First of all, do NOT panic.

The trend now is well tailored, high quality, hard to knock off
clothing. A look that demands respect. The look is romantic.
Feminine. In darker, somber colors. A gothic Cinderella if you
will.

That translates to quality, not quantity. With just 9 pieces,
you can rebuild your Autumn and Winter wardrobe from scratch,
and look totally chic as the temperatures fall. Every piece has
to be really well made. Go for the best you can afford. The look
for this season is ladylike chic. The kind that demands and gets
respect.

Get ready for plenty of somber black, plum, deep colors with a
light touch of pink
fashion pieces to lift things a little.

Choose your color scheme. Black, plum and bright pink, or
Navyblue, gray and pale pink are some ideas you could work with.
Pick colors that you look your best in and which go with one
another. Alternatively, try a striking combination of black,
white and red.

Once you have decided on your color scheme, stick to it. That
way, everything in your wardrobe can be coordinated with
everything else, giving you countless looks from those few
pieces.

Feel free to choose items with frills, ribbons and other
romantic details as these define this season’s romantic fashion
trends.

#1 Gorgeous women’s
winter coats (at least 1) or a fur vest. This is going to
be your main look whenever you are outdoors. The fur vest is the
latest thing for this fall, winter season though. And it really
dresses up everything you wear it with. Even a pair of jeans
looks formal when you put on your fur vest.

#2 Beautifully tailored women’s
suits (at least 1) in any of your 3 chosen colors. A well
tailored skirt and jacket combination that is feminine and
versatile. This is something you can wear everyday.

#3 Ok. I know that feminine, loose floaty clothes are in. What
with the tulip skirt and all. But seriously. Who wants to have
hips that look even larger than reality? No, you still need a
pair of jeans. I don’t care what the fashion magazines or
designers dish out to us. Women have a right to wear clothes
that flatter the real figure. What is hot, has always been hot
and always will be hot is a pair of tight jeans.
A pair that makes you look your very best. You wear the clothes,
not the other way around.

#4 Wool
tights, pantyhose or stockings. Again for warmth and class.
to keep your legs warm when you wear a skirt or a dress.

#5 A romantic women’s
blouse. This time around, the look is romantic. The
oversized man style shirt wouldn’t do. You need something
romantic. The blouse is the new season’s must have.

#6 A beautiful dress. What could be more romantic than a dress.
Dresses
are hot this season, especially now that the romantic look is
big. You need at least 1 blouse in your new wardrobe.

#7 A pair of boots that go
with everything in your new wardrobe. They keep you warm they
are versatile and give your outfit an edge.

#8 A pair of leather
gloves to keep your hands warm and which look really sleek.

#9 A knit top to stretch your wardrobe further. The classic
every autumn and winter is the turtle
neck. It looks elegant and keeps your neck warm

Frighteningly, as sunglasses become fashion items in their own right, we are choosing style over substance. It seems that many ‘fashion’ shades are not compliant with safety guidelines and 63% of us will chose our glasses based on price and trends before safety. Damage to the retina through unprotected exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays increases the long-term risk of sight loss resulting from conditions such as cataracts and possibly Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD).

Sunglasses purchased in the UK have to meet set safety standards, so those wanting to ensure adequate eye protection can be assured than in Britain they are safe. This statement does need to be qualified with the understanding that this only applies to those bought legally and not labeled ‘fashion’ glasses.

However with the increase in designer ‘fakes’ available, not to mention the readily available Internet shops, buyers need to be careful. Also, many people buy cheap sunglasses abroad, where the same standards may not apply.

See also tips for safer sunglasses 08.

• Wear good quality, dark sunglasses and check that they are up to standard. Dr Blakeney says: “Good sunglasses needn’t be expensive, you can buy perfectly adequate protective sunglasses from high street stores, but just follow a few guidelines.”

• Make sure sunglasses carry the ‘CE’ Mark and British Standard BS EN 1836:1997, which means they offer a safe level of UV protection.

• Do a simple quality test before buying. Hold the sunglasses at arm’s length and tilt them slightly. Then focus on an object in the distance, move them up and down and see if there is any distortion, especially at the lens’ edges. If the lenses are high quality, there should be no movement.

• Don’t confuse the shade of the lens with their ability to filter UV rays. Dark sunglasses may still allow UV rays to enter the eye and can be more harmful than wearing no glasses at all, because they cause the pupil of the eye to dilate, which allows more UV rays to enter.

• When buying sunglasses to use when driving, make sure they are in the filter category of 0-3. A lens carrying a filter category of 4 will be too dark for safe driving. Never wear sunglasses while driving at night or in poor light.

