Saturday, September 29, 2007

The Advantages of Choosing Linen

Linen is one of the most ancient fabrics known to man. Linen is made from flax and the process of manufacturing flax is quite arduous. Linen has several advantages over other natural fibers; one is that is stronger than other fibers, and the other is that it is cool. Trousers made of linen will never feel clammy in humid weather as linen can absorb over twenty percent of its weight in water. Linen is a cool fabric and that's why it's preferred over other fabrics.

Linen was mostly found in white color and it's only recently that fabric makers have started dyeing it in other colors. Linen has a number of advantages. It's a very soft and smooth fabric and always feels nice to touch. The second advantage is that it's cool and preferred over other fabrics in hot weather. The third advantage is that being a strong fabric it's long lasting. As linen has the ability to absorb and loose moisture rapidly it will absorb perspiration and dry it out rapidly. Texture is resistant to moths and carpet beetles. The disadvantage of texture is that it's an expensive fabric.

Texture has been popularly used for making bed sheets, towels and table napkins and handkerchiefs. Linen has a certain glow to it which is not matched by any other natural fiber. Ancient Egyptian mummies have been found wrapped in texture. The white texture portrayed purity and wealth. Linen's natural colors are ivory, tan or grey and are heavily bleached to make it white.

The major advantage of texture is that it ages gracefully and the older it gets, the better it will look and feel. Texture is now also being used in making gents and ladies trousers and ladies skirts. In tropical climates men also wear texture suits at formal occasions. Dyed texture cloth can fade with over exposure to sunlight.

Texture table napkins add a touch of formality and elegance to any meal. They can be pressed and folded into different shapes to suit the occasion. Texture handkerchiefs are folded and displayed in the breast pocket of men's jackets. Here again they break the monotony of the dark colored jacket and add a touch of refinement.

Linen towels have a distinct advantage over cotton towels as they are soft and more absorbent than cotton. Also, they very seldom need softeners like cotton towels do. Linen bed sheets make the bed look clean, cool and welcoming.

Linen is a relatively easy to wash fabric and does not stain easily. Linen loves water and requires a lot of water for rinsing after it has been washed. In fact linen is best rinsed in running water. Linen needs a medium to hot iron when ironing and can be starched as well. If too much starch is used the fabric will become stiff, therefore it should be lightly starched. Linen should be ironed when it's still slightly damp.

Linen will remain a prized fabric as its production remains quite low. White linen is the preferred color in linen and it looks its best in this color.

Friday, September 28, 2007

What to Wear For a Summer Wedding

If you have a wedding you have to go to, finding the right outfit to wear on the occasion can be exciting and can also be tiring all the same. What you wear for a wedding depends a lot upon the season in which the wedding takes place and also on whether it is an outdoor wedding or not.

The invitation that you get for the wedding can also provide you cues about the kind of event it is going to be, and hence, you can dress accordingly. If the summer wedding that you are going to attend is a black tie event and is after six, this means that it would be very formal and you would require something very formal like a gown.

Weddings that are so formal are quite rare. With a summer wedding, there is the benefit that it can be a beach wedding, or it can also take place in the garden; hence, you get a lot of choice when it comes to dressing up for the wedding. Considering that it is the summer season and brighter colours can be worn, you can choose something that is fun and enjoyable.

If the wedding is not planned as a very formal affair, you have the freedom to wear a more playful and floral kind of dress that would look not only chic but also very elegant. You can wear flat shoes with such a dress. This would make you look effortlessly beautiful.

If the wedding you are going to is in the summer season and on a beach, you should try to keep things light and airy. This kind of a wedding allows you to dress casually with sundresses, and you can even go to the wedding in your flip-flops or barefoot for that matter.

For a summer wedding, you can wear bold and bright colours and look beautiful in them. Almost everyone owns a little black dress. If you do not want to wear colour and want to look sophisticated and elegant, you can always wear a black dress and accessorise it perfectly to look stunning.

