaps. The collaboration of celebrity and fashion strategy would continue to achieve exponent of style and business and we will continue to see celebrities exploiting their brand strength to boost their bank balances and ego trips.

References

1. www.lamb.com
2. www.oprah.com
3. www.people.com
4. www.niralimagazine.com
5. www.brown712.com
6. www.kidzworld.com
7. www.parentdish.com
8. www.thinkfashion.com
9. www.businessweek.com
10. www.seattletimes.nwsource.com
11. www.Jenniferlopez4u.com
12. www.morphthing.com
13. www.8notes.com
14. www.demicouture.ca

Brunettes the new Blonde?

European catwalks and streets are buzzing with dark hairs be at Balenciaga, Nicolas Ghesquiere or Gucci. Super models Carmen Kass, Lily Donaldson, Raquel Zimmermann at the recent show in Europe appeared with much more intense hair with tinted shades of warm caramel, chestnut and strawberry. Look of the models are often selected which connote the clothes. Till today blondes were the choice on the runways but the tides are turning around. Natural brunettes are squashing off the blonde color from their hair and going back to their roots whereas born blondes are applying dark shades to embrace the new rage.

Stylists at the salons are encountering cases wherein blondes are turning to brunettes. So what is all the new rage for? Survey shows that brunettes are considered trustworthy and responsible; people tend to take brunets more seriously than blondes. Hairstylist Laurie Foley who has a stylist salon in the heart of New York says Chemical blondes comes in and ask for cutting because of damage and I talk them out of cutting it all off. I tell them they can get the illusion of healthy hair with the correct tone of brunette. They can get that high end luxury look, but also incredibly shiny, healthy looking hair. (Inputs from vogue)

Brunette helps not only cover grey but it aids in giving extra color and dimension to the hair. Also due to financial reasons people are going from blonde to brunette as it helps the client to extend their salon visits. Foley says After going dark, almost everyone says how much shinier their hair is, the cuticle shrinks and the hair looks shinier and healthy. Dr. Helen Fisher, an anthropologist at Rutgers University, says blond is outdated and a head full of natural, glowing brown hair looks more youthful. The blonde is becoming more and more of the lady who lunches, the kind of woman who does nothing all day except get her hair done," she said. "The blonde used to be regarded as natural, and now everyone knows that it's not. Dark hair was always considered sexy and attractive because it signified youth. Also with every other female going blonde brunettes
stand out in the crowd.

Celebrity hairstylist Oscar Blandi says People are getting tired of the Paris Hilton bimbo-blonde look. They want to look intelligent and sexy, and you can be sexy and be a brunette.

An opinion poll was conducted on forum hub Blondes vs. Brunettes: Which do you prefer? This poll started in 2005 and went on for a year till 2006 with majority of the responses preferring brunette look than the blonde as blondes are considered to be plastic and glamorous dolls as per the responses to that poll.

Even hair color companies have started promoting dark hues looking at the popularity of the brunettes. Also looking at the global audience especially in the African and Asian subcontinent people with dark skin prefers dark hues more than the blonde look. So this season get out the brunette in you and enjoy the entire intense stare you get, all the while making you more glamour and serious in your role.

References

1. Vogue magazine (U.S) February 2008
2. www.mtv.com
3. http://forumhub.com
4. www.designersense.org

Where should waistline be this season?

Fashions most startling move this season is the high waist line. This trend started off with a catwalk shock and initial resistance followed by head-long rush, at present we are rushing towards a belted high waistline trend. Fashion world has not one, but various waistlines; it changes its position here and now to evoke new comprehensions of emphasis. Designers are hiking the waistlines this season, so if you are in the mood of showing your pretty thongs, curtail the idea till another season. The waistline is returning to womans fashion after T-shirt dresses and empire tops.

Designers such as Alex Perry, Karl Lagerfeld, Donna Karen and Valentino have garnished their fall 2008 collections that exploit true waistlines. Even brands such as bebe, BCBG, Isaac Mizrahi for Target and Banana Republic are following trends set by the designers and are coming up with high waist and nipped waist versions. Brazil Summer collection 2008 saw high waist trend in pants, skirts, denims with nervures and draped blouses. Anastacio JR revisited 80s with super high waists, shine and wildcat skins.

High waistlines are especially suitable for hourglass figure, or if you wish to portray that figure then grab this waistline trend before the line slips away. New York fashion week spotted Bill Parcell on the runway wearing pants above his navel with an easy furry. Gucci Head Tom ford said The low slung hip hugger look was just waiting to be cast aside. The fashion world is rapt with how high Bill Parcells wears his pants and it's time to raise waistlines for men and women." Whereas Womens Wear Digest Senior writer Noah Sensahuma said We are firm believers that the Parcells Waistline is here to stay, not only does the look juxtapose maturity with sexuality, it also creates an accessorizing renaissance. Sales of belts, sashes and braces are poised to rise as quickly as waistlines."

High waistlines were in glorious fashion during the early 1990s. During 1940s and 1950s modern glamour in the form of tightly fitted cigarette skirt showing nothing but womanly seduction was being flashed by fashion houses such as Dior, Chanel, Vionnet, Louis, Lanvin, Fath and Givenchy. Farah Fawcett and Charlie's Angels accentuated the high-rise, wide-leg jeans during the late '70s and early '80s. In spite of the earlier acceptance and popularity of high waist in the fashion circuit, it has taken quite a while for the trend to catch up again. SJP and Tom form, head of Gucci said they would be happy that finally the high waist trend has been embraced by the masses. In May 2002 fashion bible Vogue declared low-rise styles as dclass.

Courtesy: www.zimmer.csufresno.edu

This season waistline will be emphasized by a belt, a bow, a tied sash, or just nipped in. Belts will be narrow unlike last seasons corset belts, giving slender and sleek effect to the high waist. Cigarette skirts, dresses cut drum tight with narrow knees, dolly skirts with belted waistlines, belted evening gowns in silk and chiffon will explore the womanly waist this season.

