Latest Life Style Issue

Why Women Fake Orgasm?

2007-07-26T00:06:00.000-07:00

Everybody heard rumours about women faking orgasms. Is that true? The majority of women have faked at least one orgasm, yet some fake almost all of them. Why do they do that? There are many reasons and the case is that there's no one to blame.

The most common are two reasons: they don't want to make their partners feel bad or they are tired and just want to end sex. Most females say that their partners are not satisfied until the girls feels orgasm, there's only one way to make them feel happy and stop the exhausting procedure - fake.

Another reason is that a typical female doesn't seek for orgasm; she desires a sexual relationship only because she wants intimacy. Still, such an attitude may make her partner feel bad. The only way out is to fake it out.

Some women never really experience orgasm while making sex, but they want their partner to feel good about himself and her. Men usually expect women to have pleasure, that's why females have no other choice. They have to fake to have a good relationship.

Loss of interest, having sex only because the partner wants to, also makes women to fake. Most females talk to their friends about such things and while they know other women act it, they do so too, because it's an easier way to have a good relationship.

When a man tries very hard, sometimes even too hard to make his woman have an orgasm, the woman usually finds it better to fake it than to disappoint her partner once again. They fear rejection if a man wouldn't understand her, they don't want to offend men because the absence of an orgasm is actually not their fault.

Some women may have health problems. If, while experiencing she becomes too sensitive and wants to stop, she fakes an orgasm in order to stop and relax. Orgasm may also cause discomfort and pain; that's a serious problem and she can't be blamed for faking. In such cases, most women prefer and enjoy orgasm more during solitary masturbation. Although they feel better while having orgasm themselves, they want to make their partner feel good too, so they act an orgasm out.

A female orgasm can be most easily faked by a good actress. There are few options: gripping something tightly; moaning loudly; breathing deeply; burying face into something (pillow); doing kegels or anything else at least remotely dramatic or climatic.

What to do if you think your partner is faking? Talk about it. Maybe she knows some special position or action that would make her happy. Don't get angry if she admits faking. Try to solve the problem, but don't get too far, don't try too hard because it may become an exhausting activity rather than an act of love.

Women act and men can do nothing about it; and maybe they shouldn't? Try to find out the real reasons of faking and discus possible ways out. Don't blame your partner for it; it's natural for women to do so from time to time. Show her your passion, love and try to understand her. Don't be an egoist in such an important part of relationship.

Perfuming For Seduction

2007-07-26T00:05:00.001-07:00

Mankind made a huge progress in several thousand years; however we are still dependant on five of our senses. You may not believe it, but the most important thing that decides whether we like person or not is smell. Don’t be hurry to deny it. We do take an image and communication in account, but subconsciously we are very sensitive to smells. More than that, there are certain scents that make us feel euphoric, worry us or even seduce us. If you’ve ever traveled next to a perfumed person you know that smell can be irritating. However, we don’t “register” all the smells with our conscious mind, but they influence us greatly.

Though natural body smell (not a stink of course!) is considered the most sexual, there are some scents used in perfume business that can make us passionate. Some perfumes appeal to our emotions and charm us. What scents should one choose to charm others?

Musk is a part of almost all perfumes; however, it’s not the main accent of them all. The exiting impact of musk has been known for centuries and even thousands of years. What’s so special about it? We react to musk smell as to great portion of pheromones. The scent attracts attention to a person who wears it. Musky smell is considered wild and close-to-nature and, of course, sexual. It can be worn both by men and women; however, most perfumes world wide are dedicated for females. Musk is also considered a “heavy” scent, but most perfumes contain more than one note, so you can find the one that suits you.

Woodsy and spicy tones make us interested and grab attention as well as musk scent. Wood blend is rather dedicated for men. Rich cedar and sandalwood scents are both refreshing and inspiring. Wood scents also are considered very natural and appealing to our senses. Timber and moss remind us of nature, they are cozy, but rather stimulating than calming.

Oriental perfumes are considered sexual as they are exotic. And exotic, unusual things attract people a lot. Oriental perfumes are made of an interesting mix of woods, amber, vanilla scents and others. They are recommended for eveningwear. They might be too “heavy” for daywear and young persons, as oriental smell is considered sophisticated and mature.

Floral scents are sexual in a different way. Jasmine, rose and other blends show a feminine person that is also tender, funny, romantic and sweet. Floral tones disclose a woman that is in need to be under someone’s guardianship, while a woman wearing heavy perfumes, even those dedicated for men, is considered strong and passionate. You can find each case sexual, as it actually depends on what kind of woman you are looking for and/or what kind of woman you feel you are.

Now perfumes that remind us of edible things attract us in two ways. “Edible” scents not only smell nice, they smell delicious. They also remind us of certain food and we can feel the taste deep in our imagination. I bet you know a girl that is sweet as vanilla or a boy that is spicy like cinnamon and cloves. “Edible” perfumes (also called Gourmand) are a great way to be in the center of attention.

Accessory Trends for 2007 Summer

2007-07-26T00:04:00.001-07:00

Accessory is one of the most important parts in your style. You may wear excessively fashionable clothes but your style will never be complete without the trendiest accessory. These small details make your style unique and noticeable. As far as shops are full of bright colored clothes with big flowers or futuristic details, accessory for 2007 summer is also very bright, big and eye-catching.

Bags

The first thing that comes to mind while talking about accessories is bags. A real lady couldn't ever leave home without this little (or maybe large) useful detail. Only celebrities could catch up with all bag trends, yet you may purchase at least one and be sure it'll make you look fashionable with various combinations of clothes.

This summer you should definitely have an excessively bright and unusually shaped bag. Don't pay attention to the fact that after this season you'll have to put it deeply in your closet. The history of bags and other accessories is commonly repeated every several years, so you'll be pleasantly surprised and able to wear your original bag once again.

All famous fashion names, such as Versace, Gucci and others, recommend silver or golden colors. The form may remind of old grandmas suitcase or an alien head - the more interesting, the better. It can also be decorated with twinkling stones or fake gems.

Head

You have to be careful not to get sunstroke. Therefore you must have at least one hat made of straws. The most fashionable hat this year is a straw hat, black with wide edges and a rounded vertex girded with a band. If you're wearing a light beach dress with flowers, pick a white hat and you'll certainly be noticed.

Another trendy way to cover your head is a turban. No matter what you're wearing - an evening dress or sport clothes, a turban will definitely make you look good and fashionable. It looks very extraordinary, so be ready for attention.

If you don't like to cover your head with hats, not even talking about turbans, at least gird your head with a wide, fashionable band or rolled scarf.

Waist

All the fashion collections, without any exception emphasize women waist. It's time to stress the most beautiful part of a woman's figure. Various shaped leather belts cope with this task without any problems.

The trendiest ones are the widest ones. However, if you prefer small details - a thin belt with a huge gilded belt-buckle will do perfectly.

Futuristic belts with bright pink or orange verges are also very popular. These go excessively well with bright and flowered dresses.

Glasses

The sunglasses industry has been revolutionized. The most important feature of this season is size. Famous designers' collections are filled with large, rounded sunglasses that have wide plastic frames. This accessory is required to be double-colored; for example, red-black, while-black and yellow-white.

Bijouterie

Huge, interestingly shaped metal and plastic bracelets, large ear rings, ramshackle necklaces and even leather collars are fashionable as never before. They are large enough to be noticeable and even if you don't wear them for a long time you'll have something very impressive for some special occasions.

Don't forget that purchasing a fashionable thing doesn't mean that you'll be looking fashionable only because you wear it. Try to look for an accessory that would fit perfectly with your clothing, your daily makeup, your hairdo, and, of course, your character.

Knitwear & Patchworks: The Hottest Trend for 2007/2008

2007-06-16T21:21:00.000-07:00

Fashion slaves have turned to the trends of early 20th century and choose handcrafted (or handcrafted-looking) clothing and accessories. Lovely vintage embroidery and silhouettes already took up stores and streets, but it's high time for hand knits and patched decorations to step into the spotlight.

After a couple of seasons of bling and futuristic costumes we want a different kind of glamour: hidden in extra quality materials, hand tailored and ornamented. The world seeks for reliable and well-tried garments. And what can be more cozy and tedious crafted than a granny knitted sweater? Choose it jacket type, heavy, long and coarse knitted. Gird the sweater with a knitted or leather belt and you'll have a stylish solution for chilly summer evenings. This type of garment can be worn by both men and women. Heavy knits are combined with plenty of different fabrics and textures.

Fashion is not strict these days, that's why a heavy sweater has an opposite - sexy fine knitted blouses and dresses. They are allure, made to fall around and accentuate the shape. And they are great for elegant look on a hot summer day. Designers love to dress their models in lace and knitting this season, and the next season won't be an exception. This wear can be either romantic or sedate or even crazy; it depends on which texture and shape you choose. The length varies from tunic-style to touching the knees. Even the relatively long blouse-dress can be worn on jeans or tight trousers. It's recommended to combine fine knitwear with huge accessories for the best image.

Though silhouettes are old and strict like uniforms, patches brighten them up. Patches are not a simple piece of fabric sewed on a garment; they are kitted or crocheted decorations that differ in texture. Actually, they can be anything that you find stylish: a picture printed or embroidered on a scrap, a funny slogan or famous brand name. It doesn't mean you have to sew the patches yourself; the garments are created in a certain way to look individual. This trend is based on a contrast: clothing made in classic lines is highlighted with playful patches as they add a sense of individuality to monotonous uniform-style garments.

Another trend that includes patchworks is jeans wear. This fashion is not new; it's reborn of 80's with its purposely ragged clothing and frayed fabric patches everywhere. You may have heard that fashion twists in spiral, and what is on top today, used to be hot some time ago.

However, things change as time goes by and a current trend can't be the same as it used to be. Present patches are more modern, adapted for today's look and sewed on unexpected places. Indeed, the very concept of patched and torn jeans serves as a challenging opposite to modern life and a futuristic point of view. It's going to stay with us for autumn and winter seasons of 07/08 as well.

Finally, fashion is bored with plastic and synthetic fabrics, so reputable designers start to discover the use of natural materials again. Don't keep your woolen sweater and frayed cotton jeans in a wardrobe, but wear them everyday.

Searching for Style

2007-06-16T21:19:00.000-07:00

Boho, trendy, skater, Lolita, hippy, hardcore, goth, emo, vintage, girly, futuristic - these are just a small part of all the styles that exists. How to know which one is yours? What to do if you can't find the one you like and that fits you best? Maybe try to create your own and, what's the most important, unique style?

We see many different people around us. One looks plain and ordinary, although other seems to be going too far. Young people like extraordinary and extreme styles like punk, goth, hardcore.

Goths traditionally cover themselves in black no matter if it's winter or summer, they wear long leather coats, shoes with big platforms, whiten or even paint their faces, they often have piercing not just in the ears, but also in eyebrows, lips, nose and tongue, the most beloved images for them are graves, skulls, darkness and of course death.

There are a lot of groups like this. A lot of people express themselves very differently from others. Teenagers who prefer the same style establishes something similar to their own society. They visit parties and clubs where they already know the majority of visitors and where there are people with different attitude to some vital things for them like music, art, society and especially style, are not welcome. These groups usually contain some friends who refuse to meet somebody who doesn't look and think like they do.

Everything seems nice and simple while we're talking about a "society" like this. What happens when more groups exists? Fear of the ones that don't tolerate you, argues in the streets and even fights. One extreme group usually refuses to tolerate another extreme group, in spite of toleration problems in society, which both groups already have. Although skinheads are one of extremes they can't stand punks, goths and other subcultures, and being the aggressive ones they actually "take some actions" to show their intolerance.

People who express their selves through style have to face the reality that an ordinary wish of being different may become a problem. While some think that skull or grave is beautiful, others may think it's sick. Expressing yourself is always a very respectable thing. A person has to be very brave to show who he/she is through style, choosing extreme style means choosing your friends, your "society". That's the main reason why teenagers like these extreme styles although there's always a danger of being misunderstood. They may already have friends which belong to a society. And they feel safe while they know they are a part of a group. Nevertheless being different does not mean being extreme. You may want to create something only for yourself.

First of all, try to imagine what kind of style would fulfill your character, watch some fashion shows on TV or look through magazines. When you decide what you want, go through your closet and see what clothes you still want to wear and which ones you no longer need. Throw away everything you don't like. Of course after this mission you'll need something new. While making your journey to the mall try not to look at what people around you are buying, don't forget: you want your own style, not theirs. Creating is a hard process, especially if you're creating something totally different. Don't even look at things you would have bought earlier. Try to find something new, something you haven't ever thought you could wear. You don't have to buy things you don't like, but at least try something on. If you see a jacket you are dying to wear, but yesterday you saw five girls/boys wearing the same, don't even think about purchasing it! Your own style means original style, created using fashionable clothes yet not the ones you can find in every single shop.

When you have finished with the clothes, do the same with your jewelry. You don't have to throw anything away, but find something new that would fit with your new clothes. Pay attention to forms, colors and size. Try many different details of many different styles, mix them and finally you will find something you like, and something that will be unique.

When you decide to create your own style, try to consider if it will have some influence on your social position. What consequences may it have? Will your friends or your boss be happy about your changes? Being different is good, but is it worth it to take it to the extremes?

Why Women Fake Orgasm?

2007-06-16T21:18:00.000-07:00

Beauty In 10 Minutes

2007-06-03T21:15:00.000-07:00

Just as we spend money, we spend time. We are all in a rush as if we could save it only because we are fast. Mirror is not an exception. We try to do everything very fast and start running our marathon. Why not make the most of this few minutes?

Try to think of everything is advance. While you're making a decision about your hairdo, make sure it's a rather simple one, so you wouldn't have many problems while forming it. Moreover, the most fashionable hairdos for 2007 are very effortless, all you have to do is wash your hair in the evening, apply all the necessary products, go to sleep, wake up and go. You won't have any troubles with your hair and save a lot of time. Those hairdos are both very practical and fashionable.

You may also use your evenings; no matter how tired you are you'll definitely enjoy laying in a hot bath. After this little relaxing procedure, use creams and gels to your body so you wouldn't have to go to any spas and, once again, waste your time and money. If you'll do it regularly, your skin will be beautiful and it'll be easier to cope with it. You'll have more energy for a whole day and feel fresh.

Makeup will also help you save some time. Colors for this season are very natural and pastel, so you won't have to be very accurate while doing your make up. As far as colors are so unnoticeable, you may not wear any make-up at all. When it comes to lipstick, choose a pastel color. You may use it on your way to work. If the stripes won't be very accurate, don't worry nobody will notice it, for it's a natural color.

Nothing and nobody will be able to help you become pretty if you eat unhealthy food, don't get enough sleep or have too much stress. If some of these problems exist, try to solve them somehow. You may find something tasty, easily prepared and healthy at the same time. If you can't get a good night sleep go see your doctor; it may be a serious problem, however if it's not, the doctor will at least advise you on how to improve your sleep quality. Try to avoid every situation that may cause you stress, if you can't - try to talk to somebody, think positively and relax just as you leave a stressful location.

If you don't have enough time to match every single detail in your style, change your clothing to something simple, youthful or maybe even shaggy. Such clothes are very comfortable, they don't need to be ironed every single day and they will make you look younger! Such style together with a simple and fashionable hairdo and make-up will make you look trendy.

You can decide how much time to spend looking at mirror. If you keep your body fresh every day, take a good care of it, choose your make-up and hairdo properly, you'll need only 10 minutes to be ready. Moreover, if you're happy, don't let stress and bad mood control you, you will be beautiful as you are and won't need any special make-ups, hairdos or clothing to look pretty.

Keep Your Skin Firm

2007-05-25T18:30:00.001-07:00

There is a certain part of our body that can disclose all our habits, tiredness and even food we choose or how often we exercise. Whatever we do it affects our skin sooner or later. If we do not live right skin loses its firm. It might be unnoticeable in early youth, but we can’t ignore it later. What can we do to prevent skin from losing its shine and elasticity? Basically, you need to live healthy life and take care of yourself. Here are some simple firm skin secrets to follow.

• Use sun screener. You probably know that 15 daily minutes in a sun, gives your skin the best portion of the D vitamin. What about a longer period? Sun can dry skin cells and do pretty much damage by fastening aging processes and causing serious diseases. Sun
screener can prevent this from happening. Even if you want to become tanned, without protective means you will rather give your skin damaged but not shinny look.

• Moisturize your skin every day. Sun, wind, cold, improper soaps, air conditioning or central heating – these are only several things that make a skin to lose its moisture. Apply special cream or oil right after bathing. Pay additional attention to your hands and face; they front most of environmental damage around the year. The less dye and perfume a lotion contains the better it’s for your skin.
• Exercise regularly. It makes your shape look better and gives you energy. Furthermore it keeps your skin elastic. Regular exercising helps your skin to take up more necessary oxygen. When aging this skin ability can be strongly reduced.
• Try contrasting shower. Pour yourself with hot and cold water by turns before you get out of bath/shower. This will make your skin to
relax and contract again and again and will keep it more elastic. Contrasting shower is also recommended as prevention mean against cellulite.
• Avoid changing your weight too fast. When you lose weight too fast, your skin may not keep in pace with your body. And crumpled wrinkles may be left as a result. Needless to say ultra dieting is not healthy for whole organism. This also works the other way around: if you gain a lot of weight in a short time without moisturizing your skin, small tears may follow.
• Eat healthy food. Every food is good for you in certain portions. If you prefer fast food to vegetables and home prepared meal, you probably get too much refined carbohydrate and fats, but not enough proteins, vitamins and minerals that your body needs for real.
• Drink a lot of water. Humidity is vital for skin cells to regenerate. If you don’t drink recommended daily water intake, your body dehydrates and your skin fails to regenerate. Saying that water is a base of our life is not made-up. You should drink 8 glasses of water a day and additional 1 or 2 glasses if you are on diet or exercise intensively. Tea, natural juices and juicy fruit or vegetables can replace water; but coffee, carbonated drinks and alcohol make body to dehydrate even more.
• Quit smoking and avoid alcohol. Both these things makes your body (of course including skin) to lose water. Furthermore, many unwanted materials get into your body and causes from small to serious skin diseases. Do I need to remind you that skin of heavy smoker is usually pale grey in color?
• Avoid stress and let yourself to rest. Skin is the most conscientious mirror of your inner feel. If you don’t sleep well regularly, a skin becomes flabby. If you worry a lot, certain wrinkles will form on your face too early.

These advices do not sound like a magical solution, but all the great things are simple. You don’t need to go on strict dieting or buy expensive lotions to keep your skin firm and beautiful. If you love you body and take care of it, it will shine and look great.

Healthy Nails Now

2007-05-25T18:28:00.000-07:00

The best way to make sure your nails are healthy is to moisturize them daily, and care for your cuticles. The cuticle is the nail's protection between the exposed dead part of the nail and the matrix, where new cells are generated. Removing the cuticle destroys the nail matrix, which is essential to healthy nail growth. On the other hand, you do want to keep cuticles from becoming overgrown, which suffocates nail growth. The solution: Liberally apply a cuticle remover (not cuticle oil or cuticle cream), which will make the cuticle more pliable. Then, take an orangewood stick and anywhere the cuticle skin touches the nail plate, push it back using tiny circular movements. Hold the stick at an angle so that you do this gradually and gently, without going inside the cuticle. Use a moisturizer daily to prevent dryness.

Eat Right
Though you can't feed the nail directly, a good diet is essential to overall nail health. Biotin-rich foods like eggs, soy, whole grains and liver are said to be extremely helpful to nails, along with foods rich in sulfur minerals like apples, cucumbers, grapes, garlic, asparagus and onions. Also, be sure your diet includes essential fatty acids, or EFAs. Like vitamins and minerals, foods rich in EFA's, such as salmon, nuts, seeds and tuna, help keep nails shiny and pliable.

Do Not Use Your Fingernails as Tools
Using your fingernails as tools to perform tasks -- pushing back your cuticles or scratching a label off a CD is a no-no! Use proper tools for picking and scraping and not your nails.

Born to be shoemakers! Part 2: Manolo Blahnik

2007-05-25T18:25:00.000-07:00

We continue to speak about shoes. Shoes are a must in our wardrobe. Shoes play the main role in our everyday life: you have a party but you can't go without pair of stylish shoes; rainy weather outside, but you can't walk with your dog without a pair of waterproof boots; if you have a business lunch, you need representative shoes... Shoes are a must for our look! We are going to speak about people who care about our style, comfort and social status.

Manolo Blahnik was born in Santa Cruz de la Palma (Canary Islands) on the 28^th of November 1942. His father was Czech and mother was Hispanic by origin. The children (Manolo and his sister Evangeline) grew up in Austro-Hungarian discipline. Manolo still remembers such home rules as keep whites white, have clean nails and wear a shirt and a jacket with a cotton dust coat over the top.

Manolo Blahnik and his younger sister lived with their parents on a banana plantation, where they were home-schooled by their rigid Catholic mother. Maybe because they were close to banana plantation, Manolo had his own little monkey and guess what? He made little shoes for her. At that time there were no planes, so traveling was difficult. But after the war it went better and family settled in the mainland. Manolo, who was 12 then, went to school in Geneva, Switzerland.

After he finished school, he entered University, the faculty of languages and literature but very soon understood that it was not his path. To earn money, he sold antiques in Paris, attended lectures in Paris and London Schools of Art. Finally, he settled in London for the remainder of his life.

There, he opened his first shop in the center of Chelsea in 1973, and success doesn't leave him since. He was invited to work for Dior, replaced Roger Vivier, the leading shoes designer for this brand. Madonna, Naomi Campbell (his favorite supermodel), Sarah Jessica Parker, Ivana Trump, Kate Moss, Jennifer Aniston, and Nicole Kidman are among his patrons. One pair of Manolo Blahnik's shoes costs 300 to 1100$.Once, after presentation of his new collection, a mysterious lady bought 50 pairs of his shoes at once.

Today, 4 Italian factories are dealing with Manolo Blahnik shoes. First - makes classic lightweight shoes with little heels, second - makes shoes for haute couture, third - makes casual shoes, forth - makes sporty shoes. Each of those does about 80 pairs per day.

When he speaks about his job he usually uses three words - pleasure, felicity, enjoyment. When someone speaks about his shoes, they use the same words adding only perfection to this list. Manolo always mentioned that he made shoes for all ages and all times. He puts shoes fantasies on paper and sometimes it is hard to give life to this because of his unbelievable creativity. Among a big variety of designs, women also love comfort and safety of his shoes. Sarah Jessica Parker wore 10 cm high heels from Manolo Blahnik even during her pregnancy. As a shoe-maker with self-respect, Manolo sawed up wooden last without assistance and designed a shape of heels.

His talent collected a good set of awards. Among them are Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA 1987), Spain's Balenciaga fashion prize (1988), the Nieman Marcus Award (2000), La Aguja de Oro (The Golden Needle, Spain 2001), and La Medalla de Oro en Merito en las Bellas Artes, presented by the King of Spain, Juan Carlos I (2002).

Some facts from Manolo's life:

In 1974 he was on the cover of "Vogue".
Madonna on his shoes: "as good as sex, but the shoes last longer".
He sells 60,000 - 70,000 pairs annually.
He said he would never do any products by his name except shoes.
Manolo Blahnik is 65 years old.
Manolo always has manicure and pedicure.
Usual height of heels on his shoes is 10 cm.
The strangest place he has seen his shoes at was in Beijing, at the Ming emperors' tombs, when one woman wore a very light beige pair of his shoes.
Blahnik began by designing shoes for men.
Blahnik currently resides in a Georgian home in Bath, England, along with some 10,000 pairs of shoes.

You are going to buy your Manolo's shoes, aren't you?

Hidden secrets of tantric sex

2007-05-18T18:38:00.000-07:00

Is the Tantra a sex-obsessed corruption of Buddhism? Padmavajra thinks not.
The last great phase in the historical development of Indian Buddhism was known as the Vajrayana (literally, 'The Thunderbolt Way) Its major contribution to Buddhism was a number of new and radical practices leading to Enlightenment.

The Vajrayana's aim was to bring the practitioner to Enlightenment as quickly as possible, and one of its central concerns was the liberalization and canalization of more and more of the practitioner's energy. Part of its way of effecting this was through sexual 4metaphor, sexual symbolism, and even through what have been called 'sexo-yogic' practices.

Because of its apparent use of sex as an aspect of spiritual practice, the Vajrayana has provoked two extreme responses in the West. In the early days of Buddhist studies, the Vajrayana was generally condemned as a corruption of the sublime ideals of Buddhism. More recent interest has tended to the other extreme. Some are attracted to the Vajrayana precisely because of its apparent sanctification of desire in general, and sexual desire in particular. In a recent exposition of the Vajrayana by a Tibetan teacher, we find the following, '...if desire for a woman arises, it must be relied upon...'. Such a presentation of the Vajrayana would seem to suggest that being a Buddhist does not involve changing ourselves. We can, apparently, keep hold of our desires as they will lead us to Enlightenment.

The truth behind the use of sexual themes in the Vajrayana is, as might be expected, far from either of the extremes mentioned. Though we are dealing with a vast and complex subject, it is possible to discern three distinct (though related) aspects of the place of sex in the Vajrayana. Firstly, there is the shock value of sexual language. For example, in the canonical texts of the Vajrayana - the Tantras - which flourished in India roughly between the 4th and 10th centuries CE, we can find sexual intercourse with the chaodali (outcaste girl) and prostitutes being recommended. At that time, contact - what to speak of sexual congress - with an outcaste, according to Hindu society (back to which Buddhism had to some extent been drawn), would have been deemed spiritually polluting. But, in making such recommendations, the Vajrayana was simply trying to shock people out of their mundane social conditioning. It was seeking to liberate the energy locked up in the convention and taboo of Hindu society.

Whether or not these recommendations were enacted is an open question. Stephan Beyer enthusiastically describes the followers of the Vajrayana thus: 'They sang of wisdom as the great Whore, for she opens herself to every man who seeks her, ...made love to the spontaneous maiden within them, and preached a world upside down, ... and were altogether quite outrageous and shocking to all good and sober citizens. It would be interesting to ponder how the Vajrayana would speak to our own age, where sexual license has become a kind of norm. If they wanted to shock people out of their conditioning today, the old followers of the Vajrayana might have to appear as rock bands singing about the ecstasies of celibacy!

In that passage quoted from Stephan Beyer, we read that the followers of the Vajrayana 'made love to the spontaneous maiden within them'. This brings us to the second aspect of sex in the Vajrayana, the so-called 'sexo-yogic' practices.

We have seen that the Tantras recommended sexual intercourse with the chaodali. Now, as well as aiming to decondition, this sort of recommendation would sometimes also have been referring to certain forms of yogic practice. Here, the word c~anda1i is not referring to a woman at all. In this context, chaodali can be translated as 'the fiery one' and, simply stated, refers to the vital energy that must be contacted and incorporated into our practice. It parallels the better known kundalini.

The practices associated with the arousal of the chaodali occur in the anuttara-yoga Tantra, the highest level of Vajrayana practice, and - traditionally - should be undertaken only after years of successful training in Hinayana, Mahayana, and lower Vajrayana disciplines. Indeed, in India and old Tibet, these practices would not have been known about, even in theory, by those not initiated into them. (This might be one of the reasons why these practices were 'hidden away in sexual language - to keep them out of the reach of those not ready to undertake them.) Sangharakshita has recalled that in his own contact with Tibetan monks, lamas, and lay people, there was no special interest shown in these teachings, and definitely no unhealthy emphasis.

There also seems to be some doubt as to whether the 'sexo-yogic' practices were intended to describe anything physical at all. Herbert Guenther, a writer normally very sure of himself, says in commenting on one of these practices: 'We move in a world which probably is neither physical nor mental, but may partake of both (or be something completely different). In some of the practices found in the Tantras and their related works we encounter elaborate visualization techniques where the practitioner is instructed to see himself as a Buddha in sexual union with a female consort, usually described as a dakini. Here the aspect of sexo-yogic practice merges with the third aspect, that of sexual symbolism.

Within the Mahayana, Enlightenment was principally seen as the insoluble union of wisdom and compassion. Mahayana artists were fond of depicting this union in paintings and images, in the form of the androgynous figure of the Bodhisattva - a beautiful sixteen-year-old: gentle, yet strong in appearance.

The Vajrayana sought to depict this union even more vividly, and so depicted the Buddha or Bodhisattva in sexual union with the dakini. We often come across such figures in Vajrayana art. The Buddha or Bodhisattva looks serene, contemplative, blissful; while the dakini - appearing like a goddess - embraces him tightly, and looks rapturously into his face. Here the male figure symbolizes Compassion, the female figure Wisdom. Sangharakshita has commented on such depictions thus: 'One must observe that though there are two figures there are not two persons: there is only one Enlightened person, one Enlightened mind, within which are united reason and emotion, wisdom and compassion.

These representations embody under the form of sexual symbolism (here of course one has nothing to do with sexuality in the ordinary sense) the ideal of Wisdom and Compassion united. 4 Traditionally, these images are considered highly sacred, inspiring profound reverence and devotion, not in any way stimulating a sexual response. However, they have suffered abuse.

Some people go so far as to recommend that. during sexual intercourse, the man should visualize himself as the Buddha: the woman should visualize herself as the dakini. Both should experience their lovemaking as an enactment of the uniting of Wisdom with Compassion. Such recommendations provide the deluded with a first class means of rationalizing away their mundane desires.

For most of us, such a practice would be a purely mental activity making no significant difference to the basic urges involved. It would be no more than a fancy way of having sex. For those experienced enough to see and feel themselves to be a Buddha at such times, it is highly unlikely that they would want to involve themselves with sex at all! Being so content, complete, and rich within themselves, they would hardly need to reach beyond themselves for their pleasures.