• Avoid scratches, as a scratched lens will scatter the sun’s light and could cause glare around the area of the scratch. Avoid wear and tear by using a case, cleaning them with a mild detergent and water or a lens cleaner and drying them with a microfibre cloth – not paper, which can scratch the lens.

• Don’t discard sunglasses in the winter. The sun’s UV rays can be present in high enough levels to warrant protection throughout the year and the glare can be more noticeable as the sun’s lower in the sky.

For help on choosing a suitable pair of glasses see Tips for Sunglasses.

Summer is here upon us and with the bright lights comes a wave of ‘new’ styles. The key to the most fashion forward styles usually has nothing to do with what is brand new. Most “new” style trends are simply spins off of formerly worn, beloved trends. This summer’s sunglasses will be no exception to that theory.

Whatever your choice, just make sure you adhere to the following rules:

• Frames should never be wider than the sides of you face.
• The bottom of the frame should not rest on the cheek.
• The colour should suit you.
• If classic (i.e. look great regardless of ‘fashion trends’), the frames should not sit above your eyebrow.
• The hooks behind the ear shouldn’t pinch.
• The bridge on the nose shouldn’t be too tight leaving large indents behind when you take them off (not sexy).

For both mens and women’s sunglasses this year, bigger is definitely better, breaking one of the golden rules (see above). Celebrities such as Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie have flaunted their flair for the oversised frames for the past few years, and it looks like the trend has finally taken hold for both sexes. Oversized sunglasses, paying homage to the late, great Jackie O, appear to be here to stay. However, fashion gurus will warn you not to go overboard with this idea. If the sunglasses appear to be swallowing your face, you might want to take it down a notch.

One retroactive style of sunglasses that is back again is the aviators. These sunglasses are as versatile and fun as they are functional and can be found in dark colored or mirrored lenses this season. Rhinestones and other gems are added to the sides of the lenses for a little bling.

Another particularly popular style of the moment is the wraparound. Don’t be fooled by the name. These are not your average snowboarder’s goggles turned sunglasses. This year’s wraparounds are being designed by some of the most celebrated designers in Hollywood, New York, Milan and everywhere in between. You will not be disappointed.

Particular varieties of wraparound sunglasses are geared toward either men or women by changing up the style, color, and size. Men’s wraparound sunglasses this season are all about sleek and simple design. Most designers have abandoned the flowing, rounded look of original wraparounds for a more box like effect. As with women’s wraparounds, the lens continues to the sides of the head. Black seems to be the most popular color in these men’s sunglasses, which completes the chic, classy look you want to have.

This summer welcomes old styles of sunglasses with new attitude. Check the red carpets and catwalks for the latest developments and to make sure the style you’re wearing didn’t suddenly appear on any of the Z list. Anything appearing on a politician is equally social suicide. Just remember that all the celebrities in the world can’t dictate what looks good on you, so pick your sunglasses based on what you like, not them.

If in doubt, why not employ the services of a style consultant to give direction on your individual face shape and features, including frame recommendations. If you like to keep your frames for a few summers, why not invest in a bespoke pair of glasses. Here you can have the perfect marriage between a designer frame and a flattering shape. The go-to guy is Oliver Goldsmith metioned above, however expect to pay from upwards £500 for this service.

Chameleon Fridays

“The British know how to do their shades. Cult designer Oliver Goldsmith is now offering a service through London boutique Matches for bespoke sunglasses, and has also created an exclusive design for Harvey Nichols. Vintage eyewear company Cutler and Gross are behind the new hip Mulberry sunglasses collection. Linda Farrow (the company who make sunglasses with Luella, Raf Simons, Matthew Williamson and Dries Van Noten among many) has also launched Linda Farrow Luxe, an ultra-sexy range of sunglasses made from gold, platinum and decorated with discreet jewels.” Full article

Summer is here upon us and with the bright lights comes a wave of ‘new’ styles. The key to the most fashion forward styles usually has nothing to do with what is brand new. Most “new” style trends are simply spins off of formerly worn, beloved trends. This summer’s sunglasses will be no exception to that theory.

For both mens and women’s sunglasses this year, bigger is definitely better, breaking one of the rules (see below). Celebrities such as Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie have flaunted their flair for the oversised frames for the past few years, and it looks like the trend has finally taken hold. Oversized sunglasses, paying homage to the late, great Jackie O, appear to be here to stay. However, fashion gurus will warn you not to go overboard with this idea. If the sunglasses appear to be swallowing your face, you might want to take it down a notch.

