Contrary to what many believe looking good doesn’t have to cost a fortune – just buy estate jewelry! And save plenty!!

There is often much confusion with both dealers and consumer. There is some false myths floating around that estate jewelry is antique jewelry. Nothing could be farther from the truth.

Although many pieces of estate jewelry are antique, many pieces are also vintage, retro, or fairly modern. That’s why searching for estate jewelry can result in some terrific buys!

Estate jewelry also does not mean fine jewelry. Estate jewelry can be costume or fine and is found both ways.

Throughout the ages and even today a perfect gift for a woman was a piece of jewelry. There is also a distinction made of women who wear jewelry. It seems to set them a class above other women. Why has never been determined. It’s simply been a cultural norm for centuries.

We often take our clues as to jewelry popularity by watching what the celebrities are wearing. Next time you are watching television take note of how many pieces of jewelry the stars are wearing that are from another era. Celebrities are very fond of estate jewelry!

Antique jewelry is normally classed as jewelry that is pre 1920, while art deco, vintage, and retro are often grouped together and denote the era from the 1920s to the 1950s. Estate jewelry can be from any of these eras.

If you are looking for classic jewelry like your grandmother may have worn consider searching jewelry sites that sell antique and estate jewelry. If you are collecting jewelry you should pay special attention to the estate jewelry sites who have a wide range of designer marked pieces. Collecting can be expensive so make sure to set a budget.

If you are looking to complete your wardrobe and hate looking like everyone else, estate jewelry is an excellent choice. Here you will find variety and beautiful pieces from many different time periods. The chances of finding another wearing the exact same jewelry piece as you are drastically reduced.

You can look unique and stand out from the crowd with estate jewelry. You also can choose between fine jewelry and costume jewelry. The prices are very reasonable and the costume jewelry of past eras has a much higher quality than modern costume jewelry.

The designs and styles were more highly refined and much classier. Costume jewelry of past eras was designed not only for the general population but also for the rich and famous. Many design ideas were inspired from fine jewelry pieces of the era.

So the next time you are looking to add glamour and sophistication to your wardrobe remember to have a quick search on line for estate jewelry. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised with your options!
See I told you looking good doesn’t have to cost a fortune!

Looking Good Doesn’t Have To Cost A Fortune – Buy Estate Jewelry is a post from: Fashion Sites

by:- Luke Mayes

If you’re unsure about what color your collar should be – the short answer is to have options. Your choice of color is one of the most important considerations when choosing the style of your business shirt collar.

White Collars

For a white shirt, the collar should always be white and made from the same fabric as the rest of the shirt. The only exception to this rule is the tuxedo shirt which may incorporate another white (textured) fabric for the shirt front (bib) and the cuffs.

The white shirt was previously a uniform requirement at IMB and a plain white shirt still communicates efficiency, aptitude, and professionalism.

For stripes, checks and solid colors, Gordon Gecko’s contrast white collar is still a great look on Wall Street. A contrast white collar (with white cuffs) is all about the big city, big deals, and big money. If you’re visiting a big city from a smaller city, a contrast white collar can communicate that you’re a genuine player and not intimidated by the big smoke.

If, on the other hand, you’re visiting a smaller city from New York, the contrast white collar can be a big turn off to blue collar management. Gecko’s, “Greed is good,” mantra appeals to some, but not to all. You don’t want to come across as a slick, big city executive when you’re selling farming machinery in Arkansas.

Blue Collars

When dealing with manufacturing operations as well as businesses in smaller communities, a blue shirt (with a matching collar) is a staple ingredient in a businessman’s wardrobe.

Unlike the white shirt which often represents administrative efficiency, the blue collared shirt represents a connection with physical work, engineering, and problem solving. When visiting agricultural sites, a button down blue collar shirt (always worn with a single breasted jacket) conveys both respect and discretion – with or without a tie.

For those business situations that require your multi-faceted understanding of finance, administration, manufacturing, and sales, a light blue shirt will fit the bill.

Others…

There are a myriad plaids, stripes, checks, dots, weaves, and color combinations to choose from when you’re looking for a business shirt. If you don’t usually wear a tie, compliment a solid jacket (or suit) with a bright, colorful shirt. If you wear ties, ensure that your tie and shirt do not compete for attention. An easy rule of thumb is to wear plainer shirts with busy ties and plainer ties with busy shirts.

