As centuries passed though, men’s clothing assumed a new significance— it became a signature for social status. Emperors and Kings wore ornaments made of gold and rare jewels; nobles wore hats, while peasants adorned themselves with shells and plain-colored garments.

Many decades later man found the means to bridge his geographical gap with his neighbors. As a consequence, men’s clothing became as diverse as the cultures of this world. Chinese men wore court dresses; the Scottish wore tartans and kilts, Filipinos were seen in their barongs that were woven from pineapple fiber. Because of this diversity, trends emerged and fashion as an institution was born. Designers and fashion magazines all fanned the flames of what was essential and what was frowned at in men’s clothing. Men were sized up by how his pants were creased, the length of his tie, if his belt matched his loafers. Fundamental rules and classifications surfaced and they became codes that the modern man lived by. For instance, brown belts should never go with black shoes. This applied across all cultures that required shoes and belts on formal functions.

Amidst this celebration of diversity, the concept of haute couture emerged. Remarkably, this gave men’s fashion the tool for individual distinction. A separation from the rest not dictated by social status, rather, by preferences. Indeed, by having clothes designed and made especially for oneself emphasized ones uniqueness.

Men’s clothing became a form of expression.

How a man saw himself was ultimately reflected by how he dressed. Everyday was one big costume party that showcased men’s clothing and its 50,000 years of history, give and take.

As life became more and more fast-paced, a new element was soon incorporated into men’s clothing-– comfort. Looking good became as important as feeling good. Modern lifestyles required clothes that did not require special cleaning and tedious caring.

In response to this need and as a consequence of capitalism and trade, technology nurtured the discoveries and inventions of fabrics and methods of clothes making. Nylon, Polyester and Lycra are but a few synthetics that replaced natural fibers. Mainstream men’s clothing was mirrored by sports wear that breathed like skin, smart office wear that repelled water, and shoes that complimented a foot’s contour instead of the other way around. Men’s clothing in retail boomed.

In the transition between haute couture and retail, constants were defined. Today, these staple articles are as essential as to men’s clothing as they were when they were first created.

The suit

In business and formal functions, the suit has claimed stake as the most appropriate ensemble in the pool of men’s clothing. A man can never go wrong by showing up in a suit.

The blue jeans

Levis, Mossimo, and Lee are just some of the labels that have paved the way for what jeans are all about now and how they should be worn– deconstructed, faded, or acid-washed. From a workman’s essential to a casual staple, jeans have secured its place as an icon of men’s clothing.

The Cross Trainer

Nike and Adidas have cornered the market by ever-revolutionizing shoes that conquer even the testiest terrain and the most rigorous of training programs. These shoes are not an after-thought in men’s clothing, rather, the first that is thought of and for which, all other fitness apparel follows.

The T-Shirt

T-shirts were originally undergarments worn by laborers. A classic example of metamorphosing use of garments, by the end of World War I, it became a permanent trend for casual wear.

For the years to come, fashion will continue to evolve and will continue to be influenced by emerging technologies, trends and necessity, but utility and design will always be key elements in men’s clothing. The marriage of form and function in men’s clothing will never be divorced.

Every woman wants her wedding dress to fit her like a glove and to reflect the uniqueness of her personality and style. She wants to feel more beautiful on her wedding day than on any other day of her life. And she should. Brides to be should take their time and consider carefully the perfect dress pattern for their special day.

In determining the perfect dress pattern for you, consider a few basic things. What time of the year are you having your wedding and what will the weather be like at that time of the year? Your dress pattern will vary considerably based on these things. A long sleeved pattern may be appropriate for cold winter months but you will most likely prefer a short sleeved or sleeveless pattern for warmer weather. Finding a dress pattern that is season and weather appropriate is important.

Once you have narrowed down potential dress patterns based on weather you can begin to narrow your options even further by taking time to consider your personal style. Any dress pattern you choose should be a reflection of who you are. Women who never wear ruffles or lace will want to avoid a dress pattern that is filled with those things. The last thing you want on your wedding day is to feel uncomfortable in the dress you have chosen, so take your time and find a great pattern. A third thing to consider when finding a perfect dress pattern is the style of your wedding ceremony and reception. If you are planning to have a very formal evening wedding you should choose a dress pattern accordingly. If, however, you are planning to marry in an informal morning wedding you can choose a less formal dress pattern.