References

1. www.signonsandiego.com
2. www.nymag.com
3. www.guerillasports.com
4. www.theage.com.au

The most significant factors to consider while launching a new apparel brand in India

There is a buzz in the retail industry, this buzz is created by lots of Indian and foreign manufacturers who want to have their retail presence in India especially by way of launching a new apparel brand. Here are some of the issues they need to address while launching a new apparel brand:

Positioning:

The most important part is the positioning in the Indian consumer mind-space. Smart casual positions are taken in by the brand such as ColorPlus, Dockers and Canary Blue. Design wear are gone with square-1 mall and Kimaya, Kazo and individual designer having their stand alone store. Any positioning below that is lapped up by Zillions of manufacturers. Sports category is gone, with Adidas, Puma and Nike. Does it spell dooms day for the new entrants? Not necessarily, there are still wide open gaps which lie agape between these broad categories and one should start considering those to enter.

Location:

The location is the key to the positioning, it determines and in turns reinforces positioning; in fact, with about 50% of the operational expenses are taken up by the rentals, it has assumed an even more important position. Its a strategic and vital decision, which can make or mar an apparel brand.

Buying vs. Manufacturing:

It is again a very important decision as about 35% of the expenses in a retail operation are taken up by the cost of merchandise. It is even more important for the foreign manufactures as Indian size set is radically different from that elsewhere, say US. There are innumerable problems of fits especially in western women's wear. Then there is that Indian touch and taste with which even the hot selling merchandise in the western country is rejected by the Indian consumer. If one is manufacturing oneself, one can control the quality and expense, which is not, so if one is buying.

Price Point:

It is said that only thing works for Indian consumers is the price-quality equation. Though this statement is a bit exaggerated, nevertheless, price is a very important criterion in the Indian consumer's mind. It denotes the quality, the status or even the worth of consumer for himself/herself or the loved one. So positioning, price and location should reinforce each other to justify the consumer that particular worth.

Pitching/ Promotion:

Its a moot point whether a brand should be pitched as a foreign brand or an Indian brand. There are brands for example Coutons which even when they use Discounts as their selling strategy, use foreign models in their advertisements to reinstate the quality perceptions in the consumer's mind. In general, pitching a brand as a foreign brand (esp. European) evokes a sense of heightened quality in the consumer's mind and justifies the price premium. But of course, and needless to say, promotion should be backed by positioning, store experience, product performance and prices. Its important also, as just giving one insertion per page per month in the four premier fashion magazines in India can easily consume upto Rs. 1 cr.

Discount Policy:

Much has been written about discounts in India, unlike elsewhere discounts pull the greatest of crowds. So one can say that fashion doesnt attract so much an average Indian as discounts. In India, discounts hit the mind. At the same time they take away a part of brand equity. Proper strategies should be made regarding the timing, assortment and promotion for discounts.

Uncertainty about Indian Retail/Mall Boom:

India is still in a transition phase as regards the buying habits of the people, even in Metro cities. One is not sure of the success of the retail infrastructure that is developed for the envisioned retail boom. Rentals are the biggest cause of worries as they take away a substantial part of the profits. Looking at all this, a promoter needs to be cautious about the viability of launching an apparel brand.

Government Policies:

Government policies are the biggest external factor in the success of a retail brand. Right from allowing the entry of the single brand FDI in India to the Taxes collected out of the profits are a function of the government. Unfortunately presence of leftist faction in the centre will raise doubts about government allowing liberal measures for the success of retail brand. There are also underhand dealings from incorporation of the company to customs clearance of the items imported. All these things should be taken in to consideration while launching the brand.

Spring 2008 makeup trends

Spring is a great time to renew your image and try out new things. What items should you have in your cosmetics bag? Make-up artists and designers suggest a bold and bright image for the spring 2008. The colors dedicated for make-up are so playful and bold that you need to be a real fashionista to wear them. On the other hand: let the spring be colorful and bright!

Flushed cheeks is one of the loveliest trends of spring 2008. Soft and cute flush is recommended for both daytime makeup and evening makeup. Pinky peach blush fits even the most bold lip color for that special occasion; it also works well to enlighten natural looking makeup for the day. It's the best way to highlight face features and make you look fresh.

Three big tendencies dominate the lip make-up area. Nude lips effect is still very popular, especially when combined with smokey eyes and natural-looking blush. The trend of nude lips does not mean you can't use lipstick or gloss; feel free to add some color and a bit of shimmer, but keep it natural. If you're not into natural look, you won't miss if you choose classic red. This color is right for every season, that's why it's called classic. If the image of fatal woman doesn't attract you at all, try sheer red lipstick. Be careful about other makeup details while wearing the classic red lipstick: it's a very strong accent and you really don't need black eyeliner or strong blush. The third tendency is the funniest one, because it suggests candy-colored lips. This trend won't look good on elder women, however if you're a teen or if you feel young forever, orange, pink, hot coral and even fuchsia are the hottest colors of spring 2008. A candy color on lips is quite a bold statement, so one shouldn't overdo other details.

Natural beauty becomes more and more trendy. Full eyebrows are the hottest look of spring 2008. They should be well groomed, but excessively thin arches are out of the question. You may even want accentuate them with dark colored liner because the strong eyebrows is going to be the most popular. Matte foundation is another natural-looking trend. You don't want your skin to be glossy on spring 2008. Even bronzers are matted especially if you use them on face.