Unless you’re latest recording has just gone platinum, be cautious of combining a busy suit, with a busy shirt, and a busy tie. That being said, if you’re confident in your own good taste, mix it up and show the world who you are. The choice of your collar color is sure to speak volumes about your personal style.

Coming soon:

• Collar width, length, and spread – framing different faces
• Wingtip (or Wing) collars and other black tie options

Visit our site : www.tailor.com

About the Writer –

Luke Mayes is a textile designer, an independent filmmaker (Red Shift director), and a freelance writer. His work has been published in Style, Apparel, Corporate Wardrobe, Cigar Aficionado, For The Groom, Playboy, and GQ.

Shirts: White Collars, Blue Collars, and others is a post from: Fashion Sites

A Diamond’s weakness is its perfect ‘cleavage’ or the tendency to split along its perfect crystal planes. This makes diamonds vulnerable to cracking or chipping with a sharp blow. A good setting prevents most damage, but reasonable care is essential to enjoy your investment for many years to come.

The diamond has to be taken off and put in a safe place when washing dishes. Wearing diamond rings when gardening or during household repairs that might scratch the setting or damage the prongs that keep the stone secure should be avoided.
Exposure to household chemicals like chlorine and hairspray can accumulate and dull the surface of your diamond. Periodic cleaning is crucial if you want to keep it looking brilliant and prismatic.

Hand lotions, hair styling products and everyday dirt can leave a film on your diamond which will reduce the sparkle. Those materials can even accumulate into a thick layer of filth on the back of the stone, if cleaning is not done in adequate intervals.

A gentle scrubbing with a soft-bristle brush in a solution of plain alcohol diluted in warm water is recommended for cleaning. Scrubbing doesn?t mean using brushes with bristles hard enough to scratch the surface of the ring.

Periodic ultrasonic cleaning by your local jeweler is also recommended to clean hard-to-reach areas under the settings. Be sure to take your Diamond Ring to a trusted local jeweler to check for loose prongs.

You may have to pay a little to have the prongs retipped with gold once a year or so, but it will be well worth it. Prongs can break or weaken with normal wear, and it would be heartbreaking to lose your precious diamond. So, good care has to be taken to maintain the token of your life and it?s not that hard to keep your engagement ring sparkling.

Looking After Your Engagement Ring Will Keep It In The Best Condition. is a post from: Fashion Sites

Foods to Avoid until the Prom

Over the next few weeks, try to avoid foods high in carbohydrates such as pasta and bread. Check labels for substitute items or for items with fewer carbohydrates. Avoid regular soft drinks as well and replace these with diet soft drinks, Gatorade, or flavored water. Carbohydrate-rich foods as well as soft drinks tend to cause bloating in many people. Even the slightest bloating that normally wouldn’t affect the fit of your regular clothing could make your prom dress too snug. Remember, you’re going to be dancing and moving about so you’ll need some breathing room in your formal eveningwear.

Try to avoid junk foods such as snack cakes, candy bars, and potato chips. Choose healthier snacks such as baked chips, nuts and cashews, raisins, low-fat ice cream or yogurt. These can be eaten in moderation without worry of putting on more pounds.

Other things to limit include whole milk, casserole dishes, and fried foods. And, steer clear of the fast food restaurants over the next few weeks!

Foods to Eat before Prom Night

As mentioned previously, prom dresses tend to be less forgiving than regular clothing so you must choose your foods wisely these last few weeks. Choose foods that burn fat and tone the body. Foods high in protein such as chicken, beef, fish, pork, and lamb are excellent fat burners, especially when carbohydrate intake is limited. Eat meats in moderation along with healthy green or yellow vegetables at each meal.

Between meals, snack on fruits or veggies such as apples, grapes, oranges, bananas, strawberries, watermelon, carrots, tomatoes, pears, and peaches. These all help keep your body healthy, increase energy levels, and keep off those extra pounds.

With each meal, eat smaller portions so your tummy will shrink. You’ll notice a significant difference within just a few weeks.

