Tuesday, July 3, 2007

Tights

Through the ages, tights have never lost their charm. Even superman wore his trademark tights to show off his powered muscles. For women, the options are many - opaque, hip to tip toe, skin-colored tights, black tights, opaque tights, fishnet tights and more. The wide array of colors, patterns, varying lengths and range of materials allow for more choices in womens tights. There are exciting varieites of ballet tights and running tights.

You can opt to wear tights while exercising, while travelling, for dance or just to lounge around. Tights provide the extra soothing feel to your legs on those cool mornings of fall. Even otherwise, tights do keep you simply cool and comfortable.

Denier tights

A common term that denotes the sheerness of the tight. While shopping for tights, look for lower denier tights for it will lend a sheer allure to your legs. Tights less than 10 are the perfect choice for warmer weather as well as formal occassions. Tights with counts 10-20 are much in demand. These are durable, and gives a slight tinch of covering to the legs.

Fishnet tights

Fishnet dance tights are specially targeted to meet comfort requirement of professional dancers. Padded with a nylon sole, fishnet tights in black, brown or flesh-tones can be used for everyday wear. Not just for the dancers, fishnet dance tights are a viable option for skaters too. Combine fishnet tights with a skirt no shorter than knee length. If you prefer fishnet tights for everyday, formal wear, look for a mesh not greater than 1/16th inch wide when worn. The ones with large mesh can be reserved for funky club wear.

Classic opaque, spandex tights

With tights, your legs feel softer and bright colored tights go a long way in making your legs feel and look good.Classic opaque tights with select patterns can make your legs look longer. You can select from sleek striped tights, thigh-high tights, convertible tights, tights that massage and cradle your legs while dancing or exercising. Feel completely fit in Lycra spandex tights with 90% cotton and 10% Lycra. The unique four way stretch fabric is light and casual. Your skin breathes comfortably without hindrance and cools your body, also regulating body temperature.

Womens tights

Check for tights that have cotton-lined crotch and avoid fabrics that chafe against your inner thighs. Some brands of tights come with antibacterial agents in the fiber to prevent odor. Look for a fit that is comfortable without laying excessive pressure on the legs. Compression design tights are built to offer varying layers of support to those suffeing from circulatory problems. Maternity tights are ideal for moms-to-be who have to be on their feet all day long.


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Leggings

Fashion come and go. Care to keep pace with the latest fashion trend? If so, it’s time to revamp your wardrobe with trendy leggings. The most sought-after leggings of 1980’s have made a re-entry. But not the same way, this time it is minus leather jackets and big hair. This time of the year sees the re-emergence of full-length or capri length leggings that are fast scorching the ramps and creating distinct waves.

Leggings offers flexibility and versatility. Black colored leggings are arguably the must-have fall item. Or go for other mute colors like gray or navy blue. Teenagers can confidently go for trendy choices. Get set to explore unique combinations that suit you best. Find ways for a dressier look with leggings.

Skin-tight leggings

Because they are versatile, leggings continue to serve different purpose for different people. For instance, the Russians liked to wear as an under layer to keep them warm during extremely cold conditions. It is still considered the most comfortable wear amongst fitness freaks. And then they made an entry into the fashion land in the 1960s and 1980s. It is now the resurrection of leggings in 2006.

Unfooted tights or leggings are undoubtedly affordable and comfortable too. You sure can stretch your legs comfortably. Leggings go well with any outfit. Escape from waxing, sugaring, depilatories or lasers for a while as leggings can still lend your legs a sleek and sexy look. Leggings can be accezzorized with practically anything. Blend of lycra, rayon, nylon, jersey, cotton or cotton-polyester blend, wool, silk and even synthetic fabric leggings are available. Most of these materials give leggings a structured and polished look.

Select by type

Capri length leggings: Other than full-length leggings, hosiery malls are flooded with capri length leggings that come in different patterns and colors. Capri length leggings with mini skirts are the hottest trend of the season. Also, take advantage of well-fitting capri length leggings that make the legs appear slimmer and longer. These cropped leggings should typically be long enough, 5 inches below the knee or at mid-calf.

Lace-trim leggings: Considered a comfortable summer outfit, lace-trim leggings are usually paired with flip-flops and can be worn as casual dinner wear or for a weekend barbecue. Get smart and mix match your leggings with last summer’s dress.

