Mohair Sweater

The word Mohair is derived from the Turkish word 'muyhyar', meaning the 'best selected
fleece'. Mohair is the wool collected from the Angora goats. Initially, the goats were natives of the province of Angora in Turkey. So valuable was the fleece of these goats that the Sultan of Turkey placed an embargo on the export of the animal and its fiber. After 1820, European conquerors started exporting this soft and gentle animal and its fleece. In more recent times, Angora goats have flourished on similar terrain in South Africa and Texas. Today, Mohair is prized as one of the world's most luxurious natural fibers.

Mohair is a silk-like fabric that is popularly used in fashion garments and sweaters, suits, coats, dresses, loungewear, socks and other clothing items. It is durable, light and warm. Mohair sweaters can make a style statement. It is also used in making hair for dolls, beards for Santa, teddy bears, blankets, upholstery, draperies, carpets and rugs.

Types of Mohair
Kid Mohair: This fleece is the first shearing from a young Angora goat and is very soft and fine to handle. Fineness ranges from 23-27 microns with a staple length of 100 - 150mm.

Goatling: This is the second shearing from a goat and is also fine and soft.

Adult Mohair: This is the fleece from the mature goat. It is fine to coarse, with a fineness of 30 microns onwards.

Mohair rates amongst the warmest natural fibers known to man. Mohair is also renowned for its ability to be dyed into brilliant colors. When blended with other fibers, mohair adds sheen to the fabric. These characteristics are what make it highly sought after by top designers of clothing and soft furnishings worldwide. Leading fashion houses make use mohair as a luxury fiber. South Africa currently produces more than 60% of total world production of mohair.

Characteristics of Mohair
Mohair is a strong, lustrous fiber that makes it an ideal yarn and fabric. It drapes well and resists wrinkling and shrinking. It is stronger and warmer than wool, keeping heat in during cold weather and acting as a barrier against hot summer temperatures. Mohair isn't itchy because it doesn't have scales like wool. It accepts dye with an unparalleled ease. Natural colored mohair has variations of shades that are exceptionally beautiful. Mohair has several unique properties that are not found in any other animal fiber.

Insulating: Mohair's hollow fibers do not conduct heat like wool and provide good insulation, even when wet.

Durability: Mohair can be twisted and bent without damage to the fiber. It is the most durable of animal fibers.

Comfort: Mohair does not irritate the skin, even for people who are sensitive to wool.

Strength: Mohair is stronger than steel of the same diameter.

Shrink resistance: Mohair fabrics shrink much less than wool because mohair's smooth fibers do not felt.

Elasticity: Mohair is very elastic; it can be stretched up to 30%, and will spring back to shape. Mohair garments resist wrinkling, stretching or sagging.

Moisture transfer: Mohair easily absorbs and releases moisture, moving perspiration away from the skin. It is comfortable to wear in cold and hot weather.

Luster: One of mohair's most important qualities is its ability to take dye and retain it for long, resisting by time or hard wear.

Lightweight: Mohair's smooth fibers can be made into fabrics that have a cooling effect. It is ideal for summer garments.

Non-flammability: Mohair will not burn unless it is exposed to a direct flame.

Taking care of your Mohair
Mohair, like other wools, requires delicate care and storage. By taking proper care you can increase the life expectancy of the mohair garments. Read and follow label instructions for the care of each garment. Hang garments in a steamy bathroom after wearing or unpacking to help remove wrinkles. Hang garments on padded hangers between uses, for 24 hours to smooth out wrinkles and restore original shape. Store garments in a well ventilated closet with fresh cedar blocks to keep the moths away. You can also use a sweater bag for storing mohair. Fold knits, or hang with closures zipped or buttoned. Dry the garment at room temperature if you accidentally get it wet. Keep it away from heat. Remove soil surface with a brush or a damp sponge.

Dry cleaning may be the most convenient way to clean your delicate sweaters. The cost of cleaning is minimal compared to the cost of a new sweater. But, it should also be kept in mind that excess chemical treatments may shorten your sweater's life. Dry cleaning once or twice a year should be sufficient.