Prom Dresses and Water

Water is always good for your body, and it’s good for prom dresses too! Drink six to eight 8-oz. glasses of water per day to hydrate your body. This helps reduce bloating, gives you an energy boost, and beautifies your skin and complexion. Water also helps to deter those food cravings. Oftentimes, we are thirsty when we think we’re hungry. Drink water every time you feel hungry to see if the feeling goes away. You might be surprised at how much less you’ll eat.

Exercise for Toning

To tone up your body before the prom, create a daily exercise routine that includes stomach crunches, arm lifts, walking, jogging, or bike riding. These can help tone your tummy, legs and arms for that special evening. Avoid rigorous exercises, and focus on consistency rather than performance.

Note of Warning

Be sure to consult with your physician before starting a short-term or long-term diet and exercise plan. Every individual is different and has different needs, so ask your doctor which plan is right for you, especially if you have any health problems.

These tips can also apply for other formal occasions where evening gowns must be worn such as a homecoming or Quinceanera event. With proper diet and exercise, you’ll look fabulous in your prom dress!

Shhh! Some Little-Known Secrets about Diets, Exercise, and Prom Dresses is a post from: Fashion Sites

An antique store is the best resource in locating a pocket watch. As obvious as it may sound, this is the ultimate resource, however, there are a large number of people that overlook this option when searching for a pocket watch. If you can find an antique store that specializes in jewelry, it will make the chances of you finding that perfect pocket watch that much greater.

An alternative to an antique store is a flea market. There are many bargains available at flea markets and if you find a great flea market, you may just find a great pocket watch for a great price. Not only could you end up saving money, but you could find the pocket watch you have been looking for.

If you did not have any luck at the antique store or flea market, another place to locate pocket watches is at a garage sale. Garage sales are very “hit or miss”, but if you do happen to find a pocket watch, you can get it for fractions of what it may cost at an antique store. This is the cheapest way to find a great pocket watch, however, it may take longer to find what you are after.

These are just a few places you can begin your search for the perfect pocket watch. Be sure to shop around and compare the prices between vendors. Sometimes you could even get them to knock off a few bucks if you mention that you saw one at another shop that you were interested in. With the resurgance of antiques and pocket watches in general, chances are that you can easily find the one you are looking for at a great price.

Location! Location! Location! Best Places to Shop for Pocket Watches is a post from: Fashion Sites

It can transform a ‘normal’ body into one that would befit a model or actress and the physiological effects can make even more of a transformation! Read on….

Gone are the days when sexy lingerie was something that was bought by a woman or man to enhance sex – nowadays, it does so much more.

Certainly, items such as silky baby dolls; pretty, colourful bras and knickers; suspenders; lacy teddies etc can enhance the experience of making love, but now women are seeing more to the picture that just that.

Sexy underwear is steadily becoming a staple part of a woman’s normal day wear. Under many a suited, working woman you’ll see a hint of lacy bra or extra sheer stockings that give the lady a certain ‘oommpph’.

Not only does the wearing of ‘sexy’ lingerie exude sexuality (sometimes unbeknown to the lady in question), wearing sensuous, pretty/ racy underwear can boost a woman’s confidence in her body ten-fold.

The good news is that today’s sexy lingerie is no longer uncomfortable, scratchy and unpractical. Fluid lines, top quality lace and silk and other sensual

materials, and, most important, a style suited for today’s woman (as opposed to yesterday’s stick insect shape) means they are like a second skin – and a very flattering one at that.

‘Larger’ ladies – and the term is used very loosely as around 40% of the UK population falls in to this outdated category – are now catered for when it comes ot choosing pretty, fn and racy undies!

Push up bras can make the most of an ample (or tiny) breast whilst lacy boy pants can flatter a round belly and cuddly bottom whilst thongs can show of sexy legs.

Wearing beautiful, sexy underwear cannot help but have a positive mental effect on the wearer – and a more confident, happy person will radiate this and reap the rewards.

The key to make the most of wearing sexy lingerie is to focus on a part of your body that is really great – and we all have at least one, it is just that we tend to focus on the less than great bits – and then dress to really show it off. Even if it is hidden under your suit, or a t shirt and jeans, you know that you are wearing .. and then so will other people!