To conclude, within the Vajrayana, sex - as most of us understand and experience it - is not part of the path to Enlightenment at all. Sexual language within the Vajrayana is strictly metaphorical, strictly symbolic: not to be taken literally. Indeed, if taken literally, some Vajrayana writings will not lead us to Enlightenment, but will sink us more deeply in the mire of greed, hatred, and delusion.
www.fwbo.org

A-line Clothes Are Back In Fashion!

2007-05-05T19:23:00.001-07:00

Many things in our life are happening in cycles. Autumn is changing summer, spring - winter, and this cycle is repeating every year. You can notice the same in fashion world - fashions trends that have been on the top in fashion industry some time ago, suddenly are coming back on the catwalks. This season we can notice how A-line forms appear in various clothes as it was very popular in 60's. It's a return of A-line forms in the fashion world right now.

A-line fashion is a fashion line which was created first time by favorite French designer Christian Dior. The main characteristics of it is a letter A - narrow shoulders and emphasized waist goes to widely flowing skirt. Though it's long time ago that A-line forms appeared, they still remain in many designers collections on catwalks.

Christian Dior in 1947 presented his first collection in the fashion world which revolutionized the fashion industry. It was something absolutely new and the collection that was named Ligne Corolle has started a new fashion trend. It got the „New Look" name from American fashion journal „Harpers Bazaar" main editor Carmel Snow, who pointed that designer's clothes have a completely new appearance. Elegant dresses, costumes with emphasized waist, easy falling skirts made a contrast with shy colors and strict forms, straight knee long skirts and long jackets with wide shoulders, which were common to meet on the streets those days. Dior gave back feminine beauty to women.

A-line clothes came back to women wardrobes again after a long time. Typical A-line is once again the queen of the catwalks, but this time we can see it not only on the classical skirts or dresses. This time it is appearing in light tops, blouses, tunics, which create a feminine look.

A-line form clothes - narrow ups and wide downs - is an ideal form for plump women who want to hide problematic parts of body - wider hips, bigger tummy or round butt. Very slim or petite women should be careful because otherwise a negative effect will be reached - they will disappear in the tones of material, as in the tent. It doesn't let you show the advantages of your body, besides this doesn't look fashionable at all. But if you really want to wear something from A-line clothes you should choose certain accessories. The best idea would be an easy widening skirt or medium long tunics. Everything else would be too much and too wide.

A-line clothes have a bit different and unusual appearance this spring. Previous A form dictated very wide, extensive and usually long clothes without accentuating the body lines. This season is known for its new vision of A-form - short, slowly widen down, body emphasizing rain-coats and jackets from jeans and other materials. A-line form is not narrowed only with suitable for spring and summer raincoats, but it also has a mark in short and sporty jackets. The whole A-form silhouette this season is going up, making the clothes article look lighter and simpler.

Dresses are ones of the most saying in fashion trend, as always; and this time, the designers are presenting geometric forms with fanciful textures, unusual patterns and bizarre style. The collections of dresses are fulfilled with the A-line form silhouette of a young lady.

What colors should you choose to look classy? Throw your bright color clothes to the far corner of your wardrobe - this is not the way to look this year! Spring and summer collections are offering you to clothe pastille colors from caramel till cream-colored, gold, grey or light brown clothes. If you want something more eye-catching, wear expressive accessories which may vary between royal blue, green, purple or even hot red shades.

form Jurgita.com

Fashion Jewelry: The Triumph of the Sacred Feminine

2007-05-05T19:22:00.001-07:00

Minimalism and unisex are in the past. Long-forgotten femininity revived. Wide palette, free lines, big gemstones are back. But it’s not just a classic – it’s a new vision.

Designers think nothing but movement concept. Lively lines of brooches and pendants involve us into the secret garden of fairy-tale flowers with dainty leaflets and colorful butterflies. Pink, yellow and blue gems (rose-cut multicolor sapphires), spots of green (emeralds) and, of course, diamonds are extremely popular, especially combined all in one set. The texture of these airy-fairy wonders is light and graceful, similar to lace.

Summer fashion jewelry hit is a short necklace with bulky white beads. Rather off-white than snow-white. If you prefer Annie Lennox’s style put on a long flat gold chain with a pendant appropriate to your personality and mood. As for rings, faceted gemstones have replaced round polished ones. They also should be as huge as you can afford. It’s up to you whether to prefer this enormous ring with one big center gemstone or whether to prefer it splashed with pavé diamonds. Long pendant earrings are still popular. And yellow gold , yellow gold and one more time yellow gold! Nevertheless we shouldn’t forget about organic materials and semiprecious stones, which are in trend too. For example, long wooden beads are especially applicable to linen clothes in the hot part of summer day. So you may choose between ethnic and antique or vintage styles. Which jewelry style will find an echo in your heart?

This brief jewelry style guide will possibly help you. Here are the main jewelry styles:

♦ Classic jewelry style;

♠ Avant-garde jewelry style;

♥ Antique or vintage jewelry style;

♣ And ethnic one.

The characteristics of classic style jewelry are elegance and delicacy with strict, neat line and proportion. Classic platinum brilliant-cut diamond ring will endure vagaries of fashion and stay popular, at least as the capital investment. Classic style is often understood in the meaning of antique style, but the classic one definitely does not have a "retro" connotation.

Avant-garde jewelry style on the contrary is extremely changeable. This peculiar style may be even shocking. The jewelry is often made of unexpected materials. The form is abstract, but sometimes it's thematic. The shapes are geometric and linear. It’s quite popular with the young. Those who like being eccentric and bright adore such jewelry.

Sometimes, antique or vintage style jewelry is mistakenly associated only with heavy gold chains, huge diamonds and silver jewelry. Other materials are also possible. But retro look or aged surface of the jewelry is not the point. When you look at it, you think that it came to you through the years or even centuries and it seems like every such thing is having its own unique story. And that’s the point! Vintage style jewelry usually belongs to artistic, romantic and delicate spirits.

Ethnic style jewelry is not necessarily rustic, more often it’s smooth and pleasant to touch. It’s made of natural material, which is characteristic of this or that region. Ethnic style jewelry reflects folklore and decorative art, myths and traditions of ancient civilizations. This style came about as the production of folk-crafts.

Though the styles differ greatly all of them have contemporary fashion versions. You may use each of them, if you like, depending on the season, event or part of the day. But you are also free to create your own individual style.

form Jurgita.com

Haute Couture

2007-05-05T19:20:00.000-07:00

Even if you are not interested in fashion and newest trends, you probably have heard the mystic words combination: Haute Couture or High Fashion. Houte Couture differs from ready-to-wear fashion and street wear and usually has nothing to do with latest trends. Only eighteen fashion houses have a privilege to entitle themselves with this magical phrase. A single high fashion costume costs up from $40000. What is so marvelous about it?

The keys that make high fashion outstanding are luxury, thoroughness and private attitude. The luxury is ensured by original design and high quality fabrics. Every garment is sewed by hands; decorations such as beads and embroidery are also applied by hands only. Imagine an evening gown decorated with thousands of tiny beads, this adornment can take weeks of seamstresses work! But it's not only accurate work or exclusive materials that makes high fashion garment high priced, it's also the brand name that's makes clothing special.

If money isn't a problem to you, you can order any costume from a certain fashion house haute couture collection. Body size or figure is not a problem here, as fashion house will personalize a clothing for you. The costume delivered to a customer is precisely fitted to his or her proportions and wishes. But don't take a fashion house as simple tailor atelier! Once a person choose a clothe model, color and fabrics, huge team of tailors, embroiderers, furriers, vendeuses and other starts its work to satisfy the client. Making a high fashion clothe is not the same thing as making a copy of clothe in a collection. As not everyone has model like shapes or height, so a garment is adapted to client. This means they not only change clothe size, but make a clothe highlight advantages of the clients figure and hide disadvantages. Fashion houses are interested in good look of their collections.

Originality makes haute couture even more outstanding. There might be two people that ordered the same clothe, but they can still feel original. High fashion garments never reach stores, so you won't see thousands of people wearing the same dress in streets. Some of high fashion collections are copyrighted, to protect certain style from being copied by less famous companies. All these features make high fashion very expensive and only a small part of people can afford it. There are approximately 3000 people that order clothing from haute couture a year. And only 1000 of them buy garments this way regularly.

A number of haute couture houses varies as they need to meet very strict requirements to be in the list. These requirements are even defined by law in France. Following fashion houses have the right to call their collections high fashion: Armani Prive, Chanel, Christian Dior, Christian Lacroix, Elie Saab, Givenchy, Jean Paul Gaultier and Valentino. To be accepted to exclusive caste of haute couture fashion house has to present a collection of minimum 35 costumes of evening wear and daytime wear. These collections have to be presented every season certainly in Paris. Other requirements are to design haute couture clothes for private persons and hold atelier in Paris working full-time with at least 15 people employed.

It might look that haute couture title doesn't pay off for a fashion house as they need to work hard to keep the title and a clientele is surprisingly small. But many people get interested in designers ready-to-wear or accessories because of good image of haute couture. When a person buys a dress from ready-to-wear collection by famous fashion house she finds her style closer to those who can afford to wear high fashion. The good name of haute couture is sometimes used by others designer to get attention. Designers entitle their collections the high fashion when they want to accentuate that this wear is luxurious and exclusive.

from jurgita.com

How to Match Colors of Clothes

2007-04-15T17:42:00.000-07:00

Probably every one of us already faced a problem when trying to match different color clothes. We always consider does this red skirt match my navy blouse or blue jeans match orange top? For those who have this kind of problem we give some tips how to match main colors with all other.

White. White color is considered a summer season color. Moreover, white is one of those few clothes colors that match with any other color! So it is very easy to wear white clothes - with blue denim jeans, red skirt or colorful trousers. Wearing white top will lighten up your mood in autumn or winter. Full light white wear will give you a breezy look and feeling during a hot summer day.

Black. Black is always in fashion. This color is always stylish - doesn't matter if it is spring or autumn, winter or summer. Black readily matches tops of any colors. Moreover, if you wear all-black, you look slimmer. Girls like to use this trick if they want to look sexy and slim. Black is also a color symbolizing elegance and refinement. You will never miss if you wear black in any party or occasion. Black gown is always in fashion to go to any party. Add some accessories of opposite color or something sparkling and you will have an easy solution for evening wear.

Red. Red - a physically inspiring color of passion and love. Red is extensively used in all fashion seasons. When matching reds with other colors its good to use darker shades: maroon, brick red or hot pink. Red also has violet and orange as familiar colors, so matching them with red works well. Green color is a compliment to red - just make sure these colors are kept muted. Otherwise you may create a really ugly clash. Blue and yellow should also be used very cautiously when matching with reds.

Blue. Blue is a color of summer skies and the sea. Blues is identified with calmness, idealism and inspiration. That's the reason why blue always matches well with white-colored clothes - almost every girl tried wearing blue jeans and white top - easy casual appearance which looks good for comfortable look. Blue also matches with darker or more muted shades as opposed to bright shades. Analogous colors for blue are green and violet, so it looks good when lighter shades of green and violet are matched with darker blue. Also blue can be matched with orange, a complimentary color for blue. It intensifies the effect of the color. Be especially cautious when trying to match blue with shades of red and yellow.

Yellow. Yellow is a color commonly used in fashion. This color creates an atmosphere of attraction and excitement. This color is always difficult to match because of the tendency of yellows to be bright. Although it always looks good with black clothes. It gives a nice effect. The analogous colors to yellow are green and orange, and should also be soft-shaded for best effect. You should avoid going for dark shades of green and orange color to prevent making the yellow appear even brighter than it is. Be careful when you match yellow with red and blue clothes.

Green. Green is a color which symbolizes vitality and life energy. When you match green with other clothes the key is to select the proper shades of green. Also blue and yellow look good paired with green, especially when you choose proper lightness and darkness of these colors. This kind of match is very popular for spring wear. Opposite color of green is red - they also match very well together. Be careful when you match green with violets and oranges, because an unpleasant clash might occur if you attempt to match overly bright or intense shades of these two colors.

Top 10 Mascara

2007-04-11T02:11:00.000-07:00

Lancome produces appreciated prestige mascaras. Lancome Defincils High Definition has all features you can expect from mascara; it extends lashes for more opened eyes image, thickening formula creates dramatic look, the brush separates lashes and even curls them up, so you can have perfect eye make-up. It also stays on well when you sweat or rub your eyes.
Lancome Hypnose Mascara Waterproof adds extra volume to your lashes. Special designed brush is comfortable to use. Waterproof formula allows you to sweat, cry and even swim in a pool and your make-up stays where it should be.
Lancome Fatale Exceptional Volume Sculpting 3D Comb Mascara. Forget a brush; this mascara has special combs for mascara application and additional combs for more help. Mascara formula contains silicone which amplifies lashes and holds them in bended shape.
We all want to have full and long lashes, and if we don't have, we expect a mascara to improve them. Lancome Cils Booster XL Mascara Enhancing Base is dedicated for pre-coat lashes before you put regular mascara on them. It adds length and thickness and also protects your lashes from damage.
Maybelline Great Lash Mascara is made for those who want to look adorable and natural at the same time. It doubles lashes volume and makes them look darker; you can even use it if you're hyper allergic or wear contact lens. "Great Lash" is the most popular of average priced mascaras.
Max Factor 2000 Calorie Mascara works well for alluring and dramatic look. It makes lashes 200% thicker so you can enjoy rich and smooth eye makeup. This mascara is one of favorites by makeup artists
Maybelline XXL Micro-fibre line's mascaras have two brushes used for different purposes. White coat adds micro fibers to the tips of lashes. Black coat (available in other colors too) thickens lashes and separates them. It lasts long and doesn't make clumps nor smudges.
L'Oreal Panoramic Curl Mascara allows you to create that doll's eyes look. Special designed brush and consistence of mascara bends lashes easily and create opened eye image. It's great choice for those with straight and intractable lashes.
Max Factor Lash Perfection mascara provides comfortable brush with flexible bristles for easily application from roots to tips. It lengthens and thickens lashes while special brush separates them for a perfect look. It also stays on well
L'Oreal volume shocking is another mascara based on two coats application. The first coat amplifies lashes and adds volume too. The second (colored) coat is applied with tiny combs. These combs are the secret solution on how to smooth mascara over the lashes, separate them and to avoid clumps.

Born to be shoemakers! Part 1: Jimmy Choo

2007-04-02T17:21:00.001-07:00

A story of Jimmy Choo began more than 11 years ago. And with the help of two women: one was assiduous and other - very social. Three brilliantly skilled persons began this business with few opportunities, but with high hopes and ambitions. Who are they? And what did they have to achieve until the Royal British family started wearing their shoes?

One of three was Jimmy Choo. His skill was the basis of the Jimmy Choo “empire”. Jimmy Choo is a native of Malaysia. He was born in 1961 in the second smallest state of the Penang county. Should I say, in a family of local shoe-makers? As all children, he was interested in his parents’ business and tried to create his first shoes at the age of 11. Unfortunately, there is not much information about his family background, his childhood… and even now, he is just a man who does his job very well at his “secluded corner”. It is worth to mention that his real name is Jimmy Chow. In the beginning of 80's, he settled in London and began to study fashion design oriented on shoemaking. Cordwainers's Technical College in London and the London College of Fashion were places where Jimmy spent all his time those days. Inspired, talented… he had no money, no customs, no fame...

Second person played a dominant role in this story and gave a hand of help to the unknown Jimmy Chow. Tamara Melton became “a face, soul and muse of Jimmy Choo”.

Tamara is a Beverly Hills girl. She came from a successful and rich family, never needed money but went to work by father’s insistence (her father controlled Vidal Sassoon company). As a real beauty, she was addicted to shoes. This passion later helped her to get a job in London’s Vogue. Her job was to search for unique and stylish shoes for fashion articles in magazine. And she finally found what she was looking for… it was Jimmy Choo.

It was like a myth. She was looking for gold Greek sandals, and she found a man with gold hands who made everything from gold in her life instead. In the “secluded corner”, Jimmy and his helper, his niece Sandra Choi (the third person in our story) made their exclusive hand-made shoes of the best quality.

These days, Sandra Choi is a part of Jimmy Choo team (she is creative director), and she has unbelievable capacity for work. Jimmy has his skill to make comfortable shoes that seemed uncomfortable because of high heels, for example. Tamara – her father’s money. Though today they all have their own money earned by hard work but it was then, 11 years ago.

Tamara Melton was 27, she was already an editor-in-chief and suddenly Melton left her job. She believed in Jimmy Choo, a poor Chinese emigrant. Of course, Tamara already had a brilliant business plan and a big list of useful contacts which she gained during her Vogue period. To start their business, they needed money to open their office, money for bigger manufacture, money for everything. Tamara knew where she could get this money; she went to her closest friend – her father. Her father, a circumspect and a “hairy” person gave 250$ thousand for opening their company’s office.

They opened a shop in the center of London and began to work hard. Tamara was an inexhaustible source of ideas (relations, business plans); Jimmy Choo was an indomitable worker, and Sandra was very squeamish in preparing decorations for shoes. Better than any words, would say a fact that later Tamara’s father gave them 1, 2$ million for development. By the way, he became the president of Jimmy Choo Company.

Company’s income became huge. Unfortunately, the co-owners couldn’t work together anymore and in 2001 Tamara bought Jimmy’s part for 25$ million. The reason was misunderstandings between them. From her words, Jimmy was not interesting in marketing’s ideas and didn’t want to spend money on advertising companies. Anyway, Tamara knew fashion rules. In 2001 company’s income was 100$ million. She had an unhappy marriage with an awful divorce but at the same time, success in her carrier and birth of her daughter. You can read bout this in her book “Four inches”.

Though today a woman is the head of Jimmy Choo Company, this brand still has Jimmy Choo name. His talent was awarded many times. He got title Dato in Malaysia which equals a British knight's title. In 2003, got an OBE (Officer British Empire) from the Queen of England “for his services in making London’s name prominent in the world of design and the fashion industry”. But his most precious awards are all those famous and wealthy, pretty and particular legs in the world that choose Jimmy Choo shoes.

Today, Jimmy is the owner of a distinct Jimmy Choo enterprise. He makes 3 – 4 exclusive pairs of shoes a day and his client list consists of most famous Hollywood stars, wives of the richest men in the world, successful businesswomen and even members of some royal families.

It’s hard to say what would happen if Tamara Melton didn’t find Jimmy that day in London but what would happen if an 11 year old boy decided not be a shoe-maker and stayed in Penang, we can easily guess…

P.S. Rumours say that now Jimmy Choo company is for sale, its price approximately 150$ million and possibly it will be bought by Burberry.

On the Oscar ceremony, Jimmy Choo shoes were worn by: Helen Mirren, Penelope Cruz, Rachel Weisz, Naomi Watts, Emily Blunt, Jodie Foster, Minnie Driver, Sarah Michelle Geller, Jennifer Lopez.

First Date

2007-04-02T17:19:00.001-07:00

You’ve met that wonderful person and even asked to meet later. The first date might be a challenge, as you don’t know her or him well, you’re not sure what to say, how to act and the most important thing - how to impress. It sounds frightful, but hey, if you’re with a person you really like, you shouldn’t feel like waiting for court to pass a judgment on you. Here are some tips to forget that awkward feeling and stay with thrill of joy.

Dress clothes you feel comfortable with, but they should be suitable for outdoor. The best solution is to dress in something you look perfect, but still feel well and comfortable. However don’t show everything you got if you’re not planning to end the evening at bedroom. Your date don’t know you much and will judge you by your appearance and manners.

If you don’t want someone to treat you like a bimbo, don’t dress up like one. It’s better for both of you to decide where you will go in advance, so you won’t wear tuxedo for date in a pub or high-heels for a golf club. Don’t perfume yourself too much. You don’t want your date to smell your fragrance while you’re still two blocks away. And don’t be late, it shows that you don’t respect others.

It’s usual to go to see a movie or to have a dinner on the first date, so you won’t miss if you choose these two options. It’s endless question who should pay for a dinner, the one who asked out, the guy or both. It would be nice to offer to pay for half of the check, to avoid uncomfortable staring at the bill in the end of a date. Be careful when choosing a movie! Dramas go for emotive persons only, but horror and war movies make you scared and excited. And when you frightened you want to hold someone’s hand and get closer. If you choose a comedy, watch your date during the movie. You can know her or him better by what jokes make one laugh, what is considered rude and various other things.

If a movie and dinner seems to be boring plan for evening, try going for a walk. It’s simple, relaxing and you can talk much. You can always find a nice park, a sidewalk near a river or a pond, a zoo park or other place close to nature. The first date usually is dedicated to know each other better, so avoid places where you can’t talk like night clubs. If you want “accidentally” get in physical touch try teaching your date to play pool or ice-skating.

The awkward part of the first date is silent moments (or even minutes) when both of you don’t know what to say or do. If it’s a blind date, usually both of you won’t have an idea what to talk about. Prepare some topics to avoid this; a date should be a funny thing. Look through today’s titles on newspapers, so you can ask questions like “Have you heard of that event in NYC?” or “Do you know who won that award?”

It’s better to avoid perilous topics, especially religions, political convictions and money. People get sensitive when talking about these things and you don’t want your date to turn into debate. Remember not to act like you or your date was on a job interview. Questions about friends, work, hobbies are pretty “safe”. But don’t get too personal too fast and don’t complain about shock you had in your childhood or how bad your last relationship was. Talking about ex-boyfriends or ex-girlfriends can ruin your image easily.

Ask a lot of questions, it shows that you care about your date. Try to find similarities between you two, the same hobby, music style or whatever makes your date feel that you already are two of a kind. Make your date feel comfortable; a few compliments always break the ice. Simply be yourself. If you try too hard to impress, you may overdo and be considered to be arrogant. Just smile and look into the eyes, a smile can do miracles!

Also be polite and in good manners, these things are still appreciated. Say “thank you” whenever your date does something nice, it doesn’t cost a thing, but it shows that you enjoy that person’s company. Don’t use your mobile phone! It’s very rude to text someone or make a call and ignore the person next to you. And don’t stare at sexy waitress! If it’s a blind date and the person you’ve met is not what you’ve expected, don’t overreact. You can still make it funny; if it’s organized by your friends, ask your date’s opinion about the friends’ skills in matchmaking. Keep it fun and polite.

The end of the first date might be extremely frightening; both of you are waiting for a kiss. You can get around this uncomfortable situation and give him or her kiss before a date, at the moment you meet. This way, you both will be more prepared to kiss for goodbye. However if you didn’t like your date, don’t deceive your self and the other person. Simply thank for a date and say you could be great friends. Don’t try to pounce on your date; a hug and a short kiss are fine, unless he/ she openly go for more.

Show that you care about your date; pick some topic in advance to avoid awkward silence; be yourself, but stay polite. If there’s some chemistry between you two, these things are enough to keep a date fun. However prepare a backup plan if a date appears to be boring or a total disaster.

Magic of Coffee

2007-04-02T17:15:00.000-07:00

An old Turkish proverb says that a coffee should be black as Hell, strong as death, and sweet as love. Nowadays there are various coffee drinks made out of coffee grown in different regions. But coffee still makes a magic with vivifying and charming effect. This beverage has plenty of lovers all over the world because of its rich aroma, taste and energizing upshot of caffeine.

Coffee started its trip around the world in Africa, in a locality now called Ethiopia. Little by little it spread around the Earth and now is cultivated in various regions: Latin America, Indonesia and even Hawaii. Coffee taste depends on region a lot; it also varies depending on roasting, blending and of course on the way of beverage preparation. The coffee you find in a store can be characterized as “commercial” or “specialty”.

Commercial one is usually blended and ground already, packed in collapsed bricks or cans; while specialty coffee contains roasted wholebeans that you can grind your self and blend with other types of coffee. Some of specialty coffees even come un-roasted, so coffee lovers can roast them the way they like at home. Commercial coffee (including instant one) is ready-to-use product for those who save their time.However if you really adore coffee, you should try to prepare the beans yourself. Also keep in mind that coffee begins to stale right after it is roasted and ground, so when you buy ready-to-use coffee it already has big part of its taste and aroma lost. Amazingly, there are more kinds of “specialty” coffee than “commercial’ one.

When coffee is grown not in huge plantations but in small farms, more attention is dedicated to the quality than quantity. This type of coffee contains unique taste and it’s very rare, therefore it is appreciated among coffee lovers. They compare these extra quality coffees to special wine, cheese and other splendid food. These kinds are very expensive; also they are recognized and very popular in coffee market.

The most expensive coffee in the world is Kopi Luwak. It grows in three islands of Indonesia; the beans are selected by small mammal called Luwak. Coffee lovers claim it’s the best coffee you can find. Only 500 pounds of Kopi Luwak is produced every year, therefore it is evaluated $160 to $600 for one pound.

The runner-up in the most rare and expensive coffees is the one from Boquete, a region of Panama. Coffee named “Hacienda La Esmeralda's Geisha” grows in the shades of guava tree; this renders a special taste. Hacienda La Esmeralda costs $104 per pound. The third place goes to Island of St. Helena Coffee Company. This coffee became popular when Napoleon Bonaparte (who was exiled to this island) praised it for its great flavor. Island of St. Helena coffee costs $79 per pound and it’s still popular after couple of centuries.

The more unique coffee’s taste, smell or region is, the more it is expensive. Sometimes coffee is highly priced because of small amount available; some kinds of coffee are not even on sale, they can only be found in special auctions.

You can find two types of coffee drinkers. The first type claims that milk, syrup, liquor and other additions ruin natural rich and strong taste of coffee. And the other type says that some extras add special flavors to coffee. While nobody wins this war, there are a great number of diverse coffee drinks.
The most known drink is espresso, a shot of extremely strong coffee. It can be used to make cocktails. Additions to brewed coffee vary on a nation or region: Caribbeanone contains baked coconut and milk; American mocha is spiced with cocoa (or chocolate), vanilla and cinnamon; Italian caffe e latte is flavored with hot milk. Mexicans prepare coffee from coarsely ground beans and add some brown sugar with cinnamon stick. The famous Irish coffee contains sugar, whiskey, huge foam of whipped cream and is usually served in a special glass.

There are many coffee drinks around the world; coffee-houses mainly offer 10 to 30 of them. A cup of coffee may wake you up in a morning; warm you up in a cold day and give you energy shot on a break. Give yourself a minute to feel its layered taste and aroma.

How to get Noticed by Scouts

2007-03-20T17:07:00.002-07:00

You find your self a model, but you don't belong to any agency yet? If you tried to get into this business you have probably faced that it's difficult to be noticed among many other girls and boys that rush into modeling market. Let's look over what can make you different than others and attract scouts.

Although it might seem that modeling business is overcrowded, agencies always seek for new faces and talents that could represent changing needs. As there are several modeling types, almost all people can find their place there.

If you want to be a model, agencies and potential employers must know that you are there and you crave for taking this job. Don't be afraid to contact agencies your self. Being ambitious is not a sin! Keep up with advertisements in mass media. Companies need various people to represent their products. Fashion house looking for girls for catwalk would probably search for them in a reputable agency, but women magazine may want unusual faces for pictures. That's why it can be worth to read advertisements. A photographer may look for a teenage guy for school theme shots, advertising agency may want an artistic redhead girl for specific project. There are many small modeling-related jobs you can take to gain experience. It is easier to get further jobs or interest an agency when you already have a sense of modeling. Furthermore, you will feel more confident presenting your self, and self-assurance is important thing. You must prove the agency that you can be a model. They must believe that you are suitable for various modeling job, otherwise there's no point for them to accept you.

Portfolio and composite cards are the best way to present you in modeling world. Professional pictures may costs a lot, but this investment is worth it, because scouts will judge you by your photos. It's better to have various pictures taken, to convince that you are suitable for different types of modeling. If you only have photos in swimsuit in your portfolio, you will probably be hired to demonstrate swimsuits/lingerie, but not to do other modeling types.

Although most of modeling jobs requires slim body type, there's no need to worry if you are not slender or not high enough. You can target into petite modeling that requires shorter height, plus size modeling, body part modeling and many others. The main thing is to present yourself in the right way. Fashion fitness modeling scouts will expect you to have healthy look and maybe even some muscles. Lingerie and glamour modeling scouts will seek for body with full curves, while scouts looking for runway models will pay attention to skinny girls. Find your advantages and accentuate them, so you won't be left behind.

Remember to take care of your body. This doesn't mean you have to sweat in gym to get rid of another pound, because too thin models are under discussion these days. If you don't fit into 6 or 8 size, better concentrate on modeling types that doesn't need slim body type. But it is worth to take care of your good appearance as healthy look and clear skin are valuated everywhere. If you can't believe you are beautiful and suitable to be a model, no one else will.

Pay attention to your gait and carriage. Imagine that you are already chosen to step on a catwalk. Would you know how to act? If not, why don't take lessons in advance? Don't miss a chance to improve your acting or dancing skills in courses. These lessons will make you more graceful and flexible plus they will help you to stay in shape.

Nothing embellishes a person more than a smile does. If you are self confident and step with grace, you're going to be noticed by all passengers, not by scouts only. Have your portfolio with you just in cases. Remember Naomi Campbell was discovered while shopping and Twiggy, the model icon of the last century, was noticed in hairdressing saloon. Maybe you are going to be the next one lucky?