Machine washing can be done with cold water on the gentle cycle and detergents specifically intended for cleaning fine garments. Protect your mohair sweater by placing it in a mesh washing bag while machine washing.

Mohair sweater fashion tips
# Whether you are wearing a sweater with jeans or a dress with shawl, mohair is the ultimate in elegance and luxury. As it is one of the most versatile of all textile fibers, it can be designed into almost anything.

# You can wear an elegant mohair sweater coat cardigan, which can easily fit as formal as well as casual wear. Alternatively buy a cowl neck sweater with loose sleeves, which gives a very feminine look.

# You can also try out mohair capes and shawls that can be worn with evening dresses. They can be worn in a variety of manners - from a poncho-like drape to pinning with spectacular brooches.

# Buy a sleeveless mohair sweater in tank style. The soft luxurious mohair elevates the basic tank style from everyday wear to luxury.

# Teem up a long sleeve boat neck sweater with black jeans.

# Wear a keyhole mohair sweater with cord pants to look cool and chic. Else stick to a basic v-neck mohair sweater. Try a fitted mohair sweater in cable pattern with snap cuffs and ribbed neckline and waist.

# Alternatively, try out a long sleeved, cropped styled, hooded mohair sweater with a low rise corduroy pant. This also teams well with cord skirt and wedge heel boots.

# Wear a ladies anorak sweater with hood with a checked knitted skirt.

# For a fun-filled evening, wear zigzag striped mohair full length dress with side slits in black.

Lavender, sage green, teal, raspberry or beige; turtle neck, cowl neck, v-neck or crew neck; tunic, cardigan, shawl or poncho - mohair sweaters are versatile and elegant.


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Shopping for Warmer Weather Clothes

The stores are now ready for our warm weather shopping. How many of us are planning on picking up an item or two for ourselves, or our families?

The stores will be tempting us with all the latest fashion colors. Before you impulsively reach for that pair of pink shorts and matching top, REMEMBER YOUR BASICS!

Don't wear a top and bottom in the same color. It's boring! It's much more interesting to wear contrasting colors. This makes using basics as the foundation of your wardrobe easy!

Remember to buy all the garments for the lower part of your body in neutrals like white or beige. Then you can wear whatever color you like on top. Darker colors like navy blue can also be basics in summertime in some geographic areas. Jeans are also a basic now. Check the thrift stores for jeans that can be cutoff and worn as shorts.

Dressing is easy when you own garments that mix and match. You need fewer of them, and yet you feel like you own more clothes. You wear a pair of pink shorts one time, and everyone will remember them. You can wear a pair of khaki shorts over and over without drawing attention to them.

T-shirts and blouses tend to wear out quicker through soil and wear. Pants are usually made of stronger fibers more closely woven together, and last longer. Spend as little as you can for the tops, and a bit more for the bottoms.

Certain colors just don't look good on every clothing item. Take the color purple. Not long ago purple was the color everyone wanted to wear. Envision a woman dressed in purple pants and a white shirt. Now, change it around. Put her in a purple shirt and white pants. Which looks better? This is a much more sophisticated look and a much better use of color.

Look through catalogs to see the colors the models are wearing. Some people's sense of clothing style is so undeveloped that they think that when they wear a blue blouse, they must wear blue pants. It doesn't cost anything to leaf through catalogs. Learn your taste, your style, and what looks good on you. You may not be able to afford any clothes right now, but when you do have the money, you will be more aware and not repeat bad shopping habits.

When you buy for your children, and want to pass down clothes, remember to buy them in primary colors and with a unisex design.

Resist impulse buying this spring. It is easy to do when the weather is warm and everyone is happy! Clothing is a major investment. If you are lucky, you will find the items in a non- retail store. Choose wisely!

http://www.beautystaffs.com/wedding-dresses/Shopping_%20Warmer_Weather_Clothes%20.asp

Buying Cheap Designer Clothes Online!

