Anne Klein - the Past and the Future Extraordinaire!
Posted in Finery January 30th, 2009

Fashion designer Anne Klein was born Hannah Golofski in New York City. She started as a sketcher on Seventh Avenue in 1938. In 1948 she launched Junior Sophisticates and in 1968 Anne Klein & Co was born.

Anne Klein was a fashion pioneer well known for understanding what women wanted. She was known for creating chic, sophisticated, wearable comfortable clothes that women would wear. She designed sophisticated sportswear for young women. She knew each woman’s wardrobe needed a blazer, trousers, and separates.

Her designs were very popular within the USA. Her clothes were synonymous with American style and were relevant to the lives of the women she designed for.

The sportswear of today has its basis in Anne Klein, who defined what what women’s sportswear should be. In 1968 Anne Klein launched Anne Klein & Co. The company goal was to design and market sportwear separates that could be mixed and matched. She became an industry leader overnight.

Anne Klein & Co continued to grow and received numerous honors and award. Just at the height of her success Anne Klein died in early 1974 from breast cancer.

After years of financial difficulties and ownership changes Klein’s vision has once again become the label’s guiding light. The company was recently taken over by Jones Apprale Group with Mark Mendelson taking over as president.

Mark recently stated “The purpose of Anne Klein New York collection is to make fabulous clothes.” The company says the changes are going to be gradual and subtle. The Anne Klein collection is now being designed by Michael Smaldone.

You can find the Anne Klein Collection Online At
Neimanmarcus http://www.neimanmarcus.com/store/catalog/template/catB6.jhtml?itemId=cat3650742&parentId=cat000034&masterId=cat000009
Or Nordstrom
http://store.nordstrom.com/category/cat_boutique-medium.asp?category=2376778~2372811~2383417~2383694&siteid=d*BO/tAXm6A-fn1GDIWS7xH3c4eapLbpkA

In the USA Store Locations can be found at:

Anne Klein New York 417 West Broadway New York
Bloomingdales 59th Street New York
Lord and Taylor 5th Avenue New York
Macy’s Herald Square New York +1-212-695-4400
Saks Fifth Avenue 5th Avenue New York
Parisian’s Phipps Plaza Atlanta
Rich’s Lenox Square Atlanta
Marshall Fields State Street Chicago
Dillards Northpark Store Dallas
Neiman Marcus North Park Dallas
Macy’s Union Square San Francisco

In Canada Store Locations are

Holt Renfrew Stores Canada
Wear Else? Vancouver British Columbia
Blu’s WomensWear Edmonton & Calgar Alberta
Jas. A. Ogilvy Montreal Quebec

The current collection is fashionable without being trendy. This line of clothes is very fashionable but also very wearable. Their object is to give the customer wardrobe items they can get plenty of wear out of.

While at the same time presenting clothing women can get excited about.
Be sure to check out this seasons fabulous wardrobe additions for some very pleasant surprises. Make your fashion statement!

Sher from Estate Jewelry International has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing fashion, jewelry, and wedding help. Please visit us at http://www.estatejewelryinternational.com/

Here’s the Latest: All Rakeback Deals
Posted in Casino Stuff, Lucky Lotto January 30th, 2009

Rakeback Deals

Numerous poker players have asked me “Why should I profit from a Full Tilt Poker rakeback? I only play on the web when I have an inducement to play.” What happens if you have the chance to become a career poker player? There are too many bettors in the gaming world who are really upset at not taking poker rakeback however right away the majority of them have now opted in for each leading poker website and skins. Do not make the same error. If you are a player who wagers below one or two dollars and only bets if you are using bonus sign-up rewards, you are experiencing usually around 100% rakeback for the bonus on your bet. A certain well known website lately shut down gamblers that used the site only for this function. Who knows if this will inspire a more widespread trend. If it does then straightaway a rake back offer is essential.

One day you may hit tiptop form and find you are extremely wealthy, if you aren’t already. I was hurt in an on the job accident and came across online poker whilst recovering and I never looked back. That was a couple of years ago however I have not even once had to work in those couple of years all because of gaming and rakeback. Thinking forwards is a fantastic idea. Look at it as an investment, even if you don’t consider rakeback is desirable for you now it surely could be an outstanding investment in the future, there is no way you can lose. If you’re considering checking out a different website signing up for a rakeback offer has to be a great idea.

