Art Deco Jewelry Designers Changed Fashion in the 1920s

By Erwin Rostuzing

Like other kinds of fashion, jewelry design is periodically taken by storm by a set of new design aesthetics and ideas that revolutionize the way jewelry is made and create a whole world of options for jewelry wearers. One such style that came along was art deco. Art deco was not just a type of jewelry design - it was a new style that impacted fashion, architecture and interior design in the 1920s and 1930s.

Art deco looks were inspired by the new emerging culture of jazz music, flappers, and technological advances of the era. These changes were reflected in art deco styles of jewelry, which used bold new colors and patterns to create jewelry that is truly unique.

New Materials Translate to New Looks

This time period was one of bold fashion statements, especially for women, who were discovering new freedoms and shaking off their stay at home image to enjoy going out to social events more, like parties and jazz shows. The ubiquitous 1920s flapper is a perfect symbol of the new wild times many women were enjoying. Of course, this bold new style translated itself into the art deco jewelry of the period.

Art deco jewelry designers used new materials that had not been used commonly in jewelry in the past, like plastic, steel and chrome. It as during this time that platinum became a popular choice for jewelry settings. Precious and semi precious gemstones in bright colors became the most sought after stones for jewelry, replacing diamonds and pearls.

One of the biggest legacies of art deco jewelry was the appreciation for so called costume jewelry - big, bold, colorful pieces - that grew out of this era. It was also a productive time for designers, and some of the most recognizable names in jewelry design began working during this time period, including Coco Chanel, Raymond Templier, Paul Emile Brandt, Elsa Shiaparella and Rene Lalique. Although these designers often used lower cost materials when designing their jewelry, they gained such a following that their jewelry became as expensive as jewelry that contained diamonds and other expensive materials.

Buying Art Deco Jewelry Today

Although many modern jewelry designers take their inspiration from art deco jewelry styles, people still have a desire to get the real thing. Art deco jewelry is some of the most popular jewelry at estate sales and auction houses and a vintage original piece of art deco jewelry can easily sell for tens of thousands of dollars. When searching for art deco jewelry today, it is important to either know your stuff or to have someone who does do your buying for you. It is easy to get scammed on so called art deco original pieces, so you need a good eye to make sure you are getting what you paid for.

About the Author:

Erwin Rostuzing very often makes publications on things dealing with tiffanys jewelry and tiffany engagement ring. On his site one might see his comments on tiffany engagement ring and tiffany engagement rings.

Fashion: Betsy Johnson Fall 2009 Collection

www.fashion-style.becomegorgeous.com
When it comes to fashion, everything is allowed.
And if you’re an eccentric designer, people don’t need to feel surprised if you have decided to present your latest collection not in the catwalk, but in a kitchen.
That’s the story of the Betsey Johnson fall 2009 collection.






















Instead, she invited a smaller crowd to "Betsey Crocker's Kitchen" in her showroom.
In a joyful mood, she declared that "It's a happy, eating/drinking show with hot waiter guys", and so it was.
This special fashion designer, very playful in her artistic vision, has managed to surprise her guest once again with the Betsey Johnson fall 2009 collection.




















The models presented full-skirted skull print dresses, elastic belts, rose prints, lace, and petticoats, T-shirts, sweat suit, while a silent film starring Betsey revealed the intricate layering that goes into each piece.
One of the most funny fashion shows in the late period, "Betsey Crocker’s Recipes for Dressing" is very much reminiscent of the '80's.




















Fashion editors and buyers were invited to this retro kitchen were fashion was served in a very specific way – the Betsey Johnson way.
She’s adapted, reinvented, original, teen-age-fashionable and funny.
photos via style.com

Bathing Suits for Every Shape

Bathing suits, if chosen correctly, can help you show off your curves or create the illusion of having them. Maggie Rodriguez learns how from style expert Gretta Monahan.

See more bathing suits in my other posts under Fashion Spring Summer 2009












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Under $50: Beachwear For a Bargain!: Slaves to Fashion: Fashion

glamour.com

Here's the thing about hanging out at the beach all day; you never know what post-swim activities could come up. A boardwalk stroll? A potential summer fling hanging out a few umbrellas over? Which is why you need to be prepared with more than just a cute swimsuit (not that I don't love a great swimsuit). Few things make me more fired up for summer than scoring a fab beachwear find for under 50 bucks.