Deciding to go with a handmade dress can be the perfect way to ensure you end up with the unique wedding gown of your dreams. Choosing the right dress pattern is the first step to making your dream dress come true.

Making an appropriate choice in womens evening wear depends to a certain extent on the occasion, the level of formality needed and the climate. In spring and summer, light colored gauzy fabrics are often seen. There can be an element of whimsy about these dresses. Short dresses are popular for evening wear in warm weather, particularly for outdoor events.

In fall and winter, the general tone is more serious. While there are still many sleeveless and strapless gowns, they tend to be more structured. Taffeta, velvet, brocade and other rich fabrics are the norm. Black is always a popular color for womens evening wear in winter, but burgundy, deep blue and other dark, rich colors make fabulous alternatives.

Some women even choose tuxedo like pantsuits for evening events. This can be a great alternative in cold weather, although a long dress in a winter fabric worn with a coordinating shawl or a fur wrap can result in the same level of comfort.

Celebrities love designer evening wear

When actresses are interviewed as they walk the red carpet before award shows, one question they are always asked is, Who designed your gown? Designer evening wear has become a requirement for these posh events, so much so that many designers loan custom made gowns to top stars at no charge.

Calvin Klein, Dolce and Gabbana, Valentino, Ralph Lauren, Donna Karan, Versace and more are popular with many of todays well known performers. But women arent the only ones whose taste in clothes is an issue at these events. Men have become fashion plates as well and will also be asked the source of their designer evening wear. Armani is well known for his top quality suits and his tuxedoes have quite a following also.

Knockoffs of the most attractive gowns seen on televised award shows are usually available in stores within a few weeks after the show to which they were first worn. These are unauthorized copies made to sell at prices regular people can afford. While a designer gown might cost $5,000, the department store copy will go for about $200. Unfortunately, the great bodies worn by celebrities are often harder to reproduce.

There are several types of rhinestones available. Austrian cut-crystal rhinestones are from Swarovski and they set the standard against which all other rhinestones are judged. They are the leaders by far for cut, clarity, color, and brilliance. The crystals are fired using a combination of natural minerals and quartz sand, and then cooled slowly to avoid inclusions. The Swarovski hot fix crystals have special glue affixed to the back of the crystals, allowing the crystals to adhere to fabric upon heating.

Swarovski crystals contain 12 to 14 facets (smooth surface cut) compared to the Czech stones (8 facets.) Other rhinestones are machine pressed (molded) and not cut at all. The last type of rhinestones is readily used because they are the least expensive. They are the stones typically found on clothing found in many clothing stores and discount department stores. Because they are so inexpensive, the apparel can be mass-produced for these stores and sold for a nominal fee. Make no mistake about it; there is a HUGE difference in what I like to call the sparkle factor between these stones and Swarovski’s crystals. The reason being is that many of these rhinestones are not stones, at all. They are made from molded plastic (acrylic rhinestones.) Because acrylic does not transmit light like crystal, they do not sparkle like the real thing.

Clearly, Swarovski embellished clothing is the way to go if you are looking for high quality clothing that will last for a very long time. The stones stay affixed to the clothing and the sparkle factor never disappears. True, Swarovski crystals are more expensive than most, but as the saying goes, you get what you pay for. Swarovski embellished clothing is here to stay!

Resort to some things that will cheer you up, boost your confidence, and eventually make a life that is full of life!

For ladies out there, you may opt for a sexy bra instead of the usual types of brasseries that you have. Most fashion experts contend that wearing sexy things like a sexy bra will definitely make you feel sexy.

However, the big question is: what makes a sexy bra? Is it the material, the design, the color, or the person who is wearing it?

Some of you might prefer to answer with the latter choice in mind. But nevertheless, sexy bra is still a bra and needs a little more positive characteristics to give you the support and comfort that you need.

So, when choosing a sexy bra, it is still important to consider these following pointers so that youll not only feel sexy but confident and comfortable as well.

1. When you want to show some flesh and your sexy bra might just do the job for you, consider the color of your tops and your sexy bra as well. Do not show beige sexy bra straps under spaghetti-strap tops.