Ladies Fitness: Ages 12-18

2007-03-20T17:07:00.001-07:00

So, you are a girl, under 18 years of age, believe in yourself and just wish you were in a better shape. You don't want to be big and muscular, but you do want to look athletic and fit. You worry about dieting because of all the crazy information out there, and more than anything, you want to be healthy. On top of this, everyone tells you to just be patient, wait till your body matures, and don't worry about that, you are still too young. Where do you turn? What do you do? Well, my beautiful young ladies, you have come to the right spot!!
To begin with, let's look at nutrition. There are three types of molecules in food that we have to be concerned with: Protein, Carbohydrates and Fats. It is important that your body receive certain portions of all of these, however, what you may not know, is that WHEN you take them in is also important. To keep things simple, I am going to list a few good food types so that you understand the differences.

- Protein Carbohydrate Fat
- Egg yolks Rice Olive oil
- Fish Potatoes Butter
- Chicken Green beans Vegetable oil
- Red meat Corn Canola
- Pork Broccoli Macadamia Nut Oil

Now, there are some very simple rules that you can follow to put you on the path to sensible eating:

-Eat 5-7 small meals per day
-Always include some protein with every meal
-Take in no simple carbohydrates, like breads, candy, etc.
-Take in only green cars within 4 hours of bed time
-If trying to lose weight, eat carbs with first 3 meals only
-If trying to gain weight, eat carbs with all meals except last

Exercising

Now, let's take a look at exercise. There are three types of exercise, realistically, that you will want to be concerned with at this point. These are cardiovascular, weight training and cross-training. Again, the following list will provide some insight into the different types.

- Cardiovascular Weight Training Cross-training
- Biking Free weights Basketball
- Hiking Weight machines Tennis
- Jogging Soccer
- Step climbing Swimming

Here are some additional rules that apply to exercising:

- Engage in Cross-training or cardiovascular exercise at least 3 times per week, for no less than 30 mins.
- When beginning to weight train, work out the entire body 2-3 times per week.
- Always allow at least one day between workouts
- When in doubt, use free weights, not machines
- Free weights will strengthen joints and connective tissue, machine typically do not
- In the beginning, training should focus on 3 key areas, Back, Chest and Legs.
- Always use a full range of motion when doing any exercise

For those who do not have access to a gym, there are some great weight lifting activities that you can do on your own:

- Deep squats, holding a large book in each hand, hands out to a side
- Shoulder presses with either buckets, paint cans, or anything else
- Push-ups
- Leg lifts on a chair
- Arm curls holding anything heavy

While these don't sound like a lot of things, for beginners, it is more than sufficient to start. Keep in mind, as young women: you do not want to be using excessive weight loads, as it can interfere with the natural growth processes of the body. In particular the complex joints of the hips and shoulders can be at risk.

As beginners, these basic guidelines can help you make smart choices and have good results from your program. Leave the advanced stuff to others and stick with the basics.

Natural way to Hair care

2007-03-12T17:18:00.001-07:00

Pre wash steps

Massage olive oil in circulating motion in your hair for 10 minutes be patient and do not rush over it. Leave it for 30 -40 minutes before you wash hair.
You can substitute olive oil with coconut oil.

How to wash your hair?

Wash your hair when ever you feel need of.
Do not wash your hair with hot water. Always use lukewarm water.
Use mild and herbal shampoo and conditioner without any harsh detergent like the sulfates for your hair. If you have oily hair apply conditioner only at the ends otherwise conditioner would leave your hair greasy.
After washing your hair wrap towel dipped in hot water around your hair. You would see amazing results.

How to dry your hair?

Shake your hair until dry. It will help blood circulation in the scalp. Make use of your fingers to massage the scalp. Your scalp would only be damaged if your massage the scalp with nails.
Use wide toothed comb. Divide you hair in sections and gently comb the hair starting from the ends.
Avoid using blow dryer, styling if you are washing your hair everyday. If you are using blow dryer use it down wards and apply leave in conditioner before blow drying hair. It would protect your hair to get damaged from the heat.

Regular hair care

Get your hair trimmed regularly. If you have short hair get your hair trimmed every month. If you have long hair get them trimmed after 6-8 weeks.
Gently tie your hair while sleeping. Even better make a braid. Always comb your hair before sleeping.

Grey hair

To prevent grey hair massage hair regularly with coconut oil or brahmai oil.
Soak dried Amla(Emblic myrobalan) pieces or powder overnight in an black iron vessel. In the morning sieve it and put the liquid on your hair using brush. Leave it for an hour and simply wash off. Use gloves to protect your hands from the natural color of amla. Wrap a towel around your head in order to avoid dripping. Use an old towel because the liquid would leave some black stains on it.

Natural Dye to hair

Natural way to dye hair is to use henna. Henna is also good for conditioning. Mix henna with egg and leave it over night in an black iron vessel. Apply this paste in the morning on clean hair and leave it for half an hour for natural conditioning. If you want your hair to get colored mix coffee powder and methi (Fenugreek) powder in the paste. Do not shampoo your hair the same day if you want deep color on hair, just rinse thoroughly.

Conditioning with home made packs

Make a paste using eggs and curd together and apply it on clean hair. Let it dry. Do not wash hair with hot water.
Apply coconut milk on your scalp. It feels cool and relaxing and regular use would make your hair silky and also improves hair growth.
Massage your hair with milk. Let it dry. Wash it off with mild shampoo.
Once in 15 days rinse your with lemon juice mixed with water and honey as a final rinse after shampooing your hair.

Hair Loss

Regular massage with castor oil as a hair oil helps the luxuriant growth of the hair.
Rubbing lemon juice into the scalp also strengthens the hair roots and helps preventing dandruff. Rub lemon juice into scalp leave it on for 15 minutes and wash it off.

Those are some of the tips to get healthy and beautiful hair. Follow your routine regularly to get good results. If you are thinking to change to a new hair product. Stick with it for some time to see the results. It is always better to make use of herbal product since they do not damage or harm your hair.

Most Creative Sex Positions Ever (1 of 9)

2007-03-12T17:15:00.000-07:00

BY LAURA GILBERT (PHOTO: TAMARA SCHLESINGER)
Want to turn tonight's amorous encounter into an erotic adventure? Give your mattress a rest and attempt our new, superhot pleasure poses — perfect for getting it on upstairs, downstairs...heck, even on the stairs. Chances are, when you and your guy are about to get it on, you make a beeline for the bed. Now we're not knocking

between-the-sheets sex, but you can make your intimate encounters even more intoxicating by moving them beyond the boudoir.

"Shaking it up by doing it in an innovative location will create a new, exciting dynamic in your sexual relationship," says Kimberly Flemke, Ph.D., therapist at the Institute for Sex Therapy and assistant professor in the couple and family therapy graduate program at Drexel University. "Having sex somewhere unexpected or where you're not 'supposed to' often releases brain hormones that increase desire and passion."

With the benefits of novel nooky in mind, we've mapped out some daring and innovative sex positions to try in every nook and cranny of your home. Let the room christening begin.

6 Steps to Buying a New Dress

2007-03-12T17:13:00.000-07:00

Don't let shopping for a special occasion dress intimidate you! With a little help and a plan, you can start early and find the perfect dress for your next occasion. Here's how

1. Decide on Formality

Usually the event invitation will clue you into the formality of the event, whether it's casual or black tie. But sometimes even that will cause confusion (short dress or long?)

In general, the later in the day the event (after 6 p.m.), the dressier. Long dresses are usually reserved only for formal (black tie) occasions.

While some fabrics are year-round -- silk, brocade, organza, jersey -- fabrics like velvet and gold spangles are best reserved for winter holidays.
More about dressing for occasions: Dress Code Definitions: Black Tie, etc.

2. Flatter Your Figure

The most important feature of your new dress -- more important than its trendiness, designer or color -- is how well it flatters you.

Not every dress silhouette will work for your body so you'll need to do some quick research on your specific needs.

Remember that darker colors and simple cuts (a sheath, an A-line) are the most flattering.

The best way to look special is to show off your best feature. If you have gorgeous eyes, then play them up with beautiful makeup, off-the-face hair and jeweled earrings in a complimentary shade. If your legs are spectacular, then show them off with a short, fitted dress and stilettos.

Dressing to flatter your figure is as much about playing up your best features as it is about hiding what's not perfect.

Not sure what your best asset is? Ask a friend or significant other. Or go to a store that sells special occasion dresses and enlist the salesperson's help.
More about dressing for your body: Dresses for Every Body Type

3. Choose a Color

You could just wear black (classy, flattering and slenderizing), but why not explore some of the other dressy options?

Red, bold prints, even gold are dramatic enough for evening wear. Pastels, mid-range brights and soft prints look great for dressy day occasions.

Blue (from navy to royal), pink (from cotton candy to fuchsia) and white (from candlelight to cream) look great on almost everyone. Remember that the "Don't wear white to a wedding" wisdom is still considered a fashion don't by most women.
More about flattering colors: 7 Style Secrets from the Red Carpet

4. Pick a Style

Once you know what type of dress you need, it's time to coordinate that with what you want.

Catalogs, the internet and magazines are a great places to seek special occasion dress inspiration.

Instead of going with something trendy, try to find a dress that reflects classic, timeless elegance. Remember that you'll have to look at photos of you in the dress for years to come.

Enduring special occasion dresses are often deceptively simple, but they usually let the beauty of the wearer shine through. A few examples: the little black dress (a.k.a the cocktail dress), a goddess gown (draped and rouched), a ballgown, a slip dress.
More about dress styles: Dress Glossary

5. Shop

With your research behind you, it's time to shop, either online or off.

You should definitely set a budget before shopping because it's easy to fall in love with a $1000 dress and then try to justify buying it.

Special occasion dresses usually cost more than $100, but if you comparison shop you can find one that works in your price range. Don't forget to use alternative methods like shopping secondhand stores and sales to save even more money on a dress. Vintage looks are all the rage in Hollywood and on the runway now.

If you shop in a store, dress for the day by bringing along heels, any special accessories you know you want to use and a strapless bra (just in case).

When shopping online, make sure you understand both the sizing (know your measurements and check against a size chart on the site) and the return policy.

There are some boutiques that don't allow you to return special occasion dresses, so make sure you're a smart shopper.
More information: How to Shop

6. Accessorize

The trimmings will take their cue from the dress, but for special occasions your jewelery usually gets bigger and your bag and shoes get smaller (as in strappy sandals).

Although you may want to add tons of glitz, remember that you can kill a look with too much matchy-matchy accessorizing. Find earrings, necklace and bracelet that compliment each other without being a matching set.

Sparkly brooches, flowers and hair pins are all great ways to add special dazzle, too.

Your bag should be large enough to fit lipstick, tissue, phone and keys.

One confusing element for most women is whether or not to wear hose. Use common sense here: if your legs need camouflage and you don't like to wear leg makeup, then opt for super-sheer hose.
More information: How to Accessorize a Dress

Ten Tips To Dress Thinner

2007-03-12T17:12:00.000-07:00

When wanting to dress to appear thinner, the ten tips in this article can help you achieve that sleeker, leaner look.

Not everyone can wear the ‘perfect’ size 6. If you are a woman who seeks to slim her appearance when she dresses, this article is just for you.

Let's look at how to: Dress to Look Thinner

Dress Thinner Tip #1: Wear the right size.

No outfit is going to take 20 pounds off your hips, but choosing the right clothing that fits properly can go a long way to slimming your look. If clothes are too tight, all the bulges, rolls, dimples, or any other flaw you may have will show through. If clothes are too big, they add bulk and can make you look heavier than you actually are.

Dress Thinner Tip #2: Long skirts for tall women, below the knee for short.

If you are very tall, you can wear a longer skirt that will elongate the look of your body and thus make you appear leaner. If you are shorter, a longer skirt might make you appear even shorter, but a skirt that falls right below the knee will help you appear a bit taller and leaner. Avoid ankle length skirts if you are short and avoid above the knee skirts if you are tall.

Dress Thinner Tip #3: Patterns fool the eye.

Optical illusion patterns, diagonal stripes, zig zags and the like can fool the eye and detract from problem areas. However, avoid horizontal and vertical stripes because these both can cause you to appear heavier.

Dress Thinner Tip #4: V-line neck and waist.

A V-neck outfit can help draw attention away from the middle area, thus slimmer your entire appearance, while a V-line waist on a skirt or dress can really help reduce the appearance of bulk at the waist and top of the hips.

Dress Thinner Tip #5: Boot-cut pants, no flared or tapered legs.

If you have larger hips and thighs, when you wear pants, you do not want to wear the slim ankle or flare cut pant legs. The best cut for slimming is the boot-cut pant leg, because this will give a more symmetrical appearance and thus make you appear thinner.

Dress Thinner Tip #6: Avoid middle/waist bulk.

Avoid bulky scarves and belts around the waist, especially if your problem area includes your hips and waist.

Dress Thinner Tip #7: Wear heeled shoes.

If you can, wear at least a small heel on your shoe. The higher the heel on your shoe, the more slimming the effect. Heeled shoes slightly change the center of gravity as well as accentuating the usually smaller lower part of the legs while adding height – all things that cause you to look thinner.

Dress Thinner Tip #8: Minimum jewelry, size appropriate.

Avoid bulky jewelry, especially around the neckline. However, at the same time, if you are a larger women wearing very small pieces of jewelry, this can add to the illusion you are bigger than you really are. Pick jewelry appropriate to your size, without a lot of bulk.

Dress Thinner Tip #9: Avoid pleats.

Where it’s darts in shirts, pleated pants or skirts, pleats will pull when moving and if you have a bit of extra weight, they will not help accentuate your best features. This is especially true of your stomach area when wearing skirts or pants – avoid pleats.

Dress Thinner Tip #10: Foundation garments.

Yes, ladies, this means your underwear! It’s ironic this article ends where the dressing begins, but foundation garments make all the difference.

Bra straps that are too tight cause rolls or bulges. Panties that bind and don’t move with you can do the same not to mention those unsightly panty lines. Hosiery also can help slim your appearance. Body slimmer undergarments or foundation garments that fit properly can make a huge difference in how you look once you put on your clothes.

Hand Job Techniques

2007-03-11T05:29:00.000-07:00

Hand jobs are a great way to pleasure your man. They can be used by themselves, or while performing oral sex on your partner. Below is a listing of hand job techniques, mostly gathered from alt.sex.faq. Although not necessary, it is better to perform these using a lubricant.

Pressure

With one hand, pull the shaft's skin toward the base and wrap the fingers of this hand around the base to act as a cock ring. Using the other hand, rhythmically pick various points along the shaft of the penis and squeeze opposite sides of the penile shaft at these points, releasing pressure either immediately or after only a brief period of time.

Fire

Rub the penis between both palms, as if rubbing two sticks together to create fire. Be sure to use plenty of oil.

Glans Head Massage

Hold the penis in one hand with the head sticking up. Using the well-oiled palm of your other hand, slowly and sensitively massage the glans head. Reverse directions every once in a while.

Healing Stroke

With the penis resting on the man's stomach, take one hand and cup the testicles. Then glide the heel of the palm of the other hand up and down the underside of the penis.

Twist and Shout

Pull the skin of the penis toward the base with one hand. With the other hand, corkscrew the penis. This can be done with the thumb and first finger or with your entire grip.

Anvil Stroke

Start with one hand lightly grasping the top of the penis. Then stroke the penis from the top, all the way to the bottom. When you hit the bottom, release the penis. Meanwhile, bring your other hand to the top of the penis and repeat.

Bookends

Place both of your hands side by side against his shaft like a pair of bookends. Now push hard against his penis. Then lift your hands up and down.

Doorknob

Turn the head of his penis like you're trying to open an oily doorknob. Now try turning the other way. Repeat. This stroke is sometimes improved by using the other hand to stretch the skin of the penis toward the base.

Double Whammy

Bring your well lubricated hands down on his shaft. Some penises are so big they require both hands; if your partner's doesn't, then use the other hand to caress and lightly flutter his testicles, or tighten around the base of his shaft. If both hands fit along the length of the shaft then move them together, up and down, in the typical pumping motion. Pretend you're holding a baseball bat and are about to score a grand slam. You can also vary the directions of your hands: one up, one down at the same time.

Milking

Start with one hand lightly grasping the bottom of the penis. Then stroke the penis from the bottom all the way to the top. When you hit the top, release the penis. Meanwhile, bring your other hand to the bottom of the penis and repeat.

Perpetual Penetration

Start with one hand lightly grasping the top of the penis. Then stroke the penis from the top all the way to the bottom, letting his penis "penetrate" into your fist on each stroke. Before the head of his penis pops out of your hand, bring the other hand up for the next penetration. This way it seems to him like he is penetrating deeper and deeper into an infinite vagina. Make sure you keep the penetration continuous.

Ring

Make a ring with your thumb and forefinger and pump up and down with it. When you get to the top close the ring. Then make him squeeze his way in as you slide back down to the bottom.

Shaft

Stroke only his shaft, ignoring his glans head. You will notice his glans head swelling and turning red. When it's bright red, use Doorknob, Glans Head Massage, or Perpetual Penetration.

Shuttle Penis

Take the penis in both hands, fingers lightly touching the sides of the shaft. Now flick the penis back and forth between your two hands by holding onto the loose skin of the shaft. Do this stroke for a while to allow tension to build.

Spot Pinch

Lightly and slowly run a finger up the underside of his penis. Ask him to tell you where the most sensitive spot is. Pinch, squeeze, nibble and tease that spot.

Fellatio Introduction

2007-03-11T05:28:00.000-07:00

Fellatio Introduction

Fellatio is oral sex performed on a man. It is a great way to give pleasure; regardless of whether it is for foreplay, after play, or the main event. Like all other sexual skills, they must be learned, so communication is highly recommended. Whether the communication is before, during, or after, it is essential to learn the art. Finding out what he likes will invariably go a long way towards performing mind-blowing oral sex.

Keep in mind, when you are performing oral sex, you are doing this for him. Sending negative vibes about not wanting to or how much of a chore it is will take away from his experience. If you act enthusiastic, chances are it will be over faster, and it will be your turn to receive. If you are really against performing fellatio, explain to your partner why you don’t, and don’t allow him to force you if you are uncomfortable.

Cleanliness is essential with virtually all forms of sexual play; particularly in oral sex where a bad taste or smell will undoubtedly dampen enthusiasm on the part of the giver. A bath or shower is a great primer, and can be the start of the festivities. If you are uncomfortable with a particular smell that your partner may have, suggest taking a shower with you, because you’ve had a busy day and don’t feel clean. You don’t want to point out the smell (unless it is a very common occurrence and can be prevented), as that will only lead to anxieties and take away from the overall experience.

Positioning

Finding an agreeable position for fellatio is usually not a difficult task. Both the man receiving fellatio and the person performing fellatio need to be comfortable. For deep throating, it is wiser to choose a position where the angle of the penis and the angle of your throat are somewhat aligned. For a better look at positions for oral sex, have a look in our sexual position section.

The Basics

Too often oral sex is initiated by sucking on the penis. To achieve a more powerful orgasm, it is better practice to start with some teasing. With the exception of a quickie, fellatio should be started with some well placed teasing. Start by kissing and licking around his penis, on the inner thighs, then on to his testicles, and then slowly up his shaft towards his glans (the head of his penis). Once you get there, use your tongue to tickle him around the glans, and especially on his frenulum, the split on the underside of his penis. At this point, he should be hard as a rock and super-sensitive to everything that you do. You can continue teasing if you like, but we don’t recommend teasing too long, as this can become frustrating for the receiver.

One common problem women performing fellatio make is using only their mouth to repeatedly stroke his penis. They continue doing this until either it works, or they get a sore jaw and neck. A good “blow job” should not be too repetitive, should include stroking using a hand and the exploration of his testicles, thighs and (if you and he like) the anal region. By mixing up your style, you allow your muscles to relax, you can avoid getting a sore neck and you can improve your performance.

How you mix it up should depend on what your partner’s likes. Although there is a lot to say about fellatio that can get the job done in a matter of minutes, it is the longer ones that usually result in more intense orgasms, and coincidently are remembered. (Click here to read about stroking techniques).

It is a good idea to keep an eye on his scrotum (his testicle “sack”), as it is usually a good indicator of how close he is to coming. As a guy gets closer to climax, the skin on his scrotum tightens and pulls his testicles towards his body to warm them up. You can let this happen on its own, or help out by stimulating his testicles with a hand, tongue, or mouth.

More Advanced

Once you get the basics, and are comfortable and experienced with them, there are a lot of options to increase the pleasure. One option is using lubricants on his shaft. This will allow you to stroke faster without causing irritation. There are a wide variety of products that can be used,this includes: flavored lubricants, lubricants that heat up when blown on or rubbed, water based, oil based and many others. On this note, using whipped cream, spreads, and other food can also be incorporated to make the “blow job” more erotic.

Sex toys can add more stimulation. Whether it is a regular vibrator, a vibrating cock ring, or an oral simulator, these toys can greatly intensify the stimulation. These days, there is virtually a sex toy for everything and everyone, so check out our toy store to find a product that is perfect for you.

If your man likes to experiment, we recommend stimulating his prostate gland with your finger or an anal toy to take his orgasms to a whole new world of pleasure. For more information on this, please refer to the anal play article.

Another more difficult to master skill is deep throating. In this, the performer takes the entire penis into the mouth and down the throat - hence the name. In many cases, the sensation is so intense that climax in men comes quickly. As enjoyable as this may be, it takes time to learn to control your gag reflex. You can train your gag reflex by trying to take as much of the penis as you can when performing fellatio. Your partner should restrain from any thrusting during this exercise! With time, you will be able to go deeper and deeper, until finally you’ll be able to take the whole thing.

Ejaculation

Most men find it very erotic to have a partner swallow their semen, but if you really don’t feel comfortable with it, don’t do it. Options include: catching it in your mouth, then spitting it out; using a tissue to catch it; or, just letting it shoot and clean up the mess afterwards. To find out more about semen, we suggest reading our article on male ejaculation.

Many women stop performing fellatio right after their man ejaculates. Instead, you should continue to gently stimulate orally or with your hand for a minute or two longer. After a climax, the penis becomes much more sensitive, so try giving it to him a little longer. Be careful though, some men find this after-play too intense to handle.

Warnings and Suggestions

Very few men like the feeling of teeth on their penis. Teeth can cause discomfort, cuts, and scratches to the skin if you are not careful. This is easily avoided by tucking your lips around your teeth before you take the penis in your mouth.

The use of condoms is highly recommended in the practice of safer sex. If you are not sure of your partner’s sexual history, it is strongly advised that you use a condom while performing any sexual act. If you want something a little more interesting try using a flavored condom and by all means stay away from the lubricated variety (the lubricants used on condoms taste horrible). A good suggestion for anyone using a condom during fellatio is to buy a flavored lubricant to turn a normal latex condom into a tasty condom. The normal rubbery taste of a regular condom can be all but eliminated by unrolling, washing (with mild soap and water), rinsing, drying and re-rolling (if for later use).

Fashion trends for 2007 spring/summer

2007-03-11T05:25:00.000-07:00

What to wear? It's perpetual question that gives no rest for stylish people and followers of the fashion. What trend is going to win sympathy on the spring and summer 2007? Check the main guidelines.

This spring comes with soft and light colors. No more high contracts, no more dull and grave colors of last season. Even combinations of black and white became softer and changed into shady grey and off white. Try these colors to be on the top this spring; featured combinations are white embroidery ornaments on black background or vice versa. Remember, ornaments and applications are small this season and preferably botanical. Small flowers and herbs grow on dresses, tops, swimsuits and even bags.

Romantic vision is strengthened with a palette of soft colors. They come bleached, creamy, imitating old paper and shady fruits. If you are not into black & white mentioned above, try porcelain elf image. This style contains subtle colors of alabaster, sand, linen white and mixes different textures for contrast look. Use vintage knit work, embroidery on edges of clothing and beaded patterns to create feminine look. Faded and detailed applications give retro feeling. To warm up porcelain white and chalk image, get some medium violet red, eggshell brown or chartreuse green accessories.

All garments of spring and summer are loose-fitting, flying and fluttering in a wind. Blouses keep their length between an inch below navel and half of hips. No more hip-hugging trousers or skirts, remember where your actual waistline is! However this rule has an exception for wearing belt; if you don't want to accentuate your waist, feel free to gird a belt around low line of your hips. Dresses and tunics stay belted at empire-waist, for womanlike image. Remember, this kind of waistline fits larger figures as well as slim built ones.

If you have a bubble skirt from the last fall's trends, don't through it away. But be aware that this spring and summer shine with subtle colors and indistinct glitter. Combine bubble skirt with light flower-patterned jacked and deep pink purse and you will be the stylish one. But change metallic shine garments to silky gloss.

Safari ornaments holds they position this season and are joined by tropical ornaments for exotic vision. Hawaiian patterns even influence men's wear; one should get bright flowered shirt or trousers for guy-on-holiday image. Remember, trousers and shorts became loose again. Loose fitting clothing comes to city boy look as well in form of natural or bleached linen costumes and sensual pirate shirts.

Back to women wear; meet gipsy style and sweet colors, if light and exotic images don't attract you. Mix lime green, papaya and tangerine orange up with sky blue, indigo and all tones of blackberry to create chaotic combinations. Feel free to combine incompatible patterns and colors for careless image. Get long colorful skirt dyed in batik technique.

If none of described color palettes get you in, you probably are the serious person. Try Celtic checked or slight striped costumes. All the shades of sea blue and green go to form the image of harmony and purity. Choose simple patterns and combine several clear colors. But get a couple of foliage printed blouses in your wardrobe, as spring and summer come romantic.

If you want to be on the top, choose garments made out of natural fabrics with handmade looking decorations. Get pleated dress to fly in a summer wind. Try to combine paled colors clothes with deep colored shoes or purse or accessories. This season gives us a vision of light, sweetness and freedom.

Plastic Surgery

2007-03-07T05:12:00.001-08:00

The phrase “plastic surgery” floats in the air every time someone mentions something about celebrities or any famous person. Plastic corrections and augmentations have become a regular topic of everyday coffee time chats and are widely discussed in everyday life. I believe you can count the celebrities who had none of the surgical plastic intrusion on your hand fingers. However, only some of them openly discuss the topic. Lets take Cher for example, she had tens of plastic surgeries and she is proud of it, but you try to talk to Tom Cruise about it and you will get in trouble (actually I am not even sure if he had any, but it looks like it).

My own opinion about the plastic intrusion is quite negative. However, if you are a star and you’re always in the center of attention, I can see why you would want one. If you are just a regular person with a regular job, I just can’t see why would you want or need one. Perhaps one of the reasons might be that you are pathologically unhappy with your body (or part of it). Plastic surgeons, at least the professionals, will always try to talk you out of having the surgery and only after the serious psychological tests you will be allowed to do it.

Well if you are absolutely sure that you need a breast job or a liposuction or any other surgery (God there are so many of them), you will need to know a couple of things before you do it. I will try to put a couple of answers to the most common questions on a plastic surgery right here in this article.

I believe that the most common of them would be - When will I see the results? It depends… Some procedures take more time for the results to come up, some less. Depending on the procedure, your doctor will let you know how long it will take before you will see the end result. There is always a chance that you will not be happy with the results at all, but this is the chance that you take.

Will it hurt? Oooooooooh YEAH! It will hurt and it will hurt badly. You will not be able to continue your daily routine, no exercising, no lifting in some cases, bed regime for a week or more. Just imagine your lip cut off, but without pain, and imagine that the pain comes in, in an hour or so and you will feel the same. Of course, there are drugs that will reduce the pain significantly. However, there is no wonder drug.

How much will it cost? And yet again – a lot. Of course it depends on the doctor who is performing the consultations and operation, but do not expect it to be cheap. My piece of advice would be – if you are sure you need a cosmetic surgery, never save on your health, get the best surgeon you can afford. Remember that only reconstruction surgery (the one where only the parts of the body that are damaged are being reconstructed) is covered by insurance, all the rest you will have to pay from your own pocket.

An operation is never the best idea, so never consider it as the best option. There is always a risk of harming your health, take the situation in all its seriousness.

How to Become Self Confident?

2007-03-07T05:09:00.000-08:00

Do you feel yourself like being a very self confident person?
If so – you are very lucky. Self confident persons are considered to be much more successful than those who find it hard to trust themselves. Most of us will agree that a person who speaks loud enough, keeps his head high and is assured in what he says has much more chance to persuade us and reach his aims. So it becomes obvious that persons with a lack of self confidence are not so inspiring and don’t look so charismatic and attractive. Of course all of us would like to be self confident, successful and always in front with great ideas and others support though it is not as easily done as it sounds. Reality shows that many people who have less self confidence would like but cheer up; if you are one of those – there is always a way to improve the situation.

Am I self confident?
If you feel you should be more self confident than you are now, first of all try to find out what do others think about you. Maybe this lack of self confidence is not obvious at all. If so, the only thing you have to do is to persuade yourself that you are a good and trustful person, which is not very hard having a strong support from your close people. The main things that show incontinence are fear of failure and avoidance of any risk, dismissing compliments you get, strong dependence of other people opinion and similar. If you have some of these features and that makes you feel uncomfortable it’s about time to get rid of them. Don’t think it will take only a few minutes because it will surely take some of your time, but if you be positive and expect good results it will be quicker.

How can I become more self confident?

Think of this process as of a journey. First of all you have to decide whether you really want this journey and decide to start it or not. Firstly, you will need feedback which will make you stronger for starting. Your feedback can be your past achievements, so write them down. Make a sheet of what you have already done that makes you feel proud of yourself. For example a very important project or even a good advice which you gave and it helped.

When you finish writing your past achievements, start a new sheet about your present situation. For this step you may use SWOT analysis. The basics of it are determination of your strength, weakness, opportunities and threats. Strength is what you have that other don’t for example when comparing yourself with your friends maybe you have some special features like education, specialty, sense of humor, look and similar. Do something similar defining your weaknesses which will be mostly your complexes. Opportunities are all means and ways which you could use for improving your personality like moving to a new place, changing job, taking a holiday or even meeting new people. Treats will be all obstacles which can appear while using opportunities.