A cocktail dress can also be worn for a summer wedding, and you can look sleek and sexy and feel beautiful. If you are going to a summer wedding that is rather conservative and inside a church and you are not in the mood of wearing a dress, you can always wear a beautiful two-piece suit.

For summer weddings, in some cases, the bride also wears colours in her dress, and in this season, there are many colours that are in the trend. Yellow and teal along with coral are some of the colours that some brides are also using for their summer wedding this season. Still, there are many brides that prefer to look traditional and beautiful in the stunning white.

Wednesday, September 26, 2007

Scrabble Tile Pendants - Lots of Fun!

Scrabble tile pendants are whimsical pieces of jewelry made from recycled scrabble game pieces. There are literally hundreds of different styles of pendants, from cute to strange, simple to extravagant. They make excellent gifts for birthdays, Mother's Day, Christmas, Valentine's Day or any other holiday you can think of! They can also make very nice charms for special occasions such as weddings. Most importantly, they are a way to show your unique style. With all of the designs available out there you're sure to find one that is absolutely perfect for you!

Lots of people have fun making their own scrabble tile pendants. First you need to raid your mom's old scrabble set and steal those game pieces! You then need to choose what sort of image you would like on your tile. It could be anything from some pretty decorative paper, to a magazine clipping, a photograph, or even a graphic you've designed yourself and printed. Cut your paper down to the size of the scrabble tile and then glue it to the blank side, leaving the letter side visible. Use your initial for a personalized touch! Once the paper is glued to the tile you need to cover it with a clear finish. There are many non-toxic water based glazes available which make this step very easy and hazard-free.

Make sure you let the glaze dry thoroughly before you proceed to the next step- even overnight. Now there are a few ways to attach a bail to your pendant. Some people like to drill a hole through the very top of the pendant, front to back, and attach a clip bail. This will cover some of your image, however it does give a very nice effect. Some people like to screw a very small eye-screw into the top of the pendant and then include a jump ring to run their necklace through. Lastly, you can find glue-on bails for another nice effect. Finish with a chain or necklace of your choice and voila! Your very own scrabble tile pendant!

You can find Scrabble tile pendants at a variety of places, you just need to keep a keen eye out to spot them. Probably the most obvious answer to the question "where can I buy one of these?" is: Online! Do a quick internet search and you'll be greeted with many tempting options in a variety of styles and price ranges. Another great place to look is at local craft shows. You can help support your local artisans this way, and also find something really unique and personal to show off your style. You can find local craft shows by doing an internet search for your city, or also check out your local newspaper. Lastly, always be on the lookout for trendy indie boutiques. These will be in cities big and small and often carry a variety of items from local, national and international artisans. If you can't find them- ask! The owner of the boutique know a great little spot to check out. Good luck in your search!

Monday, September 24, 2007

Men's Linen Suit - Both Cool and Stylish!

Are you taking a little vacation trip this summer and can't quite decide what type of wardrobe you need to carry. For centuries men have worn linen to stay cool, and it's still stylish today.

Well, if you are going to warm destination linen is always a great choice that will allow you to stay cool and yet still be very fashionable. A gentleman going on a vacation need not sacrifice style for comfort. He can have the best of both worlds by donning a linen suit.

Linen gives you that laid back look but classy - the kind that could turn women's heads even during summer's clammy heat. Linen is light weighted and will keep you cool even under the sweltering heat. The reason that linen helps your body to stay cool is that it allows your body to breath and it also helps to wick away moisture.

It is best worn during summer on special events like an outdoor wedding or party, or even those sweet summer dates. Never wear it to the office though. Linen creases easily. By the end of the day, you might look like a crumpled piece of paper.

Ties are unnecessary when wearing a linen suit, but if you do, choose a graphic checked tie. That should add an instant jolt to your warm weathered wardrobe. You can accessories by wearing cuff links and a decent watch.