If bold lips are not for you, bold eye make-up is recommended for this season as well. Both pastel and bright metallic eyeshadows are going to be popular. Pastel eyeshadow is meant to match trendy multicolored layers and floral patterns of clothing. Choose light green, lilac and eggshell blue to achieve the trendiest look. If pastel tones seem to be too boring for you, go for Crayola Colors. Choose only one color as this image is very bold and playful and you don't want to end up looking like anime heroine. Choose shiny metallics and liquid eyeliner for evening make-up. Shimmer on eyelids is the top look for evening as well as the cat eyes image.

Becoming a Makeup Professional

Dream of working a creative, interesting and well-paid job where you could meet interesting people and travel all around the world? Become a makeup professional and you'll have such an opportunity. There are few jobs that can offer such benefits. As a makeup artist you'll have the satisfaction of making your vision a reality.

If you have decided to become a professional makeup artist, the first step is to find a makeup artists school. Get as many information about all the schools in your country as possible and decide which one is best for you. Also check out other makeup artist programs and online courses. Also try to learn by yourself how to apply makeup as a professional: assessing the client (coloring, face shape, skin type), preparing the face, applying makeup (foundation, eye makeup, blush, lip color, etc.) and completing the look. Try to do makeup for print photography; it's a very important part of this job, to know the difference between live makeup and makeup for photography's. Another important thing is to learn how to do character makeup (film and television, theater, special effects makeup), what to have in you kit (different types of makeup and application tools), how to keep up with makeup trends, how to quickly get experience through volunteer work and apprenticeship.

While starting your makeup artist career, find out how to create an impressive portfolio even if you have no previous paid makeup artist experience. Discover who employs makeup artists and try to contact them, including: salons and spas, retail stores and cosmetics companies. Where makeup jobs are advertised, find out what employers are looking for and how to make a good impression in an interview, do your best to find the job where you could get valuable experience.

Of course if you decide to be makeup artist because this job is interesting and has many benefits, you have to understand that it won't come at the moment. You have to be very patient, do the best you can to become a real professional; you have to be very keen on what you do and only when you'll become a really successful makeup artist. You have to be excessively up-to-date and communicative. Good communication skills are very important in such profession, because if you'll become a famous makeup specialist, you'll have to learn how to deal with various people, well-known persons who sometimes have a rather difficult character.

If you belong to some salon, spa or anything of this kind, you won't be able to choose your clients and will have to pay some money to your employer, yet the advantage is that you won't have to search for clients yourself and you will be sure that you'll get some money. However, if you will become well-known makeup professional, clients will search for you and your earnings will be higher. Commonly famous artists establish their own salons and hire people to do the job. If you enjoy making people beautiful, communicating with famous people, you may work independently.

Did i buy the right cosmetics?

You get home after just receiving a new make-over. You have a bag of new products that are supposed to be the right cosmetics, then after a few hours you notice that the "Right" cosmetics have changed color on your face. Well how did this happen?

A lot of my visitors have asked this question. The reason is simple, you just purchased products that did not match your skin tone. This is why I stress the fact that EYE COLOR is so important when choosing cosmetics. I put suggestions with all my cosmetics about what EYE COLORS are right for that product, so this will not happen to you.

The reason why eye color is so important is because this is what tells you what colors occur naturally in your skin. The two most common eye colors has to be "Blue eyes" and "Brown eyes". People with brown eyes are generally have an olive complexion. This means you will have a lot of yellow in your skin. If you purchase foundation for example that is very warm (red toned) then after your skin reacts with it for some time it will tend to look orange (red and yellow=orange). This is why this person needs cosmetics that are cool (blue or yellow toned). The only item that should be warm for a person with brown eyes is their brow color. If you look at their hair in the direct sunlight you will notice there are red highlights, so you need a warm color on your brows. Now for a person that has blue eyes they will have a ruddy complexion or more red or in their skin. Most of the time a person at a make-up counter sees the red in the skin and wants to counter act it by using cool colors and again over time they will appear to change to an unattractive orange (red and yellow=orange). The only color for blue eyed people that is cool is their brow color, so it will match their hair color.

Now the tricky part of this is if you have Hazel eyes. There are hazel blue and hazel brown and hazel green. By looking close to the pupil you can usually tell what color is more predominant. For the people that have Green eyes they have the best of both worlds. If their eyes are truly green they can generally use all colors. I say generally because green eyes tend to change with whatever a person is wearing that day. They would need to adjust what cosmetics they wear for the outfit they choose.

Well I hope this shows you how important eye color truly is. If you need further help take a look at my cosmetics like my shadows and lipsticks, so you can see the base difference in the colors. Also look at the suggestions I make to help guide you on the road to a perfect look.

Fashion for Women: Checkout the Latest

The exquisite color and contour with the vibrant luster in fashion is what women really love more. May it be an impeccable one or not, but the carefree touch that it generates on the body-and-dress is what fashion destines to get adept of.

Whats current in the womens fashion world? Lets take a close look.

Yarns for autumn

The hottest in trend is something close to nature both in the use of raw material and in style. Velvet cardigans in fine knitting pattern are among the favorites of world famous designer Michael Kors. The raw material used for knitting these cardigans is mainly soft wool mixed with silk and ramie. Well this rustic style womens winter wear is round-up with elegance and sophistication. You can call it the perfect outfit that will match with a silken pencil skirt.

But the yarn pattern of weaving has many fashionable outfits very latest perfect for casuals. The yoke style patterned sweaters are through into your wardrobes this season. They are smart and can be easily worn with jeans trousers and laced skirts. The colors to knit these sweaters are generally a combination of contrasts. Loud colors go perfect with matt finished threads where the body of the sweater will be soothing but the yoke designs will be appealing with bright patches.

For casual trousers you need something sleek and light. Boden womens wear sets the flow. The V-neck half-sleeve skinny multi-color sweater cum top will suit the best. Colors like sky blue, yellow ochre and cherry red are in vogue to knit this outfit. And it is exactly made for working women of middle income group. Get one right now before the collection gets over.

