July 2007 Issue
In this months Issue:
More Bank For Your Buck: High Quality Clothes to Invest In
Cool Fashion Tips For The Hot Weather
Home Laudry Tip
More Bank For Your Buck: High Quality Clothes to Invest In
Seduced by fashion? Bought a "hot" trendy item but then found that just a few months later it was out of style and in the back of your closet?
There are many ways you can look great, save money, and avoid fashion errors.
Start by taking a serious look at your wardrobe. What do you need, what looks good on you, and most importantly, what size are you (not what size you once were or would like to be). Even if you can't afford high-priced designer fashions, become familiar with the "look" so if you find some great imitations in less-expensive stores, you'll know what to look for in terms of fabric and cut.
The key to investing in high-quality clothes that will stay the fashion course is to invest in neutral, classic items like black, khaki, navy blue. Simplify your basics and choose classic cuts and styles. You can always buy a few trendy, inexpensive accessories-they won't be "in" for a long time, but you can enjoy them and not fret over how much they cost. Stick with basic styles and colors for shoes, too. It's okay to splurge on a couple of pairs, but be sure to choose shoes that are comfortable, reliable and versatile.
Most people buy clothes on impulse. Before purchasing an individual item, think carefully about what you will wear it with..is it versatile enough? Forget about the size...focus on the fit. Try sitting, standing and moving while wearing the item...is it comfortable? Look for clothes that play up your strong points-be willing to invest in clothes that highlight your best features, instead of worrying about hiding what you don't like. If you've always stuck to black, try adding in an accessory or a top with a new, brighter color.
If you're used to shopping the bargain or discount rack, consider new places for your shopping talents:
Second-hand stores. Many areas have high-class consignment shops with fantastic, name-brand items. Many of the garments have only been worn a few times and some are even new, with the original tags. Try it, you'll like it! Be sure to check items in thrift-stores for damage, and try buttons and zippers to be sure they work.
Websites: If you've got a store you love to shop in, but the prices can be daunting, shop smart. Keep tabs on upcoming sales, specials and coupons at your favorite store via its website. Don't forget to sign up for that store's emails; they often contain sales info and discounts.
Cool Fashion Tips For The Hot Weather
When it's hot, it's tough to stay cool-and it can even be deadly. Excessive heat exposure can cause death or illness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Usually, your body cools itself down by sweating. But under some conditions, a person's body temperature can rise too quickly and can damage the brain or other organs. Risk factors for heat-related illnesses include age, obesity, fever, dehydration, heart disease, mental illness, poor circulation, sunburn and even prescription drug use, according to the CDC.
Most of us are lucky enough to work in air-conditioned offices during the hottest times of the year or we can go to a mall or library for relief. But there are other ways you can keep cool. One of the best ways is to wear lightweight clothing that is light-colored and loose fitting. Wearing garments made of cotton are your best bet. Increase the amount of water your drink...if you feel thirsty, you're already getting dehydrated. Avoid very cold drinks and drinks with lots of sugar. Sports beverages can actually be a good choice, but don't overdo it.
If you're a woman who wears makeup, hot weather and humidity can be brutal. Liquid foundations should be avoided, since they contain oils that can make your face look greasy. Use concealer to take care of skin imperfections, or consider using a light powder to reduce shine. Clear mascara can also be a good choice-no more black circles around your eyes!
If you're planning to be outside, be sure to wear sunscreen and consider bringing a wide-brimmed hat along if you'll be out in the sun for long periods of time. Finally, slow down: whether you're exercising or just running errands, take the pace down a notch, take more frequent breaks and take good care of yourself.
Home Laudry Tip
Keeping Your White Shoes Clean and Bright
Many years ago, there was an unwritten but ironclad rule about wearing white...it was a color suitable only for the summer. Nowadays, fashion is far more flexible, but we'll admit, it's unusual to see white shoes in the winter (unless you live in a warm climate year-round!). White shoes are great fashion accessories, but they are easily scuffed. It's just as easy, however, to clean them up. You can rub scuffmarks with a paste of baking soda and water, or non-gel toothpaste. If you can get to an art supplies store, an art gum eraser will also work well. There are now several eraser-type cleaning products out there that will work, too. So, no more excuses for anything but shiny white shoes!!