The next step is setting up of your future goals. SWOT analysis is a very good way to see what you are and see what you should improve and what to avoid for reaching some goals. When you have past achievements and a realistic view of present, try to decide what you want to achieve in the future and define areas which need to be changed. When defined some major goals make a list of small steps for reaching them.

When you have a clear vision of what you want to be, start managing your mind. You have to be positive and promise yourself that you will do anything to achieve your goals. Don’t be afraid of taking small risks and challenges – it’s a part of your journey. Start valuating your casual actions and enjoy everything you do, and if something goes wrong, say that you’ve done your best and you’ll do even better next time.

Start doing practice – define skills needed for achieving goals and learn them, make steps you wrote in previous parts, celebrate each small success. Don’t be too strict if you have some problems - mistakes are your learning experience and what doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger! Don’t stop until you get the results you wanted and be always proud of yourself for the efforts you are giving!

A Guide to Wristbands

2007-02-28T16:22:00.001-08:00

Wristbands serve a number of purposes. People can buy certain wristbands to show their dedication to a particular cause. Other wristbands are used as proof that someone has paid admission to an event such as a concert or a carnival. Some wristbands are used simply as accessories or jewelry. Wristbands can be made of many different materials. Paper, silicone, rubber, and leather are some of the most popular materials used.

Many are made of a sturdy type of paper that does not tear easily. These are often used at concerts or festivals as proof that someone has paid admission. Many paper wristbands are imprinted with designs like colored stripes or American Flags. Paper wristbands usually have one sticky end that is used to fasten the band around the person’s wrist.

Other wristbands are made of silicone or rubber. Silicone or rubber wristbands come in several different colors and designs. The most popular colors are yellow, pink, red, and black. Silicone and rubber wristbands come in a solid ring that can be stretched to fit over a person’s hand and worn on the wrist. People often wear these wristbands to voice their support for a certain cause or show that they have donated to a particular charity. One of the most popular wristbands of this type is the yellow “Livestrong” wristband. World-renowned bicycle racer and cancer survivor Lance Armstrong designed these wristbands. These bands are given to people who pay a dollar to his cancer charity and have become popular fashion accessories.

People also wear leather wristbands, which can come in many colors and are often elaborately designed. Leather wristbands are usually a flat piece of leather with fastening snaps on the end to hold it on the person’s wrist.

Wristbands are gaining in popularity. They are versatile accessories that are worn in a number of situations.

About the Author

Wrist Bands Info provides detailed
information about rubber, silicone, and leather wristbands, plus free and custom
wristbands, including charity, and cancer wristbands. Wrist Bands Info is
affiliated with Business Plans by Growthink.

A Brief History Of The Cowboy Boot

2007-02-28T16:18:00.002-08:00

Historically horsemen have always needed protective footwear as well as preferring boots with a higher heel. The origin of the cowboy boot that we know today comes from various boot styles including the Wellington boot, which originated from Britain's Duke of Wellington. At the time it was a straight plain leather boot with one-inch heels and straight tops. Cowboys also wore the Hessian boot, which had a V-cut in the front, and some of these had a silk or leather tassel hanging down in the V.

The Coffeyville-style cowboy boots originated in Coffeyville, Kansas around 1870 and were normally black leather with a low Cuban heel. The front of the boot, known as the "graft", was higher than the back and was usually a different color. Texas cowboys were known to have a lone star inlaid in the graft.

Cowboy boots continued to evolve through the late 1800s and the designs were influenced by the European cavalier style of boot, which were characterized by higher heels and better-quality leather.

The toes of cowboy boots were square or rounded and this did not change to pointed until the 1950s.

The straight lines of stitches across the top of the toe of the cowboy boot are called a toe wrinkle. Boot makers in the early 1900s started to add decorative stitching on the toes in addition to the wrinkle and these designs became and have remained to this day the personalized signature of custom-made boots.

In the 1920s and 1930s cowboy boots became a fashion item as a result of the movies and radio shows about the Wild West.

After 1940 boot designs became more colorful and intricate incorporating images of the west such as cacti, eagles, horses and horseshoes.

In the 1950s when rodeos became a popular form of entertainment and country music started being heard, the popularity of cowboy boots skyrocketed and millions of pairs were reportedly being made in all shapes, colors and styles.

After this the designs of cowboy boots followed the fashions and styles popularized in the movies - if John Travolta or Tom Cruise wore cowboy boots then those styles were immediately in demand.

Since the early 1990s boot makers have become even more adventurous and we are now seeing styles incorporating studs, conchos, rhinestones and precious stones, no doubt partly as a result of the interest in line dancing. Of course it is still possible to buy an attractive plain leather boot.

Part of the enduring appeal of the cowboy boot is that they can be worn by anyone.

There is an excellent book that covers everything to do with the cowboy boot called appropriately The Cowboy Boot book, which you can get from Amazon.

Copyright © Jakki Francis,(UK), 2005

About the Author

This article is copyrighted. Please feel free to use it in it's entirety
including copyright information and information about the publisher. Jakki
Francis operates the website
http://www.1st-For-Boots.Com

Dress to impress

2007-02-28T16:18:00.001-08:00

By Mehmet Aksoy, January 17, 2004 (From the book Want a Girl)
How should a man dress to impress? First, always wear clothes that correspond to the occasion. Second, always wear a well put-together outfit.

If you have trouble deciding on what to wear, it is always better to be overdressed than underdressed. You wouldn't want to show up in casual wear for dinner at an expensive restaurant with a woman dressed to kill. A man should always be dressed to meet the occasion or situation. No matter where you are going with a woman, you should always be wearing clean, well-kept clothes. Believe it or not, women prefer clothes that are well-kept and clean to clothes that are worn out or dirty! That may seem obvious to you, but it is important to remember. By taking care of how you look, and by showing some style, you show women that you really care about your presentation - and women notice!

Always... Look Your Best! You should always take the time to look your best whenever you go out. You never know when you may have the opportunity to meet a stunning, beautiful woman - the grocery store, Laundromat, or coffee shop. Be sure to pay attention to the whole outfit. It's worth the extra money to buy yourself some nice clothes to wear out. And don't forget about the shoes or boots, a new belt and a nice watch. Accessories do make a huge difference. If you wear a well put-together outfit you will look sharp and portray more confidence.

The way you dress actually will change how you behave. Think about it- if you wore a clown costume all day, you would feel silly and goofy. So if you want to have more sex appeal, wear something that makes you feel sexy. Women will respond to the image you project. Figure out what image you portray now and then make the necessary changes in your wardrobe to attain your desired image. Whatever image you want to give women be sure to act the part. You should consider all behavior that attributes to your overall personal image - physical gestures, eye contact. Use your clothes to emphasize your desired image.

With all my experience, and from talking with other guys, a successful look to maintain is to wear a pair of nice pressed or ironed pants and a sport shirt. Add to these basics a trendy blazer, leather jacket or simple sport coat. Wear some good-quality stylish leather shoes or boots (match your leather jacket if you wear one!) and be sure to always keep your shoes polished.

Be sure to show good taste. The whole outfit can be relaxed, trendy, conventional, or professional, but any route you take you must look sharp. Try to stay away from wearing a tie. You want to stay loose and approachable - not uptight or snobby looking. A simple well put-together outfit is best. You'll be more successful with women than you've ever imagined if you wear a clean, classic, well put-together outfit that exudes style and self-pride.

Refine Your Looks
Women notice every little thing about a man's grooming. Every time they see a guy they go through a mental checklist. Is his hair washed and styled? Are his fingernails clean or manicured? Are his shoes polished? Clothes clean? Is he bathed? Does he smell good? These things really matter to women! Clean and neat counts! Find a grooming regime that works for you and stay polished!

Always, I repeat ALWAYS, shower and shave and use deodorant before going out to meet a woman. You might think the smell of your sweat is manly and sexy, but most women would strongly disagree! Hold off on sharing your rugged body odor until you're hot and heavy in bed. If you are going out specifically to meet new women or for a date, be sure to take some extra time getting ready. Show women that you care about your appearance.

Make sure your hair is done properly and your nails are filed and cleaned. Brush your teeth and use cologne - not too much though, as women generally have a better sense of smell than men. Take pride in how you look, and you instantly improve your chances of success!

Increase your Sexual Attractiveness with Pheromones

2007-02-28T16:14:00.000-08:00

Pheromones are a natural chemical compound found in all insects, animals, and humans. Animals detect pheromones over a distance – they help them mark territory and recognize mates. Human pheromones are natural hormones and we use them to communicate with one another on a subconscious level. They are detected by a little organ inside the nose and then being transmitted to our brains as a chemical message of sex and sexual attraction.

Not everyone knows that these days’ pheromones can be found as a product – colognes, sprays, oils, gels, wipes, lotions, soaps and even candles. There are different pheromones for Men and Women. Pheromone products mainly contain one or all of the following human pheromones:

*Androstenone - the pheromone that gives a macho, dominant male aura. It attracts and arouses women on a primordial level and women reported having better and stronger orgasm during sex.

*Androstenol – is called as a friendly pheromone. You will seem nice, friendly and approachable to others.

*Androsterone – is knows as a middle ground between the first two. People say that androsterone is very similar to andostenone, just it doesn’t give a male macho aura as much.

*Copulins – is found in pheromones for women to use. Copulins are produced by women naturally, during their ovulation time. Copulins are used towards attracting men.

Pheromones come in both scented and unscented products. Some people use scented pheromones as simple perfume or body spray. Then they don‘t need to use any other perfume. Unscented products can be mixed with colognes, perfumes or body sprays. Both kinds of pheromones are applied in the same places where you usually apply other perfume or body spray.

Pheromones “work” for both male and female, and pheromone products are being used to gain sexual attraction of the opposite sex.

Guys, it doesn‘t matter how you look like – fat or slim, tall or short, handsome or not a sexy macho – if you use pheromones, women will find you sexually attractive. After women smell pheromones in the pheromone product they will become attracted to you. Try to use pheromone products and you will notice that women are starting to show you more attention, more eye contact, more dates and of course more sex.

The same is for women. If you like a man and he is not paying as much attention to you as you want – try a pheromone “attack”. When he is around you - make sure you sprayed pheromones on your body and you will start feel difference. Many women use this “weapon” to get the guys they want.

Pheromones can help you increase your attractiveness, bring you more success in business and many social situations, make people comfortable around you and improve your own mood.

In fact many people use pheromone products to increase their own social success and success in business. Research was made where people used pheromones in business meetings with clients. Positive results were noted with those who previously were not very successful and had problems with approaching other people. They simply saw that clients and other people around them started to show more interest in them. And actually this attention helped them to become more confident about themselves.

Despite all the positive results of pheromones in sexual and business life, pheromones do not work for everyone. There are still some people who do not notice any difference after using pheromones, and actually that’s normal. People are different and their biological systems are also different, and that’s the exact reason why some people notice affect of pheromones and others don’t.

Tips for a Better Body Image

2007-02-18T16:02:00.001-08:00

Do you loathe and despise your body? Or maybe you wish if you could just change this one thing…

Well, you're not alone. Far from it. Whether you feel you are too fat, too skinny, too tall, too short, too hairy, not hairy enough, too-something -- or just not something enough - everyone feels like there's something they'd like to change about their bodies.

Yet there are lots of reasons to appreciate even cherish the body you have. For one thing, accepting yourself is a lot more fun, and wastes waaay less time, than constantly obsessing over what you don't like, don't have, or want to 'fix.' Your body is yours, uniquely yours, to use, take care of, and to treasure.

Here are some things to help you appreciate all that is -- you ! (Yay you!)

1. Think About What You're Missing

Consider this: What do you miss out on when you don't accept your body and treat it well? What has it cost you so far? Aside from the physical and mental health risks, think about all the things you refrain from doing, trying, being . Think about all the people you don't meet, the cool things you never experience, when you let a pesky negative body image stand in your way.

2. Make a List of People You Admire

Who rates high in your book? Who do you think is cool? What do you think are the most important traits a person can have? List who you admire, or people you recognize as having made a difference in your life, or in the world. Are they all supermodels? (I bet they're not.) Likely your list is chock full of smart, kind, creative, inventive, funny, talented, self-confident people. And hey, aren't you a couple of those things yourself? (And if self-confident isn't one of them, why not start today?)

3. Stop Talking About Your Weight (or your hair, face, whatever)

Every time you disparage yourself somebody is listening. Literally, your body 'hears' what you say and your negative feelings are reinforced and further internalized. So knock it off won'tcha? Because you're hurting the one you love you.

4. Don't Believe the Hype!

Remember: The objective of the fashion, cosmetic, diet, fitness and plastic surgery industries is not to inform, serve, guide or help you. It is to make money. And how do they make their gazillions of dollars? By suggesting that you need to be different, and that you need to spend money to get that way.

Think about it: Their very existence is predicated on you not liking you the way you are. Remember: You're the boss of you. Don't define yourself by arbitrary, external dictates. Instead, work on developing your own style. Have fun. Wear something weird. Or don't. Do what feels right, and you won't go wrong.

5. Concentrate on Things You Do Well

Why focus on what you don't like when you could just as easily focus on what you do like? Keep busy; there's nothing like talking with a friend or playing a vigorous game of volleyball to make you forget about your silly ole appearance. Change your focus, and you'll soon see a change in how you feel.

6. Get Physical for Fun

Your mood and your body both benefit from exercise. Take walks, dance around your room, plant a garden, jog. Or challenge yourself with team sports, snow boarding, surfing or mountain-biking. Just remember that moving is great for your heart, lungs, muscles and your mind. You gain so much; it's not just about losing weight.

7. Think of Yourself as a Role Model

Think people are watching you? You're right. Your little brothers, sister, cousins, the kids you baby-sit for, your neighbors they all look to you for guidance and inspiration. Show them they can be confident and self-loving by being that way yourself.

8. Love It -- It's Yours

Your body is constantly doing all these great things for you (it pretty much gets you where you want to go), why dis it? Think of it this way: If you bought a cute puppy, and then one day he didn't look the same anymore (puppies have a way of doing that) would you get rid of him? Would you love him any less? Of course not you love that dog unconditionally. Why not show yourself the same consideration you'd show a dog!

Woman on Top Sex Positions

2007-02-08T18:39:00.000-08:00

Ahh, control. Sometimes it seems that sex is all about control, and so much of that sexual control is all about the man, and how he exercises it. That is what makes women-on-top positions so revolutionary in some ways. It is a chance for both parties to switch roles and try something new.

Having your women on top can take many different forms, all of which are discussed in the following sections, but what makes the biggest difference from other sexual positions is the control that the women have in these sexual endeavors. There is a general assumption that men have all the power in sex and that practicing women-dominant sexual position is somehow a completely female power issue. But if you look more closely it is clearly noted that in many ways giving up some of the responsibility for pleasure in bed can give men a break, and a chance to lie back and enjoy the ride. Instead of worrying about lasting and thrusting and making sure that your women orgasms, being on the bottom and in a less active role, can let men focus on their breathing and their pleasure.

At precisely the same moment this means that women, who, for the most part have always been at the mercy of their lover to achieve pleasure, can charge forward in search of their orgasm. They can position their lover’s penis so that it hits all their hot spots, or so that they can grind their man’s pelvis against their clitoris. By taking control of their sexuality women can sometimes be able to enjoy it more and more likely get what they are looking for from the sexual experiences. Women on our panel have suggested that a man that loves to ridden or at least enjoys more women dominated sexual positions, can gain access to secret sexual desires far more than a selfish lover. Listen up boys, this is for you as much as it is for her.


Acrobat	Amazon

Armchair	Cowgirl

Asian Cowgirl	Fusion

Mastery	Reverse Mastery

Inverted Missionary	Inverted Rear Entry

Reverse Mastery	Seesaw

4 New Beauty tips & Secrets for Summer

2007-02-08T18:36:00.001-08:00

Beauty Tips & Secrets 1

- Match your cheek, lip, and nails with either a warm, cool, or neutral color (sheer colors, true reds). For dazzling effects, apply a pink undertone with cool colors and a yellow undertone with warm colors.

Beauty Tips & Secrets 2
- Choose one feature (eyes, lips, cheekbones) on your face and make it stand out! One of the easiest and most effective makeovers is to brighten the eyes. To achieve this effect, just add a highlighting color to the brow bone like crystalline (shimmering white). Next, add the finishing touches. Use brown mascara on the lashes and black on the ends.

Beauty Tips & Secrets 3
- Keep your skin in great condition at all times! Use skin care products made specifically for your skin type.

Skin types:
Dry skin - dry or flaky all of the time.
Normal skin - stays dry most of the time. Sometimes oily around the nose and chin area.
Oily skin - Have difficulty keeping cosmetics on. Skin is oily around the face most of the time.

Beauty Tips & Secrets 4
- Make your skin look soft, moist and clear just in time for summer! Use a buffing cream after you cleanse. Pay careful attention especially to the rough spots (elbows, knees, and heels). Follow up with a moisturizer made for your skin type and use one that exfoliates like Visible Action Skin Revealing Lotion.

Ties - Not Only Men Exclusive Accessory

2007-02-08T18:33:00.000-08:00

What can you say about ties? First thought which comes to almost everyone‘s mind is that ties are the main men’s‘ accessory for smart look. But that’s not the only use of ties. Women want to have the tailored sleek look so they also wear ties.

Ties are also good for women who want to be women. Sleek, skinny ties look good with the secretary look. It adds to the 'separates' i.e. the shirt/skirt or the shirt/trousers - the tailored, a sleek office girl look.

Of course ties are accessories. With the boyish chic look last year and the androgynous look previously, ties were certainly important. If you want to look like a woman looking like a man – use a tie as an accessory. The thing is that women want to be women. They want to use ties in their own way.

Some stylists might say that a tie isn't necessary to complete the tailored look. It is too much of an extra and they may be right. But you can use ties as a centre piece in the 'look'. You can wear the office chic look and for this a tie is important but it may not be essential of course. Some 'looks' for office girls do not have any ties. However, regarding skinny ties on a tailored shirts clinging to the body, this is an important look.

This is an office look. What about wide ties instead of the skinny ones? When summer season starts - can a tie be important for your look? A wide glossy 'glam' tie, which gives the 'color' to a look. For men, the tie was a 'color'; it added color to the whole appearance.

Sometimes, women are different. For them, a tie seems to be above all an accessory; it is not as important as for a man but that doesn't mean a tie doesn't have it's place in women fashion.

The boyish look was important in 2006 when ties were needed for this. Now, as fashion moves on from a boyish chic and military before this, ties are still important because they give color and glamour.

A tie can be the center piece. It can be a 'piece of color' in the center or it can be a piece of color around the neck (short tie). A tie is an accessory but it can be an accessory which aims to add color.

When we think of ties, it is men's wear accessory which go with suits. It is a necessity for smart look but a tie for women is an accessory, i.e. as regards fashion. As a boyish look and a military look go - a tie can be used. Yes, it will always be there for the 'sexy office girl look' which is popular and also as an accessory in high fashion. Tailored shirts will always be in fashion for women and a tie is an important extra to this kind of look.

But maybe there is more to ties than skinny ties. What about a broad short tie which adds color? What about a 'neckerchief'- a covering for the neck or a bow tie or a jabot shirts? Remember ties were the 'color' for men's suits. Maybe they can be the same for women.

So for all those women who still think that a tie is just a men accessory it should prove that it is not. Women can play using ties as well as men. For different looks ties fit women very well.

Bring a bling on!

2007-02-06T16:27:00.001-08:00

Accessories can present a style, renew boring outfit and accentuate a personality. There have been various types of adornments in history: various necklaces, rings, bracelets, body piercing, but it seems like it’s time for new generation to come. You no longer need to string beads to wear them nor pierce your skin for jewellery. Instead of it, you can simply stick gems on you skin.

Jewellery for skin usage started in about 2000, but it already made its way to popularity. It’s a new way to show creativity and originality. Sticky beads are sold all over the world. You can find various shaped pieces (i.e. rounded, hearts, stars, triangle, flowers shaped, etc.) and apply them to the skin to compose a wanted ornament, or you can buy already designed crystal tattoo.

Crystals for tattoos are not necessarily actual crystals. They can be made out of various materials like glass, plastic, gemstones, noble metals or even precious stones. The price and usage depends on fabric and using purpose. Plastic and glass pieces are pretty cheap and can be found in most jeweler’s or make-up shops, while beads used in high fashion are made out of more precious elements.

Crystal stickers are mostly used for make-up and sticky tattoos. It is still innovation and common people don’t dare to exhibit these glossy adornments. However you don’t need to be a hip-hop diva to afford blingy style. Several crystals can finely accentuate make-up or even replace it at all. Crystal jewellery is comfort to wear stuck as a necklace or a bracelet. Once it is applied to body, it lasts for a few weeks and after taken from skin beads may even be used again and again. Therefore you can have one set of crystals and compose countless variations of accessories. Although field of usage seem to be pretty wide, sticky beads are mostly popular for tattoos. Young people decorate arms, necks or back with small ornamented pictures like butterfly, flower, initial letters, heart, dolphin and others. But if you are really patient and have a helper, crystal tattoos may become charming clothing.

Designer Jeanette Maskrey creates skin jewellery for more than six years. She is the one who decorated superstars like supermodel Kate Moss, Oscar winner Halle Berry and scandalous singer Britney Spears with spangly tattoos. Even Yoko Ono decided she was not too old to look stylish! Men want to shine as well, actor Josh Hartnett and rapper Diddy are fans of J. Maskrey. However it was not tattoos that made her famous. She was so into Swarovski crystals that she decided to dress up her models half in garments and half in gems. The collection was extremely successful, so J. Maskrey kept on going this way. Her models wear little dresses or shorts and have arms and legs tattooed with crystal ornaments.

More amazing outfits contain trousers/skirt and whole top created with gems stuck directly to skin. It may sound kitschy, but it looks glamorous for sure. These tops seem to be too daring to wear in public, but they idea of sticky crystals is adored by many celebrities. Shakira wore them at her hit “Hips don’t lie” video shooting. Glittering gems made her moves even more sexual. Although other designers often cooperate with J. Maskrey for her crystal ornaments, but whole outfits made out of gems are not very popular.

Skin jewellery definitely joined fashion business and everyday life. A lot of known accessories companies produce sticky tattoos beside other adornments; fashion designers choose them to suit their clothes. If you want to express yourself in a new way, crystal tattoos might be what you’re looking for.

Choose your lingerie carefully

2007-02-06T16:26:00.001-08:00

Lingerie is one of the most intimate parts of our wardrobe. Women all over the world are having the same problem. How to choose the right lingerie, which will make you look astonishing, desirable, sensual and be comfortable at the same time?

There are so many different types and colors; you can almost loose your head. But first of all, you need to consider one thing; are you buying this underwear for yourself or for your man to look at.

Not always men appreciate the lingerie you choose. Obviously, men are more likely to admire sexy and exotic thongs or bare skin, rather then boys’ knickers or boxers. But, also, there are some general rules, which will help you to find the color, which suits you the most.

Strong colors, like rich green, dark blue and purple look better on brunettes and they will surely compliment your face and hair. And blondes will look wonderful in all the pastel shades of purple, blue and pink. This will not shade their bright hair and face features. If the nature gave you a nice red head, you can also take something from her, like all earth tones. Blue and green will accentuate your look. Those, who are changing their hair color often, will be pleased with white, black and red, these colors look excellent on everyone.

Skin color is also very important if you really want to buy the most suitable lingerie. Ladies, whose skin is light tanned, can wear a bit darker colors. Pastel colors suits women with pale geisha type of skin the best. The biggest options are for dark and ebony types of skin. They can put on all the pastel and powdery colors. Bright lingerie will accentuate the contrast of your skin. However, don’t forget, that blending your skin, hair and eye colors is very important too.

Not all women feel comfortable with their bodies. That is the reason, why a large number of ladies are concentrated on their body type when choosing lingerie.

Here are some tips how to accentuate your positive features and hide all those negative, you hate the most:

-Women, who have very small hips, breasts or waist are recommended not to wear tight fitting but choose loose lingerie.
-If the nature gave you small breasts, you are able to divert all the attention to your legs and bottom, body area, which you are happy with.
-Not always large bust are an advantage. For many women it’s a problem, and they want to minimize their breasts. Stretch materials, like Lycra and Spandex, are able to fix up and decrease their size.
-If you are short and you think it’s a negative thing, you’re very wrong. You should simply choose lingerie that is not too long and loose. Specialized petite shops are proposing a large number of different type and style lingerie.
-The main tip to tall women is not to choose lingerie, which looks too short but supposed to be long. You should wear something that accentuates your long legs. The best styles are white and vertically striped.

If you want to feel very comfortable, you need to choose between all the natural and cozy fabrics, such as flannel and cotton.

Fabrics like satin, velvet and silk would be preferable for those, who like the soft touch.

If you are not able to choose any lingerie, wear none, like Paris Hilton and Britney Spears.

Anal sex - what women like/dislike

2007-02-06T16:24:00.002-08:00

There is a wide range of people who practice anal sex. The reasons why people like to practice anal sex vary greatly. Some men and women say that anal sex enables them to reach orgasm, with or without simultaneous stimulation of their genitals (penis or clitoris). Generally, for women, pleasure is derived through anal intercourse due to the shared nerve endings that are located between the rectal wall and the vagina, and/or from indirect stimulation of the G-spot. The anus contains many nerves as well, which can also react in a pleasurable manner when excited.

Anal sex (stimulation from a finger, a toy, or the full Monty) is still a taboo subject for many people (and illegal is some states). Why some men like anal sex so much? Well, the main reason and most probably the main factor that stimulates men to practice anal sex is that this section is much more forbidden and not so popular among heterosexuals as vaginal sex. But there is a different question with women side and female have much more likes and dislikes about anal sex. So what do women hate about anal sex and what do they love in it?

Actually anal sex can be even very pleasurable for women due to some biological factors – the rectum shares a membrane with the vagina, and the sexual nerves are closer on that side, which makes the sensation unique, stronger and probably more orgasmic.

Many women still think that anal sex is a taboo and it’s just a thing you can see only in porn flicks. But nowadays when teenage girls become pregnant very often, when group sex is becoming more popular among everyone it’s quite evident that anything ends in the bedroom.

There is a saying that women try anal sex twice in their life: first time – to see how it is, and second time – to check if it was really that bad.

So here are some things that women dislike, even hate about anal sex:

1. During anal sex, female virtually hand their sexual power over to their partners. So men have the ability to prevent woman’s orgasm. Penetration usually occurs from behind: man enters her sexually when she can’t see him and women’s sexual satisfaction is in mans hands.Women are not sure what man is doing “back there” so usually they are afraid of pain and suffering.

2. Penis can cause serious damage to a woman by hurting terribly when it comes to anal aperture if men are not careful. Men need to pay serious attention to a woman’s penetration when she is not relaxed, so to be sensitive is a necessity.

3. Women hate insensitive men whose motives are selfish. So during anal sex woman make sure that her partner is smart wnough to understand some things as using lubricant to avoid a possible pain. It might be very painful because it’s not a “juicy vagina” – in this situation men should apply a lot of lubricant.

So there are some things that women doesn't like about anal sex and every women who never tried it should firslty remember these things and make sure to avoid pain and bad feelings. But there are also some things that women love about anal sex, here are the main points and advices for men what women need to love it:

1. It might be strange, but women get really excited when presented with an opportunity to try out something new in bed. She may even end up preferring sex from behind first – if a man does his best in first womens anal sex.

2. A careful man starts slowly with his fingers until a woman feels relaxed and comfortable enough. When it’s done (women relax), he needs to apply plenty of lube and a condom when he penetrates her.

3. Man needs to give to the rest of the body a sincere attention while penetrating her – it will be an advantage for both of partners. Her rectal muscles will be more relaxed and the entering process will be easier.

4. Why would a woman let a man enter her back side if she knows it’s going to be painful? It is very easy – because women want to know how it feels – they know pain is inevitable, but that’s a part of the thrill of it all.

So it’s just a quick look on anal sex and what women think about it. There are many women who love it because for some of them, it is a very easy way to reach orgasm, but not for all. Still there remains a large percentage of women who are afraid of anal sex – just because they don’t know how it’s going to be. In general, anal sex is nothing bad or harmful if man knows enough how to do it in a right way. Besides, men should always remember that anal sex is dangerous because HIV and AIDS spread more easily via anal sex than any other. So make sure you guys always wear a condom, and you will prevent yourself from all kind of negative consequences.

by Ms. R.

Five Things That Women Hate in Bed

2007-02-06T16:24:00.001-08:00

I believe that none of men could possibly be proud of being called “boring lover”, and none of the women would like spend their lives or even just one night with a “stallion” with such a reputation. Therefore, we are here to help you with a several tips on how avoid such a “label” on your back. Here are five things that women really hate in their sex life:

Don’t be too careful
The phrases like “can I?” are NOT sexy. They just kill the mood. A good lover knows how to let the woman know their next step and how to prepare her for it with no questions asked. Sometimes it is enough just to look in “undressing” way or a provocative touch your girlfriends’ body to give a signal for sex.

“Mechanical sex”
Most women would agree that sex with no passion is boring, just a time spent with no particular reason. No woman wants to become an “inflatable woman” (perhaps only with a very little exception). I’m not saying that every sex you have has to be exclusively tremendous, but just don’t ignore the fact that every woman want to be a “woman” and it's always a good idea to keep that in mind. Be sensitive and sometimes not just have sex, but also “make love” to her.

Monotony
If your girlfriend or wife know every crack in your ceiling – you are in a huge trouble. But don’t panic yet. A simple change of a place will help you out. Try doing it in your bathroom, kitchen, your car or even on a beach (of course find a place with no viewers), the possibilities are endless. Turn on your imagination.