This morning, I stopped by Good Morning America to share some of my favorites.

Hippie Chic
I love this Alloy cover-up's print--it embodies everything we love about summer—being relaxed and taking it easy! The perfect straw hat, frayed just so, paired with a chocolate brown tote and wear-with-everything flat sandals makes this look wearable on and off the beach.

Printed Cover-Up: Alloy, $44
White Triangle Top: Old Navy, $12
Braided T-Strap Sandals: Old Navy, $19
Straw Cowboy Hat: Macy’s, $42
Chocolate Brown Woven Shopper: Echo Design, $48
Tortoiseshell sunglasses: Topshop, $18

The Glamour Girl

Protect yourself from sun exposure with a fabulous hat in a graphic stripe.
The cut-outs of this suit paired with the open back give the look an added sexiness.

Black Backless One-Piece, Delia's, $33
White Linen Beach Pants: Necessary Objects, $34
Black and White Ribbon Straw Bag: Newport News, $34
Rose Gold Ruched Strap Sandals: Bamboo, $29
Striped Sun Hat: Newport News, $29
Mossimo Large Round Sunglasses: Target, $16

Day to Night
Your maxi dresses from last summer are still hot, and to me, they are the easiest beach cover-up ever. Take this style from Delia’s to the beach for a quick cover-up from the sun, then wear it out at night.

Floral Maxi Dress: Delia’s, $49
Red Triangle Top: Alloy, $12
Gold Braided Sandals: Bamboo, $29
Straw Bag: Chadwick’s, $29
Sunglasses: Old Navy, $9.00

Nautical Beachwear
Like we saw on the Michael Kors runway, nothing is hotter for summer than a visor! Pair your shorts with espadrilles like these (another summer staple) to add a touch of girliness to a sporty look.

Striped Summer Tee: Gap, $15
White Drawstring Shorts: Old Navy, $22
Straw Visor by Accessory Network: available at WalMart, $7
Yellow Mesh Tote: Newport News, $19
Navy Espadrilles: Marshall’s, $29
Sunglasses: Shop4Sparkles.com, $14

The California Girl
I love this laid-back cover-up from Tracy Feith's amazing new line for Target--it makes me want to jet to Cali for a vacation. Pair it with your favorite gold wedges sophistication with an edge.

Tracy Feith for Target Hooded Pullover, Target, $25
Twist Bandeau Top: Delias, $24
Gold Gladiator Wedge: Bakers, $39
Straw Fedora: Jessica Simpson Collection, $48
Straw Tote with Leather Trim: Accessory Network, available at KMART, $29
Leopard Beach Towel: Old Navy, $12
Sunglasses: Topshop, $30

Is Home Teeth Whitening Safe?

By Dervla Birch

In these tough times, home teeth whitening could save you some money, which we all need to do. But there are other issues to consider.

You would like the benefits that a great smile brings, but are home whitening methods as effective as a visit to your dentist? And are they safe?

Home treatments have a lower advertised concentration of bleaching agents than the professional ones. But some conspiracy theorists believe that the companies may make them stronger than advertised in order to show quick results.

Should you worry? Not if you buy from properly licensed companies. Contravention of the codes of practice they are bound by, would do irreparable damage to their reputation, quite apart from the financial penalties.

Added to which which, there are already millions of users of these treatments and there would certainly of been a public outcry if there were any safety issues or if many people were not happy with the outcome.

Visit the websites of some of these companies and you will be able to read details of thorough clinical trials of the various aspects of these products. Tests have been carried out to prove both the safety and effectiveness of the active ingredients.

They would have to be able to back up any claims made with solid evidence. You may even find links to the original source material. Again, to attempt to falsify these results could be potentially disastrous.

If you buy from reputable companies, home teeth whitening treatments can be as safe and effective as a dental office treatment. In some cases, the results may even be as long lasting.

About the Author:

Is teeth whitening still a necessary expense? A lot of people think so. If you have a job interview, what do you want your smile to say about you? Home teeth whitening methods are proven to be effective and are very affordable. Learn how home laser teeth whitening has become a viable option. Smile with confidence.

