For a waiter or waitress, who usually wear just a half apron that wraps around their waists, it’s important that the frock contain several accessible pocket compartments in which to carry necessities for the job. Not only is this convenient for the time-pressed server, but it will also impress a dine-in customer when the item needed is right at the finger tips of their attendant.

Items which should be carried by a waiter in their apron should include an ordering tablet, two or three pens, straws and matches. If feasible, extra condiments should also be allowed for as part of the supply load, like catsup bottles or packets and creamer and butter samplers. But be sure to protect liquid products from creating a mess within the apron–this happens to even the best of servers! Sometimes, in the rush to fill a demanding customer’s coffee cup, leaning up against the counter or dining table causes a juicy explosion. It is best to keep those types of additives in a side pocket where they are safer.

Yet another issue that accompanies server aprons is the attached adjustable ties that are supposed to be secured on the back side of the waiter. As people come in all shapes and sizes, fastening these strings can be a side-show all in itself. Larger waisted people may have a difficult time tying a bow where the two ends meet because there simply is not enough material. Thinner servers may have to wrap the ties around two or three times before accomplishing a bow to secure the apron. A possible solution would be for management to purchase aprons which will accommodate any shape or size or server to allow for a more uniformed appearance of their staff.

Color choices for restaurant cook aprons usually aren’t that significant. The full cover aprons of the dishwashers, fry cooks and salad makers are rarely seen by the dining public. That is probably a good thing; chances are those hard-working employees in the back are wearing everything from sauces to sauts! Choosing a shade for the waitresses, waiters, hostesses and bus boy’s aprons is a bit more unrestricted and allows for a creative presentation which compliments the dcor of the restaurant dining room or color scheme of the table cloths and furniture.

Lastly, when choosing aprons for restaurant employees, select material that can easily be washed and sanitized and does not require too much effort for stain removal. Although employees are hard-working and dependable, they also have lives outside of the restaurant that may restrict time for uniform upkeep. If possible, provide at least two aprons to each server or cook.

Aprons: The Necessary Accessory! is a post from: TCLF 2010 Fashion Tips

However, Birkenstock has recently added boots to their line of footwear products expanding out from sandals and clogs to include both shoes and Birkenstock boots. Time will tell if they are as successful as the sandal line, but if their sandals are any proof, the boots should be a success as well.

There are 3 basic types – approach/day trip boots in the Birkenstock Alpine series, regular aggressive hiking boots in their Rockford line, and a several trendy boot styles like the Segovia Calf-boot for women.

When you go out to look for a new pair of Birkenstocks, you may find that they fit a little differently than what you are used to. Dont let this bother you. Simply try on a slightly different size and you should be able to find a pair that is comfortable for your feet.

No question boots are not what made Birkenstock famous. However they their experience producing top end casual footwear gave them a great base for developing a quality line of boots from the start. They were able to do it all without loosing sight of their core principle of simplicity and durability.

So, the next time your go shopping for a quality pair of boots or shoes be sure to check out what Birkenstock has to offer. They may be slightly more costly than other sandals, but they will last much longer, and will be more comfortable on your feet and back as well.

Birkenstock Boots – Durable Footwear With Sole To Boot is a post from: TCLF 2010 Fashion Tips

Elizabeth Taylor will always be remembered for her glamorous and beautiful look. I cannot remember any time that I have seen Elizabeth without her jewels to adorn her. This was a lady with a fashion style like no other. From gorgeous pearls adorning her face to beautiful diamonds adorning her neck. She knew how to make a fashion statement!

Ava Gardner was a woman with a glamorous fashion style that did not go unnoticed. Whether she choose to wear her best diamond earrings or her favorite Trifari necklace she always looked spectacular. There are many of us who could pick up a few tips from Avas flare!

Joan Crawfard and Joan Collins are another two that simply cant be outdone. One must wonder how a women so easily learns to be that refined and beautiful at all times. Like Cleopatra it seems to be bred deep within the soul.

Let us not forget about royalty. Although not perhaps celebrities as we think of them still important figure heads that are within the public eye. How about the gorgeous jewels of the Duchess of Windsor or Umbero II of Italy. Then there was Princess Mary of Great Britain who was seldom seen without her jewelry adornments.

To more modern times, what about that beautiful engagement ring that Camela Parker Bowls was seen wearing. An outstanding piece of jewelry on a women that quite commonly presents herself in a very traditional refined style. No glamour here except for that drop dead gorgeous ring!

Whether we are talking about Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Kate Winslet, Kate Hudson, or Katie Holmes celebrities give us the opportunity to see jewelry designs in play. They instantly help develop a desire for a certain jewelry piece or look.

Weve got plenty we can learn from the styles of celebrities. And once these designer jewelry pieces grab hold it isnt long before someone is making a similar piece that our pocket books can afford.