Combining leggings: Leggings can be combined with a big sweater, shorts, shift dresses, tunic top and miniskirts of different styles. Get ready to sport the dancer look with black leggings under a dress or city shorts. Not without a reason, professional dancers are fond of wearing leggings as it keeps their legs warm in between dances. Capri length leggings are great with a skirt or a dress.


http://www.targetwoman.com/articles/leggings.html

Jogging Clothes

Gone are the days when you had to depend only on an old tracksuit for your jogging session. Today jogging clothes come in an amazing range of fabrics, colors and styles. Look for garments that are comfortable and geared to meet your jogging needs. Choice of fabric for jogging suits would depend on the weather conditions too. Ensure that you are adequately attired to meet the climatic needs.

Jogging Clothes
Jogging clothes can be worn as separates or coordinates. Mix and match your jogging tops with pants or even team them up with shorts for a sultry summer afternoon. In fact jogging clothes often double up as clothes to lounge around in . You can layer up exciting combinations of jogging clothes and come up with coordinated ensembles. While plain colors are a classic style with jogging clothes, you can opt for colorful prints, appliques, screen printing or even detailing. Some of the popular styles for jogging clothes are full-zip front, partial zip pullover, hooded cardigan or covertible collars. You can opt for short or long sleeves depending on your comfort levels. Generally jogging pants have elastic waists and leg openings. An additional drawstring can help in adjusting the waistline. Jogging shorts come in similar options.

Do not ignore weather conditions when selecting your jogging clothes. For cold weather, ensure that the jogging clothes have the appropriate design features and fabric. You can go in for double layered hood or convertible collars that double up as turtlnecks. Thicker fibers or compact knit structures ensure better warmth. Look for features such as hand warmers and zip pockets. If you indulge in nighttime jogging, go in for jogging clothes in white trims or florescent colors to relect headlights. Double knit fabrics are popular for jogging clothes since they are firm and resist wrinkling. Look for knit fabrics that have firm structure and high yarn count. You can choose from jogging suits in acrylic or nylon or blends of cotton and acrylic or polyester. Cotton garments tend to get soggy with sweat but are most absorbent. This is ideally suited for warm locations. Opt for acrylic if you are looking for good insulating properties and easy care. Jogging clothes in nylon tend to have heavy static buildup. You can consider going in for blended fabrics, ones that offer comfortable feel against the skin and absorb moisture.

Jogging Suit
The jogging suit made an appearance in the 1980s when fitness awareness took off in a big way. The track suit was modified and the jogging suit was born! A lightweight zippered top matched along with loose bottom trousers that are gathered at the cuff - this was the design for the popular jogging suit. Jogging suits came in bright colors, purple and pink, peach and sea green, black and white. Jogging suits must be selected for their fabric, construction and care requirements. Knitted fleece is a popular fabric for jogging clothes and other athletic wear. You can also choose from stretch valour, knit pique and stretch terry. It is essential to take proper care of your jogging suit. Follow instructions for washing and laundering. Tumble machine drying can ruin the size and shape of some jogging suits. This would depend largely on the fabric that is used. Look for quality stitching when it comes to jogging suits. Stitches should be of even length, straight, and fastened securely. Stitching should permit ample stretch without breaking. A well-stitched jogging suit will translate to a durable and comfortable jogging apparel. Choose jogging suits in the size that is right for you - small, medium, large or XL. You can also pick up jogging clothes by actual size numbers too. Check for arm length, pant length and comfortable roominess. Do not compromise on style while you are jogging and running. There is no dearth of fashionable jogging suits that can have you set the roads ablaze.


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Tank Tops

Come summer and its time to get into your favorite tank top. Not only is it light and comfortable but it can be picked up in different designs suitable for men, women, teens and kids. Tank tops are also available in various sizes, thus, making it a favorite for everybody irrespective of their age or size. Tank tops are usually made from hosiery material. Knits, terrycloth, cotton blends or nylon are also used in making tank tops. Look up this guide to tank tops and you too can add the cool casual look to your wardrobe.

Tank tops
Tank top derives its name from 'tank suit', a one piece swimsuit with shoulder straps, worn by women. The term 'tank' refers to a swimming tank, as swimming pools were referred to, a few decades earlier. While tank tops were originally designed to be worn as an undershirt, the colorful and well designed ones are worn as a top by itself. Tank top is primarily an American term; it is referred to as 'singlet' in Australia and 'vest' in England.