What does it take to dress well? Having lots of money? Well, that helps but most of all it takes organization, knowing yourself and your body and taking the time to get it right. Being well dressed is not about wearing the latest fashions; it is about knowing yourself and the styles that look best on you regardless of the latest trends. Keeping up with the latest trends is not only time consuming and costly but hard work.

The internet has been doing wonders for people’s wallets for years. In almost every case items that you can purchase in a local store can be found online for less. Designer clothes are no exception and there are literally hundreds of e-commerce web sites that will be more than happy to sell you everything you need for your wardrobe at considerable savings compared to what you’ll pay at the local shopping centre. In many cases you can get free shipping as well.

It won’t only help you find the latest cheap fashion styles but also the much sought after designer labels that are nearly impossible to find in the UK shops. Those like Abercrombie and Fitch, American Eagle, Hollister, Von Dutch, Juicy Couture and many other fashionable American brands that can normally only be bought on a trip to the states can now be found on the internet.

But don’t worry if you’re thinking you still have to purchase from an American online store, with those expensive shipping costs and delayed delivery, as the top labels are finally hitting our shores from websites like www.stand-out.net which offer these hard to find labels and the other top designer brands all at discount prices. Launched just a year ago, Stand-out.net boasts a large selection of designer labels cheaper than other places and including the latest brands including Diesel, Hugo Boss, Armani, Moschino, Replay and the hard to get American brands. Offering a huge range of current and harder-to-find styles, Stand-Out.net has developed into a website you are sure to find something you like at cheap prices.

If your wardrobes in doubt ... Its time 2 Stand-Out.

http://www.rachel.in/article-details.asp?ArtID=43

Swimwear Buying Tips

When it comes to buying swimwear, the only person you need to please is yourself. After all, it's your body that's on display and you need to select a style, fabric, color and fit that suit your personality and needs.

Selecting the right swimwear for you is an intensely personal choice that's driven by a whole lot more than just price, color, style and size. This is why the majority of women you talk to will tell you that buying swimwear is one of the most frustrating experiences associated with buying clothes.

Regardless of the style swimwear you choose, and whether you have special needs or not, here's some things that will help you look better and get the most out of your swimwear.

1. Choose the right size

Don't try to crowd yourself in a swimsuit that's too small. Regardless of how well you think you look, everyone else will notice your body fighting to break free!

Choose to small a top and you risk spilling out when you least expect it. Choose one that's too large and you'll have a lot of male admirers every time you bend over or when that extra big wave comes along.

The same goes for bottoms; both yours and the swimsuit's! Check for fit and the view from behind. Avoid suits that are too tight. Not only won't you look your best, but splitting a seam at the beach can be one of life's most embarrassing moments.

Remember, a suit that's too big will not only create see-right-up-to-there gaps when your seated or walking, but you'll look like you're sagging in all the wrong places as well.

2. Watch out for colors

Light colored swimwear, especially white and pale yellow, have a tendency to become see-through when they get wet! Choose wisely.

3. Opt for synthetic materials

Today's synthetic materials keep their shape longer and perform better when wet. They resist fading from the sun and are less susceptible from the damage caused by saltwater and chlorine.

Try not to slide into the pool on your bottom. Pool and patio surfaces can wear away at the material and cause pilling and tearing.

Avoid stretching the fabric to let water out when it builds up. Repeated stretching will eventually cause even the best swimwear to lose both its shape and elasticity.

4. Get a pair and a spare.

If your budget allows it, try to buy more than one swimsuit. That way you can extend their life, and extend your fashion options, by switching between suits every other day.

You deserve to look good at the beach and pool. If you take your time selecting your swimwear, and follow the tips in this article, you'll be the belle of the beach and everyone will notice.

About the Author

Christopher Ayu is the webmaster and content provider of http://www.swim-wear-in-style.com

Tight Clothing has been a Long Term Fashion Trend – But is It Sensible?