So keep watching the stars for great jewelry to make your fashion statement!

A Look At The Years of Celebrities Wearing Jewelry is a post from: TCLF 2010 Fashion Tips

1. I’m short and want to look taller for my prom. What should I do?

There are three elements that can help you appear taller on your special night: the right heels, the right prom dress, and the right hairstyle. First, plan on wearing high heels. Whether you add one inch or three with high heels, it’s important that you look for prom dresses that will accommodate the heels. You might want to go with a cocktail length dress, but a floor length dress will add length to your body – and an illusion of height. Look for floor length prom dresses that have side slits for better maneuverability. Finally, take care in selecting your hairstyle. Go with an updo to add height – even if you need to add extensions or a hairpiece.

2. I’m a senior in high school, but I look like an eighth grader. How do I look older for prom?

When it comes to maturity, keep two things in mind: bearing and appearance. Body language is important, in that how you move your body, how you tilt your head, the timber of your voice, and the way you walk all speak volumes about your perceived age. While you definitely don’t want to pretend you’re someone you’re not, this might be a good opportunity to practice skills that will help you evolve into the person you want to be. Practice walking in your prom shoes, watch your facial expressions in the mirror, record your voice to hear how it sounds, and so forth. Make any adjustments (and practice) so that your mannerisms reflect what you feel inside.

When you look for prom dresses, look for those that are more formal. Formal clothing makes women appear older, as do colors that are dark and rich. Depending on your coloring, you might want to go with jewel tones, black, or chocolate brown.

3. How do I know how to have my hair styled for prom?

How you fashion your hair greatly depends upon the style of your prom dress. If your dress has a high collar or a busy neckline, an updo is the only way to go. On the other hand, if your prom dress is sleeveless, strapless, or has spaghetti straps, you can wear your hair long or short, full or sleek. The one caveat is to make sure your hair doesn’t cover up an important feature of your prom dress. That gorgeous keyhole back, for example, will be invisible if you have hair down to your waist!

Answers to Common Questions About Prom Dresses is a post from: TCLF 2010 Fashion Tips

From netted athletic shoes made for running and walking just along the edge of the water to jelly shoes, flip-flops, and dozens of varieties in between it is now more than ever possible to not only have shoes that are practical to wear to the beach, but fashionable in this endeavor as well.

Shoes say a lot about the wearer, there is really no exception for beach shoes. Any old flip-flops say the wearer isnt very concerned about their foot fashion. Of course there are flip-flops with embellishments that make them a little more fashionable than the dollar store variety. A nice pair of Birkenstocks says the wearer is wisely more concerned with quality and comfort than following trends. Impractical beach shoes or those that are likely to need repairs after coming into contract with water and/or sand say the owner has more money than sense. And shoes that are funky and fashionable and made for the beach say the wearer is fashionably chic.

When choosing the right beach shoes for you it is important that you consider what your beachside activities are going to be. If you want to run along the shoreline, you might want to purchase a pair of the beach friendly athletic shoes that are relatively new. If you want to be fashionable go for some of the trendy beach shoes, if you want the ultimate in comfort go for a nice pair of Birkenstocks, and flip-flops are always an old fall back that have been the shoe of choice of beach goers for ages.

Beach Shoes are the New Summer Fashion Trend is a post from: TCLF 2010 Fashion Tips

The market is flooded with numerous jewelers and shops claiming to sell the most authentic and beautiful diamonds there are. To make the right choice from the plethora of designs and variety can indeed be a confusing task. It would do you good to be aware of some basic tips on buying diamond jewelry before you buy one for your girlfriend. The four cs, color, cut, clarity and carat, are the deciding factors for a diamonds purity and value. This king of gems comes in all colors, with white being the purest and costliest. Although it is the hardest stone available, diamond can be cut in a variety of fancy shapes and sizes. The shape and cut determines the shine of the gem.

One should choose the shape of the diamond according to your girlfriends personality. If she is dainty– buy a small elegant one; tall and well-buily? go for a large squarish rock. The sparkle of the diamond often holds more importance than the rocks size. Clarity of the diamond ensures a dazzling shine every time the light passes through the stone. Carat, or the weight of diamond, also contributes to its price and value in the market.

Educating yourself about the four cs will keep you from buying imitations. Even though it is conventional to spend two months salary on your engagement ring, you can buy synthetic diamonds, which will be easier on your wallet. Synthetic diamond has the same physical properties of a real diamond but is more affordable than the real one. Finally, do ask the jeweler to provide a purity certificate, which will serve as a guarantee and later help in insuring your gems.