When buying linen suits, make sure it fits you perfectly. Linen has a loose fitting nature so you should probably buy one size smaller to make you look well pulled together. It would also save you some money to buy during off season.

So there you have it... the perfect gentleman's get up while on the beach. Just like Johnny Depp, rugged yet elegant. Now get ready to turn some of the ladies heads.

Saturday, September 22, 2007

Men's Linen Clothing - Still Stylish and Always Cool

Are you one of the guys who always seem to have a perspiration problem during the hottest summer months? Maybe you should consider linen clothing, worn for centuries by men to stay cool, as an addition to your wardrobe.

During the summer, fashion can be a real sauna to the guys. Most are prone to excessive sweating which can cause problems like bad body odor. If you are out to impress the ladies, then sweating profusely in front of them won't get much of their attention. You need to make strategic choices so that you wouldn't be the cause of nasal dysfunction and still look good. If you are one of the guys who have a particularly nasty problem, linen clothing might be a good option for you to think about.

To hide such flaws you need a fabric that will allow moisture from your body to move outside of the garment. Linen will help you out in such embarrassing situations. It gives a breathe-easy fashion that will work for your body's need and not against you. Linen is a tough fabric but smooth on the skin and it dries off really fast.

You can combine interesting pieces like wearing structured jeans over linen shirts or go all out in linen but make sure to choose contrasting colors to the totality of the look. Choose colors like pure or navy white to hide the sweat marks. You can get away with canvass deck shoes, sandals or slip on while donning linen pants to add up to the comfort zone.

Men with such bodily function struggle during the summer time as the heat intensifies their sweating but now you have the option to get the look of elegance and comfort. Not only is linen a great material to help keep you cool during the summer but you will also find out that it is still considered very fashionable and stylish. If you don't like the "crinkled" look that 100% linen clothing will end up with just shop around a little. Many designers are offering blends today line linen and silk or linen and rayon that feature the best of both materials.

So go ahead, step out into the world with a little more confidence in a new linen suit or maybe a pair of linen pants with s new silk shirt.

Wednesday, September 19, 2007

Men's Silk Shirt - Make a Fashion Statement!

Can't decide what to wear to that office party coming up this summer? Silk and linen - it's been the fashion choice for men's summer wear for years.

Silk was originally worn as a symbol of royalty. It is considered to be a very luxurious fabric. It has a shimmering appearance since it refracts incoming light producing different shades on the surface. When wearing it, subtlety is the key.

The blue silk dress shirt for the men is like the little black dress for women. It is a must have in every man's closet. Choose light or icy blue specifically to bring out the color in you. Choose sophisticated cuts to accentuate the chest area so as to create an illusion of having a wide chest if you are on the thin side.

When picking out colors, go for something light and neutral in plains. You can also choose pinstripes to denote authority but never in bright colors for it will throw off the attention. That would cause momentary blindness to others. You can jazz it up by wearing colored ties. It is best to dry clean silk instead of washing it in water since it shrinks, though that can be remedied by using a steam iron.

This is a fabric that should be avoided by those who sweat profusely. It tends to darken when wet therefore highlighting your sweaty underarms. You don't want that to get noticed.

If the idea of a sexy cool silk shirt appeals to you match it up with a nice pair of cool linen pants. Silk and linen have been a sophisticated fashionable combination for years and chances are you can wear the same outfit 10 years from now and still look stylish.

You actually don't have to be a member of a royal family anymore to wear silk, just a person with good taste who likes to look nice. So next time your shopping, give silk a try.

Tuesday, September 18, 2007

Buying a New Pair of Sunglasses

Buying a new pair of sunglasses is definitely a fun activity for everyone. It is difficult to figure out if a store has everything that suits everyone's taste and personal choice. But, it really pays off when you easily get what you simply love and carry it well.