Falling in Love with the Skin You Are In

By Todd Rutherford

Jackie Christie, wife of NBA star Doug Christie and the star of hit TV reality show, Committed the Christies, co-author of No Ordinary Love: A True Story of Marriage and Basketball, returns with this highly motivational, much anticipated book, Woman: A Practical Guide to Loving the Skin You're In.

Written for women who know how to do just about everything, except to pamper themselves, Woman gives new beauty and fashion secrets as well as way to build self-worth. The book contains hot, money-saving tips on where and what to buy and what men as well as other women find sexy.

Read biographies of 25 women who inspire Jackie and be moved by Maya Angelou's poetry. Women who take this journey with Jackie will be loved and entertained while learning how to get their groove back!

"I feel that sexy is the combination of one's attributes...from a simple smile, to one's voice, or posture. I think sexy is more than appearance, but rather the sum total of one's character. I think loyalty is sexy, honesty is sexy, pleasing one's partner is sexy, motherhood is sexy, cooked food is sexy, intelligence is sexy, independence is sexy, and the black woman is sexy." - Chris Webber, Professional Basketball Player, NBA

"Jackie, you're a beautiful woman and great example for women, everywhere! You do not let anything stop you from accomplishing what you want. This book will give me and all women an excellent foundation for regaining our self-esteem and love" - Betty Jones, Executive Director of Community Affairs

As a mother, wife, fashion model, and career driven woman, Jackie's personal experiences are shown throughout the book. She reaffirms the idea that women should succeed without the fear of failure. The book reflects how women can take charge of how they look, and feel, and to build on their self worth.

About the Author:

Be sure to find out what Jackie Christie is doing: Woman: A Practical Guide to Loving the Skin You Are In

Plus Size Lingerie

By Lynn Martens

Just because you may look a little larger than some doesn't mean you don't like the nice sensuous feel of silk and satin next to your skin. Plus size lingerie is just the thing for the full figured gal who knows that she looks good and wants to bring out the sexy vixen for that one special someone in her life.

Let's say you want to plan a romantic evening for your man. He is taking care of the dinner reservations and you are going to take care of him afterward. Maybe some candlelight and a glass of bubbly or two...I think you see where this is going.

Whether you pick out something naughty like a black corset or an innocent little baby doll set, those silky folds will emphasize those areas of your body that he loves so well. It doesn't matter if your fantasies tend more toward the bad girl image or the naughty but nice little thing, you'll both enjoy your plus size lingerie.

Keep this little list in mind when getting ready to buy your plus size lingerie:

Choose The Look

Figure out what sort of fantasy you want to fulfill. Maybe it's school girl like I mentioned, or perhaps naughty maid. Pick a look that you are totally comfortable with and go for it.

Details, Details

This is where you can get creative. Maybe for you it is stiletto heels and a bustier or even a fancy feather boa for the festive look.

Size Matters

That's not what I mean, get your mind out of the bedroom for now. It is always important when choosing all of your plus size clothing to make certain it fits properly. While you probably know not to buy anything too small, purchasing anything too big is just as unflattering.


























Underneath


Get an attractive bra and panty set. It doesn't matter if you do bustier and garter belt or string
bikini, a matching set will always look prettier.

Plus size ladies understand that we need to do as much as we can with what God has given us. Diets aren't for everyone and you should never worry about your size. Make sure to treat yourself to the good times.

About the Author:

So next time you are on line or out shopping, don't forget to browse through the plus size lingerie collection of your favorite store.

CIFF Fall/Winter 2009 Colors and Styles

Tips on Wearing White (It Can Be Harder Than You Think)

glamour.com

In honor of Memorial Day and the official kick off of summer, I stopped by CBS's The Early Show yesterday to share some tips on the best ways to wear white.

While I feel that white works year round, for the summer, there are certain tips to keep in mind:

Stay Away From the White-Out Look

Nothing looks chicer than a white pencil skirt for work, and pairing it with a crisp, white top can look even better. The one thing you'll want to change up though, is your accessories. Stay away from adding more white, as you may end up looking like a nurse-like cartoon character. Instead, try a neutral belt and heels, adding a pop of color with a bright bag. Gold jewelry and tortoise-shell glasses tie it all together, giving you a clean, summer work look.