A Guide To Diamond Engagement Rings is a post from: TCLF 2010 Fashion Tips

From netted athletic shoes made for running and walking just along the edge of the water to jelly shoes, flip-flops, and dozens of varieties in between it is now more than ever possible to not only have shoes that are practical to wear to the beach, but fashionable in this endeavor as well.

Shoes say a lot about the wearer, there is really no exception for beach shoes. Any old flip-flops say the wearer isnt very concerned about their foot fashion. Of course there are flip-flops with embellishments that make them a little more fashionable than the dollar store variety. A nice pair of Birkenstocks says the wearer is wisely more concerned with quality and comfort than following trends. Impractical beach shoes or those that are likely to need repairs after coming into contract with water and/or sand say the owner has more money than sense. And shoes that are funky and fashionable and made for the beach say the wearer is fashionably chic.

When choosing the right beach shoes for you it is important that you consider what your beachside activities are going to be. If you want to run along the shoreline, you might want to purchase a pair of the beach friendly athletic shoes that are relatively new. If you want to be fashionable go for some of the trendy beach shoes, if you want the ultimate in comfort go for a nice pair of Birkenstocks, and flip-flops are always an old fall back that have been the shoe of choice of beach goers for ages.

Beach Shoes are the New Summer Fashion Trend is a post from: TCLF 2010 Fashion Tips

Everyone loves jewelry with their birthstones in it.
This type of jewelry makes perfect birthday gifts, as
well as Christmas gifts. Some birthstones, such
as opals, are quite inexpensive, while others, such
as emeralds, rubies, and diamonds are very
expensive.

One option is to purchase simulated stones. These
stones are not real, and it is important that your
customer be made aware of this. However, some
customers will want the real deal! Again, you need
a source for real birthstones.

The Internet is the perfect place to find birthstones.
There are numerous jewelry wholesale outlets that
do business online. Because there are so many,
prices are usually rock bottom. Make sure that you
make sure any company that you do business with
is legitimate, and that the gems you buy are quality
birthstones!

Also make sure that you know exactly which stone
is required in the piece that you are making. Each
month actually has different gems that represent it,
depending on which tradition you are following.
Verify the exact stone that is wished for with the
client before making a purchase!

Making Jewelry Wholesale – How to Find Birthstones is a post from: TCLF 2010 Fashion Tips

Ah, graduation. A lot of hard work, time, talent, money and drive have led to this point: a milestone that will be celebrated, photographed and remembered forever. Whether from high school, college, law school, medical school, or what have you, graduation is a wonderful time of excitement and change.

How to mark the occasion? You can always write a check. (What new graduate doesnt need money?) Before you whip out your wallet, however, remember that cash is practical, yet very impersonal. Because youre reading this, its a good guess that the graduate is a special woman in your life, she worked hard to get where she is, and she deserves a graduation gift that is truly memorable.

How about something memorable, practical, meaningful and beautiful? Try pearls.

Pearl jewelrywhether pearl studs, a pearl pendant or a beautiful pearl strandis a classic and wonderful addition to any womans jewelry box. Whether shes heading off to college, interviewing for jobs, about to embark on a career, or planning a wedding, the recent graduate can wear pearl jewelry for instant polish. Added bonus: Shell remember you every time she wears them.

Which pearls to choose
Pearls come in many beautiful styles, shapes and designs, but for graduation, a simple classic style that will stand the test of time is best. (They dont call them staples for nothing.) Because classic pearls are so popular, there are a variety of options from which to choose. The following are classics shell reach for again and again.

Pearl stud earrings: The great thing about pearl studs is that they go with everything. Round, white pearls with a ros overtone flatter most skin types, and make a wonderful addition to any jewelry box. Some stores even carry pearl studs for non-pierced ears.
16 inch pearl strand: A matched pearl strand is a jewelry staple for a reason: its a classicnot to mention a no-brainer accessory that a woman can reach for to instantly add polish to an outfit. Shorter strands worn closer to the throat draw attention to the wearers face and skin; with their dewy complexions, young women look fantastic in pearl chokers. This style sits close to the throat and looks great with a business suit, v-neck sweater, tee-shirt or open-collared dress shirt.
18 inch pearl strand: This slightly more versatile, princess length necklace can be worn with most any neckline, and will serve the graduate well throughout her life. The princess length is a very popular choice for a great reason: it works well with everything from turtlenecks to sweaters, business suits, dress shirts, and more.
pearl pendant: A pearl pendant necklace featuring a single, large pearl is a great option that can be worn with many different styles. Choose a thin sterling silver or white gold chain for a modern look.
pearl bracelet: A perfect complement to a bold watch, and slightly more affordable than a pearl necklace, a pearl bracelet adds polish and class.
pearl ring: A pearl ring can make quite a bold and sophisticated statement, especially when the ring features a single, large pearl. The only downside to buying a ring is that you need to know the graduates ring size. Classic pearl rings look fantastic with both white and yellow gold.