2. Do not wear plastic strap sexy bras with halter-tops. It will not be a pretty sight even if you are wearing a sexy bra.

3. A single hook looks very neat, but it is not practical for fuller busts. A fastening with two or three hooks is much comfortable and supportive even during some hot steamy nights.

4. All straps should have adjustable levels fort the hooks to accommodate fluctuation of weight or washing changes. A stretch sexy bra with Lycra will get bigger over time and may not look sexy anymore, so does a sexy bra woven with a firm cotton material.

5. Women often wear sexy bras that are too tight thinking that it will give their breasts that needed lift. This should not be the case. A sexy bra can give you that much needed lift to show off those eye-popping cleavage at the same time fits just right. With this, you do not only look sexy but more confident.

6. Have a wardrobe of sexy bra. Think of the occasion that will call for it. Sexy bra looks good with laces on and looks even great with evening gowns or even with a simple night lingerie.

Have fun with it!

7. Remember that if your sexy bra lets your breast bulge above the cup or out of the sides near the armpits, creating lumps under the clothes, then the cups are too small.

8. On the other hand, if the cup material puckers or the breast doesnt entirely fill a molded cup, then it is just too big.

9. Likewise, if your sexy bra rides up in the back and is higher than the front, then the band is too long.

10. A nice, comfy sexy bra should never leave red marks on the skin after its taken off because it means that your sexy bra is just too small.

11. A colorful, laced sexy bra is a definite turn-on. But remember not to wear then under a white or light-colored shirt. This will not make a good impression on you.

12. Do use a matching halter bra and pull it down with a low-back adaptor. This will definitely make you look sexy and cool.

There you have it! Just follow these simple rules on the dos and donts of wearing sexy bra and youll never have an embarrassing moment. Indeed, a sexy bra partnered with a confident wearer equals a one hot summer night.

That is what chemistry is all about!

Pants

Choose pants that are long enough for you. If your pants are too short, it visually cuts the length of your legs. The longer your legs look, the slimmer theyll appear.

Also choose pants that fit you well, not too tight or clingy. Fabrics that are too thin tend to cling to your legs and reveal bumps wed rather keep out of sight.

Choose pants that are either boot cut, wider legged or flared at the bottom. The boot cut is slimming, while the wider cuts also add a slimming effect by keeping a visual straight line from our hips to our ankles. The worst choice would be a tight, tapered pant leg bottom as this enhances the width of your hips and thighs.

Capri pants are very slimming as well if theyre the right length. Choose a style where the bottom of the pant ends a few inches above your ankles but below the widest part of your calves.

Skirts

Choose skirts that rest just above your knees. A mid-calf skirt cuts the length of your legs and draws eyes to the thickest part of your lower legs.

Again, proper fit is key here. Something too tight will visually enhance and draw attention to bulges that wed rather not publicize. Also look for skirts that fit below the waistline if you have a thick waist.

Bras

A well fitted bra is a must for every woman. Not only to give support and comfort, but a too tight bra can pop out those back rolls like nobodys business!

If your cup size is not too large, consider trying a sports bra for a comfier fit that has adequate support. No wires here ladies!

Colors

Choose darker colors for areas you dont want the eyes to focus on and brighter colors for places you want to accentuate. Darker colors such as black and navy are very slimming and should be in every womans closet.

Dressing from head to toe in one color is also very slimming as it makes a person look taller. Matching your pantyhose to the color of your shoes and skirts helps achieve this look.

Patterns

Stay away from large patterns and look for vertical stripes – thin is best. Thin stripes help give the illusion of length. Adding length helps give the illusion of a longer body, which helps you look thinner. Small, delicate prints can also be very flattering.

Fit

If your clothing is too tight, it accentuates and magnifies all flaws. If our clothing is too loose and baggy, we think were hiding our size but the opposite actually happens: we magnify our size.

So many tips to keep in mind when shopping for new clothes! But the key points to remember are proper fit and visually lengthening fashions. We have so many options now in plus size fashions that we can find exactly what works best for our body types.