The tank top is said to be the creation of George Masson and has been popular as casual wear in the United States since the 1980's. Tank tops were initially worn by popular rock icons at their music shows. In fact, music stars and sportsmen used the tank tops to show off their biceps. And the craze caught on. The older version of the tank tops was made from cotton and had slogans or decals on them. Now, the tank top and its various versions have been accepted as a casual dress that can be worn in public. In fact, women now have another option, the 'tankini' which can be worn for the pool or beach. etc.

Tank top styles
Tanks do not have sleeves, instead of which they have straps that are about an inch or two in width. Tanks may be either plain, ribbed, waffle knit or even netted and sport different styles of necklines and arm holes. The most popular of the lot still remains the solid white tank top with a round neck. Women's tanks usually have thin straps (spaghetti straps) and some even feature a built in shelf bra.

Wearing tank tops is a great option on hot sultry days. They can also be worn while working outdoors or while working out at the gym. Tanks are also sported by athletes. But tanks are not just for summer; they can be worn under other clothing items, as an inner layer, for warmth as well as style.

Tank tops come in various designs and shades and they practically match with everything, right from jeans to skorts. It entirely depends on how you are able to mix and match to get the right look. While buying tanks, go for ones with a fitted silhouette, which will manage to give you a sleek look. And don't forget to check with the manufacturer as to whether your tank will shrink. Most of the tanks do shrink an average of one size in the wash and hence it is better to buy one size up for a better fit.

You can buy a traditional tank top in 100% cotton, combed for softness and comfort, with baby rib binding at the neck and straps for reinforced shape. Check for double stitched bottom hem for durability. You can opt for tanks in contrasting two-tone colors - black with white borders or white with grey borders.

Tank tops are also available in scoop neck and binded scoop neck. Tank tops with rhinestone embellishments are also a good option. In fact, you can team it up with a colorful skirt, get a new hairstyle and wear semi-formal jewelry and you are ready for the party. Tank tops with logos, designs and funky messages are a must-have for most teenagers.

Tank top guide
# Tank top with lace work in the neck area or a mesh tank top is a stylish option that can be paired with running shorts and a fleece zip hoody. In fact, tanks are so versatile that they can be paired with anything from a pair of jeans to leggings, from shorts to sweat pants.

# If you want a formal look go for a black tank top and wear a pair of ivory trousers and a matching jacket and you are ready to attend any official meeting.

# One of the most popular buys is the sheer jersey spaghetti tank with a sporty racerback. They can be easily teamed up with a pair of capris to give you that casual sporty yet sophisticated look.

# You can create your own outfit by layering one tank on top of another in contrasting colors. Alternatively, wear a fuchsia or cranberry colored bra beneath a white tank top, and you are sure to make heads turn. Try wearing sheer blouses over your tanks or a summery white blouse over a black tank top.

# For that special evening, wear a plain white tank top embellished with silver metallic corsage and complement it with a flowing skirt.

# You can also buy splatter dyed tanks and combine them with summer pants in the same color family, throw in a funky bracelet and you would have created a designer look.


Irrespective of which tank top you wear or what you team it up with, you can be assured of a cool stylish look. Tank tops are here to stay.


http://www.targetwoman.com/articles/tank-tops.html

Women's Skirt

Women's skirts come in many a style, from the simple A-line to the peasant skirt to pleated skirts and mini skirts. Skirt styles are forever changing. Hemlines rise and drop, pleats come and go and fabrics are mixed and matched to arrive at outfits that range from casual chic to the bizarre. Don't fall prey to fleeting fashion trends. Instead opt for skirt styles that work for you. Take a look at the many avatars of skirts, from the ever-popular denim skirt to gypsy skirts and more!