Moaning and talking
Too loud moaning as well as too quiet is irritating for women. The silence is also not an option. You have to play careful here. Try to find the “golden middle” and to express your feelings to your girlfriend but not to all the neighbors. Try not to use all the same words during the sex as well, try to find phrases how to say how sexy she looks, how great she is in bed you don’t have to repeat all the same three words, which we all are so afraid of.

Unwillingness to experiment
If you are in a long-term relationship, don’t be afraid to experiment. Sex life does get boring, and there is a lot you can do about it. Try different positions, role-playing give a freedom to your fantasies. Do whatever you want to if your partner agrees with it, and if it would spice up your love life.

Discuss you fantasies with your partner at the glass of a good wine, and you would be surprised how fast they can turn into reality.

These are the main guidelines how to improve your sex life. What I wanted to say here is that women do not seek Casanova in every man. They just want you to make an effort to your relationship.

Remember that opposite of “boring” is exiting and unexpected, so if you try from time to time to surprise your partner, you will not be in trouble. The most important thing is that you would have a partner who would be willing to change for you too.

By: ozyri

Are Sexual Fantasies Good For Us?

2007-02-06T16:21:00.000-08:00

"Sexual fantasizing is a natural, universal psychological phenomenon similar to dreaming," says Wendy Maltz M.S.W. coauthor with Suzie Boss of the newly released book, Private Thoughts: Exploring the Power of Women's Sexual Fantasies (New World Library, 2001). "And, like with dreams, some sexual fantasies are fun and satisfying, while others may trouble us a lot." Maltz, a sexualhealth expert, encourages women and men to learn more about sexual fantasies.

"The more you know about sexual fantasies, the more options you have about what types of sexual fantasies you entertain," says Maltz. "Fantasies that improve self-esteem and intimacy with a partner are usually the most desirable."

The groundbreaking research behind Private Thoughts shows that women experience an amazing range of fantasies, involving everything from sensuous horseback rides to tantalizing chocolate eclairs to erotic encounters with sexy aliens who arrive via spaceship. And women use sexual fantasy in some very clever ways to make themselves feel sexier, reach orgasm, safely satisfy their curiosity, and even relax. "Fantasy is like lavendar bath salts," confided a woman in midlife, "a little something special I do just for myself to help me unwind."

One of the most poignant examples of the healing power of sexual fantasy is shared by a woman identified as Georgine in Private Thoughts. Recovering from a car accident that left her paralyzed from the waist down, Georgine used fantasy to get back in touch with her sexual thoughts and feelings.

She gave her imagination free reign while lying in tanning beds. Under the lights, I'd feel warm all over. I'd kind of drift into these explicit fantasies. At first, they involved sensations that helped me relax. I remembered how it used to feel to lie in the warm sun and feel cool blades of grass against my bare skin. Gradually, I began to respond sexually. I would lubricate.

Then, I started creating the same feelings by imagining myself with a partner." When she would have a particularly vivid fantasy, Georgine said, "I literally felt the heat from my imaginary lover's body." Since she has embraced her fantasy life, she has been reminded of how much she enjoys sensual, sexual energy, and how much pleasure awaits within her own erotic imagination.

People who are confused about whether their sexual fantasies are good or bad for them will find answers in Private Thoughts. Maltz provides a list of nine questions a person can ask themselves to help evaluate whether, and to what extent, a particular fantasy may be causing problems:

Does the fantasy lead to risky or dangerous behavior?

Does the fantasy feel out of control or compulsive?

Is the content of the fantasy disturbing or repulsive?

Does the fantasy hinder recovery or personal growth?

Does the fantasy lower my self-esteem or block self-acceptance?

Does the fantasy distance me from my real-life partner?

Does the fantasy harm my intimate partner or anyone else?

Does the fantasy cause sexual problems?

Does the fantasy really belong to someone else?

Drawing on Maltz's extensive background in sexual healing, the book devotes a chapter to healing unwanted or troubling fantasies that may be the result of sexual abuse or unresolved psychological issues. Maltz also shares guidelines for exploring fantasies with an intimate partner in a way that will enhance, rather than harm, a relationship. The book concludes with a delightful chapter on creating favorite fantasies, and the reminder, As we know ourselves better, we become more free to celebrate our natural erotic rhythms with whatever thoughts quicken our pulses and please our hearts.

www.sexualhealth.com

Sexual Fantasies

2007-01-29T16:28:00.001-08:00

http://iafrica.com
From the time we are very young fantasy is a very important part of everyones life. It is an opportunity to try things out in the privacy of our imagination, a form of rehearsal far away from prying ears and eyes. Nothing illustrates this better than sexual fantasy, which is considered to be a healthy, normal way of becoming sexually aroused and exploring our own sexuality. It is both fun and functional but for some very frightening.

The stigma attached to what some feel are dirty thoughts, ideas and feelings that they should not have if they are normal, causes fear and anxiety. Many feel ashamed at these thoughts. The guilt that they generate can often cause problems in a relationship especially where the fantasy is seen as a betrayal of a lover or partners trust.

Experts agree that this is not the way to handle our fantasies. We should enjoy them and explore with them and above all realize that the brain is the most important sexual organ in our body. It dictates the way we feel and is at the core of our emotions. It is actually the brain which turns us on or off and directs all our sexual urges.

The truth about many sexual fantasies is that given the chance to act on them, most people would run a mile. Sexual fantasies can take many forms and gives us a free rein to try out situations that we would never consider in real life. In fact fantasy is a form of pleasurable day dreaming that we can control; it is completely safe; does not hurt anyone and fantasising about something does not mean that we will actually do it. It certainly should not cause us to feel guilty or perverted. We need to accept fantasy and enjoy it as a part of our sexual being.

The sexual fantasies of men and women do differ, although both may use fantasy while masturbating or making love. Common sexual fantasies in men involve making love to a virgin, being part of a threesome, watching people have sex and being overpowered sexually by one or more women. Women often fantasise about making love to a complete stranger, taking part in-group sex, making love to another woman and being a sex slave to a celebrity. Of course there are many more and where there is some kind of personality disorder or dysfunction in a man or a woman, fantasies may become violent and bizarre and be a symptom of other underlying problems.

Fantasy is quite normal. It is your private domain. Enjoy your imagination and do not feel guilty.

http://iafrica.com

Why Do We Love Sex Toys?

2007-01-29T16:26:00.000-08:00

by Ana

Even the coolest intimate relations will be richer if you add some novelties and surprises in it. Nowadays there are a lot of sex shops almost in every city around the world, where you can find erotic accessories starting with sexy lingerie of different styles ending with dildos and vaginas.

They always can be ordered by post, moreover they aren't considered anymore to be a sexual pervert prerogative. Thousands of people buy and use them for the purpose of self-satisfaction or for the satisfaction during the coitus.

It's important that sex shops and catalogues do not offer their products anymore as the help for onanists. At the very beginning of sex toys appearance, in the middle of seventies, every direction for vibrator use contained the following information: It can help you to relax and to relieve the muscular stress. But in the pictures there was a woman that massaged shoulders, malleolus and even cheeks. Oh, God! Save us from the thought of its penetration into her vagina!!!

Masturbation is no longer a generally recognized vice. Self-stimulation is not only innocuous, but even useful. No one has problems with the head from onanism yet. Masturbation helps both women and men to get rid of stress and loneliness. Also it lets you learn much more about your own body and sexuality.

If you really know what you love during masturbation you can easily explain your partner what type of stimulation of genitals he should choose to satisfy you. The results of it: you derive pleasure from it, and he gains an experience and self-confidence as a subtle lover!

As you know sex can solve any problem between man and woman. So, diversify your sexual life using sex toys!!!

Best ideas for your perfect date

2007-01-29T16:25:00.000-08:00

Probably the most superb for your unforgetable date sounds the idea about riding horses in the beach, across the water vawes in the view of sunset on the ocean...if you cant organize all those things keep the idea only about riding horses. Also could be suitable places near the forest or in some empty fields full of flowers.

Your partner will always be impressed by the oldest idea about organizing romantic dinner near the candle lights. It sounds very classical but believe me it is only up to you to make it special find out what he or she doesnt like about food and learn couple of recipes that you can make on your own. This realy wont cause you any problems because there are lots of information about cooking and serving table. If you are a guy make sure that she will come earlier and notice you cooking. It would be even more impressive than already served table.

Everyone likes going to the zoo and it would realy ensure you very romantic trip that you can always choose instead of simple going for a walk. All those animals and nature get people close together and eliminate stress. Such an interesting way of spending time together wont cost you a lot but such an evening will be memorable and pithy.

You would never delude yourself with inviting your date to a museum, ancient places of your town, castles, galeries or some cultural festivals. It even could help to know a lot about your partner, because such places oblige people to talk about peculiar things and shows his/her attitude to the world.

Finally, no matter where you go always use your imagination fly a kite, play hide and seek or paint fight, dance in the rain, draw one another or something.

by: Rugile Kiguolyte

Flirting Tips

2007-01-29T16:23:00.000-08:00

Do you know HOW to flirt?

Do you know if you ARE flirting?

The following actions are considered to be REAL flirting indicators - check them out and see if you're sending (and receiving) the right message:

How to tell she likes you:

She gazes in your eyes with deep interest and her pupils are dilated.

Her skin tone becomes red while being around you.

She raises or lowers the volume of her voice to match yours.

She rubs her chin or touches her cheek. This indicates that she's thinking about you and her relating in some way...

Plays with her jewelry, especially with stroking and pulling motions.

She winks at you while talking to you or winks at you from a distance.

She exposes the palms of her hand facing you.

Biting of the lips or showing of the tongue, licking her lips or touching of her front teeth...

She starts sitting straight up and her muscles appear to be firm.

She puts her fingernail between her teeth.

She laughs in unison with you.

She touches your arm, shoulder, thigh, or hand while talking to you.

She twirls her hair around her fingers while she is looking at you.

Her crossed leg is pointed towards you or if that same leg is rocking back and forth towards you.

While talking to you, she rest an elbow in the palm of one hand, while holding out her other hand, palm up.

In a crowd she speaks only to you and focuses all of her undivided attention on you.

While talking to you, she blinks more than usual, fluttering her eyelashes.

Big smiles with upper and lower teeth showing with a relaxed face.

She speeds up or slows down her speaking to match yours.

Eyebrows raised and then lowered, then a smile usually indicates interest in you.

She rubs her wrists up and down

www.links2love.com

Things Women Hate About Men

2007-01-26T20:54:00.001-08:00

Ego! We fail to understand why men can stop and ask for direction till it's 40 kms into the wrong direction?! Like, isn't it more sensible to just ask for directions, you save on time, petrol and energy?

Would it kill to remember? They remember the names of cricketers from Holland and the scores each player has made, but cannot for the life them remember birthdays, anniversaries and buying gifts. What kind selective memory is that?

Ogling: They love to ogle at women (read breasts), even when they are with their date. Like, how rude!

Double talk: They nod their heads during a talk about gender equality, and then insist on paying the bills during a date, because it is not manly enough to let the woman pay. Yeah, right! At least, not when someone could be watching.

Lazy men: Talking about gender equality and men supporting it, how about giving us a hand with household chores?

Possessive... ugh! They are extremely possessive. Whatever makes them so insecure as opposed to the manly image they like portray?

Hypocrisy: They love to hang out with cool babes, but when it comes to marriage they want a simple homely girl. Guys, looks like you have around two centuries of catching up to do. And... please hurry with it!

The basics of life: Life without booze, sex and cigarettes is just unthinkable. And, no, I haven't figured the order of importance.

The phallic symbol: They have a birth right over the Remote control. Seems it is more like a phallic symbol that they need to carry around at home, I guess.

Superman! Think of themselves to be exalted beings - a mechanic, technician, plumber and financial advisor all rolled into one. We might have liked that about you, if you didn't make such a big deal out of it!

women.indiatimes.com

Things Not to Say When You Are making love

2007-01-26T20:52:00.001-08:00

.... Making Love (if you are a woman)
10) "There's a spider on the ceiling"
09) "The ceiling needs painting"
08) "Oh... Phil/ David/ Dylan" (when your partner's name is John/ Chris/ Michael)
07) "What are we doing after this?"
06) "My parents should be coming in any moment"
05) "Oops, I think we forgot to lock the front door"
04) "Wake me up when you're done"
03) "That's all?"
02) "Have you ever considered Viagra ?"
01) "Are you in?"

.... Making Love (if you are a man)
10) "Can we turn off the lights?"
09) "Have you ever heard of breasts implants?"
08) "Your underwear looks like my mum's"
07) "Am I your first?"
06) "Did you wash yourself before this?"
05) "I have to get back to work after this"
04) "These expired condoms sure save me some serious cash"
03) "Is it me or is it you?"
02) "One more time"
01) "Can I tie you up?"

www.truekisses.com

Do Bad Guys Get the Girl ?

2007-01-26T20:50:00.000-08:00

by Ian McNeice
www.topdatingtips.com
If we are to believe the movies, the ruthless tough guy, Mr. Bad Boy, always gets the girl !! If we remember the bad guys at school and college with the best looking babes it appears that the movies could be right. The best looking girls always seem to love the bad guys. Maybe because the best looking guys always became the bad guys ? Everywhere we tend to see bad guys and nice girls, we see fools and meatheads with the girls of our fantasies. In the mall we see our flaxen haired goddesses with America's Most Wanted. Is it nature at work, is it us, what is going wrong? You see men are confused. Men like to refer to stereo types and work from them. We are told that we need to be a hero and a tough guy, but then we are told we need to be in touch with our sensitive sides and be a modern man holding the baby.

Meanwhile the man down the street who treats his girlfriends mean, never calls, is rude and unhelpful and shows little respect appears to have a fan club developing. Life my friends is often unfair. Okay let us look at what is going on with this scenario.

Interest. Yes, interest. Bad guys are interesting, they do interesting things. They have strayed from the straight-and-narrow and are a law unto themselves. They do what they want. They go where they will and they answer to no one. They are interesting. Tow the line, do as you are told and you are dull. Mavericks are interesting, straight guys are not. Generally.

Bad Guys are a challenge, we all love a challenge. Women love a challenge just like guys. If something is a challenge the end results must surely be worthwhile? Of course and bad guys are a challenge. The girls who go after a bad guy want to keep them to themselves and will do a great deal to keep hold. The more you want them, the greater there is a chance they may walk away. Women love to feel good about themselves and getting their bad guy, at least for a while, satisfies that urge. This appeals to some people and the greater the danger of loosing a bad guy, the greater the effort to keep them. There may be a lesson there.

Bad guys are confident and self assured. They know what they are about and don' really care what others think. They are their own men and don't need others to prop them up. Some can become almost caricatures of themselves but that doesn't make them any less attractive. Bad guys don't have to be in shape, just look at James Galdofini from The Sopranos. Somewhat out of shape if Mr. Soprano doesn't mind me saying, but immensely attractive all the same.

What have we got if we combine these facets. Power, strength of character, confidence, a maverick nature and an immensely interesting personality. That equals sexy. Is it any wonder therefore that such types of guys often get the gals. It doesn't mean to say that we like them and it doesn't mean to say that this is fair or a good thing. But it can be natures way.

I am not in any way suggesting that we should all be Mr. Bad Guy. No not at all. What I am saying is that there are lessons to be learned here. What is attractive can be modified and added to our social arsenal of dating weaponry. It is first the way you perceive yourself that matters. If you can increase your confidence levels, get your career on the right tracks, excel in what you do and be your own man within the confines of your working life then this will boost your attractiveness. You don't need to go round being bad, but you can be a bit more deliberate in your actions, a little less available and a little more enigmatic. This will boost your interest factor and again help in your attractiveness.

The modern dating game is highly complex and courting rituals can be a minefield. Go back to basics and analyze within yourself what is it that you think partners like and how can you match of yourself to those qualities. Changing just a few small things could make the world of difference.

How to Kiss Her

2007-01-26T20:49:00.001-08:00

But I digress. Now, back to the kissing stuff When you are alone with her on her porch/door, place your arm around her in a gentle, non-threatening way. If she does not cringe away from you or push your arm off her, you can proceed to the next step. Next lean your head against hers, appearing to rest it.
She should do the same. Then take your hand from hers, make a shape like you were going to pull the trigger on a gun. DON'T whatever you do, firm your hand, relax.

Let it flow. Place the tip of your index finger ( the tip = the joint farthest from you hand ) under her chin and lift her head to your mouth. Do all this in slow motion. She will remember it better if you do it slow. Don't rush it. Kiss as though you have all the time in the world. But don't prolong a kiss beyond its natural life.

If she pushes you away, she is just not ready. Do not push your luck and never ever push your way hoping to get "lucky". You can always end things is by giving her a nice big hug.

We (us Americans) seem to have become a nation of huggers (why not a nation of kisses like in France? They kiss for everything there. They kiss to say good morning, they kiss to say hello, life is so unfair.)

Article generously provided by adolescent-adulthood.com.com

10 Sexy Moves

2007-01-26T20:48:00.001-08:00

http://women.indiatimes.com

How about filling not only your senses but your very soul with the scent of love?

With these ten 'sexiting' tips, you will have an experience you and your man will never forget.

1. Cuddle up on a snow-soft couch or a warm rug, and watch a film brimming with love and romance.

2. Forget the SMS. End your dependence on e-mail. Rediscover the lost art of writing a good old-fashioned love letter. Pour out your feelings on handmade paper with a thick calligraphic pen, tie a red ribbon in the corner, spray your favourite perfume on it, and tuck it in a place where he will find it first thing in the morning. And mind you, love letters are not just for young sweethearts even if (or rather, especially if!) you have been married 30 years, those syrupy words will melt him faster than butter.

3. Steal a few moments to pamper yourself. Take a warm bath, treat yourself to a head massage, relax with a book. When you feel refreshed and happy, you will naturally want to do more for the man in your life.

4. It is easy to feel a calm joy if you allow yourself to sit, simply sit, in companionable silence for a while. Under the stars, by the seashore, in a chapel and find a quiet spot, and, holding hands, take in the beautiful silence. Sharing your silences can sometimes be the most romantic thing on earth.
5. Pick out a favourite photograph of you and him together, then have it laminated into a bookmark.

6. Have matching lingerie. A present that's handed over in a brown paper bag isn't nearly as touching as one that's thoughtfully wrapped. Trust us on this. It doesn't have to be fancy; it just has to match.

7. Undress him. The longer you can prolong this, the more wonderful, agonising tension you'll build. If you can manage it without breaking the flow, proceeding to undress while he watches will make him putty in your hands.

8. Tell him how good it feels. Men thrive on praise, never more so than between the sheets. Not only will it make him feel like a million bucks, but it'll keep you both focused on what's working.

9. Let your hands wander. Subtle but devastating. Years from now, he'll remember the way your nails trailed along the small of his back.

10. Write him a sexy love letter telling him what you like best about your sexy relationship. Also, tell him what you love about his sexy moves.

http://women.indiatimes.com/

Sound Sexier in the Sack

2007-01-26T20:47:00.002-08:00

By Laura Snyder

Whether your lover is miles away or just in the next room, you can still share a steamy night together by putting that saucy tongue of yours to a new use -- by mastering the fine art of aural sex.
Tune Into Tone

Dirty talk doesn't delight if you sound like Fran Drescher. Lower the pitch of your voice a little and speak softly. The idea is to imitate how increased testosterone levels and lower oxygen levels make your voice sound when you're aroused.

Set the Mood
Even phone-sex operators don't just launch into x-rated dialogue, so casually transition your usual chit-chat into pillow talk. A good way to start is to express your desire for him or her, or by evoking the memories of an especially passionate romp you've shared before.

Learn the Lingo
Can't think of a good euphemism without sounding like a bad romance novelist? Use indirect words for particular body parts. As you get more comfortable with carnal conversation, think of more direct nouns. They don't have to be the medically accurate, but oh-so unappealing anatomical names. Take your cue from popular slang, literature or porn.

Paint a Mental Image
Use your knowledge of your partner's particular turn-ons. Even if your sweetie is looking right at you, tell him or her what you're wearing (or not wearing), what partner looks like (focusing on your favorite body parts) and what you'd like to be doing to each other to paint a vivid fantasy.

Listen Up
Get your partner to confess his or her most carnal desires, too, by asking questions. Example: "Would you like to touch my...?" You'll not only learn about what's arousing your partner most, but you can also subtly direct the conversation to suit your desires, be they kinky or romantic. Be a good listener, but don't go mute. Keep the conversation humming with plenty of affirming "mmm-hmms" and satisfied sighs.

Keep it Simple
You're trying to speak to the heart and groin, not win a poetry prize. As things heat up - and the blood starts vacating your head for a more southern neighborhood - keep your prose simple and explicit

Can Men and Women Be Friends?

2007-01-26T20:47:00.001-08:00

by Paul Volk
www.deida.com

Whether or not men and women can be friends is not as simple as the simple question makes it sound. Because there are different kinds of men and women.

Best-selling author and speaker David Deida describes a spectrum of sexual energy from the masculine on one side to the feminine on the other. Deida says that all men and women have access to the full spectrum of energy; that is, all of us could choose to animate more masculine energy, more feminine energy, or more balanced energy at any given time.

But we each also have a specific place on the spectrum--either more on the masculine side, more on the feminine side, or close to balanced--that is our unique sort of "resting place." It's the natural sexual energy that we are going to be expressing--and identifying with--most of the time. Deida calls this point on the spectrum our "sexual essence." Most men (around 80%) have a more masculine sexual essence, and most women (around 80%) have a more feminine sexual essence.

All of this is important in answering your question because the masculine in each of us has certain desires and values and the feminine has very different desires and values. A man with a masculine essence might have a friendly relationship with a woman who has a masculine sexual essence, but he would have a hard time having a stricly friendly relationship with a woman who has an extremely feminine essence.

Because these masculine and feminine energies drive the sexual attraction between us, and also because these differences between the extreme masculine and the extreme feminine are so profound--they want different things, communicate in completely different ways, see things completely differently, etc--it makes the kind of communication and sharing involved in a friendship type of relationship very difficult.

On the other hand, for men and women with balanced sexual essences, a friendship relationship is the most natural relationship for them. Because they are fairly balanced in their sexual energy (equally masculine and feminine) there is not the kind of mismatch and misunderstanding that constantly takes place between the extreme masculine and the extreme feminine. Men and women with balanced essences tend to have excellent communication with each other, but they also do not have the kind of sexual fireworks that characterizes men and women with more extreme sexual essences. People with truly balanced sexual essences just don't really care that much about sex.

It's important to realize that it's not better to have either a more extreme sexual essence or a more balanced sexual essence. Just like it's not better to have brown eyes or blue eyes. It's just different, but the differences do make a big difference in our lives and it's something that we should all be conscious of and take into account so that we won't be thrown into confusion by over-simplifications like: men and women should be able to be friends or men and women can never be friends.

Hidden secrets of tantric sex

2007-01-26T20:46:00.001-08:00

www.fwbo.org

References
1.Thinley Norbu, The Small Golden Key, p.24
2. Stephan Beyer, The Buddhist Experience, p. 258
3. Herbert V. Guenther, The Life' and Teaching of Naropa, pp. 161-162
4. Ven. Sangharakshita, 'Masculinity' and 'Femininity' in the Spiritual Life, p.24

Is the Tantra a sex-obsessed corruption of Buddhism?

Padmavajra thinks not.

The last great phase in the historical development of Indian Buddhism was known as the Vajrayana (literally, 'The Thunderbolt Way) Its major contribution to Buddhism was a number of new and radical practices leading to Enlightenment.

The Vajrayana's aim was to bring the practitioner to Enlightenment as quickly as possible, and one of its central concerns was the liberalization and canalization of more and more of the practitioner's energy. Part of its way of effecting this was through sexual 4metaphor, sexual symbolism, and even through what have been called 'sexo-yogic' practices.

Because of its apparent use of sex as an aspect of spiritual practice, the Vajrayana has provoked two extreme responses in the West. In the early days of Buddhist studies, the Vajrayana was generally condemned as a corruption of the sublime ideals of Buddhism. More recent interest has tended to the other extreme. Some are attracted to the Vajrayana precisely because of its apparent sanctification of desire in general, and sexual desire in particular. In a recent exposition of the Vajrayana by a Tibetan teacher, we find the following, '...if desire for a woman arises, it must be relied upon...'. Such a presentation of the Vajrayana would seem to suggest that being a Buddhist does not involve changing ourselves. We can, apparently, keep hold of our desires as they will lead us to Enlightenment.

The truth behind the use of sexual themes in the Vajrayana is, as might be expected, far from either of the extremes mentioned. Though we are dealing with a vast and complex subject, it is possible to discern three distinct (though related) aspects of the place of sex in the Vajrayana. Firstly, there is the shock value of sexual language. For example, in the canonical texts of the Vajrayana - the Tantras - which flourished in India roughly between the 4th and 10th centuries CE, we can find sexual intercourse with the chaodali (outcaste girl) and prostitutes being recommended. At that time, contact - what to speak of sexual congress - with an outcaste, according to Hindu society (back to which Buddhism had to some extent been drawn), would have been deemed spiritually polluting. But, in making such recommendations, the Vajrayana was simply trying to shock people out of their mundane social conditioning. It was seeking to liberate the energy locked up in the convention and taboo of Hindu society.

Whether or not these recommendations were enacted is an open question. Stephan Beyer enthusiastically describes the followers of the Vajrayana thus: 'They sang of wisdom as the great Whore, for she opens herself to every man who seeks her, ...made love to the spontaneous maiden within them, and preached a world upside down, ... and were altogether quite outrageous and shocking to all good and sober citizens. It would be interesting to ponder how the Vajrayana would speak to our own age, where sexual license has become a kind of norm. If they wanted to shock people out of their conditioning today, the old followers of the Vajrayana might have to appear as rock bands singing about the ecstasies of celibacy!

In that passage quoted from Stephan Beyer, we read that the followers of the Vajrayana 'made love to the spontaneous maiden within them'. This brings us to the second aspect of sex in the Vajrayana, the so-called 'sexo-yogic' practices.

We have seen that the Tantras recommended sexual intercourse with the chaodali. Now, as well as aiming to decondition, this sort of recommendation would sometimes also have been referring to certain forms of yogic practice. Here, the word c~anda1i is not referring to a woman at all. In this context, chaodali can be translated as 'the fiery one' and, simply stated, refers to the vital energy that must be contacted and incorporated into our practice. It parallels the better known kundalini.

The practices associated with the arousal of the chaodali occur in the anuttara-yoga Tantra, the highest level of Vajrayana practice, and - traditionally - should be undertaken only after years of successful training in Hinayana, Mahayana, and lower Vajrayana disciplines. Indeed, in India and old Tibet, these practices would not have been known about, even in theory, by those not initiated into them. (This might be one of the reasons why these practices were 'hidden away in sexual language - to keep them out of the reach of those not ready to undertake them.) Sangharakshita has recalled that in his own contact with Tibetan monks, lamas, and lay people, there was no special interest shown in these teachings, and definitely no unhealthy emphasis.

There also seems to be some doubt as to whether the 'sexo-yogic' practices were intended to describe anything physical at all. Herbert Guenther, a writer normally very sure of himself, says in commenting on one of these practices: 'We move in a world which probably is neither physical nor mental, but may partake of both (or be something completely different). In some of the practices found in the Tantras and their related works we encounter elaborate visualization techniques where the practitioner is instructed to see himself as a Buddha in sexual union with a female consort, usually described as a dakini. Here the aspect of sexo-yogic practice merges with the third aspect, that of sexual symbolism.

Within the Mahayana, Enlightenment was principally seen as the insoluble union of wisdom and compassion. Mahayana artists were fond of depicting this union in paintings and images, in the form of the androgynous figure of the Bodhisattva - a beautiful sixteen-year-old: gentle, yet strong in appearance.

The Vajrayana sought to depict this union even more vividly, and so depicted the Buddha or Bodhisattva in sexual union with the dakini. We often come across such figures in Vajrayana art. The Buddha or Bodhisattva looks serene, contemplative, blissful; while the dakini - appearing like a goddess - embraces him tightly, and looks rapturously into his face. Here the male figure symbolizes Compassion, the female figure Wisdom. Sangharakshita has commented on such depictions thus: 'One must observe that though there are two figures there are not two persons: there is only one Enlightened person, one Enlightened mind, within which are united reason and emotion, wisdom and compassion.

These representations embody under the form of sexual symbolism (here of course one has nothing to do with sexuality in the ordinary sense) the ideal of Wisdom and Compassion united. 4 Traditionally, these images are considered highly sacred, inspiring profound reverence and devotion, not in any way stimulating a sexual response. However, they have suffered abuse.

Some people go so far as to recommend that. during sexual intercourse, the man should visualize himself as the Buddha: the woman should visualize herself as the dakini. Both should experience their lovemaking as an enactment of the uniting of Wisdom with Compassion. Such recommendations provide the deluded with a first class means of rationalizing away their mundane desires.

For most of us, such a practice would be a purely mental activity making no significant difference to the basic urges involved. It would be no more than a fancy way of having sex. For those experienced enough to see and feel themselves to be a Buddha at such times, it is highly unlikely that they would want to involve themselves with sex at all! Being so content, complete, and rich within themselves, they would hardly need to reach beyond themselves for their pleasures.

To conclude, within the Vajrayana, sex - as most of us understand and experience it - is not part of the path to Enlightenment at all. Sexual language within the Vajrayana is strictly metaphorical, strictly symbolic: not to be taken literally. Indeed, if taken literally, some Vajrayana writings will not lead us to Enlightenment, but will sink us more deeply in the mire of greed, hatred, and delusion.