Say No to Too-Tight White

Many of us have the tendency to want to add a bit of sex appeal to our outfits, especially when going out at night. But, nothing looks worse than too-tight white. Not only will you see every lump and bump, but too-tight dresses (especially short white ones) can run the risk of looking way 80's. Keep it classic in a structured fabric white shift that shows just the right amount of skin, and again, gold accessories are perfectly complementary to summer white.


Watch out for See-Through White!

White pants are a summer must-have, but don't forget to check yourself in the light--if you can see through your pockets or easily define your undergarments, the fabric is too sheer. White jeans are always appropriate no matter the season and the thicker denim fabric will make it impossible to see anything you've got on underneath!

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3 Tips To Look And Feel Great

By Bill Scott

Most people appreciate that looking good and feeling good go hand in hand.

I'm going to share 3 tips to look your best and therefore feel your best too. They might seem elementary once you see them but all great people became so by getting good at the basics.

1. Make sure your clothes support good feelings.

Even if there's no one to really dress up for, what you're wearing affects how you feel. Make sure your clothes fit and accentuate your body the way you want. Even if you're alone at home, you'll see yourself in the mirror and say, "Hello, beautiful." Give yourself a pat on the back while you're at it too.

2. Make sure your physique is supporting good feelings.

Who doesn't know that everyone needs to exercise? How about this for a tip then... do exercise that makes you feel good. Skip the extended treadmill sessions for some high intensity interval training. It's short and sweet but does the job. You'll feel great as you challenge yourself and even better later.

3. Make sure to style your hair to support good feelings.

Many men go to a $10, 10 minute barber. Many women try to save money by cutting their hair themselves. Unless style isn't a concern of yours, don't do it. There's a reason they're called "hairstylists." If you haven't been to one, go find out what it's like to have a miracle done on your hair.

Combine all those things and you'll be ready to take on the world. You'll look good and feel great.

About the Author:

Bill Scott goes to Austin hair stylist, Virginia Smith. To see what she can do for you, visit her at Studio V. Get a totally unique version of this article from our article submission service

Increase Your Closet Space with Huggable Hangers

By Marnie S. Williams

Over 175 million Huggable Hangers have sold on HSN. Read on for a review of this product but first take some other steps. Before making any purchase, the first step to take to maximize your closet storage space is to clean out your closet. I know this is not what you want to hear but it must be done. Throw out anything you haven't worn in a year and certainly 2 or 3 years.

Huggable Hangers are designed to save space. They are slim line hangers that are light and thin which frees up closet space previously occupied by bigger and bulkier hangers. Another additional space saving feature is that some of the Huggable Hanger products allow you to hang more than one item on each hanger. Huggable Hanger clips give you the ability to cascade several hangers in a vertical fashion which allows for 3 or 4 shirts to be hung in the place of 1 shirt. This feature will double your closet space.

Some people have no room in their closets so they store their out of season clothes in boxes or other types of storage to free up closet space. Some of these systems cause your clothes to get wrinkled or even damaged by moisture or moths. With a set of Joy Mangano Huggable Hangers, you'll gain so much more closet space that you'll be able to take those stored away clothes out of storage and hang them back up in your closet.

A Huggable Hanger will preserve the shape of your clothes due to hit delicate curves and smooth, silky surface. The worst thing about some other hangers is the shoulder bumps that they create. This won't happen with Huggable Hangers. Your clothing will never be bent out of shape.

These hangers have a velvety covering on them that not only looks nice but actually hugs your clothes so that they don't slide off. You can hang silk garments and lingerie in your closet and they stay put even after you have rummaged through your closet for other items.

With a set of Mangano Huggable Hangers you can completely re-do your closet and double or triple the space. Not only will it be easier to find the things you need but the uniformity of having all your hangers match will result in a neat, tidy and organized closet. Do your own Huggable Hangers review and you'll see what I mean.

About the Author:

Marnie S. Williams writes articles about how to maximize closet space. She recommends Joy Huggable Hangers and also Huggable Hangers clips.

Has Anyone Told You You Looked Like A Celebrity?

When I was younger I thought I had the Ally Sheedy look.