Denim - an all time trend setter

Denim is always in. You rather think it this way. But the difference lies in designs and make-ups. The autumn 2006/07 fashion sets the new brands like tuxedo tops, skinny jeans in black or indigo shades, denim jackets to be put with chiffon skirts and classy denim tops.

The type of denim jeans in vogue is washed jeans and women prefer this distressing effect for ease. The casual mood merged with intellectual looks build up the magnetic persona a woman aspires to carry. Denim proves it all.

Fashion accessories in trend

Chunkier Boho casual ethnic jewelry is in and heavy costume jewelry are out. The luxury lines of estate jewelry are doing pretty well in todays fashion trend. Also the plastics and metals do find a larger room than the conventional gold and silver jewels. Well these are mainly for casual wears and young women going to office or universities prefer them more. They are handy and not so expensive. For party wear diamonds and platinum take the lead.

Fashion is incomplete without matching handbags. Abstract Flap Bag from Anuschka Women's Handbags is in high demand at present. You can buy one at 109.95. Perlina Women's Handbags are available at 139.95 and it is the first choice of young women. ILI womens Handbags and Touch Ups Women's Handbags from Victoria are in the low budget list. The former one is available at 45.95 and the latter just in 27.95. So you have a range of fancy handbags going at par with the latest fashion trend to select from.

Footwear Fashion: What's In and What's Out?

A Manolo Blahnik shoe might be your dream footwear. Manolos have really become a trendsetter in footwear fashion. But every time your pocket might not permit for this brand name. In that case will you step out of fashion? No way!

The latest 2006 trends in footwear come with a wide range of designed shoes and sandals to be worn on the forthcoming gala celebrations. Malonos definitely lead the list but Prada, John Lewis, Jimmy Choos, Zac Posen and many other footwear designers are also in the top list. And there is a happy note. They have set the trend within the reach of everyone. You will cherish the gradation of prices and find the purchase quite relaxing when you pay against the price tag in the showroom counter.


If you are over with your New Year shopping including the footwear, its pretty fine. But if you are yet to buy your shoes, just take a look of the below given suggestions. We bring before you some exclusive designs of footwear which are in and going hot in the fashion fiesta.

Feel of gold

The golden glow is designed to heighten the latest glam version. John Lewis has designed the golden deep wedges shoes with denim rope borders and a golden belt. The leather with the golden feel signifies the glamour and gravity of the lady who wears them. This particular pair of wedge shoes will look havoc on denim skirts with fine hemlines and layered frills all over. The price fixed by John Lewis definitely targets classy people.

But down the line something for general mass have also been designed as replica of the original golden wedges shoes. And that will befittingly suit to your budget. The Miu Miu solid wedges with stacked heels made of wood and coated with fabric designs are great alternatives for the golden wedges.

Metallic platform heels

The metallic shine is in and the matt leather finish is out. Probably Christmas 2006 wishes to excel on a burnish touch over the wax polish in its footwear collection. The metallic gold platform shoe from the Miss Selfridge footwear collection is unique in style, design and above all comfort.

Even the River Island Footwear for women has designed metallic shoes in the range of 90 and 100. If you want them a slight cheaper, dont buy the pair of metallic shoes but select the comfortable metallic pumps. They can also be put into your daily wear after you are through with your gala celebrations. You can buy them easily at about 50.

Golden leather sandals

The golden leather sandals with decorative beads and bows in fine ornamental style have occupied the center stage of footwear fashion. The trend reflects a traditional touch with the sleekest feel. The John Lewis collection of this type of designed sandals seems to revive the Heritage of Roman footwear of gladiator style in the hi-tech fashion world. Fancy shoes and fabric covered pumps are among the most wanted in the high street collection. Office goers prefer these designs because they are a combination of fancy and ease.

Precisely the latest trend in the footwear fashion calls in for the feel good aspect in your movement which is the key to attraction and admiration. All designs will go in vain if you cant walk properly with the particular footwear. All designs work superb when the comfort aspect is truly maintained.

A Glimpse at Today’s Fashion

Fashion, otherwise known as trend, is the latest style in anything from clothing to electronic gadgets such as cell phones. Everyone deals a lot with fashion these days as it has become a personal statement or expression for different people. Fashion may define the differences in each person or group such as age, sex, inclination in music or books, and general lifestyle among others. Fashion preference provides a strong impression of the personality of an individual.

Fashion has evolved from the strict law of the elders of villages who decide what is right and what is wrong to today's much free-spirited approach. People now decide what is fashionable by supporting certain styles presented by designers through popular celebrities such as actors and other media personalities. This resulted in the fast-paced existence of trends that, although forward moving, may also look back from time to time.

Fashion Capital

The place or location where fashion is very important to most of its population and where top designers live and work along with fashion models is called fashion capital. These cities influence the rest of the world when it comes to fashion. Although designers come from different parts of the world, they prefer to live and work in certain cities where they feel they can get as much inspiration from its people as possible or where the populace is mostly welcoming to new trends.

The original fashion capitals are Paris, London, New York, and Milan. Today, however, other cities such as Tokyo, Los Angeles, Sao Paolo, and Hong Kong are slowly gaining the right to this title as well. The world of fashion has even found a way to rank the fashion capitals of the world. This clearly shows that like fashion, its seat also changes with time.

A lot of countries these days have its own fashion capital as well such as Mumbai for India, Manila for Philippines and Sydney for Australia.

Fashion Media

Fashion media or fashion journalism is one of the all important parts of the fashion industry. Although fashion media has been around in the past centuries through magazines and gazettes, it has evolved to become more accessible to everyone with the help of technology. There are a huge number of channels available now where people can get updates on the latest or even get predictions of what will be hot the following season. There are abundant magazines, newspapers with fashion sections, television shows that features fashion exclusively, websites of fashion houses and designers, and, of course, fashion blogs of people who lives fashion. For the fashion conscious, these mediums have been heaven sent.