The best tip to follow for buying a quality pair is choosing sunglasses that matches well your face cut. In addition, sun glasses that go well with coloration and hair styles are also very popular these days. Confused? What suits you're the best? Take the help of an attendant in these stores and get perfect sunglasses that can make look like a celebrity. A convenient shopping experience is the key to a better sales opportunity for every sunglasses selling store.

You can choose different sunglasses for different face cuts. To judge which suits you the best, you can try wearing different shaped sunglasses and evaluate your appeal. IF you have a round face you need to pick sunglasses that give a slender look to your face. Such sunglasses have at least same width as the widest part of the face and angular lenses. People with square face should go for stylish round or oral lenses sunglasses. Oval lenses generally suit people with diamond shaped faces. Individuals with triangular faces should wear straight sunglasses and the glasses should have lenses, such as cat eyes, that work to accent the eye area.

Find a great pair of sunglasses and get the right look!

Sunday, September 16, 2007

How Vintage Women's Clothing Has Evolved Over Time?

We all must have heard the phrase old is gold. When we were kids we all used to go through our mother's closet and pretend to dress up like her. It was a very thrilling sight to see her wear her beautiful flowing gowns which would reach till the floor. They always had a sophisticated and classy look since they had a certain charm because of the cut and the way the gown was elegantly draped. In those classic times they were called flapper or sheath dresses. They were created from premium quality silk and polyester with intricate details, in fact silk was one of the most used fabrics since it was light, soft and it was perfect for evening dresses since the material would fall in a chic manner.

During the 40's vintage women's clothing was conservative but yet elegantly designed. The apparel was made from stunning sheer rayon crepe which had classic details of stitched down pleats that high light the drape of the evening gown. They used self covered buttons which gave a high neck effect and pocket flaps on the front of the dress. The skirts were lined at the bottom with ruffle details in the same stripe as the collar and cuff. These apparels were timeless and had a style statement of their own. The women would love to go and dress up for any occasion. They conducted themselves with poise and style.

The 50's saw vintage women's clothing change drastically to the little black dress, which was a craze at that time. It was a classic black dress designed with textured fabric which looks beautiful. Cotton was another fabric that was commonly used. It was comfortable plus it was easy to wear since you didn't have to take too much care of it. They were adorned with lace detail. Side zips was the new detail that was added to the dresses which gave a better fit. A lot of printed fabrics, pinks and pastel shades were used. Cotton fabrics didn't even need too much of maintenance.

During the iconic 60's, vintage women's clothing had redefined itself. It was the year of polka dots. Metallic silver polka dots on a sheer mesh lined in a solid cream color were quite in vogue. You even got so see beautiful velvet evening dresses with satin and lace work which just looked so glamorous that you just couldn't take your eyes of it. The 60's was also known as the swinging 60's due to the outburst of swing music. Everyone would dress up in their best attire for a fun night out. A lot of women also preferred the material crepe since it was comfortable to move around in and easy to maintain. They would also experiment with bright colors like turquoise and mint green.

The 70's saw a change in Vintage Women's Clothing, a lot more fitted dresses were becoming the new fashion trend with details like metal zips. The fabric rayon was used a lot during this periodic time. With some good tailoring this fabric would allow tiny folds which would have a very pleated look which would look spectacular. The dress would be simple but the detailing would create a very dramatic effect because of the folded pleats. Dark shades like navy blue were more in demand at this time. Another fabric that was popularly used was linen, which was soft and great for the summer.

All you need to do it pick up any of these types of dresses from your mothers closet add the modern twist and you ready to dazzle the world with vintage and modern combination to create something of your own.