The Rakeback Professionals web site is pleased to offer so many respectable affiliates all in the same place. Signing up can be as easy as surfing to any The online poker players’ advice organization Rakeback Professionals partner site or as accessible as sending an e-mail. Any partner has the ability to set everybody up on the spot. You will be ready to start playing immediately. Should you sign up with an affiliate thru Rakeback Professionals you can be confident as every single affiliate has been evaluated and have agreed to allow The Rakeback Professionals site to mediate whatever complaints you may experience. Granted that we screen our affiliates, we have had hardly any problems and futhermore we will invariably move straightaway to investigate each problem to take care of any card players.

Swimsuits
Posted in Finery January 25th, 2009

From tankinis, grass-effect bikinis and halter-tops to one-piece maillots and ankle-length covers, women are taking pains to dress up and look glamorous by the poolside or beach.

Today there are swimsuits to flatter every body type and aesthetic taste. Heavier women, or those with wide hips, should definitely stick with solid colors and avoid busy prints. Halter-tops and high-necked swimsuits are a good option, too, but high-cut legs should be avoided at all costs, as they tend to emphasize the hips. Those who are busty or have broad shoulders should emphasize the bottom half of their bodies; medium- to high-cut legs and printed bottoms are their safest bet, and they should stay away from deep necklines and strapless tops.

Bikinis and cutout maillots made quite a splash at the Los Angeles Fashion Week, thus dictating the swimwear styles this year. Wild was the key word, as itsy-bitsy crochet bikinis were tied at the hip with stringy bows and even in some cases embroidered corsages. The Fashion Week clearly highlighted that frills and embellishments are in vogue this season. Hipster bottoms with very wide belts are stylish too, although a variety of belt widths are available, usually in the same color as the suit or even in contrasting colors.

The summer of 2005 witnessed another interesting swimsuit trend: the emergence of round, square and rectangular metallic rings, which adorned the bottoms as well as the tops. The metallic detailing could be seen off the sides, in the bust, on the straps and even at the back.

Swimsuits provides detailed information on swimsuits, bikini swimsuits, kids’ swimsuits, maternity swimsuits and more. Swimsuits is affiliated with Women’s Bathing Suits.

How to Wash Your Seven Jeans
Posted in Finery January 23rd, 2009

Globally recognized, Seven Jeans is a brand name known for the impeccable quality of its fabric and long lasting luster. Each pair is crafted in a unique way that distinguishes it not just from other company manufactured jeans but even from its own sister jeans.

Seven jeans is the foremost choice of countless people across the globe. The young as well as old love to wear this jeans that not just compliments their overall appearance but provide them wonderful fitting and complete comfort. The unique quality, design and cost-effectiveness of the Seven Jeans makes it dear to all.

But though this designer jeans is crafted out of the rough and tough but fine denim material and is available at an affordable price and, yet it requires extra care and protection. This is because of the artistic shade and shape given to the jeans. For instance, the color of the jeans is made to look lighter at certain areas (from thighs and knee etc.), some fine thread work done near or over the pockets and jeans becoming narrow from the bottom or tight over the thighs.

So you need to be careful not just while ironing your jeans but also while washing it. The ideal way to wash your seven jeans is to wash it upside down. Doing this will help you in two ways. First it will keep the color and the variations made in the shade of the jeans intact. Secondly the friction that develops while you wash several denim clothes together in a washing machine; gets reduced to a great extent. This is because of the fact that denim is a tough material, so in a washer full of jeans, the jeans merely rub against each other without any concrete wash. As a result the jeans loose their original texture and still remain dirty. Thus it is best to turn your jeans upside down and then put it in machine for washing or for drying.

Make sure that you do not use chemicals while washing your Seven jeans. Chemicals will not only reduce the strength of the fabric and life of the jeans but will also deteriorate its appearance. So it is better to use mild detergents or soaps that have less chemical and scent in them.

Even if your Seven jeans has become extremely dirty or there is some strong stain on it, never bleach it. Bleaching your jeans will alter its look completely. It is the worst thing you will do with your pair of Seven jeans and the money invested in it.

In order to retain the original fitting and shape of the jeans, make sure that the temperature of water is not too high. Be it machine-wash or hand wash, the temperature should be less than 50 degree Celsius i.e. 110 Fahrenheit.