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First, before you buy a suit, you should be sure that you know what your measurements are. The measurements you will need are: the inseam (the inside leg length), your neck, your shoulders, your arm length, your chest, and your waist. However, don’t try to take them yourself. It is really hard to get accurate measurements on your own. If you can’t find someone to take measurements before you get to the store, ask a salesperson to help you.

Once you know your measurements, you will need to decide what type of suit you want to own. The single-breasted suit is the most common style. This suit is designed so that the jacket has a single row of buttons that button up like a shirt. You can find these suits with two, three or four buttons. Usually, the bottom button on this suit is left unfastened so that the suit doesn’t pucker and pull. If you don’t like the way a single-breasted suit looks, then you may want to look at double-breasted suits. These suits have two rows of buttons and one side of the suit overlaps the other side when it is buttoned up.

Next, you should consider suit fabrics. You can find suits made from wool, linen, and even polyester. However, wool suits are the most common, and for good reason. A wool suit is cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter than suits made with man made fibers. This is because wool is able to breathe. You can find wool in light, medium, and heavy weights, so you will be able to find a suit that is perfect for warm or cold climates. In addition, wool really wears well, especially if the suit is made with worsted wool.

If you can’t wear wool because of allergies, you can find polyester or linen suits. Polyester does not hold up as well as wool and doesn’t breathe well, which makes it uncomfortable to wear during the summer months. However, it is a budget friendly choice and travels well, since it doesn’t wrinkle easily. Linen breathes much better than polyester, but it tends to wrinkle easily. If you decide you want a linen suit, you may want to look for a linen/polyester blend instead.

Finally, you will need to try on a few suits in the style and fabric you choose to be sure that they fit properly. Avoid suits that pucker across the back or are too tight in the shoulders and arms. It may be necessary to have alterations done on a suite to ensure a proper fit. A quality retailer will offer alteration services. With a proper fitting suit, you will be ready for anything.

Plus size women nowadays are lucky because the market is full of plus size bra promising to provide support and comfort in the chest area. And these plus size bra even comes in pretty designs and yummy colors! In the past plus size bra looks generic, made of durable, functional stuff like cotton, and plus size women do not particularly find shopping for underwear an enjoyable experience. But nowadays, just look around the mall and you will find plus size bras with beautiful laces and intricate designs that look very sexy and very pretty.

Sexy plus size bras are very popular right now. Women reward themselves with pretty undergarments to make them feel better. Having a rough day at the office? Thats nothing a feminine lacy plus size bra in silk, lace, or satin with under wires cannot take away.

There is a new generation of plus size bra out there so unlike the drab, boring plus size bras of the yesteryears that were made only to serve its function. These pretty sexy bras of today can range from sports bras to sexy, lingerie-type of bra, to everyday-wear bra. Sexy bra are usually lacy and can be considered peek a boo bra. Some opt to choose bra made from lycra, which is very comfortable because of its stretchiness. There are plus size bra that hug the full form of the womans breast, and there are those that are shaped like a half-cup, designed to show the topmost portion of the breast. These sexy plus size bra are available all over, and plus size women buy these because they can be very sexy. However, there is that tiny danger showing too much when plus size women wear demi-cups.

Plus size bra can be made of various materials – satin, cotton, lycra, lace or silk. They may have under wires and pads or may have criss-crossing straps at the back. Some are non-padded, and some are strapless. Some enhance the form of the womans breast and some try to downplay very full breasts – these special bras are called minimizers and they tend to be more expensive than regular bra. There are also special bra called maximizers, which as the name implies, help women enhance their gifts. Plus size women normally do not go for maximizers and since more often than not, plus size women are gifted with beautiful, full breasts. Most women opt to buy regular plus size bra that is pleasing to the eyes, comfortable, and non-restrictive.

Wearing the right bra can do wonders for a persons figure. It will make the woman feel good about herself, feel comfortable and confident, and will subsequently help improve her posture. Wearing sexy designs in a somewhat seductive material like silk will undoubtedly help a woman feel better about herself.