With the saturation of fashion in media, it is no wonder that there are more people that can follow the trends today than centuries before. Less and less are not aware of what is fashionable or what are obsolete. Media has also paved the way for other designers to be recognized in the industry. Most importantly, fashion media has opened the door for people to experiment and decide what trend they want to follow.

Learn How to shop

1. Shop by yourself or bring along a totally trusted, stylish friend (or your oh-so fashionable mom, in my case!)
2. Use the three-way mirror. What may look fabulous from the front could look totally drab from the back.
3. Dress/beautify for shopping so you don't look like a troll in the mirrors. Stick with your everyday makeup and jewelry.
4. Set a budget and don't budge!
5. Yeah, you're a junior: so what? If you wear a size 4 or smaller, try shopping in Girls' departments. For all sizes, the Boys' dept. has fabulous basics: tees, buttondowns, sweaters, etc.
6. Try a new store each time at the mall and shop out of your price range (under or over ) to find new looks.
7. Touch, touch touch. Garmentos judge an item by it's "feel."
8. Always try on and makeno exceptions.
9. Don't be in a hurry: allot enough time.
10. Make sure you have on the right undergarments, especially for formal dresses, camisoles, etc.
11. Never buy something just for the sake of a sale. Just as with full-price items, if you don't love it, don't buy it.
12. Avoid the "I'll buy something to go with it" route when it comes to sales; that would defeat the point of the bargain! A good rule of thumb: if you can't think of three things to pair it with, forget about it.
13. Keep in mind that you can make alterations. Love the jacket, but hate the buttons? Perk it up with new, funky toppers. Do the pants fit great, but are a tad on the short side? Hem them into sleek cropped pants.
14. Be open-minded about fit. There's a chance that the reason it's on sale in the first place is because of irregular sizing, so don't be afraid to go up or down a size. But remember: if it doesn't fit perfectly, don't buy it!
15. Trendy items are risky to buy during end-of-season sales because of such a short "must-have" existence, so snap them up at early-season sales, and stick to basics at the end of the season clearance.

Are You a Fashionable Woman?

When you hear the word fashion, the image that readily comes to mind is that of a woman looking glamorous and chic in the latest designer ensemble. After all, women make the fashion industry such a lucrative business. While it cannot be denied that men have become more conscious about what they wear nowadays, it is still the women in our society who patronize the fashion scene.

Hardly will you find any woman who is not in the loop when it comes to the latest and hippest fashion styles, from clothes to shoes to accessories, not to mention newbie designers to watch out for. It is worth mentioning that when it comes to fashion, women, too, have the upper hand in understanding trends in such a way that they can make it work for them no matter what kind of clothes are hot at the moment.

In addition, the fashion industry tends to be more forgiving towards women who make poor judgments in their getup from time to time. After all, without women, the fashion business will be a dying industry.

Fashionable Women

Have you noticed that some of the more fashionable women do not necessarily go with whatever is hot but whatever they feel most comfortable in? To the ordinary eye, some ensembles may look hideous, but to the discriminating fashion aficionado, these looks are sometimes better than what the regular, acceptable wardrobe is.

You may have also noticed that fashionable women look natural in whatever they are wearing. They do not necessarily have heavy makeup, loud lipstick shade or even expensive jewelry – if they wear any at all – and yet, they manage to make heads turn and sometimes create a stir in the fashion world.

This is because they exude such confidence that somewhat dares any one to defy their taste or make the impression that they couldn't care less about what other people may think of what they are wearing.

Hand in Glove

For women, their fashion sense fits them like hand in glove so much so that sometimes, they are the only ones who understand their sense of style. It doesn't mean however that the whole ensemble is not appreciated. In fact, the more that you can pull-off wearing something other people will not look good in, the more you are going to be admired and appreciated for your innovative taste in fashion.

You may even set a trend yourself.

If you haven't yet discovered what your fashion style is, it is never too late to discover what it is. Remember that your fashion sense is what will set you apart from the other women you meet everyday and perhaps even from your bosses.

Bear in mind that whatever style you prefer, the most important thing is that you are comfortable wearing your clothes, and they give you some sense of confidence which shows in the way you walk, talk and carry yourself especially in front of other people.

The best way to pull off any look is to make everyone feel that you are happy, confident and secure enough to wear whatever you fancy.

How To Wear Novelty T-Shirts

Believe it or not, having a novelty T-shirt or two in your clothing lineup can be fashionable and fun. But while most "mature" dressers see these quirky shirts as more suited for college-aged guys and slovenly couch potatoes, don't write them off just yet. Though T-shirts displaying ambiguous sayings and witty puns should be avoided in general -- as you'll surely recall from reading the AskMen.com Style Bible -- those novelty T-shirts owning a vintage, retro appeal can bring a stylishly entertaining aspect to any man's weekend wardrobe. That is, of course, if the guy wearing them has the distinctive sense of style needed to pull the look off. And that's why, as purveyors of fashion and fun, we offer you this tutorial on how to wear novelty T-shirts.

PalmerCash"A Diamond is Forever" T-shirt

A novelty T-shirt that invokes a nostalgic, iconic brand adds an interesting depth to your wardrobe. So opt for something like this "A Diamond is Forever" T-shirt and get the best of both worlds. Guys see one thing, and women hear another. And therein lies the beauty (and enjoyment) of this novelty T-shirt. With a nod to a legendary saying and the legend himself, this retro-looking T is zippy and ironic; but that also means it requires a modern touch to achieve an age-appropriate outfit. Thus, add a sharp track jacket, like this one from Armani Jeans, to balance its overall look. Together, the shirt and jacket allude to a suave, hip sense of humor the ladies will love and the guys can appreciate.