Friday, September 14, 2007

Make the Collar Look Crisp With Shirt Collar Stays

Looks do matter in today's competitive world. Everyone wants to look good. But not all are born with this quality. We can at least try to appear smart and nice. Wearing clean and well-pressed shirt can give us a perfect and elegant look. In the corporate environment, you need to look smart. To get that look you need to keep in mind certain important things. Before wearing a shirt you need to check whether it is clean or not. It is also very essential to check whether the collar is stiff or not. If it is not, then you need to make it look stiff and fine. Collar stiffeners are the best solution for you. It is considered as one of the most important shirt accessories that help in maintaining the look and feel of the shirts collar. They are also known as collar tabs and collar bones. In many cases, shirt collars do not remain crisp. Men have to put much effort in keeping their shirt collars stiff and neat. Collar stays is the right option for them.

Shirt Collar stays can be made of different materials, from sterling silver, plastic, brass, horn to metal. Metal shirt stays and plastic shirt stays fit with most of the shirts. In fact, they are the most popular shirt collar stays. Shirt collar bones have a sleek look. These stays are rigid and smart in look. You can make the collar of your shirt appear rigid and stiff by adding a collar stiffener with it. You can attach these stiffeners with almost all type of shirt brands. They can add stiffness and crispness to the shirt collar.

Stiffeners and engraved cufflinks can also serve as great gift. They can be personalized to make the recipient feel special. Engraving your friends or relative's favorite line or quote or initials is the perfect way of making the gift a special one. You can give personal touch to the gift by writing something on the collar stay to make the receiver feel really special.

Plastic collar stiffeners are the right option for the people who have tight budget. Collar stays made of plastic are not so expensive and almost anyone can afford it. They are less expensive than the brass and sterling silver collar stiffeners.

Removable collar stays are considered as fashion accessories for guys. Some people use traditional paper clip as a substitute of collar stiffener. But it is advisable not to use paper clip for a long time as it can tear the fabric or cloth in course of time.

There are a number of companies to offer collar stiffeners or collar stays. While selecting a brand, you need to check whether it offers quality items or not. It is wise to opt for reputed brands. After all it is a matter of your looks. So, be a conscious consumer and make a prudent choice.

Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Same Handbags, Different Impressions

The fashion world is full of fashion handbags! Every women is carrying a handbag in her hand, on her arm or on her shoulder! However, among all those handbags, and those women, we may find that each of them gives us the different kind of impression! You may know that even I don't speak out the reason. First of all, different people have different kind of temperament, the way they speak, do things, and the style of their clothes are also different. As is known to all, the twins may look the same outside, but their personality and temperament may be quite different! That is also true in the handbags!

For example, if we find that two girls are carrying the same style handbag of Louis Vuitton on the street. But one of them wearing elegant and fashionable dress, graceful high heels, we may think that this bag is a perfect match to her. And the Louis Vuitton handbag looks so beautiful, even yourself want to have one bag of that style1! However, the other girl is wearing a plain T-shirt, skinny jeans and a pair of flats, or even more terrible! You may say: Oh my God! What she is wearing and what is a waste of the elegant Louis Vuitton Handbag for her!

What's more, I want to say that, if the two girls are both carrying the replica handbags, you may think the first lady is carrying the genuine Louis Vuitton Handbag, and the second lady is carrying the replica Louis Vuitton. Even the second lady is carrying genuine Louis Vuitton handbag,you may also think it is a fake one. So the temperament and the style of your dress is really important and affect the impression of yourself in other people's mind. So take care of yourself and make up yourself well when you go outside. That is a way to leave a good impression in other people's mind!

I hope every girl could be beautiful and elegant in others' eyes!

Sunday, September 9, 2007

Different Varieties of Shoes

The shoes are the important items that are used for protecting the feet and at the same time give comfort also. This particular footwear is responsible in giving protection and it can also be used as a fashion statement. Everyone wants to dress in such a style that they look beautiful; in that case the footwear that you wear plays an important role. There are different varieties of shoes available in the market from where you can select the one that will suit your feet in a comfortable manner. But, before that you should have knowledge about the different types of shoes.