The best way to enjoy the same fit and appearance of your Seven jeans, is to give it a handwash. Hand wash is the ideal option when your jeans is not too dirty. However in case of machine wash, wash the jeans separately from other colored garments.

Mansi aggarwal writes about active sandals. For more information visit buy Seven Jeans.

Purchase Discount Cycling Gear Online Today

There are a couple of things you’ll want to acquire when you begin cycling. The 1st and most clear is a good mountain bike that fits you! While that might appear like a no-brainer, lots of people start out on mountain bikes that are either too little, or built with poor quality components, merely because they are considerably cheaper. The exact fit & a well manufactured bike can make your ride a lot better, but, do not be enticed to bargain shop for your bicycle. However, it will be more clever to get one that will last you a significant amount of time. Once you have a bike that is right for you, it is time to purchase the other items that will help you to become a devoted cyclist. Find the latest offers on cycling equipment, helmets and bikies at Sportswear-Equipment.com

Lights: The minimum required by law for your bike is a small number of reflectors. However, a headlight & tail light are very useful, even in daylight hours. When it’s dark & rainy, they can make a large difference in your visibility to motor vehicles.

Tools: Just like driving a motor vehicle, accidents do crop up while you are on your bike. Therefore, it is important that you keep a tiny tool kit on you at all times to take care of flat tires, uncooperative chains, loose bolts and any other issues.

Helmet: Whilst it is legal in most locations to go without a bike helmet, in numerous others, one is compulsory. If you are aiming to cycle often, it’s wise to have one even in areas where no helmet law exists.

Clothes: While special cycling clothes is definitely optional, it is sensible to pay close attention to what you’re wearing. Loose garments ought to be avoided, or tucked up so they don’t get caught in the chain.

Locks: If you’re lucky enough to live in a place where you can keep your bike inside all the time, a security device is key. Even in the countryside, there are people who will gladly pinch and resell your bike.

Related topics of interest include: Formula 1 Racing & Buy Toys.

The Objective Investor’s Guide To 3 Real Estate ‘Gurus’
Posted in Business World, Living With Real Estate, Marketing Infos January 20th, 2009

The amount and depth of information available on the internet concerning real estate investing is growing every single day. The number of people who consider themselves to be “real estate gurus” is exploding, and each day sees the birthing of new websites and blogs related to real estate investing.

You won’t be shocked to learn that some of the things you’ll find online lack credibility. In consideration of this circumstance, consider some of the information below about available real estate investing resources. Note - we leave you to your judgment about the legitimacy of each resource.

(As a quick aside, I have found one particularly good real estate investing website that’s completely free. Check it out when you get a moment.)

* Bryan Ellis is a verifiable marketing visionary and sometimes real estate investor who has a clear fascination with news and how the economy affects investors. Ellis’ blog - http://realestate.BryanEllis.com - stands out because it is very news-oriented and sparks intense debate among its readers.

* Gerald Romine has an interesting software package for real estate investors that helps them calculate profit and loss and does a lot of paperwork for them automatically. His software sports a high price but has nice features.

With the exception of Bryan Ellis (who seems to keep a low profile), these people are known widely in the real estate investing business. But fame alone doesn’t mean a person or their products/services are worthwhile We encourage you to check these people out more closely.

Bridal Lingerie and the Trousseau: Reviving a Romantic Tradition
Posted in Universe Of Gender Issues January 20th, 2009

Bridal lingerie can be a thoughtful and lovely gift for any bride. Today’s selection of bridal lingerie runs the gamut from classic and elegant to racy and revealing. While nowadays, we think nothing of giving these garments as a gift, the presentation of bridal lingerie has had significant symbolic meaning in the past.

In year’s past, bridal lingerie composed a significant part of the wedding trousseau of a bride to be. The collection of such items for the trousseau represented the symbolic transition from bride to wife and from girl to matron. In Victorian times, a trousseau was considered to be a symbol of wealth and status. In addition to walking dresses, teatime outfits and evening gowns, hand embroidered bridal lingerie was a major component of the bridal trousseau. A typical trousseau of a Victorian bride might include traveling dresses, gaming dresses (for outdoor wear), separate ensembles for breakfast, lunch and dinner, several opera gowns and bridal lingerie including muslin and silk robes, slippers, pantaloons and corsets. It was not inconceivable for a Victorian bride to change her outfit 4-5 times per day.