Women's Skirt
Skirts made of sheer fabrics are flattering to a full figure. Choose pleated skirts in fabrics and styles that flatter your figure. A flounce skirt can create a slimmer look for a woman with full hips. Do not go in for a gathered skirt if you want to camouflage a thick waist. The pleated knee skirt is a classic favorite with many women. Go in for an A-line skirt if you are heavier on the stomach and hips. A straight skirt style hides big thighs. Monochromatic skirts and dresses can lend a slimming effect. If you must go in for a pleated skirt, opt for pleats that begin below the hips. The hemlines of women's skirts have risen and fallen over the decades. From ankle length peasant skirts to mid-calf pleated skirts, short skirts or even mini skirts, skirts have seen them all. Never go for a skirt that is wider than long. For ease of movement, you can go in for side slits or back slits. Skirts this season range from mini to knee length to mid-calf or even ankle length gypsy skirts. Asymmetrical hemlines are also hot on the fashion scene. Women's skirts in colors such as charcoal gray, navy or deep green or deep wine and raisin can help you look thinner. Play around with style and texture too. Mix and match skirts with cashmere turtlenecks, scarves and jackets. Skirts can be selected in knits or jacquards, chiffon or plaid or denim or light cotton voile. There are interesting options with lacework skirts and satin and silk skirts. What better way to lounge around in the house than to go in for casual cotton blend or denim skirts!

Peasant Skirt

Peasant skirts are easy flowing and comfortable chic Ankle-length peasant skirts are usually made of cotton voile or fabrics that fall well. Slip into a carefree peasant skirt for a breezy fashion style. Match it with a tank top and complete the look with wrap sandals or espadrilles. Long skirts such as the peasant skirt tend to flatter slim and tall women.

Gypsy Skirt

A gypsy skirt worn with boots is ideal for daywear. Wear a slinky top with the gypsy skirt and slip into a shimmering strapped sandal…and you are ready to party away. Opt for a crumpled fabric or go in for multi-layered multi-tiered style. Contrast the materials - wear a chunky knit top over a flimsy gypsy skirt. If your gypsy skirt has colors and bold prints, wear a subtler top to tone it down. A gypsy skirt is much like the circle skirt that hangs smoothly from the waist sans darts, pleats or gathers but is full nevertheless.

Denim Skirt

Denim is a versatile and popular fabric that never goes out of style. Little wonder that denim skirts are a must-have on any woman's wardrobe, be it a short mini skirt or a pleated skirt or even one that is funky and bohemian. Team up a denim skirt with a tank top or a ladylike shirt. Embellish your denim skirt with metallic or colored decorative patches.


http://www.targetwoman.com/articles/womens-skirt.html


Silk Scarf

A scarf is a versatile fashion accessory – tie a cashmere scarf round your neck to keep out the chill, add a touch of sophistication to your outfit with a silk scarf or use a bright crochet scarf for a touch of color. Wear it round your neck or fasten it round your girdle. Scarves have been in vogue for decades. A Hermes scarf is a must-have on the wish list of those seeking designer brands.

Scarf
Scarves can don many an avatar. While you can add the timeless look of sophistication to your attire with a silk scarf, a Burberry wool scarf can keep you warm on a cold and dreary day. Choose from a multitude of brightly colored scarves. They are available in bold animal prints, tie and dye patterns, delicate florals, paisleys, embroidered and more! Scarves come in different sizes and shapes. You can pick a scarf that is square, rectangular or even triangular. Scarves come in a range of fabrics, from silk and cashmere to georgette, pashmina or velvet. Look for soft wool scarves to cozy up on a cold winter evening. You can go in for long scarves with fringed ends.


With this versatile piece of apparel, all you need is your imagination. Tie a gaily-colored silk scarf to hide bad hair. This works well for summer and lends a different look. Sport a scarf as a bandana. Use a scarf as a sarong or even as a veil. In fact you can create a totally new look with a bright scarf. Coordinate it with different colored outfits. In fact a simple silk scarf can brighten a tee shirt or sweater. You can tie the scarf in many ways too.

For a formal look, you can go for a Rose Knot or classic twist. Get flirtatious with a scarf round your waist. Pin it up with a stylish brooch. Some designer scarves come ready to wear; pre-pleated and pre-knotted. For the designer conscious women, here is a new scarf from Hermes – the scented one. You can pick up a Hermes scarf made with a fabric that is designed to leave a scent on the skin. Hermes scarves have graced Hollywood divas, celebrities and designer label-struck women.