Sexy Lingerie – A beginners Guide is a post from: Fashion Sites

This is because people who choose lion jewelry are often strong-willed and proud types. They are also quite often leaders, so don’t be surprised if your high-powered corporate boss happens to be sporting a solid-gold lion’s head ring or pendant! People who wear lion jewelry don’t just do it for show — well, all right, maybe mainly for show. But they also send a message out to the world, and that message is “I’m in control!”

The lion motif in jewelry is frequently associated with the Western zodiac sign Leo. As with rabbit jewelry, it might be reasonable to assume that people sporting the lion motif were born under this zodiac sign. The Leo is dominant, spontaneous, creative and extroverted. They are most comfortable in a position of command. Leos are fun and effective communicators. They are gifted with the unique ability to shine out and take charge in any occasion.

Even in private, Leos like to be fussed over and given full attention. All eyes on the king! The worst thing you can do to a Leo loved one is to wound his or her pride, to belittle his or her achievements.

Leos are idealistic and single-minded — when they are dedicated to a cause, you will know it! They are good at drawing people into their circles, a whirlwind schedule of alternating charity parties and outreach events are nothing to them. They are adventurous, but they are by no means sloppy. Leos are known to suddenly plan getaways like backpacking across Europe — and they will accomplish it, even on a surprisingly small budget!

Add an extra sparkle to your Leo’s eyes with a surprise gift of lion jewelry. Or treat yourself to a few choice bracelets and rings, and feed the lion within!

Lion Jewelry: The Pride of Royalty is a post from: Fashion Sites

A black garter belt is a tasty treat for any paramour. Adding a pair of thigh high fishnets will turn that tempting treat into a full course meal of dishy sultry fun. Fine lingerie has always been a provocative way to entice any love interest into your boudoir.

Sparks will fly when you snap a sheer pair of thigh highs to a matching garter belt. It is amazing how easy it is to create some sexy chemistry with intimate apparel. The ambience will turn steamy simply by adding some silk stockings. Creating some passion is always worth a little extra effort. Just by slipping on some panty hose you can delight any recipient of your amorous advances.

Never will there be a dull moment when a pair of thigh highs is concerned. You will find that by adding some sexy hosiery to your love encounters your amorous adventures will reach new dimensions. Bringing some adventure into a romantic liaison is never a bad thing. Why let it simmer, when you can make it sizzle with a lacy garter belt to take things up a notch.

Sometimes its all in the details. Just knowing your wearing sexy hosiery can arouse your desires and set the stage for some unforgettable evenings. A bit of intimate wear may be just the answer you are looking for to bring out the deeply sensual creature inside. Your sexy self may just need a bit of coaxing and hot little naughty garter belt is sure to do the trick.

There is no reason to be shy when it comes to pleasing yourself and your lover. Sexy lingerie provides endless options for any women to keep her sex life a perpetual honeymoon. In the game of sexual attraction, a smart women knows that although nude is nice, not so nude is even nicer. Sexy hosiery is right up there with cupids bow in the love arsenal.

A women who will slide on a pair of slinky stockings, or pose in a pair of sheer pantyhose and nothing else, is the same women who knows the seductive secret of sexy hosiery.

Sexy Hosiery is a post from: Fashion Sites

GEM MATERIALS: 99% of all lab-created diamonds sold worldwide are polycrystalline on a molecular level. The differences are fundamentally in the technical aspects of manufacturing, cutting, and polishing. Think of it this way—all coffeemakers are made of plastic, steel, and glass, the differences are how these materials are designed and implemented. Higher quality coffeemakers make a better tasting cup of coffee. Higher quality manufactured diamonds are in line with mined diamonds.

QUALITY VARIANCES: It seems like grade variations are made out to be a more complex lab-created diamond issue then it really is. Once boiled down, there are three primary grades of simulated diamonds—high, medium, and low. For the jewelry shopper it should be noted that the quality of setting goes hand-in-hand with the quality of the gemstone. Those that sell manufactured diamond jewelry off point-of-purchase displays in the costume jewelry sections of discount stores use low quality or scrap stones that are not gem quality, and have disco ball or murky look. Those that sell manufactured diamond jewelry on the TV shopping channels—which is generally with a sterling silver or a micro-thin layer of gold plated over silver (Vermeil [pronounced ver-may]) settings—use medium quality stones not of gem quality. Those that sell solid 14K gold or solid platinum settings, as a rule, use the highest gem-quality man made gemstones that replicate mined diamonds.