Outfitting a trousseau with bridal lingerie and other items was a fairly common tradition well into the twentieth century. For the elder women in the family, the creation of bridal lingerie was an expression of love and care for the bride to be. It was not uncommon for a mother to spend years preparing her daughter’s trousseau. A single item such as a robe or evening cap could take months to embroider. In particular, the robe was one particular piece of bridal lingerie that received special care. A mother might begin designing the pattern while her daughter was still in babyhood.

Today’s bridal lingerie has lost much of its symbolic appeal. The purpose now is to excite and titillate, not to express a change in status. Bridal lingerie of the past was soft and romantic, with the focus on fabric and detail and not on revealing the female form. However, as notions of sexuality and the marital relationship have evolved, it has become progressively more daring.

Creating a trousseau with your own bridal lingerie can be a wonderful way to remember your wedding. Although gathering a trousseau is a custom that harkens back to Victorian times, there is nothing to say that you have to be Victorian in your choice. You can put together an eclectic mix, each reflecting various facets of your own personality. If you really want to follow tradition, you can fill your trousseau with items of hand tailored bridal lingerie.

If you are having your wedding gown custom made, you may want to consult your tailor about creating several items of bridal lingerie in the same theme and style as your wedding dress. For example, if your wedding gown is soft and romantic, bridal lingerie in the same vein can be a lovely and romantic addition to your wedding ensemble. If your wedding gown is more sleek and modern, you may want to create a simpler design. As with any piece of custom made clothing, hand tailored bridal lingerie is likely to fit much better than anything store bought. However, although having your own custom made and tailored is a romantic touch, keep in mind that the cost can be prohibitive.

Creating a trousseau with your own bridal lingerie, whether purchased or handmade, is a wonderful way to revive a romantic tradition. Years later, you can look back on the wonderful memories that you have created with items that are near and dear to your heart.

Skin Care Advice At Any Age
Posted in Universe Of Gender Issues January 20th, 2009

We’ve become a society obsessed with our looks.

It’s been noted that we spend more on beauty products in the west than we do on education. Why are we so obsessed? Because it’s easier and more affordable than ever before.Anti-aging skincare technology has progressed leaps and bounds. We know more about the skin today than we ever did. There are advanced skincare products that can erase years, and of course, the plastic surgeon has perfected his trade such that procedures are easier and cheaper than ever before.

Are we justified in our obsession?

They say that beauty is only skin deep, and while I believe this to be true it’s also important to do what feels right for you. If keeping up appearances gets you through the day then, by all means, that’s what you need to do, however I must add that I’m not a fan of going under the knife. With the huge advances made in skincare products today, I’d much prefer taking the less invasive route. Here’s a few age related tips and remedies that will help boost your skin’s appearance at any age without needles and knives. 20 Something Your skin is at its peak of beauty in your twenties, however nurture its beauty and always use at least an SPF 30 sunscreen. Of course this should continue at any age.

Avoid oily makeup and coverups. Use an oil free moisturizer every day. This is also a good time to begin using an eye cream under the eye area at night.

Try using products that contain green tea which have shown to help reduce the risk of skin cancer. 30 Something Your 30’s is when your skin is beginning to become a bit drier and sun damage may begin to appear. It’s time to start using thicker moisturizing creams so as to lock in high contents of moisture. Continue with eye creams at night and use your sunscreen religiously. Also, skin bleaching products may need to be used to diminish dark spots from sun damage. Hint: Put your moisturizer on over damp skin. This helps lock in more moisture.

40 Something It’s time to kick it up another notch. Your forties is when your skin loses much of it tightness. It may begin to look dull and your pores may become larger. Blotches, freckles, age spots, discoloration, and changes in skin color may become much more visible. Retinoids, anti-oxidants and alpha hydroxy acids can improve the look of your skin and your 40’s would be a good time to begin using them. Of course it’s essential that you continue using a thick moisturizer and eye serums on a daily basis.

Home microdermabrasion kits are also an option that can result in a smoother more even appearing skin texture and tone while rejuvenating your skin’s texture and color.