Silk scarf
Pick up a silk scarf with elegant dyed prints. It is a fashion accessory that will lend a rich and elegant touch to your ensemble. You can pick up prints such as delicate floral tendrils or geometric designs or blooms of flowers. Look for unique silk scarf prints such as those resembling the intricate marble work of the Taj Mahal. Crepe de chine silk scarves come in exquisite prints and make for an ideal gift. Silk scarves have an elegance and beauty that is unmatched. Handcrafted silk scarves come with hand rolled and sewn edges. Are you looking for an exotic silk scarf? Why not try one that is studded with precious stones such as amethyst, coral and lapis lazuli.

Cashmere scarf
Jazz up an outfit with a fashionable cashmere scarf. Keep warm with fine cashmere scarves from Fendi or Burberry. Fine knit scarves made of fine merino wool find no match. What else for warmth and style other than a wonderful cashmere and wool combination scarf during the cold winter months? Cashmere scarves come in myriad shades and styles. You can select them in chocolate brown, navy blue, chestnut or ivory. Some also come with leather trimmings at the neck. You can also get a monogrammed cashmere scarf. Look for embroidered cashmere scarves with your initials in script or modern font.

Pashmina scarf
Pashmina scarves are made from the fiber of the Capra Hircus goat found on the Himalayan slopes. Skilled Nepali craftsmen weave wonders and come up with exquisite Pashmina scarves. A Pashmina scarf has always been popular with Indian royalty and the aristocracy of the Western world. You may often find pashmina scarves with a blend of silk for added softness and shimmer. The ply of the scarf is indicative of its fineness and luxuriousness.

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Baby Christening Gown

Christening, the first special occasion in a baby’s life, is a tender and poignant moment in the parent’s life too. You want the very best for your baby in all aspects of her life and why not start by giving her a wonderful christening gown. Some families have christening gowns handed down from generations, indeed they are heirlooms. Nothing better for your baby than to wear the same gown worn by her mother or grand mother and in turn pass it on to her daughter! But, not to worry if you do not have any heirloom gowns. You can buy a new one and create an heirloom of your own, to be treasured by generations to come. Check out our guide to baby christening gowns.

Christening gown

A christening gown is an infant’s dress which is especially made and worn for the baptism ceremony. These gowns are usually white in color and are very long. They are made of either linen, silk or cotton and have lace trimmings, embroidery and tucks. They also have matching bonnets, bibs and booties. You can select a christening gown either in Cathedral length or long skirt style. Detachable skirt is another christening gown option. A smocked bodice can be comfortably stretched and worn as the baby grows up. Measure the child correctly before ordering for a christening gown online. Wearing a bonnet is optional, though most gowns come with matching bonnet. You can get a simple headband or wreath of flowers.

The baby girls of today are lucky indeed as they can be dressed in a wide range of gowns. All the gowns come with a matching bonnet, but you also have the choice to opt for matching personalized bib and booties. You can also have your child’s name and date of christening embroidered on the gown, to make it personal and unique.

You can opt for original silk gown in pure white with tulle overlay or with embroidered voile panels. Satin gowns in ivory with fragile Austrian embroidery are also another option. Smocked voile dress in white, ivory and cream will also look good on your little angel. You can alternatively opt for antique Edwardian and Victorian christening gowns, which would lend your baby a royal and regal appearance.

Christening gowns made from single edged, scalloped eyelet fabric adorned with embroidery, featuring batiste underlay is yet another choice. You can go in for an A-line skirt with an attached slip. Gowns can be woven with pink ribbons and encrusted with mother-of-pearl buttons.

Hand-crocheted christening outfit in shell stitch pattern, made from bedspread cotton is definitely gorgeous and will become an heirloom for sure. Exquisite satin gowns featured with delicate cutwork lace will definitely make your baby look like an angel. You can opt for flower shaped buttons if you desire.

Gowns in pure white lace designed with puff sleeves and adorned with sequined collar and satin ribbon accents, with matching bonnet will definitely be a good buy. For a truly vintage feel, you can buy the short sleeved gown made of cotton bubble gauze trimmed with appliqué work, ribbons and rosebuds.

Irrespective of what you choose, your baby will look good in every gown and be the center of attraction. Also, taking care of your baby’s christening gown is very important. Wash them according to the manufacturer’s instructions and store them in a preservation bag. Preservation bags are chemical-free cotton bags. With the right choice of gown and the correct method of storage, you have an heirloom christening gown in your hands.


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