Plus size bra is perfect for pregnant women. During pregnancy, the breasts enlarge and the womans old bra may not fit, or may feel too restrictive. During this delicate, special period, pregnant women may opt to discard their old bras and wear plus size bra that fits just right. There are a lot of plus size bra made specifically for mothers. These are called nursing bras and are designed to help the new mothers in breastfeeding their babies. These plus size bra are very comfortable and give incredible support, and some designs can be very pretty also. Easy snaps are built-in for hassle uncomfortable. Usually, the material used are cotton and lycra which both give excellent gentle support to the new mother as she journeys into the path called motherhood.

While the right swimsuit is a vital staple in your wardrobe, it is important to remember that swimsuits are not sized like most clothing. In fact, you should try one to two sizes larger than your normal clothing size.

Even if you are hesitant to go up a size, don’t get caught up in the number. The right fit is what counts. When you find a suit that you like, lift your arms, bend over, sit down, and walk around to make sure it is not going to gather or ride up.

With so many styles of swimsuits on the market, it is important to take note of what works for your body and what does not. For example, when shopping for a tankini, make sure the stomach portion of the suit lies flat against your stomach but is not too tight. If it is too tight, your stomach will bulge causing more harm than good.

And when choosing patterns, remember that vertical stripes are more flattering than horizontal stripes. In fact, striped patterns with different sized lines look the best.

Bottoms Up
When trying on a swimsuit bottom, make sure your skin is not bulging from the waist or leg area. If it does, again, try going up a size. If the problem is still there, consider a different style bottom. In general, a bottom with a leg opening an inch below the hip bone is the most flattering.

Remember, bottoms stretch when they get wet. Make sure the bottom fits snug enough where it won’t look droopy when it’s wet. Boy shorts do not disguise hips, large bums, or large thighs – in reality they only accentuate your problem areas.

Get a Supportive and Stylish Lift
If you are looking for a top with an underwire, it should fit like your best fitting bra. The underwire should lie flat against your skin without any breast sneaking out of the bottom.

For most ladies, side cleavage is an issue. Starting at your underarm, ѕ of the breast should be covered. And for large busts, a halter top or an underwire top provides the best support and coverage. Halter tops with a wider band provide the most support.

When it comes to swimsuits, cleavage isn’t everything. Most women like to emphasize their bust, but over-padding is not the answer. Steer clear of large, push-up pads. The foam holds water like a sponge and tends to pull the top down resulting in a saggy look that is not attractive.

If you want to add a little extra padding to your top, choose a thin pad that looks natural. Most pads can be cut to fit any style top. To prevent the pad from slipping, insert the pads into the lining of the top or sew the pads into the top.

Finding a style for your shape
All of this swimsuit advice can be mind boggling when you are on the hunt for a swimsuit but just keep the following style tips in mind when shopping and trying on swimwear:

•Short Torsos:Vertical stripes or prints will make your body look longer.
•Long Torsos:High leglines and low necklines shorten body length. Stay away from vertical stripes.
•Hide Your Tummy:Styles that focus the eye in other places are best. Try a printed top with a solid pant. Also, try a one piece that is slimming in the torso or that will move the eyes toward the bust line. Tankinis also work great at hiding your tummy.
•Boy-Shaped Body:Look for styles that create a waist. Avoid plain suits.
•Small Chest:Bold prints and bold colors always flatter. Bandeau tops only put emphasis on small chests.
•Large Chest:Support should be your number one concern. Underwire tops will provide the best support. Halter tops, especially ones with a wide band, also provide good support. Stay away from patterns that emphasize the bust. Try a solid top with a printed bottom.
•Large Hips or Saddle Bags:Draw attention to your top half. Choose styles with vertical stripes, dark slimming colors, or with bust details. Try a solid pant with a printed top.

Swimwear Care Tips
Once you find the right swimsuit, you want to take extra special care of it. Follow these tips to keep your swimsuit ready all year long:

•Always rinse your swimsuit with regular tap water after swimming. You should hand wash your suit with a mild liquid detergent. Some hand washing detergents can cause colors to bleed. Mild soaps, such as Ivory®, work best. Avoid all chlorine-based bleach products, spot removers, and dry cleaning. Never use bleach and never put your swimsuit in the washing machine!

•The best way to dry your suit is to lay it flat in natural air. Never put a swimsuit in the dryer or wring it out!!! Avoid putting your swimsuit away until it is completely dry. If it is stored while still wet, it could become discolored. For the same reason, avoid leaving your wet swimsuit in a bag or wrapped in a damp towel.