Particularly in the moment of the oversized framed sunglasses, women appear to be having fun with their colors. No longer is the Jackie O a plain black frame with dark black lenses. Today’s are Onassis Glasses with an attitude. Fashion icons can be seen sporting oversized frames in red, green, purple, and other bright colors. However, white frames also seem to be a favorite.

One retroactive style of sunglasses that is back again is no longer exclusive to men. While guys love this look too, Aviators are striking a feminine note this year. These sunglasses are as versatile and fun as they are functional. For the men, they can be found in dark colored or mirrored lenses, while women may favor purple or rose tints on these particular sunglasses. Rhinestones and other gems are added to the sides of the lenses for a little bling.

Another particularly popular style of the moment for men and women is the wraparound. Don’t be fooled by the name. These are not your average snowboarder’s goggles turned sunglasses. This year’s wraparounds are being designed by some of the most celebrated designers in Hollywood, New York, Milan and everywhere in between. You will not be disappointed.

Particular varieties of wraparound sunglasses are geared toward either men or women by changing up the style, color, and size. Women are leaning toward larger styles, as with the oversized craze discussed earlier. For wraparound oversized sunglasses, stars like Beyonce have been of inspiration to designers. One favorite is a square shape, and the lenses simply continue to the arms of the sunglasses and lay over the temples. This style too has been dressed up with rhinestones for a little shine.

Men’s wraparound sunglasses this season are all about sleek and simple design. Most designers have abandoned the flowing, rounded look of original wraparounds for a more box like effect. As with women’s wraparounds, the lens continues to the sides of the head. Black seems to be the most popular color in these men’s sunglasses, which completes the chic, classy look you want your man to have.

This summer welcomes old styles of sunglasses with new attitude. Check the red carpets and catwalks for the latest developments and to make sure the style you’re wearing didn’t suddenly appear on any of the Z list. Anything appearing on a politician is equally social suicide. Just remember that all the celebrities in the world can’t dictate what looks good on you, so pick your sunglasses based on what you like, not them.

If in doubt, why not employ the services of a style consultant to give direction on your individual face shape and features, including frame recommendations. If you like to keep your frames for a few summers, why not invest in a bespoke pair of glasses. Here you can have the perfect marriage between a designer frame and a flattering shape. The go-to guy is Oliver Goldsmith metioned above, however expect to pay from upwards £500 for this service.

Whatever your choice, just make sure you adhere to the following rules:

• Frames should never be wider than the sides of you face.
• The bottom of the frame should not rest on the cheek.
• The colour should suit you.
• If classic (i.e. look great regardless of ‘fashion trends’), the frames should not sit above your eyebrow.
• The hooks behind the ear shouldn’t pinch.
• The bridge on the nose shouldn’t be too tight leaving large indents behind when you take them off (not sexy).

Chameleon Fridays

“The British know how to do their shades. Cult designer Oliver Goldsmith is now offering a service through London boutique Matches for bespoke sunglasses, and has also created an exclusive design for Harvey Nichols. Vintage eyewear company Cutler and Gross are behind the new hip Mulberry sunglasses collection. Linda Farrow (the company who make sunglasses with Luella, Raf Simons, Matthew Williamson and Dries Van Noten among many) has also launched Linda Farrow Luxe, an ultra-sexy range of sunglasses made from gold, platinum and decorated with discreet jewels.” Full article

Summer is here upon us and with the bright lights comes a wave of ‘new’ styles. The key to the most fashion forward styles usually has nothing to do with what is brand new. Most “new” style trends are simply spins off of formerly worn, beloved trends. This summer’s sunglasses will be no exception to that theory.

Whatever your choice, just make sure you adhere to the following rules:

• Frames should never be wider than the sides of you face.
• The bottom of the frame should not rest on the cheek.
• The colour should suit you.
• If classic (i.e. look great regardless of ‘fashion trends’), the frames should not sit above your eyebrow.
• The hooks behind the ear shouldn’t pinch.
• The bridge on the nose shouldn’t be too tight leaving large indents behind when you take them off (not sexy).

For women’s sunglasses this year, bigger is definitely better, breaking one of the golden rules (see above). Celebrities such as Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie have flaunted their flair for the oversised frames for the past few years, and it looks like the trend has finally taken hold. Oversized sunglasses, paying homage to the late, great Jackie O, appear to be here to stay. However, fashion gurus will warn you not to go overboard with this idea. If the sunglasses appear to be swallowing your face, you might want to take it down a notch.