References

1.Thinley Norbu, The Small Golden Key, p.24

2. Stephan Beyer, The Buddhist Experience, p. 258

3. Herbert V. Guenther, The Life' and Teaching of Naropa, pp. 161-162

G Spot

2007-01-26T20:45:00.002-08:00

www.sexforwomen.net

In an age where sexuality is researched and discussed everywhere in great detail, female ejaculation remains something of a mystery. Despite popping up occasionally in medical literature dating right back to Aristotle, it was only officially described and recognised by Western medicine in 1980. Even today, some doubt its existence.

Rest assured, female ejaculation is real, although it seems that not every woman is capable of achieving it, and the actual "ejaculate" varies from person to person. Some women only produce a few drops, others, more than a few tablespoons. When an ejaculating woman's G spot is stimulated (scroll down to learn more about the G Spot) to the point of orgasm, a milky, odourless, thin liquid shoots out of her urethra, sometimes in copious quantity and over relatively large distances - thus the name.

This liquid has been found to be very similar to male prostate liquid, and is secreted by the Skene's glands, which flank both sides of the urethra. The liquid is NOT urine. We know this because when a woman has an orgasm, the pubococcygeus muscle contracts, stopping any flow of urine that may want to occur. So it's normally not possible to urinate during orgasm.

Women who can ejaculate describe the feelings immediately beforehand as being similar to the desire to urinate. Apparently the secret to successful ejaculation is ignoring the urge to "close off in case of accidents" and, instead going with the flow. When ejaculation accompanies an orgasm, the sensation is said to be far more intense than a regular climax.

Doctors have not been able to give any explanation for female ejaculation, other than it being purely for pleasure. Research is still going on into what exactly happens during ejaculation.

The G Spot
The G Spot was named by John Perry and Beverley Whipple in their 1982 book The G Spot and Other Recent Discoveries About Human Sexuality. They named the area after Dr Ernst Grafenberg, a German doctor who first described it in 1950 (although, as with most aspects of female sexuality, it had been "discovered" earlier and then ignored).

The G Spot is an area on the anterior (front) wall of the vagina about two inches from the entrance. This area, directly behind the clitoris and along the urethra, becomes enlarged when stimulated. It can be felt as a raised area on the vaginal wall.

Most sex manuals recommend manual stimulation of the G Spot via the insertion of a finger up to the second knuckle, and the movement of the finger back and forward in a "come hither" motion. As mentioned above, many women develop the urge to urinate when the G spot is stimulated. It's a good idea to empty the bladder before trying this. Short fingernails and good lubrication are also recommended.

Are Sexual Fantasies Good For Us?

2007-01-26T20:45:00.001-08:00

Tantric Sex - A Different Perspective

2007-01-26T20:39:00.000-08:00

Many of us were taught before we became disabled or in adolescence that sex entails excitement that grows more and more intense until it results in a climax. The goal is usually seen as orgasm and the release of pent-up sexual tension.

We learned about sex in a culture that treats it as sinful and unspeakable, yet uses a medical model to describe it. According to the medical model of sex and orgasm, a buildup of muscular tension leads to a peak, followed by a release--ejaculation for men and contractions of the muscles surrounding the vagina for women. Since what science can measure is primarily physical in nature, orgasm is seen basically seen as an autonomic reflex, a mere spasm of genital contractions.

The medical model doesnt work for all of us. When our disabilities are accompanied by loss of genital sensation, limited movement or inability to ejaculate or have genital contractions, we may feel like giving up. The sexual pleasure we learned about or once knew has become inaccessible.

Tantric sex--based on the esoteric teachings of several eastern religions--provides an alternative way to experience sexual pleasure and bring new meaning to a loving relationship. Tantric orgasm is counterintuitive to the medical model. In Tantra, excitement is just the beginning rather than the means to the end. Instead of rushing toward a climax, a Tantric practitioner slows down, remaining in the moment, and travels toward deep relaxation. In the medical model, sexual energy builds, then is lost. In Tantra, energy is not lost but gained. Instead of using a partner for ones own gratification, Tantric partners provide vital energy to each other.

Sex Transformed
Ray Stubbs, sexuality educator, author, massage therapist and a fairly recent quadriplegic, has spontaneous orgasms while meditating despite his injury and describes ecstatic experiences I can only hope to someday achieve. He has written several books, the latest being The Essential Tantra: A Modern Guide to Sacred Sexuality.

Stubbs' extraordinary experiences do not occur in a vacuum. They follow many years of conscious seeking and study with Tantric teachers and Native American shamans. He has also practiced and taught contemporary meditation in the form of massage that embraces sexual energy.

Gary Karp, a paraplegic and the author of Life On Wheels, also has an interest in Tantric sex. He says that after his injury, a book on Tantra prompted him to consider that "normal" orgasm might not all it's cracked up to be. He particularly liked the Tantric teaching that two "energetically appropriate" lovers have complimentary polarities. "Making love," says Karp, "is an act of fulfillment and bonding for each person on a deep, evolutionary and innate spiritual level."

Stubbs' connection is with the divine; Karp's is with the other. Both approaches are spiritual. In fact, Tantra is not about sex at all. It is about transcendence. Although the outcome of Tantric sex may be prolonged sexual pleasure, that is not the goal. Sex is a vehicle. Sex is transformed into love, love into meditation, to light, to knowledge of the divine, to ecstasy, to bliss. According to Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh's Tantra, Spirituality and Sex --my first exposure to Tantra many years ago--once you know that bliss, you are grounded in reality. The reality is that in deep sexual orgasm, it is not sex that gives you bliss. Once again, sex is only the vehicle. Something else is generating the euphoria, the ecstasy. That something else, according to Rajneesh, can be divided into three elements--timelessness, egolessness and being natural. These are the components that produce ecstasy and bliss.

I know all of this might sound strange or simply corny, but bear with me. Even Tantric teachers say that practice and experience must precede belief. Transcendence comes through experience, not through ideology. My challenge to you is to begin to think of sexual pleasure and orgasm in a different way.

In the Moment
For a Tantric orgasm to occur, there is no need for a build up of sexual tension, for friction, for ejaculation or for muscular contractions. In fact, there is no need for sex at all once you have discovered that orgasm can be a deeply relaxing meditation, a state combining Rajneeshs three components of timelessness, egolessness and being natural. When you are timeless you are in the moment, not comparing to past experience or focusing on future expectations. When you are egoless, you become one with your partner or the universe, not an individual limited by physical disability or negative thoughts. When you are in your natural state, in the words of Rajneesh, "The unreal is lost; the facade, the face, is lost; the society, the culture, the civilization is lost. You are part of nature--as trees are, animals are, stars are. You are in a greater something--the cosmos."

Still seem far-fetched? Well consider this. Drs. Beverly Whipple, Gina Ogden and Barry Komisaruk have shown in laboratory studies at Rutgers University that woman can have orgasms through fantasy alone, without any physical stimulation. Some of the women's orgasms were not associated with genital contractions. Still skeptical? Think this only applies to nondisabled women? My recent research with men and women with spinal cord injuries documents experiences that were identified as orgasm by the participants but could hardly be described as medical-model orgasms. While some participants still experienced traditional orgasms, others--of both sexes--said their orgasms happened "by surprise." There was not the usual buildup of muscular tension, yet ecstatic feelings occurred in their heads or entire bodies, even for those with no sensation below their level of injury. Is your mind beginning to open to new possibilities?

Getting Started
Stubbs writes in his book The Essential Tantra that Tantra is basically a teaching of acceptance and nonattachment. When we grasp for something, we are attached. There's no freedom. When we avoid something, we are attached. There's no freedom. It is through the acceptance of all as it is that we become free. Acceptance is neither submission nor giving up. Here, acceptance means nonattachment. What does that mean for us? It means accepting ourselves as we are and letting go of preconceived notions of sex and orgasm. It means becoming aware of the feelings and sensations that we do have, subtle as they may seem at first. In total acceptance, in nonattachment, there is transformation.

Stubbs warns us not to get caught up in the mainstream medias sensationalization of Tantra that has packaged it as a royal road to sexual pleasure. The essence of Tantra is not having sex in a particular position or prolonging intercourse. The real thing, says Rajneesh, is the ability to relax, to let go, to transform the physical into a meditative experience. It is attentiveness to sensations, mindfulness, being in the present. Stubbs notes that when we can transform energy at will, we are liberated.

For me, a casual student, Tantra is a way of tapping into my subtle energy body that I had been aware of but unable to express. It has provided another way for my wife, Cheryl, and I to stay sexually and spiritually connected in those times between what many would refer to as ordinary sex.

Mastering Tantra takes many years of study and practice. All of us, however, can begin to reap benefits of this sacred perspective by practicing a few simple exercises that can be incorporated into our everyday lives.
* Raise your awareness that you are a conscious being. If you are accustomed to wearing a watch on your left wrist, wear it on your right. Every time you go to check the time on your left wrist instead of the right, say "I am a conscious being."
* Focus on your breathing. Most of us are shallow breathers. Deep relaxation begins with deeper breathing. Whenever you pass through a door, check your breathing. Take a good deep breath if you can, hold it and exhale fully. At a later time you can learn to harmonize these three stages of breathing.
* To get a better sense of your energy body, focus on the palm of your right hand. Notice the sensations. Then focus on the palm of your left hand. Switch the focus back and forth. Then slowly move your hands together until they almost touch. Pay close attention to the changes and what you feel between your palms. If you don't have sensation in your hands than focus on one ear, then the other. Then move or have someone else move your palm within an inch or so of your ear. You will see that your energy body extends beyond your physical body.
* To enhance your awareness of expanding sensations, slow down when youre eating. Truly taste the food and drink. Notice the texture and temperature. Keep track of the sensations as the food travels down your esophagus. I do this with orange juice first thing in the morning.

Practice is essential as we relearn ways to experience the full energy of our bodies. According to Stubbs, sensuality, sexuality and spirituality begin with ourselves. They are all within us.

Barriers to these experiences during sex include concentrating too much on performance and not enough on sensations, judging others, making comparisons with the past to invalidate the present, and focusing on expectations instead of the richness available in the moment.

To overcome these barriers, let go of expectations. If you are the receiver, let go of attachments to outcomes. If you are the giver, let go of performance expectations. Allowing, rather than striving, is the key to acknowledging that we are not bound by the medical model of orgasm.

Resources:
Ecstasy through Tantra, by J. Mumford, Llewellyn Publications, St. Paul, 1987
The Essential Tantra: A Modern Guide to Sacred Sexuality, by Kenneth Ray Stubbs, Tarcher/Putnam, New York, 2000
Tantra Spirituality and Sex, by B.S. Rajneesh, Rajneesh Foundation, Rajneeshpuram, 1983
Tantra: The Yoga of Sex, by O.V. Garrison, Julian Press, New York, 1964
www.sexualhealth.com

All about geishas

2007-01-26T20:26:00.000-08:00

I believe there is no person in a civilized world who would not know the term – Geisha. However, what exactly is Geisha? A very wide opinion in the world is that Geisha are just simple prostitutes in Japan, and as the first thing I would like to clearly state that, they most certainly are not.

This opinion originated after World War 2, and was brought to United States by its soldiers. Service men came back with wild and juicy stories about the girls called “gee-sha”. Those women were not Geisha, they were just a regular red light district prostitutes who dressed up like Geisha to attract costumers, nothing more.

History
To be honest Geishas do originated in red light districts of Kyoto region, but not as prostitutes. The Odoroki or “dancing girls” were very popular in these areas for entertainment, though as some of the girls grew older it became inappropriate to take this name and so they called themselves Geisha. As everything in Japan, this caste became strongly ritualized. Geishas are sometimes mistaken with Tayuu, who were the highest rank of courtesans (in simpler words prostitutes) in pleasure quarters. Lords ruling at that time ensured that the courtesans would not be able to wear the same clothes as Geisha, as well as the Geisha could not engage in prostitution. Geishas were not aloud to compete with Tayuu for the costumers they were just working together with them helping with dances and music. This gave a beginning to the simplistic kimono and simple hairstyles of the Geisha: the point was understated elegance rather than extravagance of courtesans.

Geisha and Maiko
Let us come back to the question - who are Geisha? The word itself translates from Japanese as “art person” or “artist”. They are the professional entertainers who work in traditional Japanese teahouses called Ochaya. Geishas entertain teahouse costumers by performing various arts like singing, dancing, playing instruments and tea ceremonies. They are called “Geiko” in Kyoto region.

Maiko translates as “dancing child” but sometimes is referred as “dancing girl” as well. They are apprentice Geisha. They have to undergo a lengthy training in all the arts a real Geisha has to master like music, dancing, playing traditional instruments and singing. The training usually takes around 5 years and after that, they become Geisha. Nowadays a girl can become Maiko at the age of 16. Though not attending conventional school after becoming Maiko, they must nonetheless attend classes every morning in dance, Shamisen, singing and other "gei". Maiko as well as learning artistic pursuits must learn the social graces and old style Kyoto dialect before becoming a Geisha.

Geisha in nowadays society
The number of geisha has been declining for two main reasons. First, one is the training, which is long and hard. Second, the variance in levels of Geisha, as far as cost, has all but disappeared. Geisha have become an elite group and have therefore become very expensive. Fewer men are willing to pay the high cost of a Geisha when other entertainers (i.e. hostess) are available.

Keeping Your Youth

2007-01-26T20:25:00.004-08:00

So, how old you actually are? How many times have you noticed that your school friends, college friends etc. look differently? While one of them looks 25, the other still unsuccessfully tries to prove she‘s not fifty. And you know that they‘re of the same age... This is where „biological (or true) age“comes to the stage. Biological age shows how worn out your body actually is, not that tiny number in your passport.

According to Professor Michael Roysen, day-to-day lifestyle plays a significant role on the mechanism of human aging. If your friend looks like she‘s 20 when she‘s actually 40, it means that she‘s pursuing a healthy lifestyle. Don‘t get upset though, as nothing is impossible: you may start fighting your aging right now, and all you have to do is take a specialist‘s piece of advice. So, here it is:

· Regular consumption of tomatoes (tomato sauces, roasted tomatoes) subtracts 1.9 from the current age of men and 0.8 years from the age of women, making them look more youthful.

· Daily consumption of aspirin pills subtracts 2.2 years.

· Regular (daily) quality sex with the same partner subtracts 2-8 years.

· Daily 30-minute walks in fresh air subtract 1.6 years.

· Exercising for 30 minutes per week subtracts 1.6 years.

· Daily doses of chocolate are very useful and prolong your life up to 1.3 years.

· Daily consumption of 5 different fruits adds 1.4 years.

· Daily consumption of one ounce of any nuts adds up to 3 years to your life.

· Consumption of boiled or steamed fish helps you prolong your life up to 3 years.

· Consumption of balanced food supplements subtracts up to 3.3 years from your „apparent“age.

· Laughing prolongs your life significantly, from 1.7 up to 8years.

· Folic acid in the form of multivitamins or separately in food adds up to 1.2 years to your life.

· Calcium and calcium rich food – it’s another 0.5 years.

· Taking vitamins every day – adds yet another 0.4 years.

· Taking care of your mouth and teeth and visiting the dentist each 6 months – 6.4 years.

· Breakfast every morning adds 1.1 year.

· Washing your hands – 0.4 years.

· Good night sleep – 7 hours for women, 8 hours for men, adds astronomical 3 to 12 years to your estimate lifetime.

· Stressful situations are extremely harmful. Only three catastrophically in your life might shorten your life up to 32 years.

· Keep your weight leveled (perfect weight for women is the weight they had when they were 18, for men 21) – 6 years.

· Using alcohol in small amounts (of course if you don’t have an addiction to it) prolongs your life by 1.9 years.

Doctor Michael Roysen recommends to start to slow your biological clock right away by choosing at least 5 of the suggestions from above.

Don’t know where to start? Try to start with simplest things: breakfast, everyday long walks, tomatoes, good sleep and sex. Let’s talk about sex separately. Average American has sex only 58 times a year (!). It is less than 2 months a year. Doctor Michael Roysen states that if this number would increase to 116, the life would be prolonged approximately by 1.6 years. If you would have sex every day, the chances are that you would live 12 more years.

Good habits will help you to fight the process of aging effectively; the only thing you have to do is make a little effort.

Is "natural" really natural?

2007-01-26T20:25:00.003-08:00

Times are changing, but everyone still wants to be beautiful. Every woman wants to look young and striking. Men just like women are also taking care of themselves. That’s why everyone is buying cosmetics. All of us are using more or less make-up and body care products.

So, it’s the right time to have discussion about natural cosmetics. Word “cosmetics” includes skin, hair, nails and teeth care products. Nowadays cosmetics industry is using term “natural”, but is this “natural” really natural, safe and useful for us?

Let’s make one simple experiment. Take some of your cosmetics which are called “natural” and read place where ingredients are declared. Most likely you will find a lot of interesting and mysterious chemical words. How can it be so if product is natural?

This aspect shows that word “natural” not always means truly natural and is only nice advertisement for manufacturing company. In fact they also include a multitude of synthetic ingredients. We must always check our cosmetic products if they don’t contain any of carcinogens,cancer-causing agents,toxins, irritants, contaminants or potentially harmful ingredients.

In our daily life there are tens of thousands of synthetic chemicals. Here is list of some mostly used ingredient:

1,4-dioxane
2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol (Bronopol)
Alcohol, Isopropyl (SD-40)
Ammonium Laureth Sulfate (ALES)
Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS)
Anionic Surfactants
Benzalkonium Chloride
Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA)
Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT)
Cationic surfactants
Cetalkonium chloride
Cetrimonium chloride
Chloromethylisothiazolinone
Isothiazolinone
Cocoamidopropyl Betaine
Cocoyl Sarcosine
Cyclomethicone
DEA (diethanolamine), MEA (Monoethanolamine), & TEA (triethanolamine)
Diazolidinyl urea
Dimethicone
Dimethicone Copolyol
Disodium Dioctyl Sulfosuccinate
Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate
Disodium Oleamide Sulfosuccinate
DMDM Hydantoin
Ethoxylated surfactants
FD&C Colour Pigments
Formaldehyde
Fragrance
Hydrolysed Animal Protein
Imidazolidinyl urea
Imidazolidinyl Urea
Isopropyl Palmitate
Lanolin
Lauryl dimonium hydrolysed collagen
Lauryl or Cocoyl Sarcosine
Lauryl Sarcosine
Liquidum Paraffinum
MEA compounds
Methylisothiazolinone and Methylchloroisothiazolinone
Mineral Oil
Nitrosating Agents
Paraben preservatives (methyl, propyl, butyl, and ethyl)
Paraffin wax/oil
Phthalates
Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) compounds
Potassium Coco Hydrolysed Collagen
Propylene/Butylene Glycol
PVP/VA Copolymer
Quaternium-7, 15, 31, 60, etc
Rancid Natural Emollients
Silicone derived emollients
Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
Sodium Hydroxide
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) Ammonium Laureth Sulfate (ALES)
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS)
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate
Stearalkonium Chloride
Talc
TEA (Triethanolamine) Laureth Sulfate
TEA compounds
Toluene

We are living in a very polluted atmosphere and yet we are still empoisoning our bodies with cosmetics. As we all know our body absorbs what we put on our skin. If you really care about your health, make a little research on your cosmetics products in website www.hazard.com/msds. There you will find the true nature of your “natural” cosmetics product.

There are some ways of recognizing if cosmetics are really natural. First thing what you can do before buying a product is reading ingredients list on cover and checking amount of chemical ingredients. If the list is somewhat long it’s up to you to decide whether to buy it or try and find something not so synthetic.

Some companies are trying to tell you that they don’t test their products on animals, thus their products are natural. But be careful! It can be just a smart disguise. Perhaps they didn’t make any direct tests with animals, but you should be aware, that all synthetic chemicals (which are used as ingredients) were most likely tested on animals. And some more food for thought – about 50% of them have died…

One more tip how to recognize natural product is expiration date. Natural products without chemical ingredients have shorter expiration time, lasting about 6 months. Natural products usually must be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

If you want to buy really natural cosmetics, check products characteristics which show real nature of product: plant-derived ingredients; no alcohol; no artificial dyes; no thickeners; not animal tested; no petroleum products; no cheap filler ingredients; no synthetic fragrances.

Natural cosmetic are using essential and fragrance oils, oils from fruits and nuts, aloe vera and tea tree oil, extracts and juice, seed oils, seafood, amino acids, phospholipids.

Materials are natural and no chemical processing is used on them. Since cold purification process is used, materials avoid any thermal processing thus keeping all valuable characteristics.

Visit page http://www.safecosmetics.org/companies/signers.cfm ant there you will find the signers of the compact for global production of safe health & beauty products.

Choose a colour according to Feng Shui

2007-01-26T20:25:00.001-08:00

Feng Shui principles can help you to choose the right colour to create harmony in your life. Colours classification according to Feng Shui is based on what particular colour represents. Five elements - water, earth, wood, fire and metal can be illustrated by different colour groups and tones. It is very useful to know decorating your living or working place, because adding some of the colours in each space you sort of add particular element.

The element of water according to Feng Shui stand for blue and black colours with all their shades. Blue is also considered as healing colour, it associated with the bladder and kidneys when these organs lacks the energy arises anxiety and fear. Blue is the colour of beauty, but cold. You should avoid this colour in your bedroom if you want to create warm and passionate atmosphere.

The element of wood is repreented by all shades and tones of green colour. Green symbolizes living things so it adds the energy and harmony to your house. It is also very sensual and sexy colour with the meaning of satisfaction and abundance of the Earth.

The element of earth is illustrated by the colours of brown, orange and yellow. Yellow is very suitable in office or working places because it promotes acquired knowledge and seriousness.

All shades of red and pink colour represents the element of fire. Red is considered as primordial colour and very significant to human senses. It activates body with the energy, stimulates appetite and aggressiveness.

The last element - metal is represented by white, grey, silver and gold colours. Gold and silver in Feng Shui science represents the flow of two main energies Yin and Yang. White colour doesnt bring any of emotions, it is a symbol of clearness and purity.

This knowledge will help you to create beneficial space around and fulfill your needs.

by Rugile Kiguolyte

Beautiful You

2007-01-26T20:24:00.003-08:00

By Anna Soref

A touch of color to the cheeks, a little lipstick, maybe some eye shadow and mascara -- makeup seems harmless enough. But check out the labels on department store cosmetics, and you'll see a list of tongue-twisting chemicals that could be hazardous to your health. But don't despair -- makeup doesn't have to become yet another item added to your "don't" list. Many natural cosmetics now rival department store offerings in quality -- and they're toxic-free.

Makeup's Ugly Side
As surprising as it may sound, the majority of cosmetic ingredients are not tested for safety, according to a study released by the nonprofit Environmental Working Group. Because the government does not monitor cosmetic companies, questionable ingredients creep into most makeup products.

Although most cosmetics ingredients appear safe for use in the short term, long-term use could be deadly, says Kim Erickson, author of Drop-Dead Gorgeous (Contemporary Books, 2002). "Some cosmetic chemicals accumulate in the body's fatty tissues, where they can remain for years and damage your cells," she says. As an example, a study reported in the January 2004 edition of the Journal of Applied Toxicology found parabens, the most common cosmetic preservative, present in significant amounts in 18 out of 20 breast cancer tumors.

The number of chemicals in a simple lipstick is astounding. In addition to phthalates (which can cause kidney and liver damage and harm a developing fetus), lipstick may contain the possible human carcinogens butylated hydroxytoluene, polyethylene, dimethicone and a slew of artificial colors derived from coal tar. And if you wear lipstick every day, you'll ingest at least 4 pounds of it over your lifetime.

Pretty and Chemical-Free
OK, so you're ready to try natural makeup. Fortunately, you're no longer stuck with blue eye shadow and orange foundation. Natural products manufacturers are turning out new cosmetics to meet a savvy shopper's needs. "The offerings are a lot better, and there are a lot more shades for a lot more skin tones. You're seeing stuff you would see at the MAC or Estee Lauder counters," says Patrick McRae, marketing associate for Zia Natural Skincare.

Shoppers will see breakthrough technology in natural makeup that rivals the big brands. For example, the foundations from Borlind of Germany are made with tiny lecithin liposomes (pouches) that melt over time, so the foundation maintains a dewy look. "Some natural foundations tended to look gritty over time," says Linda Upton, Borlind's vice president of education and training. "This technology has changed that."

Some companies are also taking cues from brands such as L'Oreal and changing their color schemes with seasonal fashion changes. Borlind now offers more than 20 eye shadow shades and 16 lipstick tints. And to stay on the cutting edge, Borlind has its classic mainstay colors but also fashion hues that change with the times.

The Safe Side
Of course the best part about natural makeup is that it's safe. Most natural makeup bases use products such as jojoba oil and candelilla wax instead of petrochemicals such as mineral oil (a gasoline production by-product), says Upton. And colors are derived from naturally occurring earth pigments in lieu of artificial colors.

Some manufacturers are finding new ways to avoid using synthetic preservatives such as parabens. At Logona USA, the makeup packaging is designed so that fingers don't make contact with the product -- possibly introducing bacteria, says Michael Wrightson, president of Logona USA. And the products are preserved with essential oils, tocopherols -- even salt.

An added bonus with natural cosmetics is that many work double duty, McRae says. Companies are adding ingredients such as aloe, cucumber, green tea and ginkgo so the product "works as a makeup but also soothes and is an anti-inflammatory and an antioxidant," he says.

So the next time you need some new lip gloss or eye shadow, forget the department store and head to the natural products store -- you may be surprised with what you find and with how you look wearing makeup that's good for you.

www.betternutrition.com

The Natural Products

2007-01-26T20:24:00.001-08:00

Natural-based personal care products have become more popular in recent years as marketers and consumers discover the benefits of natural ingredients such as vitamins, herbs and materials derived from the sea. At the same time, however, as natural products gain widespread acceptance, a true definition for the term natural becomes more obscure.

The word natural is easily twisted, noted Warren Raysor, president and founder of Abra Therapeutics, Forrestville, CA. The meaning depends on who is trying to define natural. Is petroleum natural? Are all things that exist in the world natural? It depends on who is defining it.

Natural ingredients are seasonal with limited quantities. Smaller companies relying solely on natural ingredients must target smaller audiences. And larger companies often use the word natural as a marketing tool, but their products are 99% synthetic, according to Mr. Raysor.

Of course, there are benefits to using synthetic materials. For example, synthetics are uniform from batch to batch. With natural ingredients, each batch is unique, taking more time to perfect the outcome. And despite recent reports, the safety of synthetics versus natural ingredients is not a black and white issue, said Mr. Raysor. He noted that the company uses Parsol 1789, a synthetic sunscreen, in several products.

There are a lot of natural things you dont want to get next to, such as poison ivy, while many preservatives are not harmful. But natural often suggests nutritional, Mr. Raysor said.

Using natural ingredients is also beneficial because customers are often more familiar with herbal names than other naturally-derived ingredients.

Vitamin fractions are generally so difficult to pronounce, customers dont understand their value, said Mr. Raysor. Herbals, on the other hand, are easier to understand and read.

Abra has had long associations with herbal formulators, organic farmers and producers. The newest Abra product is Adaptagen Phytoserum which contains green tea, sage leaf, Siberian ginseng, schizandra berry and grape seed to protect environmentally threatened skin. Green tea, a natural photo-resistant and anti-carcinogenic leaf, has been used for thousands of years in eastern tea ceremonies.

www.happi.com

Skin Care for Men

2007-01-26T20:23:00.001-08:00

Have you ever seen a couple together and thought, "He must be taking his mom out to lunch"-only to find that the couple is married?It's a fact: men's and women's skin age differently. Testosterone causes men to have thicker skin, which means that it tends to sag and wrinkle less and is a more effective barrier against environmental irritants and bacteria. Not only do women have thinner skin, but their oil glands produce slightly less oil than men's, which means they have less "natural" moisturizer.

Men usually shave their faces, which exfoliates the dead cells and lessens the appearance of wrinkles. On the down side, for many men shaving is an abrasive experience and can account for the roughening of the skin along the jaw line and cheeks.

Regardless of the inherent advantages that men have when it comes to their skin, a daily skin care regime can work wonders to maintain a vigorous, youthful appearance (that testosterone doesn't last forever, guys). Skin care for men is remarkably similar to that for women. You will want to clean your skin every day, apply toner and moisturize your skin. And always use sun block, at least SPF 15.

Protect Your Skin
Sun is damaging to the appearance and health of your skin, and even those of you who spend a total of five minutes in the sun per day-getting in and out of your car, for instance-will want to heed the following tips. Always use an SPF 15 sunscreen and apply it everywhere the sun's rays might touch you: ears, the back of your neck, and bald areas of your scalp. If you're sweating or swimming, apply it at least once an hour. Wear tightly-woven clothing to prevent the sun from penetrating the fabric and getting to your skin.

Sunburns
If that week-long beach volleyball tournament has left you with sun-reddened, throbbing, blistered skin, there are a few things you can do to lessen your discomfort. Apply aloe vera to burned areas to moisturize and promote healing; chamomile steeped in water can help to relieve the sting; calamine lotion will lessen the itching; cool compresses, baths, and showers will sooth your skin, and adding vinegar or cooked oatmeal to your bath water will reduce the sting. Starchy, liquefied raw potatoes applied directly to the sunburned areas will also lessen the pain, but make sure that you wait until the mixture dries completely before you rinse it off to reap the full benefits.

Acne
Acne is a problem for many men. Thick skin and active oil glands can cause everything from the occasional blemish to full-blown acne. Men's acne treatment is similar to women's, but the products tend to be a little more concentrated. Our Baking Soda Scrub recipe (below) is non-irritating and will sooth and gently exfoliate your skin. For other tips and recipes to treat acne, go to Acne Prone Skin Care.