Many retailers and online stores sell classic pearl jewelry in sets. Not only is this great because you pay less for the set than if you purchased a necklace, earrings and bracelet separately, but buying a pearl jewelry set provides the added bonus that the pieces will match.

What to look for
No matter which style you choose, or whether you buy pearls from a local jewelry store, large retail chain or Internet store (which should offer adequate descriptions of what youre buying along with a money-back guarantee), keep in mind these tips when youre shopping for pearls and you wont go wrong:
Youll pay more for larger pearls. In general, a larger pearl takes longer to form, and the chances of finding a perfectly round, large pearl are slim. After the 7.5-8mm mark for freshwater cultured pearls and akoya cultured pearls, the most popular pearl types, prices rise dramatically. A 6.5mm strand is both lovely and affordableand perfect for young women.
Pay attention to luster and surface. Pearls should have a high luster, or surface sheen, meaning they reflect light well. They should also be free from large blemishes such as chips and pits, although small blemishes are acceptable. An absolutely perfect strand is likely faux. Pearls are, after all, a natural product, and small variations are to be expected and do not detract from the pearls value.
Round is the hands-down favorite shape. While baroque pearls are gorgeous, and button and coin pearls are modern and affordable, when it comes to classic pearls, round is still in. To check that pearls are uniformly round, ask the jeweler or read the Internet description. If you can handle the strand, roll it on a table. Matched pearls will roll smoothly.
Thickness is important. Most pearls sold today are cultured pearls, and the best ones are formed in oysters or mussels that have been implanted with small, mother-of-pearl beads and mantle tissue or mantle tissue only and left in the water long enough for a sufficient coating of nacre to form. Avoid pearls that have been implanted with large plastic or glass beads or harvested prematurely; they will flake and peel easily.
Pay attention to uniformity. Make sure that pearls in a piece of jewelry are the same size, color, shape and luster.
Beware: Some jewelry makers try to hide smaller or imperfect pearls near the clasp.
Choose color carefully. Pearls look best if they flatter the skin tone of the wearer.

Follow these pearl-buying tips, choose wisely, and your graduate will have a jewelry staple shell treasure forever.

A graduate of the Gemological Institute of Americas Graduate Pearls program, Amy Drescher is a fashion writer and accessories buyer for www.moonriverpearls.com. She welcomes your questions. Reach her at adrescher@moonriverpearls.com.

A Graduation Gift that Stands the Test of Time is a post from: TCLF 2010 Fashion Tips

One of the many ways that you can go about familiarizing yourself with the latest in workplace fashions, like which clothing and clothing accessories are popular, is by buying fashion magazines. A large number of fashion magazines can be purchased for fewer than five dollars. If you are interested in buying a fashion magazine, you may want to flip through the magazine in question before doing so. While most fashion magazines do have a section that talks about workplace fashions, not all do. If you are able to find a magazine that does, you may walk away with very helpful information on workplace fashions, like what you should and shouldnt wear to work.

Another way that you can go about familiarizing yourself with the latest in workplace fashions is by using the internet. Online, there are a large number of fashion websites, as well as online fashion magazines that you can gain free access to. These online resources are a great way to learn more about workplace fashions, particularly the trends that are popular at the current moment. Since you would likely be focused on workplace fashions and not necessarily casual wear, you may want to think about customizing your internet search to include phrases like workplace fashions, work wear clothing, and so forth.

You may also be able to familiarize yourself with the latest in workplace fashions by turning on your television. As fashion becomes loved by more individuals each day, it is easier to find fashion focused television shows and even television channels. By checking your televisions onscreen guide or by viewing a printed television schedule, you should be able to see if any upcoming fashion shows will be focusing on fashion in the workplace.

Another one of the many ways that you can familiarize yourself with the latest in workplace fashions is to start shopping. If you choose to shop online, you will likely find that fashion retailers have their most popular clothing pieces and accessories prominently displayed on their websites main page. For storefront retail locations, you will likely find that popular and sought after clothing pieces and accessories are often the part of a store display. Also, by customizing your store search to include those that are focused on career orientated individuals, you are more likely to find what you are looking for, in terms of clothing and fashion accessories to wear to work.

As you can see, you have a number of different options when it comes to familiarizing yourself with workplace fashion trends. As a reminder, just because you see that something is popular at the moment, it doesnt necessarily mean that it is right for you and your workplace. Before implementing any new workplace fashion trends, you are encouraged to examine your workplace environment. You will also want to keep in mind what is considered acceptable and what is not.

Workplace Fashions: How to Familiarize Yourself with the Latest Trends is a post from: TCLF 2010 Fashion Tips