HiveTees Storm Troopers T-shirt

Legendary status has been assigned to Star Wars on many levels; its contributions to filmmaking are unequivocal and, oddly enough, it can have much of the same impact on your weekend wardrobe. For example, should you wear a vintage Storm Troopers T with a modern cardigan, like this one from Banana Republic, you'll have a sophisticatedly hip outfit that's one part geek and one part chic. It's a look that's perfect for a lunch date or an afternoon of running about. Thanks to the distressed look of the shirt and the preppy appearance of the cardigan, these two items come together in an up-to-the-minute outfit that will have fanboys everywhere noting your unique, fashionable approach to style.

PalmerCash Championship Kickball T-shirt

Shirts that allude to our athletic prowess in old-school recreations, such as kickball, are always a suitable option for weekend wear. Paying homage to a recess classic, the Kickball Championship shirt makes a smooth, unexpected option for hanging out with the guys. It provides a casually hip T for the sports-minded Joe. And really all it needs to round out its laid-back appeal is a sharp pair of jeans.Take this shirt and couple it with a pair of 7 for All Mankind jeans, for instance, to burnish the streetwise charm of the shirt and the jeans. Wearing these two items together, any guy can easily hasten back to his glory days when he was something of a playground legend.

Lose Weight AND Quit Smoking

Many people gain weight when they quit smoking.

Even so, the best action you can take to improve your health is to quit smoking. Focus on stopping smoking first. Then you can continue to improve your health in other ways. These may include reaching and staying at a healthy weight for life.

Will I gain weight if I stop smoking?

Not everyone gains weight when they stop
smoking. Among people who do, the average weight gain is between 6 and 8 pounds.

Roughly 10 percent of people who stop smoking gain a large amount of weight-30 pounds or more.

What causes weight gain after quitting?

When smokers quit, they may gain weight for a number of reasons. These include:

• Feeling hungry. Quitting smoking may make a person feel hungrier than usual. This feeling usually goes away after several weeks.

• Having more snacks and alcoholic drinks. Some people eat more high-fat, high-sugar snacks and drink more alcoholic beverages after they quit smoking.

• Burning calories at normal rate again. Smoking cigarettes makes the body burn calories faster. After quitting smoking, the body's normal rate of burning calories returns. When calories are burned more slowly again, weight gain may take place.

Can I avoid weight gain?

To help yourself gain only a small amount or no weight when you stop smoking, try to:

• Accept yourself

• Get regular moderate-intensity physical activity

• Limit snacking and alcohol

• Consider using medication to help you quit.

Accept yourself.

Do not worry about gaining a few pounds. Instead, feel proud that you are helping your health by quitting smoking. Stopping smoking may make you feel better about yourself in many ways.

Stopping smoking may help you have:

• more energy

• whiter teeth

• fresher breath and fresher smelling clothes and hair

• fewer wrinkles and healthier-looking skin

• a clearer voice.

Get regular moderate-intensity physical activity.

Regular physical activity may help you avoid large weight gains when you quit smoking. It may help you look and feel good, and fit into your clothes better. You will likely find that you can breathe easier during physical activity after you quit smoking.

Try to get 30 minutes or more of moderate-intensity physical activity on most days of the week, preferably every day. The ideas below may help you to be active every day.

Ideas for being active every day:

• Take a walk after dinner.

• Sign-up for a class such as dance or yoga. Ask a friend to join you.

• Get off the bus one stop early if you are in an area safe for walking.

• Park the car farther away from entrances to stores, movie theatres, or your home.

• Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Make sure the stairs are well lit.

Limit snacking and alcohol.

Having more high-fat, high-sugar snacks and alcoholic drinks may lead to large weight gains when you quit smoking. The ideas below may help you make healthy eating and drinking choices as you quit smoking.

Healthy eating and drinking choices as you quit smoking:

• Do not go too long without eating. Being very hungry can lead to less healthy food choices.

• Eat enough at meal times to satisfy you.

• Choose healthy snacks, such as fresh fruit or canned fruit packed in juice (not syrup), air-popped popcorn, or fat-free yogurt, when you are hungry between meals.

• Do not deny yourself an occasional "treat." If you crave ice cream, enjoy a small cone.

• Choose an herbal tea, hot cocoa made with nonfat milk, or sparkling water instead of an alcoholic beverage.

Consider using medication to help you quit.

Talk to your health care provider about medications that may help you quit smoking. Some people gain less weight when they use a medication to help them stop smoking.

Medications that may help you quit smoking include:

• Nicotine replacement therapy

• patch

• gum

• nasal spray

• inhaler

• Antidepressant medication

The patch and gum are available without a prescription from your health care provider.

Will weight gain hurt my health?

A small-or even large-weight gain will not hurt your health as much as continuing to smoke will. The health risks of smoking are dramatic.

Health risks of smoking:

• Death-tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States . It kills more than 400,000 people in the U.S. each year.

• Cancer-smoking greatly increases the risk for lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. Smoking is also linked to cancer of the esophagus, larynx, kidney, pancreas, and cervix.

• Other health problems-smoking increases the risk for lung disease and heart disease. In pregnant women, smoking is linked to premature birth and low birth weight babies.

By quitting smoking, you are taking a big step to improve your health. Instead of worrying about weight gain, focus on quitting. Once you are tobacco-free, you can work toward having a healthy weight for life by becoming more physically active and choosing healthier foods.

Regularly visiting Weightloss.com.au can help you adopt healthy eating and physical activity habits.

Marriage and weight loss

Many of us know intuitively what research has proven beyond all reasonable doubt- marriage can make us fat.

But if we know the circumstances that lead to weight gain within a marriage, we should be better equipped to avoid or reverse it.

This article explains why married life often leads to weight gain and more importantly, what we can all do to avoid the potential pitfalls associated with marriage related weight gain.