Tight clothing is stuck somewhere between the rock era of the 60s and 70s to today’s trends that many young females choose to follow. It is interesting to see the shift in the people who have worn or wear tight clothing. It was common for a man to wear tight jeans and shirts during the 70s, where in today’s society they wouldn’t be caught dead in tight clothing. Today, females find tight clothing sexy and attractive, especially when it comes to their jeans.

The styles of jeans have evolved throughout the years, ranging from bellbottoms, to boot-cut jeans, to hip huggers. With the trends as they are, it seems that many young girls desire a pair of low riding, tight jeans. However, unless, you weigh around 105 pounds, the look may not be the most flattering. Who wants to squeeze into tight clothing that makes you feel like you are cutting off your circulation throughout your legs and other body parts? The numbers are still high despite the fit or lack thereof.

Men stay away from wearing tight clothing because of its lack of sex appeal. Women embrace tight clothing as something that will enhance the curves of their body and make them appear more attractive to the opposite sex. The tight clothing that women are purchasing today consist of tight jeans with quite a low waist, accompanied by a tight top that shows off their breasts. Sometimes you will even see a tight bustier or bra matched with a pair of tight jeans. During the warmer months, tight mini skirts, as well as tight shorts replace tight-fitting jeans. Just think about Jessica Simpson in those daisy dukes; when is that trend going to end? It is also hard to resist this fashion trend of tight clothing when you see all of the hottest celebrities displaying the very same look.

However, there is another negative factor besides the frowns you may receive from your parents. There is actually a nerve condition that can develop from wearing tight clothing - especially seen in tight jean wearers. This nerve condition is comparable to that of a carpal tunnel syndrome for the legs, called paresthesia. Those who experience this condition will feel a tingling, burning sensation that develops under the hipbone area. The Canadian Medical Association Journal has published studies of this condition.

Not only can a female develop paresthesia, but tight clothing can also cause a highly annoying yeast infection. Wearing tight clothing leads to increased retention of heat, as well as an increased level of moisture in the vaginal area, which leads to a yeast infection – which is more prevalent in women who wear tight jeans, as well as tight pantyhose or stockings.

A word to the wise for men still wearing tight clothing, tight pants can cause infertility, as well as damage the testicles. Men should be aware that this damage could also affect their ability to father a child.

For more womens fashion articles, and a FREE Fashion Magazine featuring the latest fashion trends for women, please visit our web site: www.net-planet.org

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What’s So Special About Silk?

For over 4000 years silk has held the position as the Queen of Textiles. It is the ultimate luxurious cloth for the individual with discriminating taste.

To quote Oscar de la Renta, "Silk does for the body what diamonds do for the hand."
Once upon a time...... there lived a Chinese empress, Si Ling Chi, who watched a silkworm spinning its cocoon while on her morning walk through the royal gardens. She dreamt of clothing herself entirely with fabric made only from these fine, shimmering
threads...

Such was the beginning of the breeding of silkworms 5000 years ago, and even today the principles remain the same.

So what exactly is silk and how is it made?

Silk is the fine thread with which a silkworm spins its cocoon. The silkworm pupates in its cocoon and emerges 20 days later as a moth. The thread which is produced by the spinning glands of the silkworm is the finest and strongest natural fiber in the world.

Silk is a protein fiber, meaning that is chemically quite similar to human skin. Because of this, silk is an ideal "second skin".

So what is it that makes silk so special and sought after for clothing?

* Silk Shines — Because of silk's unique sheen, colors radiate and assume a luminescent character. This gleaming however is not the only quality of silk.

* Silk Caresses — Thanks to its extremely fine and smooth fiber structure, silk flows in a supple and soft way.

* Silk Insulates — Silk cools and warms simultaneously. Silk garments are perfect for summer and winter. Silk can be worn as a second layer underneath to warm without being bulky. It can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling damp. Silk will absorb perspiration while letting your skin breathe. Silk contributes to your well-
being.