50 Something Changes in your skin have reached high gear. Menopause has assisted in the loss of Estrogen which is what has given your skin its elasticity and kept it hydrated, however since those estrogen levels have diminished, you will begin seeing wrinkles form around your eyes, drooping eyelids and expression lines around the mouth and forehead.

Begin using anti-aging or wrinkle reducing formulas such as vitamin A (Retinol) or Glycolic acid products. Retin A has proven to reduce fine lines and wrinkles while improving skin texture, skin tone and color, as well as your skin’s hydration levels.

Glycolic acid will trigger new formation of collagen to plump cells and reduce wrinkles on the skin’s surface. Postmenopausal women can also use a cream containing progesterone that may improve skin elasticity and firmness.

60 Something By age 60 all types of collagen are significantly below their youthful levels. There are, however wonderful hydrating creams that contain Alpha Hydroxy acids (Glycolic acids), soy, green tea and retinol (vitamin A) which your skin will need now that it is drier and showing major signs of age. The alpha Hydroxy acids will help reduce droopy skin and the retinol will reduce your fine lines. 60 Plus Your skin’s texture will become visibly less smooth and you will most likely begin to see age spots. You’ll appreciate the early care you’ve given to your skin because the signs of aging will be minimal, however, if you haven’t started early you’ll clearly notice the effects of neglect.

While it’s never too late to take care of your skin the damage you already have will be difficult to reduce without special medical treatments such as botox or perhaps surgical procedures. All the above should continue to be applied but it is wise to consult your physician on advanced treatments.

If you haven’t yet reached 60, the best skin care advice is to follow a good skin care regimen at an early age. It’s an easy habit to get into and best of all, you’ll thank yourself later on.

Soap Making For Beginners - Melt And Pour Process
Posted in Uncategorized January 19th, 2009

As you will learn, soap making can be simple or complex. Some people enjoy the challenge of going all out professionally, which is fine. However, other people simply want to make soap for personal use or to give as an occasional gift.

Keep in mind that safety precautions should still be followed because soap becomes dangerously hot when melted, regardless of the skill level involved. Here, we will discuss easy melt and pour techniques, perfect for the novice or skilled soap maker!

First, keep in mind that most handmade soap is made from glycerin. When you purchase store-bought soap, the majority of the glycerin has been processed out. Therefore, when you make your own soap, you have a great opportunity to create something that is glycerin rich and soft.

Although “glycerin” is usually clear, with today’s colors and fragrances, you can create beautiful soaps that not only make your skin soft but also look great. With glycerin, because it is a humectant, moisture is drawn out of itself. That means when you use glycerin soap while bathing, a very fine layer will stay on the skin, adding moisture.

BUYING SOAP

To go through the easy melt and pour method, you want to stop by your soap-making supply or hobby store, or online soap supply store. There, you will find large blocks of clear soap. These vary in size and type. Remember, the prices will vary depending on where you live and the store or business where you buy.

Regardless, the following are the types of melt and pour soaps you would need to make your homemade soap.

Hemp Glycerin Soap

This type of glycerin is great for the “melt and pour” system, creating semi transparent soap with the benefit of hemp. Hemp oil is rich with essential fatty acids, enzymes, Omega 3 and 6, and vitamins A, D, & E. When buying hemp glycerin, you should look for blocks that are around 20% glycerin, is alcohol free, and free of any harsh detergents.

Typically, you will find 11-pound slabs, which will make approximately 44 bars of soap, each four ounces. If that is too much, you might try to find smaller slabs or go in with another soap maker to split the soap. This size slab will average $40.

Olive Oil Soap

Olive oil soap is semi-transparent with just a slight tan color. However, the benefits and features are very close to that of hemp glycerin. The only difference is that instead of hemp, olive oil is used. When buying, look for cold pressed olive oil that contains essential fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, and as close to 20% glycerin as possible. Again, an 11-pound slab for olive oil soap runs around $40.

Clear Glycerin Soap

This type of soap is transparent and has low shrinkage qualities. In addition, clear glycerin soap has very little problem with discoloration. This soap is vegetable derived and an excellent choice for “melt and pour” soap bars. You can add color or fragrance easily and the soap will leave your skin feeling soft and smooth.

Clear glycerin soap is also a great choice for making soap with multiple layers, novelty soaps (those with toys, flowers, or other objects inside), and yet the clarity is exactly what you would buy from your favorite boutique. If you want a good daily soap, one that is fun for the kids, and makes an excellent gift, clear glycerin is it.