Why married life makes many of us fat

Many of us are in the best shape of our lives on our wedding day. In fact, most of us make an extra special effort to lose weight and tighten up any flabby bits so we look great in our wedding dress or suit and wedding photos.

But for the majority of us, once the big day is over, we start a marriage routine which causes weight gain and has negative implications on our health and happiness.

There are many reasons why marriage can lead to weight gain, but the most common include:

• We are no longer trying to attract a partner

• Pregnancy occurs

• We cook for gratification

• We eat as much as our partner

• We put our family's eating preferences above our own

• We become the family's garbage disposal

• Our partner sabotages us

• We are in an unhappy marriage and turn to food for solace

• We have unresolved issues

Let's explore these reasons in more detail and discuss what we can do if we find ourselves being affected by them.

We are no longer trying to find a partner

This is a common reason many married people begin putting on weight.

Many unmarried people watch their diets and stay in shape simply to attract a partner. Once a partner has been "secured" through marriage, they no longer feel the need to look their best and therefore discard many of the healthy lifestyle habits that kept their weight down.

When marriages end, many people find themselves trying to slim down again in the hope of attracting a new mate.

But marriages shouldn't have to end for us to want to take better care of ourselves and look and feel our best.

Let's never forget that weight gain is a very slippery slope and once we are on it, many of us find it very difficult to get off.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy can be a bit of a double-whammy when it comes to weight gain.

Firstly, many women overeat during their pregnancy and become too inactive, believing that they need to eat a lot more than they actually do and that they need to slow down and relax more than they do.

Giving in to cravings for less healthy foods during this time only compounds the problem.

Secondly, once a woman gives birth, she often finds herself staying at home more and putting the needs of her child and family before her own. In extreme cases, some women don't just make their newborn the centre of their world, they make it the whole of their world and this can often lead to serious problems including significant weight gain.

Husbands too can grow pot bellies during a pregnancy, especially if they try to keep up with the eating efforts of their wives.

So what should expecting parents do to make sure they don't fall into this trap?

The expecting mother should watch her weight carefully during pregnancy, eat as healthily as possible and get an appropriate amount of the right type of exercise both during and immediately after the pregnancy.

If hubby can do the same, he shouldn't have any unnecessary weight gain problems either.

We start cooking for gratification

Many wives use cooking to impress their husband and keep them happy.

The problem with this is, the more the husband appreciates the food and praises the cooking the more likely the wife is to use food as a source of gratification and the more weight the couple put on.

Some women even lay guilt trips on their husbands if they aren't getting the gratification they need. Essentially, many wives indirectly say to their husbands, "I worked very hard preparing this food for you; you'd better eat it all and ask for more to show how much you love me."

Want to avoid this vicious circle?

Remember that appreciating you and your cooking and eating every last morsel of a meal you have prepared is not the same thing.

We eat as much as our partner

The larger we are, the more energy we need to maintain our body size.

When one partner is smaller than the other but eats the same amount of food that their partner needs to maintain their size, the inevitable result is unwanted weight gain.

This is often a problem for women who eat as much as their husbands but have much smaller bodies to begin with.

If you are smaller than your partner, you don't need to eat as much food as them in order to maintain your current bodyweight.

As well as eating different amounts of food, remember you don't need to eat the same sorts of food or use the same cooking method (grilled v fried for example) either.

We put our family's eating preferences above our own

Generally speaking, women tend to like to please others and their maternal instinct often results in them putting the needs of others before their own.

As far as eating is concerned, this often means that many wives end up eating foods that their husbands or children like to eat, rather than what they would prefer.

If your husband likes to eat food that you would rather not, don't. Prepare a separate meal for yourself and if he refuses to eat more sensibly, let him eat poorly on his own.

As far as children are concerned, it's OK to let them eat what they want once in awhile, but as their mother we have an obligation to set a good example for them and teach them healthy eating habits.

We become the family garbage disposal

Many women can't stand seeing uneaten food left on plates because they were taught to finish their meals as a child and their parents told them that uneaten food was a waste.

As a result, many mothers end up eating any unfinished food on their children or partners plate, not realizing how many extra and unnecessary calories they are consuming as a result.

If this is a recurring problem at your place, either serve smaller meals or force yourself to forget what your parents taught you and through away any leftovers.

Our partner sabotages us

This sabotage can take two forms and can be either conscious or unconscious.

The first form of sabotage happens when our partner encourages us to put on weight so we appear less attractive to other men or women. By making helping to make us heavier and less attractive, our partner feels that they won't need to compete for our affections in the future.

It also means that if they have a weight problem themselves, they won't be forced to deal with it.

If they don't currently have a weight problem but want to 'let themselves go', they can do so without fear of losing us if we are heavy too.

The second form of sabotage happens for the same reason, but relates to sabotaging weight loss efforts rather than trying to beef us up.

When one person within a couple tries to lose weight, their spouse may become jealous and try to undermine their efforts in subtle ways like bringing home chocolates that they know their partner will find hard to resist.

In extreme cases, partners can be accused of neglecting their children if they are spending time away from home exercising, etc.

If you find this happening to you, sit down with your partner and tell them why you are trying to lose weight and how important their support is to you achieving your goals.

Explain to them that you are trying to lose weight for health reasons and that they don't necessarily have to change their lifestyle habits, but they should at least support you.

The ideal solution to this problem is to encourage your partner and family to lose weight and get healthier with you. Then there will be no need for them to sabotage what you are doing and you can all adopt healthier living habits together.

We are in an unhappy marriage and turn to food for solace

Research suggests that happily married people put on less weight than their unhappily married counterparts.

This should not be surprising given that several studies have found that unhappily married people turn to food as a substitute for unfulfilled needs in a marriage.

If you think this might be you, perhaps you might consider getting marriage counseling or a similar form of help from a professional.