I've been told on a few occasions that I look like Julia Roberts, but I don't see it.















Who do you look like?

April Marie Swimwear Spring/Summer 2009/2010

fashionising.com

10 Strangest Fashion Accessories

theoddee.com

Tear jewelry for the eye

In the frenzy to come up with something different, one designer has created a line of jewelry which is intended to be worn on the eyes. The bizarre range features a number of adornments which hang on wire from contact lenses. Users attach a range of accessories, such as crystals and flowers, to the new prescription or dummy lenses and wear them throughout the day.

The jewelry, which measures up to 14mm x 33mm, is attached to the contact using medical wire and hangs below the eye. The crystal accessories glimmer in sunlight and look as if the wearer is crying.

The Bag TV

Take a quick look at the Bag TV. It is basically a handbag that includes an LCD screen of 7 inches. You can buy either the bag with the TV set or just the bag. This basically means that you can spear some money by purchasing different bag colors and just one TV. As expected, the handbag that first comes with a TV is more expensive than those without it.

There are 7 different colors that can be chosen. They look both casual and professional and you will love the fact that you can play MP3 files, DVDs, music or images. The battery included will give you enough juice for around 2 and a half hours. This Bag TV surely is a very new concept in the fashion world.

Plastic nipples

These plastic protrusions designed to show how happy you are, have gone from a mere fashion fad, to a feisty, pheromone-infusing feature. According to the packaging, this Japanese product is a hit in America.

Pantyhose for men

If women are worried that their previously exclusive fashion domain is being invaded by men in mascara and man-bras, there's another cause for concern. “Mantyhose” are pantyhose for men, the latest in a string of men's fashion trends straight from the bizarre files. According to its website, “everyone, from truck drivers to cowboys, are wearing them.”

Sliced Barbie dolls jewellery

A bizarre collection of designer jewellery made from cut-up Barbie dolls has recently become a macabre fashion accessory. The disturbing range is made from sliced parts of the popular toy. Barbie's breasts have even been transformed into an eye-catching necklace and a pair of earrings features a string of Barbie ears.

The unusual collection, created by New York designer Margaux Lange, has caught the eye of fashion-conscious gift-hunters who have been buying up items such as a pendant made from one of Barbie's eyes costing about £110. There are even accessories made from parts of Barbie's boyfriend, Ken.

Botox-injected handbags

Mauro Orietti-Carella, Milan designer, makes stylish accessories using quite unconventional technology for the fashion industry. He uses Botox injections, which are quite popular among aging Hollywood divas.

Orietti, who used to be a professional dermatologist in the past, started experimenting with bags a long time ago. He discovered that silicone injections in exotic crocodile, python, ostrich leather substantially increase the quality of the leather such that it becomes much softer, just like cashmere, and the colors become much more saturated and vivid.

Besides the amazing leather quality, Orietti-Carella's accessories stand out with their unique sparkle, since the bags are coated with special layer of 18-carat gold and silver dust mix. The designer's accessories are popular among such celebrities as Jennifer Lopez, Madonna, Kylie Minogue, and Cindy Crawford.

Ice jewelry

Look at designer Katharina Ludwig's unique ice jewelry, which boasts some beautiful designs that will help keep even the hottest chicks cool on a hot summer day.

To help keep cool on the hot summer days, fashion lovers can choose from rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces made of ice; though I wouldn't recommend building your outfit around these cool accessories, since depending upon the temperature, you may quickly find yourself in hot water once your outfit centerpieces have melted.

Scarf gloves

Fashion meets function when this brimmed gray hat doubles as a scarf and triples as gloves in this avante-garde accessory, from New York design genius TELFAR.

Jewelry flash drive

In the view of Philips & Swarovski, flash drive can be a fashionable thing, not only a storage device. Women gotta love these Jewelry flash drives! They're really gorgeous, you just have to be ready to pay a little more than $200!

Colored Taser

Need another way to make sure you're safe, while still making sure everything you're wearing is colour coordinated? Now your Taser can double as a fashion accessory, completely decked out in a holster that plays mp3s.

Instead of the usual black colour, the new C2 Taser's are available in fire engine red, blue, silver or pink, for $349 or the premium leopard print model for $379.