There are shoes especially meant for the men. You will get varieties of them in the market. They can be categorized by the name of Balmorals, Bluchers etc. It will have a decorative look in the plain toes, Brogues etc. As far as the shoes of the ladies are concerned, you will also get different varieties in them. When you are going to purchase the footwear for the ladies, you will be confused by seeing the varieties of designs in them. In some of them you will see that the heel is of high length whereas in some you will see that the heels are of small shaped.

There are different types of shoes meant for the athletic purpose. These shoes are manufactured in such a way that it will have less differences between the footwear made for both the genders of the society. This means that they can be worn by both males and females of the society. There are many varieties of athletic shoes named as the sneakers, bowling shoes, shoes meant for skating etc. In the shoes meant for the skating purpose, you will see many categories in it like roller skates, ice skates and many more. If you are interested in dance, you can purchase the shoes that are specially made for it.

Saturday, September 8, 2007

Unique and Interesting Shirt Patterns

It is not just the hipsters of the current generation that are getting into the counter culture fray of creative clothing designs. People from all walks of life are finding out that creativity on a shirt can really help distinguish them from the millions of persons walking the streets today. With the rise of the web, getting creative clothes has never been quicker. There are a great number of organizations, designers, and artists working on clever presentations to help people stand out with everyday fashion. You do not necessarily have to be into fashion to enjoy a fine design, and it has never been quicker to get one.

Creative clothes designs abound today because people are tired of the plain old styles that have flooded the market in recent years. Creativity does not have to be expensive either, as there are many low cost and sale selections to consider when looking for that right piece of clothing. A excellent clothing can tie together an outfit, or simply be something you do not have to think about in the morning before work or school.

There is a large wealth of options to consider when looking at these incredible designs. Never before have there been so many creative outlets to explore for artists. Shirt designs are just one of the ways that aspiring artists from around the world are expressing themselves and helping others express themselves. Long gone are the traditional platforms, as the basic person is now embracing fine art in the form of creative shirt designs.

Thursday, September 6, 2007

A Buyers Guide For Ladies Purses

With the changes in fashion and trends, females are often more concerned about their accessories than the outfit they are wearing. You can easily carry off a bad outfit with style and elegance if you are wearing the right kind of accessories with it. The most important part of accessories is ladies purses. You will hardly see any female without a proper bag or purse whether going for work, party or other formal or causal occasions. Ladies purses are must have accessories and have now turned into essential items.

You will find thousands of bags in different styles, designs and sizes. With the availability of more choices it is often difficult to make the right purchase but you have to be careful when selecting bags. You will find different types of bags on the market ranging from casual, formal to designer. Carrying a stylish bag not only compliments your outfit but also allows you to carry your necessary belongings along. If you want more trendy and fashionable purses then you can go for well known designers that offer stylish bags and accessories.

Purses are available in all types of sizes but you have to purchase the one that is capable of fulfilling your requirements and has sufficient space for carrying your necessary items. Some of the bags have enough space that they can carry your laptop while some are small clutch types that are usually aimed for carrying on formal occasions and have less space.

Bags are made from different types of materials such as simple or plain and formal with beads and sequence. Purses with beads and sequence are suitable for formal occasions such as weddings where as simple ones are appropriate for office or casual events. You will find large assortments of purses in unique colors that can match all types of outfits. You can choose from the available colors and select the one that matches with the color of your outfit. The traditional colors such as black, brown and white are widely purchased be people because they can be taken with almost all types of clothes.

Bags that come with plain or decent prints are suitable for older aged women where as teenage girls prefer purses with funky styles and prints. With so many available options you can purchase the right bag by comparing it with others and ensuring that it serves the purpose you are purchasing it for.

Tuesday, September 4, 2007

Girls Outfits That Are Age Appropriate

As a parent, you must juggle the tight rope between buying your daughter clothes they want, and buying them clothes that you would prefer them to wear. These days, there is some issue with many pre-teen girls wearing clothing that is not quite age appropriate and parents want to make sure their daughters are dressing the way they feel they should.