We have unresolved issues

There are a myriad of unresolved issues that can lead us to gaining unwanted weight during a marriage, some of which we have already briefly touched on.

Others issues may include things like wanting to be loved unconditionally, feeling that we don't deserve to be happy, feeling disrespected, rejected and unloved.

If you feel that you have unresolved emotional issues that are contributing to your weight gain or inability to lose weight, perhaps you should consider getting reputable professional help.

Conclusion

Many of us know intuitively what research has proven - marriage can make us fat.

But if we know the circumstances within a marriage that lead to weight gain, we should be better equipped to avoid or reverse the trend.

This article explored some of the reasons married life often leads to weight gain and discussed some ideas we can do to avoid or reverse it.

Improve your Posture

	It is amazing how few people realize how much a good posture can improve their quality of life. If your goal is to maintain a healthy weight and avoid experiencing pain in your later years, monitoring and working on improving your posture earlier on is a must. The benefits of a good Posture. Among other things, an improved posture can:
help you get more out of your chosen sport or exercises make you look and feel healthier and younger help improve your breathing help you become stronger and more confident decrease the risk of injury prevent strain on your muscles, nerves and joints Signs of poor Posture. Bad posture usually results from poor habits repeated over a lifetime. Unfortunately, many of us don't even consider, let alone analyze our posture until we experience restricted movement or pain caused by poor posture. If you want to do a basic self-assessment of your posture, look for one or more of these typical signs of poor posture: rounded back drooping chest and shoulders head protruding forward tilted pelvis and hips collapsed arches in your feet an elevated hip or shoulder body rotation For a more accurate and professional assessment you should visit one of the many specialists who deal with diagnosing and rehabilitating posture related problems such as your chiropractor, physiotherapist, remedial masseur, osteopath or personal trainer. Causes of poor Posture. All of the problems listed above are potential indicators that your body has habitual irregular movement patterns. The reasons for these irregular movement patterns can be wide and varied but typically include things like: poor ergonomics, particularly relating to sleeping, sitting or standing habits muscle and/or skeletal imbalance untreated/undiagnosed injury compensation poor or inappropriate techniques used during exercise and sport Improving your Posture. Improving your posture is possible once the causes of your "symptoms" have been identified. Typically, improving your posture means improving or changing your habits, some of which you can do all by yourself, others you should consider getting help for. If you want to feel and look better, become fitter and stronger, lose weight or become and stay pain free into your later years try some or all of the following tips to improving or maintaining your posture. 1. Find your neutral Alignment. Your personal trainer or any of the other practitioners detailed above should be able to help you understand and recognize what a neutral alignment looks and feels like. Generally speaking, neutral alignment is where your spine is in its strongest position and is able to deal with external stresses and strains. Understanding what your neutral alignment is and how to move into it while sitting, standing and moving will greatly improve your posture. 2. Check your posture Constantly. Try to get into the habit of checking your posture throughout the day. Using reminders like setting the alarm on your phone or watch to alert you every hour to check your posture will help you to form this habit. Another way to remind yourself is to use post-it note on your computer screen or in your car. 3. Vary your position Often. If you sit down a lot during the day, look for excuses to stand and walk around. For example, if most of your work is done sitting behind a desk, try standing up when you talk on the phone (standing while on the phone actually improves the sound of your voice by ensuring the airways from your diaphragm are clear). Other excuses to vary your position include getting up and walking to the kitchen or water cooler for a glass of water every half an hour or so and standing up to stretch every 45 minutes while you're watching TV. Whenever possible, go for a short stroll around the block or around your neighbourhood during morning tea, afternoon tea or your lunch break. 4. Strengthen your Hips. Misalignment in our pelvis and lower back can often be caused by weak or inflexible hip muscles. Include exercises in your workouts that stretch and strengthen you hip flexor, extensors, abductors, adductors and rotators muscles. Any good gym instructor or personal trainer will be able to tell you which exercises and stretches to include in your workout and show you how to do them correctly. 5. Strengthen your Abdominals. Learn the appropriate abdominal strengthening exercises to train your abdominals to hold your pelvis in neutral alignment. Try doing some stabilization work using a Swiss Ball in addition to more traditional abdominal exercises like crunches and knee raises. Again, if you are new to exercise or have never been taught how to use a Swiss Ball before, seek the expertise of a gym instructor or good personal trainer. 6. Stretch and strengthen your Back. Learn how to correctly perform lower back stretches and strengthening exercises. You can perform most stretches anywhere at any time. Lower back stretches are often great at helping to minimize or eliminate debilitating back pain. Lower back strengthening exercises will ensure that your lower back muscles are strong and balanced with your abdominal muscles. 7. Strengthen your upper Body. Incorporate exercises into your workouts that help strengthen your shoulders, upper back, chest and arm muscles. Remember one of your goals should be muscle balance so don't focus to heavily on one particular muscle group and vary your exercises regularly to achieve balance and continually challenge your muscles. 8. Vary your exercise program. Try Yoga, Tai Chi or Pilates and consider including at least one of these in your regular exercise program. These styles of exercise emphasize alignment and controlled movement of the spine, which can greatly improve your posture. 9. Use Imagery. Visualize yourself as a giant gum tree reaching towards the sky; or imagine yourself growing taller as you stretch your arms above your head. Walk tall; concentrating on your posture and imagining yourself moving in perfect alignment. 10. Seek advice from Specialists. Postural problems left untreated can have a negative impact on your health and reduce your quality of life. In addition to your personal trainer, you may want to consult with a podiatrist, an orthopedic specialist, a physiotherapist, chiropractor, massage therapist or an osteopath. Remember, the sooner you get help and start to address the underlying causes of poor posture the more easily it will be for you to change your daily habits and the better your chance of improving your posture so you can avoid other problems and pain later on.