Goat’s Milk Glycerin Soap

This type of soap originates from the beautiful Rocky Mountains. The feel is creamy and rich, and very luxurious. The appearance of this soap is off white. Many people shy away from goat’s milk glycerin because of the name but you will find that it has no fragrance and actually takes both color and fragrance perfectly.

If you want soap that is natural, this is a great choice. Typically, goat’s milk glycerin soap is slightly higher than the other types of soaps but still very affordable and well worth the investment.

MELT AND POUR SOAP MAKING EQUIPMENT AND INGREDIENTS

The great thing about using melt and pour is that you can use equipment you typically have on hand. With this method, you can use the base of a double boiler or your microwave oven.

Keep in mind that if you choose the microwave, the bowl with the soap substance will need to be covered with plastic wrap to keep it from splattering but more importantly, to help keep the excess moisture from evaporating. For the microwave method, you would melt the base soap on high for about one minute, stirring in the remaining pieces not yet melted.

For the double boiler option, bring the water to a boil. Then, add your melt and pour soap of choice, cover, and leave on low. This will take quite some time to melt so about every 10 minutes, check the base to see if it is melted. If you like, you can stir occasionally to ensure an even melt.

Fragrance

For both methods of melt and pour, if you want to add in fragrance, once the base soap has melted, then you would add the fragrance oil. Be sure the fragrance is mixed in completely and that the base of the soap does not have a cloudy appearance.

Although you can use more or less fragrance according to personal preference, typically a good rule to follow is to use .25 ounces to every one pound of soap base. In addition to fragrances, you can also use essential oils.

Color

Now for the color, if you want to create colored soap, add approximately one-eighth teaspoon to one-quarter teaspoon mica in with the melting soap base, making sure to mix in it well.

If any bubbles form on top of the soap, you can leave them for design effect or spray them with rubbing alcohol. If you want to use food coloring, start with just one drop to the melted base, stirring well. Then, you can add one additional drop until you find the color of preference.

After the fragrance and color have been added to the soap base, pour the melted base into the mold of your choice. Again, if you want to remove any bubbles that will settle on top, spray them with rubbing alcohol. After the soap has hardened, generally a few hours, you can use it and enjoy!

COST

As you can see, to make your own soap at home, you would pay around $40 for the slab of base, a few dollars for fragrance, a few dollars for coloring, and that is about it. The process is very cost effective, fun, and you end up with exactly the type of soap you love most.

Most people figure that one bar of homemade soap will average .50, far less than you would pay elsewhere. In addition, you can add in special items or effects to jazz things up.

Making soap using the melt and pour process is easy and fun… and makes for very inexpensive soap. Not only is it great for making your own soap, but it makes for truly unique and creative gifts.

David Cushion - EzineArticles Expert Author

Dave Cushion is the creator of the very popular book “Soap Making Made Simple!” To get additional soap making tips, go to http://www.soap-making-made-simple.com and learn much more about this very fun and useful craft.

First-Class Early Season Snow in the Alps
Posted in Better Travel, Great Recreation Tips, Life Of Sports January 16th, 2009

Climate change and the recession, these twin risks have passed by the Southern Alps, at least for the time being. On the other hand it may have been so wholly polar. Ahead of the holidays hamlets in the Luz Ardiden locale were cut off as avalanches hammered down. Road cols such as the busy Col du Serre Chevalier were cut. At that place there was no mains or phone lines, home owners had to be evacuated to temporary dwellings, it appeared as though it were a double of 1998.

It appears that all news is good news. Avoriaz featured every evening on national news bulletins. As soon as power was restored bookings started to come in, attracted by the good snow.

La Chavanette and neighbouring Megeve lay claim to virtually four m snow on the upper slopes at 2300 meters alt. and 2.3 metres at the end of the runs. Presently the deepest in France. Les Gets claims that there is six metres at the the highest point of the resort. Unfortunately snow drifts have knocked over a support of the ski lift which goes up to the area. They are out of action until the middle of Feb.

Elsewhere in the European Alps ski breaks inquiries have increased 17% in Avoriaz, Auron and La Plagne. Val Thorens has 99 tenancy and traded a record number of ski passes during Saturday. This is welcoming for big skiing companies.