PRICING: Low grade stones are sold in bulk to costume jewelry makers and are often glued on electroplated settings. This jewelry is fine for children, where loss risk is high, and usually retails for less than $15 per item. You will find medium grade stones primarily in sterling silver jewelry that sells for under $100 per item, settings and stones. Medium grade simulated diamonds can be distinguished by the naked eye as not being mined diamonds. High grade gemstone quality lab-created diamonds, undistinguishable by the naked eye from mined diamonds, are found mounted on settings of solid 14K gold and platinum. This is considered to be fine jewelry, with the best quality gemstones selling for under $100 per carat for the gemstones alone. Manufactured diamonds that sell for over $100 a carat are not higher quality than those that sell for between $80 and $100 per carat.

RECOMMENDATIONS: If you are buying for someone that is likely to lose the jewelry, there is no reason to spend any more than you have to, and Wal-Mart will do just fine. On the clearance rack you can even pick up some jewelry for less than $5 per item. If you buy simulated diamonds set in sterling silver, expect decent stones, but they will fool few into thinking they are mined diamonds. Also, your fingers are likely to turn green or black in response to a chemical reaction, not with the silver per se, but with the nickel/copper alloys in sterling silver. With any plated settings, gemstones are low to medium grade, and the plating will eventually chip off, particularly around the edges. When that happens, the nickel/copper alloys will be exposed, the setting will look like it came out of a gum ball machine, and your finger will generally turn green or black. It is just a matter of common sense, if you want simulated diamonds with mined-diamond qualities, they must be set in 14K solid gold. Jewelers who offer lab-created diamonds are not going spend on money on gold and not mount the highest quality stones, which would defeat the purpose of creating fine diamond-like jewelry and alienate customers.

Lab-Created Diamonds – Simulated Diamonds And Manufactured Diamonds Review is a post from: Fashion Sites

Women on the other hand typically have fantasies about strong, capable men. Most women start drooling the moment they see anyone in uniform, including soldiers, sailors, police officers, fire fighters, or sports figures. However, women can become caught up in a fantasy that involves them dressing up in a provocative outfit just as easily as men. After all, why would any woman agree to wear a sexy costume if there wasn’t something in it for her?

Wearing sexy costumes is nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about, as many couples exercise these play roles to keep their love life from becoming tired, listless, or dull. Just because you use sexy costumes in your relationship does not mean that you no longer want to be with your partner, which is a common misconception. Just because you have a desire to see your wife or girlfriend in a skimpy maid’s outfit does not mean you have a secret wish to have sex with a maid. Instead, these fantasies allow us to cast ourselves and our loved one in a unique setting in order to experience something different. Think of it like Halloween, but instead of candy, you get something much more satisfying.

There are several different variations of sexy costumes that are available for purchase. If you are entering into the idea of fulfilling a fantasy for either yourself or your partner, you may be unwilling to purchase some of the more provocative costumes on the market. Consider starting out small by using accessories and accents to make a unique statement or choose a more subdued costume that is subtly sexy. Although there are only two people in a relationship, and you may have many years of history to fall back on, there can still be embarrassment present, so be sure to speak of any issues that may be of concern for either you or your partner.

Think of sexy costumes like lingerie or any other provocative clothing meant to get a rise out of your partner. When purchasing sexy costumes, you should be sure to choose a costume not only for its look, but also for its construction and materials. By purchasing a high quality costume, you can be sure that your partner will be able to enjoy his or her fantasy for many, many years to come. Most often, the fantasy wears out before the costume!

In addition to wearing a sexy costume to keep your sex life jumping, consider using different areas in your home for those intimate moments. A scantily clad maid is far more convincing on the kitchen table than in the bed. Furthermore, that muscle-clad mechanic will be a good deal more enjoyable in your garage to keep the fantasy realistic. Keep in mind that sexy costumes differ from person to person. What you consider sexy is probably different that what your friends consider sexy, but fantasies are unique to each individual. Be sure to support your partner with whatever fantasy tickles his or her boat and enjoy the ride!

Sexy Costumes – Add a spark to your Love Life is a post from: Fashion Sites