•When applying oil based sun tan lotions, minimize direct contact with your swimsuit. The oils naturally cause the swimsuit elastics to breakdown.

•Hot tubs and highly chlorinated water can cause your swimsuit to fade. Also, these water conditions can cause embellishments to fade or fall off of the suit. Limit your swimsuit’s exposure to hot or highly chlorinated water or wear an older suit in these conditions.

Whether on the runway or on the red carpet, designer Narciso Rodriguez is in demand. He began is designer career in 1985 as a design assistant for fashion legend Anne Klein. Narciso has a gift for fitting a dress so that it is flattering to the shape of the womans body. Its so fantastic, Narciso says, to create a frame for a womans personality and her true beauty.

While working at Calvin Klein Narciso and Carolyn Bessette [later to become Carolyn Kennedy] became best friends. It was Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s wedding dress design that brought Narciso front and center stage in the design world. Narciso’s wedding dress design for Carolyn was the buzz around the world. On September 21, 1996, Carolyn Bessette Kennedy stepped out of church on the arm of John F. Kennedy Jr. Women went gaga, literally drooling over Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s wedding dress.

Carolyn’s wedding dress was made from pure white silk. This simple dress was combined dress elegance, classiness, and sexiness into one knockout package. Woman began to realize a wedding dress could in fact look sexy. This was a whole new concept, never heard of before. For years most women had landed up looking like an overstuffed pilsbury dough boy on their wedding day. Narciso had accomplished in Carolyn’s wedding gown what women thought to be impossible. She had been transformed into this bewitching sexy princess. That look was created by one of her best friends, Narciso Rodriguez. It was Carolyn’s wedding dress that made Narciso’s a household name.

Once word got out who had designed the dress, Narciso was in demand by every major designer in the world. A dream came true when Narciso joined the house of LMVH. The draw back to this career move was that Narciso spent his life living out of a suitcase with very little time to spend with family and friends which he valued and missed dearly.
Narciso pressed on encouraged by the idea that he had finally made it. However, working for a large company can often stifle ones own independent design ideas, and it wasn’t long before Narciso discovered he no longer loved his work.
The turning point in his life was when Carolyn Bessette Kennedy was was killed in a plane accident. Narciso had lost one of his dearest and best friends and for him this was a reality check and a wake up call.. Life without friends, family and the love of his work didnt seem like such a great opportunity anymore. Narciso left LVMH and came home realizing what he needed was the freedom of his own design collection.
Narciso was able to focus on his own line of clothing creating the perfect look for woman. Rather than designing dresses for matchsticks, Narciso’s designs accentuated the curves and bustline of the woman, creating what was called a real woman design. Narciso Latin background came through in his designs with each having a hint of Latin flare. Narciso said Latino women had figures and were proud of that fact so they were perfect for where he wanted to go with his designs.
Narciso talents as a designer were so good, he was even able to make the petite woman look voluptuous. Sarah Jessica Parker, Sheryl Crow and Salma Hayek all wore exquisite gowns designed by Narciso. Not one of these celebs was 6 feet tall, yet the fit of these gowns was to die for.
In the spring of 1998 Narciso debuted his ready to wear signature collection in Milan. It made it into virtually every major fashion magazine. Rodriguezs American experience and Latin roots, combined with his flair for European tradition of fine design, are all part of his great success. In 1997 Narciso won Best New Designer from the VH1 Fashion Awards, and was awarded Hispanic Designer of the Year. In 1998 he won the CFDA Perry Ellis Award, In the past these honors have gone to designers such as Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera. In the past two years Rodriguez has been with the CFDA Awards: In both 2002 and 2003 he won the Womenswear Designer of the Year.

In a more recent issue of O Magazine Oprah Winfrey stands proudly wearing a golden dress designed by non other than Narciso. Now believe it or not this dress just isn’t gold in color, it is made of gold metal that has been pressed to make a dress fabric. The dress can be seein in O Magazine as well as at oprah.com.

Narciso is like a breath of fresh air when it comes to woman’s fashion. He designs for real woman. If you are interested in Narciso Rodrigues and his designs visit his web page at http://www.narcisorodriguez.com/narciso