Baking Soda Scrub
Wet your face with warm water. Apply 1 tbsp. baking soda to dampened skin, massaging gently but thoroughly all over the face (including behind the ears). Rinse carefully removing all the baking soda, and repeat the process. Dry your face, apply toner and sun block.

www.beauty-makeup-tips.com

New Beauty Tips

2007-01-26T20:22:00.000-08:00

Author: Donna Toma

Brighten up. For sallow looking skin, give yourself an instant pick me up with Ultima II Glowtion Skin Brightening Moisturizer. This moisturizer adds just a hint of color that makes skin look brighter and even toned upon application! It also contains Spf15 for protection from the sun. This is a perfect way to keep it light for summer months when foundation may seem a bit much on the skin.

Travel Light. For summer's lightweight looks, you don't want to be weighed down by carrying a ton of cosmetics with you for your look. The perfect solution: Bring along just one item- Loreal QuickStick Face and Body Blush in Iced Plum is the ideal shimmer shade for cheeks, over lips, on brow bones, and anywhere else you wish to apply it- try on shoulders with summer's sundresses...

Juice Bar Freebie. Check out your nearest health and beauty aid store now for Juice Bar Scents from Parfums de Coeur- look for specially marked packaging that includes their jumbo new moisturizing lip balm. Try the yummy Cotton Candy lipbalm that is included with the Cotton Candy Juice Bar scent. It will bring you back to memories of a childhood treat, totally guilt-free, no calories!
www.suite101.com

Herbal Beauty Recipe

2007-01-26T20:21:00.002-08:00

www.1001beautysecrets.com

Facial masks are beneficial for removing dead skin, unclogging pores and helping prevent premature lines and wrinkles. Applying a facial mask once a week can dramatically improve your skin's overall health.
If you're interested in making your own facial mask with ingredients you can find in your refrigerator, check out the two facial mask recipes below. These masks will your skin feeling soft and smooth and looking great!

Cucumber Avocado Facial Mask
cup chopped cucumber
cup chopped avocado
1 egg white
2 tsp. powdered milk
In a blender combine all of the ingredients until they form a smooth, paste-like consistency. You can apply the mask immediately or refrigerate it for 30 minutes.

Apply 2 tablespoons of the cucumber avocado mask to your face and neck in circular upward motions. Leave the mask on for 30 minutes, or until dry. To remove the mask simply rinse your face and neck with warm water, followed by a cold water rinse. Finally, pat dry your face and neck.

Lemon Egg-White Mask

Juice from half a lemon, strained
1 egg white
Beat together the egg white and lemon juice for three full minutes. Apply directly to your face, avoiding your eyes, and leave on for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes rinse your face with warm water and apply a moisturizer or cream.

www.1001beautysecrets.com

Homemade Honey Beauty Recipes

2007-01-26T20:21:00.001-08:00

www.classicpooh.net

Hair Shine

Stir 1 teaspoon honey into 4 cups (1 quart) warm water. Blondes may wish to add a squeeze of lemon. After shampooing, pour mixture through hair. Do not rinse out. Dry as normal.

Facial Toner

In blender, puree 1 Tablespoon honey with a peeled, cored apple. Smooth over face; leave on 15 minutes. Rinse with cool water.

Moisture Mask

Mix 2 Tablespoons honey with 2 teaspoons milk. Smooth over face and throat. Leave on 10 minutes. Rinse off with warm water.

Smoothing Skin Lotion

Mix 1 teaspoon honey with 1 teaspoon vegetable oil and 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice. Rub into hands, elbows, heels and anywhere that feels dry. Leave on 10 minutes. Rinse off with water.

Skin Softening Bath

Add 1/4 cup honey to bath water for a fragrant, silky bath.

Hair Conditioner

Mix 1/2 cup honey and 1/4 cup olive oil. (Use 2 Tablespoons oil for normal hair.) Work a small amount at a time through hair until coated. Cover hair with a shower cap; leave on 30 minutes. Remove shower cap; shampoo well and rinse. Dry as normal.

Honey Cleansing Scrub

Mix 1 Tablespoon of honey with 2 Tablespoons finely ground almonds and 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice. Rub gently onto face. Rinse off with warm water.

Firming Face Mask

Whisk together 1 Tablespoon honey, 1 egg white, 1 teaspoon glycerin (available at drug and beauty stores) and enough flour to form a paste (approximately 1/4 cup). Smooth over face and throat. Leave on 10 minutes. Rinse off with warm water.

Homemade Beauty Recipes 2

2007-01-26T20:19:00.000-08:00

www.theallineed.com

Do you want to look stunning with out wasting too much money? If your answer is yes, then you should read this tips. They have past on from generations to generations. The best part of it, is that you may already have the ingredients at home!

Get rid of blemishes
Apply toothpaste to the required area, Leave on overnight.

Dried or chapped skin
Apply petroleum jelly (vaseline) affected area.

Hot oil treatment
Heat any vegetable oil (do not over heat). Apply to hair cover with shower cap and leave on for 10-20 minutes.

Falling hair
Pour cinnamon in to 12 or more ounces of water, let it boil for 5-10 minutes. After it cools down, apply to hair scalp for 10 -15 minutes. Then shampoo and rinse as usual.

Blackheads
Mix oatmeal and honey, apply to skin. Massage skin for 5-7 minutes then rinse off with warm water.

www.theallineed.com

Homemade Beauty Recipes 1

2007-01-26T20:18:00.002-08:00

www.fun2fun.com

Honey Mask Recipe
The best facial mask is honey. Place a cloth in warm water and apply to your face to open the pores. Smear on honey, and leave on for 15 to 30 minutes. Rinse off with warm water, then use cold water to close the pores. Use once a week.

Miracle Whip Exfoliator
"Yes, I am talking about the same Miracle Whip your Aunt Mable uses in her macaroni salad. Apparently, women all over the US are using this salad dressing ingredient on their faces to remove dead flaky skin.

I have not tried it myself, but supposedly, KRAFT MIRACLE WHIP Exfoliating Facial makes an amazing treatment for normalizing over-oily skin.
Here is how you apply this "miracle cream":

Make sure all your hair is pulled back from your face. Apply a thin layer of the KMW all over your face, up to the eyelashes and make sure to also put some on your neck. The "fumes" from the vinegar may bother you so walk around the house to try to escape them. LOL!

Leave on for 10 minutes, then massage gently. The dead skin cells on your face will roll off in rubbery little balls. Rinse your skin with tepid water, then cleanse as usual following your regular beauty regime. If you apply the KMW every day, in 6-8 weeks your skin should be completely renewed.

I cannot help but wonder if this Miracle Whip eats away at the dead skin cells on your face, what does it do to the inside of the body when someone eats it?? Pretty scary!!! One person believes that the vinegar in the Miracle Whip is what causes the exfoliation and rejuvenation. If that is true, why not try a mixture of organic apple cider vinegar with some olive oil, apply that and see what happens? One could whip together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar, apply it to their face and then use the leftovers on their salad!

I think I will start experimenting with some ingredients and try to come up with a facial recipe to rival the KRAFT MIRACLE WHIP!"

Special Note from, Lucie:
"After reading Victoria's email about the Miracle Whip beauty trick (the above is an excerpt from that email), I bought a small jar of Miracle Whip. I applied a slighter thicker layer than was recommended, and the vinegar smell was quite strong.

After a minute or two the Miracle Whip 'melted' and that left my face very shiny and oily looking. After 10 min., I washed the Whip away and I couldn't believe the results. All the flaky dry skin was gone and my skin felt tight and smooth. Very strange, indeed!"

Remove Hair Build-up Recipe
1/4 cup vinegar
1 cup water
After conditioning the hair use this as a final rinse. Leaves your hair soft and shiny.

Hair Egg Conditioner Recipe
1 teaspoon baby oil
1 egg yolk
1 cup water
Beat the egg yolk until its frothy, add the oil then beat again. Add to the water. Massage into the scalp and throughout your hair. Rinse well.

Hair Conditioner One Recipe
Combine mashed avocado with some coconut milk. Comb it through the hair and let sit for 10 -15 minutes, rinse out.

Shampoo Recipe
In a blender, combine 1 ounce olive oil, 1 egg, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar. Use as regular shampoo.

Remove Conditioner Buildup Recipe
Baking soda removes conditioner build-up from your hair. Rub in and rinse thoroughly, then shampoo with your regular shampoo.

Hair Conditioner Two Recipe
Mayonnaise is a great conditioner for dry hair.
Depending on the length of your hair, apply approximately 1/2 cup of mayonnaise to your dry hair. Work into hair really well and then cover your hair with a plastic bag, allowing to set for about 15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and then shampoo as usual.

Avocado Facial Recipe
Avocado is a naturally rich moisturizer. Mash the meat of the avocado into a creamy texture. Massage into the face and neck . Leave on for 15 minutes and gently rinse off.

Facial Mask Recipe
Squeeze half a lemon and mix the juice with one beaten egg white. Leave on your face overnight or, for a quick pick-me-up, just 15 minutes. Splash warm water on your face to rinse.

It helps to removes blotches, because the lemon works as a bleaching agent.

Lighten Circles under Eyes Recipe
To lighten dark circles under your eyes, wrap a grated raw potato in cheesecloth and apply to eyelids for 15-20 minutes. Wipe off residue and apply an eye cream.

Egg & Honey Mask Recipe
Mix together 1 tablespoon honey, 1 egg yolk, 1/2 teaspoon almond oil and 1 tablespoon yogurt. Honey stimulates and smoothes, egg and almond oil penetrate and moisturize, and yogurt refines and tightens pores.

Egg, Avocado & Mud Facial Mask Recipe
(best for oilier skin types)
Clay is available in powder form at any health food store. Mix 1 tablespoon dry clay with 1 egg yolk, 1/4 of a mashed avocado and enough witch hazel to create a smooth mixture. Mud dries excess sebum while the egg yolk and avocado replenish lost moisture. Witch hazel tones.

Egg & Olive Oil Hair Mask Recipe
Mix two whole eggs with four tablespoons of olive oil. Smooth through hair. Wrap head with plastic wrap, and leave in hair for 10 minutes. Rinse well.

Fruit Smoothie Hair Mask Recipe
Blend 1/2 a banana, 1/4 avocado, 1/4 cantaloupe, 1 tablespoon wheat germ oil and 1 tablespoon yogurt. For extra conditioning, squeeze in the contents of a vitamin E capsule. Leave in hair for 15 minutes.

Facial Exfoliater Recipe
2 heaped tsp fine oatmeal
1 tsp. baking soda

Combine ingredients, and add enough water to make a paste. Apply to skin and rub gently. Rinse and gently pat dry.

Banana Wrinkle Fighter Recipe
Banana is wonderful as an anti-wrinkle treatment. Mash 1/4 banana until very creamy. Spread all over face and leave for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with warm water followed by a dash of cold. Gently pat dry.

Grape Cleanser Recipe
Grape juice makes an excellent cleanser for any skin type. Simply split one or two large grapes, remove pips and rub the flesh over face and neck. Rinse off with cool water.

Oily Skin Mask Recipe
Mix 1 tsp. brewers yeast with enough natural yogurt to make a thin mixture. Pat this thoroughly into all the oily areas and allow it to dry on the skin. After 15 - 20 minutes, rinse off with warm water, then cool water and blot dry.

www.fun2fun.com

Get the looks you ever desired

2007-01-26T20:18:00.001-08:00

Dressing up for an evening out is not hard. Irresistible party clothes complemented by simple make-up and hassle free hair is all you need to create an evening look. Bharat advises you to wear make-up that looks simple, feminine and, most importantly, realistic.

Make a fresh start : Wash your face either by using a face wash or with clean water. Dab the face with tissue paper. Cover your face with a little moisturiser and wait for it to dry. Apply a concealer to hide spots and dark circles. Dot thin coats of concealer in the inner circle under the eye, around the lips and other dark skin area. The concealer should be one or two coats lighter than the foundation, otherwise the face will look heavy. And make sure you apply it only where needed.

Choose a foundation to match your skin tone. Using the right foundation makes your skin look flawless and smooth. To achieve perfect precision one must blend well. Use an oil-free foundation, starting at the centre of your face, blend it carefully with a slightly damp sponge all over the face, especially the chin, around the nostrils and under the jaw-line. Foundation blended well on the jaw-line avoids demarcation lines. Set it with translucent or compact powder for a matte and refined finish.

Eyeshadows accentuate eyes, making them look bigger and brighter. Use an eyeshadow that compliments the colour of your eyes. Apply eyeshadow right over the eyelid. Draw a thin line of eyeliner on your upper lid, close to the lashes. Use a soft tipped eye pencil over the line for a smudgy effect. Apply mascara in an upward and outward manner. To make your lashes look thicker, powder them before the first layer of mascara is dry. Then apply the second coat. For defined lashes use lash comb and curler.

Even the prettiest of make-up looks unfinished without blusher. It adds life and glow to every skin colour. Use powder blush or tinting powder. Dust the blusher right on the apple of your checks with a large brush patches, so blend it outwards with a big brush in semi-circular motions. Do not go close to the nose.

Now on to your lips To give your lips a luscious look first draw the outline of your lips with a lip pencil. Line them with a neutral colour. Blend inward to prevent the lipstick from bleeding. Use a lip brush to apply the lipstick. Powder your lips after the first coat to prevent it from fading. Apply a second coat of lipstick. And finally use lip gloss on the centre of your lower lip to give that sexy pout look.

Hair always complete the make up first and then do the hairstyle. Your hair should have texture and shine without stiffness for an easy and sexy style. Avoid using hair spray. If you have long and straight hair it is best to leave them open. Wash your hair with a shampoo first and then use a good conditioner. Keep it for ten minutes and then wash it with cold water. Avoid back combing for long hair. When dry, brush it well in an outward direction using a soft brush.

We can try different hairstyles if you have short or midlength hair. If you have curly it to create an instant style. Do not wash your hair on the same day if you want to style them. For a sleeker looks, toss your hair completely back and make a neat low bun or tie a top knot.

To create side strings take a few hair from each side, wet them and pin up. After ten minutes carefully remove the pin and let the strings loose. To make it last longer use little hairspray. Ass volume to your hair by using diffuders and drying systems that include dryers and rollers. Hair ornaments and accessories could be included to create a different look. Pamper yourself with them and make a pretty statement.

Article By Ramandeep Sandhu

Renew your look

2007-01-26T20:17:00.001-08:00

www.beautynewsletter.gq.nu

Sooner or later we take the time to reflect on ourselves. Both internally and externally. It's a nice change of pace, to then reflect on the 'renewal' of our look.

So often our image is dependent on our everyday routine and what we've come to do on a daily basis. With hectic schedules, and responsibilities pulling at us from every end, when do we take the time to renew ourselves? We usually don't because the last time we did, we ended up with disastrous results, or it got too frustrating to incorporate this new process into our daily routine.

Are you bored with how you look?
Congratulations! It only means that you've perfected this look, time and time again. So much so, you could do it in your sleep. And believe me, you're really good at it too. You're so good, that by now, face it. You're bored.

It is not so much hard to apply that new color, but to get up the courage to do so. Why is changing how we look so difficult? Models do it all the time. Maybe if I was making $10,000 per day, I'd be happy to change my hair color and makeup in a blink of an eye as well. But I'm not, and I don't. Courage. That's all it takes to conquer something new. A lot harder than it sounds. When makeup artists are pressuring you to overhaul a whole new look for yourself, ask them when they've done the same to themselves? You'll get either a blank stare, or a look of horror. And as a makeup artist, I have to do my own face every day. Day in and day out. I get bored too, and supposedly,I know what I'm doing.

Don't fear. We tend to overwhelm ourselves with trying to put on a whole new face, and frustrated, we end up going back to our tried and true colors and routine anyway.

So what happened? How do we not make this attempt a repeated thing? Simple. Take it slow. Renewal starts with one step. At a time. One new item, or one new color, or one new technique.

So take a deep breath. Relax,and remember. "Baby steps."

A whole renewed you!
First, look at all the colors that you tend to wear over and over again. Not the dusty drawer of stuff that's used once and never again. No, the colors you always tend to grab. Look at them. There's a reason why they work. You wear them everyday,cause you like how they make you look. You feel good. You've gotten compliments. It works. Every time. What's the thing they have in common? Color? Quality? Performance? Make a mental list and then go 1 step beyond. Go for a color deeper or lighter than what you see before you. Whew. Step 1 completed. Wasn't that easy?

Okay, next. What's the texture you wear the most? Is it Matte? Shiny? Dewy? Shimmering? Iridescent? Glittery? Now, go the next step. Go from matte to dewy, or shimmery to glittery. Push the envelope a little bit. Just a little bit.

Last but not least, look at where you put the 'focus' of your look. Do you play up the eyes? The lips? Blush? Okay, soften that area, and focus on the other one. Is it eyes? Then play up lips this time. Or vice versa. Shift the focus a little bit.

Three simple things. And the best part is that you don't have to do them all together. What makes us reject something is that it's far beyond what we feel is the norm. And that goes with makeup too. We immediately don't like that dark burgundy black lipstick, when we're used to the pale nude brown. So we quit. It's only because it's so far beyond our 'comfort' look that we reject it every time. So don't go that route. Back up a bit. Take it easy on yourself. Just one new thing. See how it makes you feel. Hear what others say. And you'll be surprised that you really do have a whole new look. No, really. You just didn't think it'd be this easy.

www.beautynewsletter.gq.nu

Beauty tips for bath

2007-01-26T20:07:00.000-08:00

www.goldendoor.com
Hot Oil Treatment for Hair

Use 1 ounce olive oil warmed with your favorite aroma such as geranium (for uplifting), teatree or peppermint (for stimulating the scalp). Massage into scalp and put on a plastic cap. Leave in hair for 30 minutes. Shampoo hair.

Hot Aroma Bath Soak

Choose your favorite flower such as roses, gardenias, lavender, etc. Put 2 cups into a cheesecloth and allow to soak in a hot tub. Relax in this wonderfully aromatic bath.

www.goldendoor.com

Men And Beauty

2007-01-26T18:49:00.001-08:00

www.skincareindia.com

Beauty for men is not about lipsticks and eye shadowsw. It's about highlighting the attractive features and concealing imperfections. A man's skin is thicker, oilier and it is shaved on a regular basis. Shaving causes red bumps, ingrown hairs and irritated skin patches. Men should avoid any aftershave products with an alcohol base as it dries the skin. A good after shave lotion can be prepared by mixing honey with dhania seeds and orange flower waterfruits and vegetables, which often contain many anti-oxidants that can retard skin damage.

*Take a multi-vitamin that is rich in anti-oxidants and vitamin E.

*Avoid greasy, fried food.

*Substitute olive oil in place of butter when you cook. It allows the skin to retain its elasticity longer.

*Exercise will do wonders to your heart rate. It will clear your pores, increase your metabolism, and generally make you feel better about yourself. Sweating allows your inner body to cleanse itself.

*The best way to take care of your skin is to drink plenty of water on a day to day basis. The majority of your body's cells are made of water, and it only makes sense to keep hydrated.

*Increase your intake if you are a drinker of beverages that dehydrate you, such as coffee, soda, and alcohol. Limit your intake of alcohol as it leads to bad-looking skin.

www.skincareindia.com

Successful Mens Grooming

2007-01-26T18:48:00.001-08:00

www.pioneerthinking.com

ARA - We live in a time when it pays to look younger, whether its in the workplace or in the dating world. One of the keys to success is good grooming, experts say.

Looking your best is important in todays image-conscious world, says Kendra Richards, mens grooming expert and celebrity consultant. An increasing number of men are making grooming a priority because they want to maintain a youthful appearance and a winning edge.

Indeed, statistics show that men in the United States are spending more than $4 billion a year on grooming products, such as haircolor and facial scrubs, driven by their desire to look and feel their best. The growth in grooming products is being fueled in part by baby boomers entering middle age.

What are the top secrets for grooming success? Richards, whos worked with many notable male celebrities, offers her top-five head-to-toe grooming tips for men who want to stay ahead of their competition and make a great impression.

1. Knock Out the Gray Hair
The fastest way to take years off of your look is to get rid of gray hair. Its less noticeable and more natural to begin coloring your hair when you first begin to go gray, Richards says. An easy-to-use product formulated specifically for men, such as Just For Men Haircolor, can be used at home to cover gray hair with natural looking results.

Many men also notice that their beard and mustache turns gray first, Richards says. The makers of Just For Men Haircolor have a brush-in gel in a no-drip formula thats perfect for covering facial hair.

2. Go Short if Youre Balding, and Pay Attention to Unwanted Hair
Balding is another common problem among men. Opting for a comb-over just dates your look. Get comfortable with your changing look and opt for a modern short haircut, Richards says.

Unfortunately, when men begin to lose the hair on their heads, they may begin to notice unwanted hair in other places, like their nose, ears or back. Be sure to trim or wax unwanted hair for a clean, contemporary look.

3.Avoid the Hand and Foot Syndrome
Dont forget to include your hands and feet in your grooming routine. Well-manicured nails and toes contribute to good hygiene and grooming habits. Make time to clip and file your nails at home, Richards says.

Foot odor is a common problem among many men, and is relatively easy to treat. Scrub your feet daily and dry them completely, Richards says. Insert a pair of Odor-Eaters Insoles into your shoes, which will absorb wetness and odor.

4. Protect and Pamper Your Skin
Sales of men's skin-care items have risen dramatically over the past five years, with an increasing number of products from which to choose.

The best way to prevent wrinkles and skin cancer is to protect your skin from sun damage by using a daily moisturizer with sunscreen, Richards says.

A good daily skin care routine includes cleansing, followed by a gentle facial exfoliant scrub, which also enhances shaving ease and comfort. Follow with a moisturizer containing sunscreen for day and at night a moisturizer with AHAs to encourage skin regeneration.

5. Dont Get Down in the Mouth
A good smile is extremely important. Dont forget good oral care habits, including regular brushing and flossing. Using an antibacterial mouthwash, such as Cepacol will help kill germs to keep breath smelling fresh. Additionally, there are many at-home whitening products that can brighten up your smile quickly and relatively inexpensively.

Men who practice the art of good grooming turn heads and stand out from the pack, Richards says. They look healthier, more vigorous and more successful.

www.pioneerthinking.com

Beauty tips for Winter

2007-01-26T18:47:00.001-08:00

www.pioneerthinking.com

One of winters biggest beauty challenges is dealing with dry, static-y conditions created by the combination of very low moisture in the air and cold outdoor temperatures. Typically worst from November through February, static is the culprit behind clinging trousers, flyaway hair and the snap-crackle-pops that occur when you take off your winter coat and scarf.

When the outside temperatures dip and the inside heat cranks up, its vital to have a few tricks up your static-free sleeves. The makers of Static Guard anti-static spray, who created the Static Index to help consumers recognize and prepare for high static conditions in their area, offer the following tips on how to stay stylish during the harsh winter months.

Women on the go should consider keeping a multiple use lip/eye/cheek pencil in their purse for touch-ups during the day. And always keep a tube of lip balm handy in your pocket to ward off chapped, dry lips.

Stop hair from frizzing by spraying combs or brushes with Static Guard then running it lightly through hair after styling and before hairspray. The versatile product is essential for cutting static on the inside of hats and jacket hoods, too. For a one-two punch, spritz the inside of your pants legs and skirts to further prevent static cling. Be sure to keep a handy tote-size can in the purse or car for static emergencies.

For a dewy, youthful look, mix cream or liquid blush with a dab of petroleum jelly and apply to dry cheeks.

Dont forget your hands! Lock in moisture by slathering on a good hydrating lotion before bed and after the mornings shower.

Water works: Drink lots of water to moisturize from the inside out, and lightly mist facial skin with distilled water in a small spray bottle after applying makeup to keep it fresh throughout the day.

www.pioneerthinking.com

Secrets to Beautiful Winter Lips

2007-01-26T18:46:00.000-08:00

www.w3pg.com
Take care of your lips...

Your lips are one of the focal points of your face, so make sure they look great all day long. In wintertime, it's especially important to keep your lips soft and hydrated.If your lips are extra chapped during the winter season and your lipstick is looking caked-on, try these two easy steps to get rid of dead skin on your lips:

1. Take a soft toothbrush (with no toothpaste on it) and run it under warm water. Then gently brush your lips to exfoliate the dead skin. One of our favorites for this trick is Aquafresh Flexible Kids' Toothbrush, because it comes in a fun color and is designed for tender gums, so it's gentle on your lips.

2. Next, apply lip balm and let it penetrate for a minute. Make sure to use a lip balm that includes sunscreen, to protect those freshly smooth lips from the sun (make sure to keep using it all through the day!). ChapStick Lip Moisturizer has an SPF of 15 and will take care of hydrating your lips.

www.w3pg.com

High Fashion Elite – Solely for gays?

2007-01-26T17:39:00.001-08:00

Men these days become more and more interested in their style comparatively to their interest in vogue one hundred or even twenty years ago. Although considerable part of guys seems to care about their clothes and look, the main customers of fashion market are women. There is a paradoxical situation there: almost all fashion production is dedicated for women, but almost all fashion designers are men. More surprising fact – numerous part of vogue professionals are gay men. It’s not a big sensation as homosexual men are often considered to be related to creative and artistic jobs, but how they took up fashion world? Don’t women know their own style better?

First of all, let’s remember the fact that not long ago main women “job” was to look after children, tidy a house and cook a dinner three times a day. In other words, it was inappropriate for a woman to take other responsibilities than household. Therefore, fashion business as well as all the other jobs was basically taken by men. Those times have passed, women fought for their rights, they proved they are equal or even better than men.

Yet we have surprising situation, approximately 85 percent people trying to enter fashion world are women, but those who achieve big success in haute couture are mostly men. How come females don’t reach the top? Probably they still are considered not to have characteristics and ambitious needed for leadership or as American designer Norma Kamali said “Women still prioritize getting married and having babies”. There were prominent women in the industry as Coco Chanel, Miuccia Prada and Donna Karan, however there were much more men who made an influence.

No matter what stop women from high success in fashion career, there must be something more that brings men, especially gays, to the triumph.

According to psychologists, women better ask a man’s opinion about their look. And also a woman prefers to receive an advice from a man to other female. If a woman can’t be impartial, there are reasons why straight men can’t make objective judgment as well. Everyone has their mind about style, but if a man tells a woman what to wear, he will most likely dress her up to please him. Think about it, if feminine fashion would be created by straight men only, women wouldn’t wear much clothes at all. Women find gay stylists more reliable adviser than others, because they seem to have fewer prejudices about females. And if one can put his prejudices apart, he becomes more opened for new ideas and solutions, which is very important for fashion designers.

There is no denying the fact that gay designers brought many great things to high fashion, not because of their different sexual orientation, but because of different kind of aesthetics. Giorgio Armani started a trend of formal suit jacket which could be worn by both men and women.

Calvin Klein spread unisex style even more with modern and simplified outfits and fragrance. He also impelled advertising to more sexual in Western Europe and North America when he introduced men underwear campaign billboard which pictured muscular guy with nothing but white panties in 1982. This scandalous campaign was followed by Klein’s jeans advertisement with expressive Brooke Shields saying she wouldn’t wear anything between her and Calvin’s clothes.

Once it was in question if a gay designer can accentuate femininity, but it was finely proved by famous Dolce & Gabbana, partners in creative work and ex-partners in personal life. Their collections show a woman in emphasized silhouettes, see-through puckered tunics and furs. She stuns with glamour and never takes off her high-heels. They both define their client as not a skinny model but a real woman, as they say “woman with hips and breasts”. D&G production is extremely popular among superstars as Madonna and Nicole Kidman.

Another outstanding man who’s not interested in girls, but surely can make them look wonderful is Tom Ford, designer that created clothes for various fashion companies like Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent. He brought more sexy appearance to men and women wardrobe wherever he worked.

Ball gowns design by Tom Ford especially needs to be mentioned. They are adored by many celebrities for feminine and sensual look, like the one Charlize Theron wore at Oscar ceremony in 2004. There are much more great designers to mention; Gianni Versace with clothes that flatter a body finely, Yves Saint Laurent who promoted elegant formed dresses and many more who created present fashion.

Today’s trend slowly changes from unisex to accentuated differences in sex, but there aren’t such things like strictly womanlike fashion or strictly manly clothes no more. If a person can create wonderful garments, who cares about sex or sexual preference?

Better don't follow some celebrities style

2007-01-26T17:38:00.002-08:00

Celebrities are always in the spotlight and always on the sight of cameras, but do they really care what they look like? People often take celebrities’ style as unquestionable instance of trend.

But if you think that every famous person have his own or her own stylists and appearance advisers to make one look fabulous, you probably hadn’t heard of bad taste tops.
While some of actors, models and musicians compete in good looks and style, others seem to try to outrun each other in bad taste. Paris Hilton and Britney Spears are officially voted for queens of the year 2006 bad style. These girls ignore fashion critics and keep showing up in publicity with too tight see-through dresses. As they are close friends they had learned all the terrible outfits from each other. However, they both stayed in their own ways – Paris forgets to put on something except for underwear and nightdress, while Britney forgets to put on pants or whole underwear. If you copy this clothing, you may feel sexy; however you can’t call it great style.

If you doubt that a woman can look awful without underwear, remember Drew Barrymore at 2006 Golden Globe Awards. Drew wore amazing green dress which couldn’t conceal that she left her undergarment at home. She was at the center of attention that night, but from the negative aspect mainly. Is it that difficult to get a bra? A dress made by famous designer can’t hide a bad taste; however put your underwear on to start with.