However, there are ways that you can buy girls outfits that are age appropriate, without getting into an argument with your daughter over what clothes to buy.

1. First, when you are shopping online for clothes, or in a retail setting, shop with your daughter. Have them look through the clothes and determine which they may be interested in, while also offering suggestions on clothes you think she may like. Always remember to get their opinion and make it a dual shopping experience. This will save you from having to send back clothes you buy that your daughter may not wear.

2. Your daughter may want low-rise jeans but if this is a problem for you, find jeans that do not sit too close to the hip bones and which are not going to be too tight for your daughter.

3. Do not buy your daughter any shirts that are too small, or which may have expressions that could be deemed offensive or perpetuating negative stereotypes. There are plenty of clothes that you can find online that look good and do not feel the need to delve into bad taste. If your daughter wants something funny on her shirt, you can easily find what you are looking for or have something made.

4. When looking for outfits online and in the retail world, choose shorts and skirts that can be paired up with tops. If your daughter is wearing jeans or long pants, then have her wear those with shirts that have spaghetti straps on them.

5. Most parents will have an issue with track pants or shorts that have something printed on the back. There should be no reason for your daughter to be advertising anything back there to get people to look, so just refrain from those.

You can find plenty of nice outfits on websites that offer classy, but good looking outfits that are not trying to seem edgy or 'hip'. You do not have to sacrifice modesty for good clothes so don't feel as though you do. Just explain to your daughter what you would prefer her to wear and why and you will be surprised by how they respond with agreement.

Saturday, September 1, 2007

The Vintage Commentaries

In the olden days, there were the enviable, fashionable few women who dared defy traditional wear and set a new bar with a rebellion of cuts, styles, colors. Most of the other women were modest (or not so modest but not as creative) housewives and mothers and sisters and daughters whose self image and family image couldn't reconcile daring yet classy clothing. And then post the 1920's, the wall began to fall. More and more women explored their femininity and began to express it freely with a self tailored dash of individual flair.

Clothes from the 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s... all bear this richness of details, an indelible stamp of hark ye, back to that age of peaceful rebellion and crossing borders and breaking boundaries, a golden era of music, spiritual, cultural and intellectual explorations. These are the fashions and the clothes that are coming back into fashion today and being worn as women's vintage clothing to create a new individual fashion, distinctive and very declarative of independence.

The thing with vintage clothes is that by the very classification of being from the 1920s to 80s, they're dated, old and have been used before. What shoppers need to keep an eye on when they're shopping is the vintage condition of these clothes. It really depends on how well they've been preserved over the years - how many wash cycles they've undergone, whether collars, sleeves, elbow patches, linings are intact or frayed or shiny, whether buttons are intact, and most importantly, if there are tears, or stains in the fabric. If women's vintage clothes are in a bad state, it is better not make the purchase at all, however fabulous the clothing item may be. Although of course if all it needs is basic repair work, take it home and fix it up. If a particular item is a designer piece in good or great condition, you've found a gem - don't resist.

The best thing to do with vintage clothes is to go all out and drip feed it into your wardrobe. Mix and match the vintage clothes with subtle Goth or biker wear touches; wear the sunglasses, hats, pumps and little hand bag with skinny denims and a chic razor back; wear a vintage jacket with a corporate get up or go classic with the evening dresses. A fusion of vintage and contemporary creates chic overlays of many nuances, in many directions.

The vintage influence is not to be missed in the apparel of the metro sexual man of fashion of the twenty first century. The men are bringing vests and trousers, shirts back from that era with a few stylish inclusions when donning their evening wear and heading out for the night. More significantly, the designers are keeping the style alive through their lines, modeling a little bit of the 20s right up to the 70s either in concurrence with the theme or expression of their collections, or by introducing converse, contrary elements that create new ripples in the industry by their peers, critics and aficionadas.