Particularly in the moment of the oversized framed sunglasses, women appear to be having fun with their colors. No longer is the Jackie O a plain black frame with dark black lenses. Today’s are Onassis Glasses with an attitude. Fashion icons can be seen sporting oversized frames in red, green, purple, and other bright colors. However, white frames also seem to be a favorite.

One retroactive style of sunglasses that is back again is no longer exclusive to men. While guys love this look too, Aviators are striking a feminine note this year. These sunglasses are as versatile and fun as they are functional. For the men, they can be found in dark colored or mirrored lenses, while women may favor purple or rose tints on these particular sunglasses. Rhinestones and other gems are added to the sides of the lenses for a little bling.

Another particularly popular style of the moment for women is the wraparound. Don’t be fooled by the name. These are not your average snowboarder’s goggles turned sunglasses. This year’s wraparounds are being designed by some of the most celebrated designers in Hollywood, New York, Milan and everywhere in between. You will not be disappointed.

Particular varieties of wraparound sunglasses are geared toward women by changing up the style, color, and size. Women are leaning toward larger styles, as with the oversized craze discussed earlier. For wraparound oversized sunglasses, stars like Beyonce have been of inspiration to designers. One favorite is a square shape, and the lenses simply continue to the arms of the sunglasses and lay over the temples. This style too has been dressed up with rhinestones for a little shine.

Men’s wraparound sunglasses this season are all about sleek and simple design. Most designers have abandoned the flowing, rounded look of original wraparounds for a more box like effect. As with women’s wraparounds, the lens continues to the sides of the head.

This summer welcomes old styles of sunglasses with new attitude. Check the red carpets and catwalks for the latest developments and to make sure the style you’re wearing didn’t suddenly appear on any of the Z list. Anything appearing on a politician is equally social suicide. Just remember that all the celebrities in the world can’t dictate what looks good on you, so pick your sunglasses based on what you like, not them.

If in doubt, why not employ the services of a style consultant to give direction on your individual face shape and features, including frame recommendations. If you like to keep your frames for a few summers, why not invest in a bespoke pair of glasses. Here you can have the perfect marriage between a designer frame and a flattering shape. The go-to guy is Oliver Goldsmith metioned above, however expect to pay from upwards £500 for this service.

Chameleon Fridays ]]> http://www.chameleonfridays.com/features/2008/07/06/ladies-sunglasses-summer-08/feed/ 0 http://www.chameleonfridays.com/features/2008/07/06/tips-for-summer-legs/ http://www.chameleonfridays.com/features/2008/07/06/tips-for-summer-legs/#comments Sun, 06 Jul 2008 12:09:53 +0000 chameleonfridays http://www.chameleonfridays.com/features/?p=87 As the weather warms up and there is more flesh on show, women want their legs to look their best. Sadly there is no short cut for the ultimate shapley leg. It often comes down to great genes and regular exercise. However, its not all about shape, the colour, texture, and tone of the skin can make a huge difference, to their appearance.

Bare legs are most womens prime concern as the temperature soars, below are some top tips on how to make your legs look their best for Summer 2008:

Here are four alternatives to going with bare legs:

• If you’re self-concious about pale skin, try the newest self-tanners. Even cbudget versions now come with features such as built-in bronzers that help you see where the self-tanner is going. Just remember to exfoliate first and remove your hair (if waxing/electronic epilating you’ll need to wait another 24 hours, as the newly opened pores will absorb more product and legs will look spotty). It’s also important to use with caution around the knees and feet (it tends to look the most artificial there). Even better: grab a friend or spouse to help you put it on smoothly and get around to the back of your legs.

• Going way beyond the sandalfoot toe (which gives you no visible tight line at the toe), manufacturers have designed toeless tights. This way the sheer hose cover your legs (usually secured to the toes by a thong-like piece), but your toes peek out to give you a bare leg look. You’ll need to have sandals or shoes with a strap to cover the area where the tights end and your bare foot begins, so experiment with this look before relying on it for a special occasion. Toeless tights are available at all price ranges including popular brands like M&S.

• The variety of sheer denier tights options are amazing, from super sheer summer-weight tights to a type that Silkies.com offers called “Sun Oiled Sheen” tights that glisten like you just got off the beach. Remember that the best sheer pantyhose are close to your natural skin tone, not too dark or light.

• Leg makeup may sound overkill, but it’s a great way to cover blemishes, varicose veins, even tattoos. Dermablend is the main brand to name for corrective cosmetics and its “Leg and Body Cover” promises to go on easily over moisturiser and not rub off. Make sure your leg makeup is dry before you get dressed.

For tips on hair removal see this post

Chameleon Fridays