* Silk Wears well — In spite of its delicate appearance, silk is relatively robust. Its smooth surface resists soil and odors well. Silk is wrinkle and tear resistant, and dries quickly.

* Silk is safe and Non-Allergenic — Because of its protein structure, silk is the most hypoallergenic of all fabrics. That means it's less likely to cause allergic reactions to the wearer. For people with skin allergies silk can be a God send.

* Silk Flatters — Silk has been celebrated throughout history: Princesses are clad in silken robes and noblemen in silken capes. 2000 years ago, Chinese poets wrote of the harmonizing virtues of silk clothing. Silk is naturally wrinkle-resistant, glossy, hypoallergenic, and easy to care for. Other fabrics can only claim these qualities after being treated


http://www.rachel.in/article-details.asp?ArtID=52

Finding Your Fashion Style

Girls and teens want to look sharp and fashion forward. Fashion trends change every season, but there are certain basic items of girls clothes that everyone wants in their wardrobe. Key pieces can be combined to create many different looks. While denim jeans are a staple in most wardrobes, the style of jeans changes regularly. While low rise jeans with straight legs may have been popular in 2005, within a year or so a high waisted jean with wide legs may be the fashion. While each teen may choose her own style and not care about what is popular, the current trendy styles are what will be found in the stores. To know what is in fashion, either start shopping at your favorite local mall or read fashion magazines.

Jeans are a great basic because they can be worn so many ways. For casual wear, add a t-shirt, sweater or plain shirt with sneakers or flat shoes. The same jeans can also be dressed up nicely with a fancy blouse or a camisole with a jacket and heels.

Other key wardrobe pieces are tank tops, turtlenecks, khakis, shorts, slacks, skirts, sundresses and blazers. The styles and colors of these items will also change from season to season. Skirt lengths go up and down, with both a short skirt and a longer style usually in fashion at the same time.

The quality of girls clothes makes less difference because styles change so quickly. Girls will tire of their clothes long before they wear out, so pick what you like that fits your budget and don't worry about durability. Even so, check the label for laundry instructions. Washable clothes are easier and cheaper to maintain than dry clean only.

Experiment to find your own style

One of the nicest things about teen apparel (and of being a teenager in general) is the freedom to experiment. Even the simplest outfit of jeans and a t-shirt can be an expression of the wearer's personality. Jeans now come in an array of colors. Some have decorative rivets, while others display fancy embroidered designs. Even the way the pockets are arranged can be a decorative element.

A t-shirt can be a plain solid color with a round neck or a v-neck. It can be striped or patterned. It can display a message, either for or against a cause, showing off its manufacturer or just saying something amusing. Thus the t-shirt can be a fashion statement, a personal statement or a political statement - you choose.

But the biggest part of the teen apparel experiment comes through accessories. These can be found in department stores and clothing shops as well as in specialty stores that carry nothing else. When selecting shoes, fit and comfort may be sacrificed to style. This may not be a good tradeoff depending on what activities you plan to pursue while wearing them. Be sure to try on both shoes as most people have one foot that is slightly larger than the other.

Shoes can be made of leather, imitation leather, cloth and other materials. Leather shoes are usually the most expensive, but they last the longest. Before making a big investment in shoes, think about how long you believe they will suit your taste, style and wardrobe and how long you might want to keep wearing them.

The handbag or purse is another great accessory. Modern style gurus no longer require matching your purse to your shoes, so go wild. Get a giant bag or a mini-backpack for everyday wear so you can carry all of your stuff. Pick a tiny, shiny bag for that night on the town. As long as it's big enough for your keys, lipstick, money and cellphone, it will work. If you plan an active day, forget the bag and go for a belt pouch. No longer just for athletes, these come in an array of styles and colors like other purses. And when you're ready to get fancy, remember that you can add jewelry, gloves, hats, scarves and more to personalize your look completely.

About the Author:
Jean Feingold is a copywriter for Catalogs.com. Catalogs.com is the Internet's leading source for print and online catalog shopping - and a growing hub of original content and "how to" information at www.catalogs.com.