Other two persons who are critiqued all the time have not much in common except for their passion to wear robes. Those two are Camilla Parker-Bowles and Lindsay Lohan, both can have any gown, but the way they look says they have the worst ones only. Watch out for variegated feathers and shapeless coats! They will make you look like certain member of the Royal Family, but actually the style-free member. Camilla is great example, that money can’t get everything. Have you ever dreamed of being prince’s wife, so you could afford anything? Forget it, poor Camilla can’t even get her hair done.

Some celebrities probably hate clothes. Mariah Carey usually tries to avoid anything that could hide her body. Being 36 years old can’t stop her from wearing two sizes too tight tops or way too short mini dresses. All the lines and curves of her body have been shown so many times, that Mariah found new way to demonstrate her bad taste with glossy gown at Golden Globe Awards. Seriously, her style is not the one to follow.

However Christina Aguilera and Paula Abdul would not agree with this. Paula’s outfit can be called “the more I bling the more precious I am”. She has a problem to decide what accessories to wear, so puts on everything she can find: starting at colorful beads and string of pearls, finishing with giant crystals decorated brooch in her hair. Spangles and jewelry all over your body can make you feel like a star; however it’s not a good idea for party or luxurious dinner. Christina Aguilera clearly doesn’t follow this rule and wears the same clothing as on her most tasteless videos. Remember her glaring make-up and old-fashioned platinum curls and remember not to imitate her.

Even models that seem to be in the vortex of fashion all the time make mistakes in their looks. Glamour model Jodie Marsh demonstrated everything she could last year with help of tight stays, low-necked tunics and 3 inches long belts used for skirt. This clothing helps her and her friend Jordan to be haunted by photographers, but who of us would like see our pictures on humor pages? This couple could at least remember that corsets are not fashionable anymore.

However, you can dress up like Britney&Paris or even wear leather jacket from Michael Jackson’s wardrobe for Halloween party, but better don’t follow celebrities’ outfit blindfold everyday. Remember, if it’s on the spotlight, it’s not necessarily stylish.

By Vylune

Dress code - what does it mean?

2007-01-26T17:38:00.001-08:00

Probably everyone heard such term as „dress code“. When you get an invitation to a big party with important people usually there is mentioned a dress code on the invitation, such as “white tie”, “black tie”, “creative black tie”. So what do these names tell us about requirements for clothing?

White tie

“White tie” dress code or in other words “Ultra formal” invitation requires women wear long (floor length) gowns. Men need to wear black tailcoat which matches with trousers (with a single stripe of satin or braid in US; in Europe or UK – with two stripes). Men also need to wear white pique wing-collared shirt, white vest, bow tie, white or gray gloves, black socks and black patent shoes.

Black tie

“Black tie” in other words means formal clothing. Men need to wear black tuxedo, formal (pleated front) white shirt, black bow tie, black socks and shoes, no gloves. Women have to wear formal long evening dress, short cocktail dress or dressy evening separates.

Black tie optional

A “black tie optional” gives two options for men – wearing a tuxedo (as “black tie”) or dark suit, white shirt and conservative tie. A “black tie optional” means that clothing have to be formal. Women can choose between long evening gown, cocktail dress or dressy evening separate.

Creative black tie

“Creative black tie” gives room for interpretations of formal wear. Man can wear more modern clothes with tuxedo – trendy items, such as a black shirt or a matching colored or patterned bow tie and cummerbund. This matches with dressy black leather shoes and black socks. Woman can choose from formal evening gown or short cocktail dress and any of these two can be accessorized with a feather boa, colorful shawl or colorful jewelry. Sometimes, theme parties set “Texas Black Tie” dress code or any other variation of Creative Black Tie. Then a man can wear a tuxedo with boots, and woman can choose a long dress paired with Southwestern style jewelry and belt.

Semiformal

Semiformal dress code or in other words “After Five” tells you that it’s not required tuxedos or long evening dresses. Men can wear dark business suit, matching vest, white shirt, and tie. Ladies can choose from short afternoon dress or long dressy skirt and nice top.

Business formal

Business formal is the same as semiformal for men, but some differences are for women. They should wear more tailored dressy suit or not very sexy or slinky dresses.

Festival attire

Festival attire is mainly holiday’s time parties with informal or semiformal mood. Women need to wear short cocktail dress or long dressy skirt with top or even dressy pants outfit. Women can have some sparkle look on clothes. Men should wear seasonal sport coat or blazer any color you like, open-collar shirt and holiday-themed tie.

Dressy casual

Dressy casual is dressed-up type of casual looks. Men could wear trousers with open-collar shirt, and sport coat. For women dressy pants look is required. Street length dress, skirt and dressy top or dressy pants outfit.

Business casual

Business casual for men tells to wear seasonal sport coat or blazer with slacks or khakis and matching shirt. Women need to avoid spaghetti straps and décolleté. Its good to wear skirt, khakis or slacks with shirt, knit shirt or sweater.

Sport casual

Sport casual is a casual and sport lookmatch. Men and women have same requirements - khakis or clean pressed jeans with plain tree shirt, polo shirt or casual button-down shirt.

Beach casual

Beach casual give you a right to choose between khakis or shorts, knit or polo, sport jacket or sweater for men, and for women – sundress, khakis or shorts, knit or polo shirt and lightweight jacket or sweater.

Fashion weeks

2007-01-26T17:37:00.000-08:00

Fashion weeks in simple words are the fashion events taking place all over the world. These events take place in almost every single bigger city in the world like New York, Chicago, Honkong, Tokyo, Moscow and others. These shows are being held at least two times a year: for spring and autumn seasons/collections.

Why do we need them? First of all, fashion critics love these shows. They are like Oscar ceremonies for film critics. Fashion journalists write reviews on upcoming season trends. Journal editors plan their articles and photography sessions, it easier for them to decide what is worth to write about during the season. Buyers like department stores and boutiques decide what to order. There are also clouds of other professionals who search for the ideas in fashion shows: stylists, hairdressers, shoemakers, make up artists and a lot of others. However, fashion shows serve in a different manner as well. The collections presented in these shows tend to end the trends of fashion dominating that season. Fashion designers present new ideas for clothing, accessories, and haircuts to refresh the tendencies, for them not to last too long and not to become too boring.

Fashion shows are not only the showing of clothes to the public. It is also a great event to visit if you are looking for a nice night out or the place to take your girlfriend. Designers try to make the shows as much attractive to the public as they can. Of course, there is no chance that nobody will show up, because knowing the human nature, you just set up the red carpet and a velvet rope and people will stand in line to get in there. However, the show directors try to impress the higher standard people in the show, like important journal editors or fashion critics. In most of the shows, there is a DJ or a band playing. Sometimes a designer is inspired by music while creating the collection that is why some shows are very carefully choreographed: a certain model with a certain outfit comes on the runway in a particular order. This makes the shows even more beautiful and attractive.

The fashion weeks cost a lot of money. A show, by mediocre designer would cost you around$100.000, of course some cost a lot more and some just a couple of thousands, but it is believed that it is worth it. Actually, after being in one you will realize why. The atmosphere is glamorous, beautiful people, great show, and if the critics and reviewers like it, the designer is guaranteed to have a profit. So do not wait and get your ticket to a fashion week to see it with your own eyes. There is no doubt that one is going to be held near you.

Here is the list of just some of the fashion weeks held all over the world:

Autumn – winter fashion 2006-2007

2007-01-26T17:36:00.002-08:00

10 new fashion trends for this year’s autumn and winter season:

MORE LAYERS
This season, you should resist to the opinion that less means better. Many designers let us wear waistcoats, scarves, several tops and even belts at the same time. Using this principle, you can easily refresh your wardrobe by adding more layers to your clothes. Just be careful with this fashion – it is very easy to create an image of sloven.

EMPHASIZE THE WAIST

This season, the waist should dictate your style – designers pay a lot of attention by emphasizing this part of your body. That’s why you should look for belts varying in colour and size. You can wear them almost on everything – simple shirt or even with winter coat.

ADD VOLUME

You will not slip up by choosing voluminous sweaters and coats this season. Not only Cynthia Rowley presented some dresses in “mushrooms” style, but many other designers such as DKNY, Chloe, Missoni and Vivienne Westwood also suggests you voluminous skirts of different length in their collections.

LEGGINGS

Leggings – monochromatic or printed - are the height of fashion this autumn. The most important is an ensemble you are trying to create – you should wear leggings with suitable skirt or big baggy sweaters.

HEAD DRESSING

It looks like everybody is obsessed by face and head decoration this season. Designers suggest a very extraordinary way to impress with hats and face gauzes, but you can use some small but interesting ideas that will make you look very fashionable.

LIKE A LEOPARD

Giles Deacon, Marc Jacobs, Luellos Bartley, Roberto Cavalli, Gwen Stefani L.A.M.B. and even Veronique Branquinho – they all use the pattern of leopard in one or another way this season. It can be colourful, enlarged or real-leopard-looking pattern dressed collar, bag, scarf or the a whole coat.

BACK TO NAP

Inspired by XVIII century, designers create clothes in militaristic - Napoleonic style. The most popular is a jacket stitched or dressed in gold accessories, or a coat with huge brassy buttons.

RIDER SHOES

Comfortable, tough and easy matching rider shoes are the height of day-to-day fashion this season. The shoes can be dressed in various pins or fur accessories or contrary – without any unnecessary details, according to many wishes and tastes.

SLEEVELESS COAT

Sleeveless coats came from XVIII century patricians of Rome. These clothes symbolized a revolt against ordinands, a freedom in human thinking and loyalty to their beliefs. Such a revolt is maintained by Moschino and other designers in various accessories combination.

ACCESSORIES – MATCHING BAG

A big, capacious and soft shaping bag is very popular this season. The dominating colours are brown, black and all tones derived from the inspiration of autumn trees. Remember – your bag serves not only as a receptacle for womanly things but also as a very important accessory. Just be sure that no matter what shape, colour or texture of the bag you will choose, it should match the whole ensemble.

Fashion and Feng Shui

2007-01-26T17:36:00.001-08:00

by Yana Mikheeva

A Chinese art of Feng Shui counts 6000 years - as a tradition, it includes knowledge of architecture, aesthetics, astrology, geodesy and bio-energy. In metaphrase, Feng Shui means: water – wind. These are 2 main elements, including basic living processes of Earth. Feng Shui is very extensive, it brings information almost about everything: beginning from the moment of building a house and finishing with reading the smallest features of destiny. Feng Shui knowledge is based on the irrational, apparently, because it seems to be illogical, mysterious, but surprisingly exact. An eastern sage Osho said once: “Logic – is a small island in an ocean of irrational. Feng Shui knows laws of irrational.”
Tracing the connection between Feng Shui and fashion, one can notice with surprise, that fashion is also irrational, lives according to its own strange laws, but has its own exact rules and cycles.
In China, number 64 is considered to be very strong, in magic plan. 64 years – is a cycle of fashion! There’re also additional cycles, for example 64:2= 32. If you look back in the history of fashion 32 years ago, you’ll discover that bell-bottomed jeans, hairdos and make-up, like we wear now, were in fashion at that time.
In principle, fashion remains to be firm, but keeps up to date. Cloth and accessories are a continuation of a man, his personality. Your cloth helps other people to treat you in a certain way, for example, people have one approach to a monk and absolutely different attitude to a policeman, as their cloth says everything for them. What can we say about such popular cloth, like jeans and why do we still wear them, since Levise times (18 century!)? Because blue color – is a color of sky, color of ordaining, when one puts them on his buttocks, he profanes traditions of ordaining, blockades his contact with Space. Jeans were invented to be working cloth for commoners and remain such till now, blocking one’s way to personality perfection. Ideas of cliquishness and ordaining are actual! Rank and fashion keeps on wearing black tails and long white dresses, in spite of all.

Well, as for color: Feng Shui differs only 5 colors of Space: white, black, red, green and yellow, they are considered to be basic parts of the Universe. How does this work in life? In children’s books fairies are pictured in white, and bad malicious witches are pictured in black. These two colors represent the duality of world, power, struggle of good and evil, but in Chinese traditions Yin-Yang (white-black) are interconnected, they penetrate into each other, not mixing with each other. This way it’s impossible to understand good without trying evil. These are colors of ordaining ( in rank and fashion these are white dresses and black suits, wedding traditions, special ceremonies). When a man wants to accentuate the importance of some events, he uses these colors. Black color is popular to accentuate one’s power, individuality – this is a color of a master (black karate belt, black monk's habit) and surpasses, in point of fact, all other colors, but when mixed with strong white color, it gives birth to grey color (quite popular among high life). As a rule, grey color means also steel-blue, platinum or silvery gleam, the colors, that are so popular in high life. Metallic lustre symbolizes money, power, strength and platinum items or white gold, popular now, - are not only a tribute to fashion, but also to your social status.
In Arabian world, classical cloth for women is black, for men – white – another confirmation of the fact of confrontation between Yin and Yang. Red color is a deserving opponent to black, realizing this fact, they represent quite a strong contrast pair – in cloth this sounds martially and glaringly, like saying – I’m very strong! Shy, introverted people, wishing to show themselves in a society, should include such combination in their wardrobe. Red is a color of aggression, active living position. American democrats, who wish to accentuate this nuance, like to put on red cravats. Red lipstick in a woman’s make-up – is an irreplaceable attribute of accentuated sexuality, which has a masculinizing shade. This is an image of a feminist that doesn’t hide her imperious intentions. Red color is always stronger than white one, and in a historical war of red and white roses, civil war of Russians, red always won… Lady in red – is a desired type of woman in man’s subconsciousness.

As for yellow color – color of Earth, it is sedative in psychological concept, it corresponds to the processes that take place in earth depths. Yellow, like its continuation – gravel, terracotta, beige is very good for everyday work, blends with collective aura, doesn’t irritate, but accentuates good-temper in a personality. Green color – harmonic, giving repose, is rather vivifying on associative level, as this is a color of grass, trees, which are servants and healers for us in hierarchic concept. This color suits excellently to people, who have problems with psychosomatic diseases and psychic disorders. Doctors noted long ago that wounds and stitches heal up better, if a patient looks on green color or is situated among big amount of green color. Army uses mimicry of nature, dressing soldiers in a uniform of khaki. Green contributes to surviving, adaptation to external conditions of environment, confluence with nature. By the way, green, like pink (well dilute red) – are colors of love, women, accumulating love in their organism and displaying it outside, should definitely use these colors in cloth and interior, as bunches of flowers – symbolizing romantic feeling are nothing but combination of green leaves and pink buds. Accentuating the process of blossoming (gamma, pattern of fabric, accessories), a man gives birth to life itself around him…
Using knowledge of Feng Shui, one can introduce positive energy, success and health. And the main fact is that our life is fantastical – it is a combination of the most unexpected events and His Majesty Case constantly breaks the order and its evident logic. Every one of us feels this sensation from day to day. Once, in some inconceivable way, whirling of chances gains sense and finds its only point of rest – love… Chinese people say: you cannot change your destiny, but you can lighten your life significantly, considering rules of its game and knowledge. Realizing himself as a personality, a man should treat fashion trends carefully, especially standard trends that deprive a man of his personal character, he should wear only that cloth, which will accentuate his own individuality!

Yana Mikheeva is the creator of Baby Health Directory - Pregnancy, Birth, Parenting and Baby Care resources. Are you going to get pregnant? Visit our friendly resource and read information on pregnancy and parenting, painless childbirth, growth and development of a baby, baby health, safety, signs of pregnancy.
She also has All about women site where you can find articles on various subjects, such as: diets, recipes, health, cellulite, figure, aromatherapy, wholesome food, psychology of relationships, pregnancy, parenting, fashion and many others.

A Sketch about Fashion

2007-01-26T17:35:00.002-08:00

by Bianca Placido

Fashion and History

Strict rules concerning the way a person has to be dressed have remained in force only in some exceptional cases. It's not the same as it was 250 years ago when the color of a dress was very important or the number of golden buttons strictly corresponded to the social position of a person.

But people haven't stopped to attach importance to their clothes. On the contrary, demands towards fashion are even stricter now. Nowadays, fashion doesn't serve only a narrow society stratum, to keep up with fashion is a natural need for all people.
Some rules according to which a person had to buy a new ball dress or a tuxedo almost everyday are not relevant today. It's uneconomical and stupid. On the other hand it's not acceptable to go to the theatre in a dressing gown or velvet trousers or to come to funeral in a sporty trousers or summer beach dress.

Fashion and interests

The number of clothes you have first of all depends on your habits and your lifestyle but not on amounts of money you have.

The choice of clothing depends on places where you adore spending your leisure time. A theatre lover needs classic suits, white shirts and elegant ties. A sporty person always buys sporty clothes.

When you have more free time, your circle of interests becomes wider. Now a lot of people want to know how to choose a good wardrobe and to have clothes that would fit him/her greatly.

Modern opinions about fashion

For the time being it's enough to be well informed about new trends in fashion and be able to apply this knowledge in conformity with proper tastes. Also thanks to mass media women become aware of the latest fashion trends and in that way accentuate their individuality better. Fashion has become more independent of class and age prejudices.

Fashion strives to keep in step with the time. Present-day fashion gives us unlimited opportunities in this field. It's relaxed and without pretensions.
It's fully up to us whether we are able to rightly use it because fashion plays an important role in our life being an external manifestation of our personality.
But namely because fashion allows everything the most important is to make the right choice.

Fashion for men and women

Women and young girls often show more gumption in fashion issues than conservative men.
Female fashion changes faster than male's. Skirts and jackets can be very short or - several years later - long again.

But it would be wrong to think that men are far from fashion. An obvious tendency of several last years is a growing men's interest towards fashion.
Color spectrum and fabric textures are more various for women that for men. And of course fashion jewelry and accessories of various kinds are also for women.
Women adore shining jewelry that greatly matches their clothes, shoes and bags.
Nowadays women consider a wrist watch to be not just a functional thing but a fashion accessory that in addition can tell the time with high accuracy.

They try to choose a watch that is in harmony with their attire. That's the reason a lot of multicolored watch models of original designs appear. Especially women like watches that allow them to substitute one bracelet for another of different color.

About the Author:

Bianca is actively involved in writing Web content mainly about a wide range of prestigious watch brands and their most popular watch collections. The author's articles are published at sites that contain information about wristwatches or dealing with selling watches on-line.
Bianca also studies the issues related to the sphere of the watch-making business.
Being a fan of watch-making, the author undertakes researching into the field and shares the most interesting ideas and personal experience.

Beaded Lanyards for the Office

2007-01-26T17:35:00.001-08:00

by Jacqueline Medalye

Work is an important and inevitable part of life. Flattering and comfortable office wear is essential. What you wear greatly affects how you feel about yourself and how you are perceived. For most women, dressing well is also a source of enjoyment and recognition. Yet when it comes to carrying badges, many women opt for the default ‘shoe lace’, at times unpleasantly contrasting their professional attire. At Medalye Designs we believe that security card badges offer women the perfect opportunity to make a subtle fashion statement. Office fashion generally falls into one of three categories: executive, artistic, and casual. Beaded lanyards, too, fall into these categories. Executive wear is best worn with an equally conservative lanyard. Artistic outfits are more expressive with artistic lanyards. And casual wear can be dressed up a notch with a suitable gentle lanyard.

Executive wear is seen in upper-level management, law, accounting, banking, finance, and corporate sales. These positions call for a look that is serious, confident, and knowledgeable. Clothing that is suitable for executive women includes suits, cashmere woollen sets, pressed shirts, and dress pants. Typically, executive fashion centers around primary and dark color themes such as navy, black, grey, and white. Beaded lanyards best complement such attire with clean lines, simple beads, and rich colors. Most notably are pearls, pearlized beads, clear glass beads, lustre finishes, ovals, rounds, and faceted crystal. Medalye Design’s
Forever Classic beaded lanyard is but one example of a dark classic design that would impeccably complete a black or white suit.

Artistic careers call for an ‘a la mode’ approach to wardrobe selection . They offer the most freedom for creative fashion. Women working in professions such as advertising, publishing, performing arts, fashion consulting, and interior design fall into this category. Such professions require apparel that gives a creative and fun impression. Typically, artistic wardrobes include bright colors such as red, turquoise, purple and the ‘hot’ color of the day. Likewise, beaded lanyards offer a perfect avenue to add creative flair and uniqueness to their already expressive fashion. Lanyard styles in this category come in bright colors and interesting shapes arranged in unexpected combinations. Common attributes are geometric beads, hand painted beads, lampwork, and unique shapes. Medalye Design’s

Anastasia exposes hand-painted sphere beads in intricate designs. Vibrant colors and sparkling pearls add the opulence of an 18th century painting. Another style, Neverland, combines pixie colors with unusual ovals to produce an effect that strikes the imagination.

Lastly, casual occupations call for attire that is simple, comfortable, and down to earth. Women working in education, health, customer service, and administration will often find casual wear appropriate. These positions require apparel which portray friendliness and openness. Such fashion usually comes in neutral soft colors such as beige, cream, soft black, pearl white, soft grey, and light pastels. Such colors come in a variety of non-imposing fabric textures such as wool, kaki, cotton, and jean. Common characteristics in casual beaded lanyards are matte textures, neutral colors, natural shapes, and delicate combinations. Medalye Design’s Desire is made of pastel shell beads with natural shapes and a relaxed finish. Athena’s natural color and simple finish put a faint yet pleasant touch to everyday casual wear.

Warm Regards,

Jacqueline Medalye

Jacqueline Medalye is the designer and founder of Medalye Designs. Raised in Toronto by a Latvian family, she was taught European art, history, and culture from an early age. After education at York University, she began designing costume jewelry professionally. Today, her company continues to offer satisfied customers with elegant and unique accessories.

Light and Tight or Wet with Regret: Why Fabric Matters in a Swimsuit

2007-01-26T17:34:00.001-08:00

by Vanessa Lausch

With the summer season in full swing, the shelves of clothing stores are currently stocked with all different types and styles of swimsuits and bikinis. Chances are, if you have been swimsuit shopping lately, you have been somewhat overwhelmed by the abundance of choices. In the stores, there are about as many styles and cuts of swimsuits as there are types of bodies to wear them.

While most women consider size, fit, and color when choosing a swimsuit, there is another significant characteristic of a swimsuit that many consumers often forget to think about when shopping for and purchasing a new swimsuit: fabric.

Swimsuit manufacturers like to introduce new swimsuits made from different types of fabric into the market in order to produce a more unique swimsuit product. However, while a swimsuit made from an exotic fabric will greatly add to the uniqueness factor of your swimming wardrobe, the type of fabric a swimsuit is made of greatly affects both the fit and the overall life of that swimsuit. With all of the different fabric options available for swimsuit consumers, a brief guide to the strengths and drawbacks of several of the most common swimsuit fabrics may be quite valuable.

100% Cotton: As consumers become less and less fond of synthetic materials, swimsuits and bikinis made entirely from cotton are becoming more and more popular. While cotton swimsuits can be extremely cute and fashionable (not to mention light and airy), they do not always provide the best fit or the greatest overall longevity in a swimsuit. Cotton swimsuits are not known for staying in place on the body, and they have a tendency to ride up and bunch (an undesirable characteristic in any swimsuit). As a fabric, cotton does not stand up long to the destructive nature of chlorine and sun. It is likely that your cotton swimsuit will fade fairly quickly, especially if you are swimming in chlorinated pools.

Spandex/Lycra: Most swimsuits contain some percentage of spandex or Lycra in their fabric. These fabrics provide the stretchy fit that allows a swimsuit to stay in place on the body. Generally, the higher the percentage of spandex or Lycra in the swimsuit material, the more the swimsuit is designed for more serious or competitive swimming. While high-spandex materials cover the body well and smooth out any unsightly body bulges, they can become tight and uncomfortable. Also, spandex has a tendency to run if snagged on the side of a concrete pool or on a wooden lounge chair. Because high-spandex swimsuits are designed for use in serious and competitive swimming pursuits, however, they are often treated for chlorine resistance. While this chlorine resistance does not provide complete protection from chlorine, it does significantly lengthen the lifetime of the swimsuit.

Metallic Overlay: Swimsuits with metallic overlay sewn into the fabric are designed to be glamorous and eye-catching, but not necessarily to hold up and endure extensive swimming. While metallic overlay certainly adds a level of pizzazz and style to any swimsuit, the overlay is guaranteed to fray and dull after only a short amount of time. In general, swimsuits with metallic overlay are meant much more for show than they are for getting wet.

Velvet: Swimsuits made from velvet and other types of crushed fabrics have become more popular in recent years. A velvet swimsuit is definitely nice to look at and to touch, but it is not best for either swimsuit fit or longevity. When wet, velvet has a tendency to soak up water, and can become quite heavy and sodden. This heaviness causes a velvet swimsuit to sag away from the body, losing the tight fit that is so necessary in a swimsuit. Also, velvet is not a fabric meant to come in close contact with chlorine. Like swimsuits with metallic overlay, velvet swimsuits are much more valuable for their uniqueness and style factors than they are for their longevity.

In order to ensure that you receive your desired fit and longevity in your next swimsuit purchase, be sure to check the tag in the swimsuit before buying it. While all of the above fabrics can make a decent, good-looking swimsuit, each particular swimsuit fabric is designed for different reasons and activities. In general, the best way to acquire the best swimsuit for you, in terms of fabric, is to know what you plan to use the swimsuit for and where you plan to wear it.

What the underwear says about him

2007-01-26T17:33:00.000-08:00

Usually most men are used to buy basic boxers or briefs without any thinking of what they wear. It is simple and ordinary. Not interesting and boring. It could be even a big mistake to imagine that your underwear canï¿½t help to impress desirable women. According to cosmopolitan statistics men reveal secrets about themselves by choosing particular type of underwear. So, dedicating to all those guys who want to express the best advantages there are little things they should know.

The most important rule stresses that there is nothing more disappointing and less impressive when stripping down fascinating (judging from the outside) guy and revealing saggy, old briefs. There is a lot to choose from, so get started!

Thirst of all, two competing types boxers or briefs?

Boxers pretend to the most conservative style of underwear. So, the boxer preferrer is mostly very traditional guy (it mean no challenges, no impulsiveness, no creativity and no impression. Kidding!). Such men likes and enjoy his maturation, obviously he knows his value. He knows the value of surprises, which lies in formless material.

Slinky briefs are dedicated as a symbol of his youth. Such meaning of underwear could reveal his unwillingness to grow up and become serious. Those guys involuntary are very attached to the inner child of themselves.

However, nowadays briefs are loosing their status and popularity in the underwear world, but they will always maintain its interest in sporting events.

Boxer Briefs - the combination of both precursors offering double advantages. This is relatively new provocation on the underwear scene.

Men with this underwear should be very self-confident, mostly prefer athletic style and is keen on grooming his appearance.

Bikini is for the bravest, adventure seekers and those who are able enjoy the living. Such guys are always ready to taste a new flavor they are fashionable and open. There is no space for your imagination!

Underwear-less men would be the most provocative, even though the less sexy, because lacks the secret and surprises. Such men must have strong attitude to his way of living and be very fastidious. This rebellious image gives the freedom of standards and stereotypes!

This smart list of explaining the meanings in men pants would be really very helpful if we could resolve all the guys into five uniform categories. Unfortunately, this is never so simple and effective there will always be a man who has never thought about it. And he will never be worse than other!

Fashion Tips for men 2

2007-01-26T17:32:00.002-08:00

www.mgt.smsu.edu

Looking your best will make you feel more confident in a business or social situation. How you present yourself correlates well with how you feel about yourself. If you don't appear to think much of yourself, don't expect others to. The women you will want to meet in the professional world know how a man should dress and are more attracted to one who meets those expectations. Disappoint them, and you will disappoint yourself. My goal is always controlled originality; noticeably different, but not too far out of the box. And never forget: You must be the man you appear to be, or the clothes will do nothing for you beyond that first impression.

Colors

Women know how to match colors, and so should you. If this is a problem for you, get help from a woman. None of the fashion tips that follow will mean anything if you wear mismatched colors.

Brighter and edgier colors and color combinations can work for you, even at work if your company is not too conservative. Primary bright colors can be mixed and matched and will stay in style for some time.

Don't underestimate the versatility of black and white. Mixing black and white garments gives you a stunning variety of coordination choices. You can put more different colors with these two basic ones than with any other colors.

You can also go monochrome, but take care that the shades match. If you go monochrome, pick a tie that is in a contrasting color to make your outfit pop.

Shirts and Ties

There is no such thing as a short-sleeve dress shirt.

A white dress shirt with a dark suit is always safe for semiformal evening wear. But always playing it safe is no fun! Try a black suit with a colored shirt, such as dark red, for a change.

At the office, white or blue dress shirts are business staples. Dark-toned, striped, or check will make a nice change.

Opening your shirt collar and loosening your tie does not make you look cool or relaxed. It makes you look drunk.

Normally you should wear a straight-collar shirt with a suit. A button-down collar dress shirt may be worn if it is one of high quality. Button downs also go nicely with a blazer or sport coat.

Festive ties with teddy bears or Santa Claus faces are fine for festive occasions, but not for the office.

Adjust the width of your tie's knot to the width of your shirt collar. The wider the collar, the wider the knot. From narrowest to widest knot, learn how to tie the four-in-hand, half-Windsor, and Windsor knot.

A properly tied necktie will have a dimple under the knot.

Neckties come in two lengths: the standard length of 56 inches and the longer 60 inches. Be sure to buy a standard 56-inch tie unless you are over six feet tall or have a protruding belly. The bottom of your tie should just cover your belt buckle.

Own at least two dress shirts of different colors with French cuffs. You can find cuff links that are color-coordinated with your outfit, or wear silver, which goes with anything. Cuff links with precious stones are the most formal.

Poly/cotton blend dress shirts hold their press well but will fade over time. Spend the money and the effort to iron pure cotton shirts. You will look sharper and the shirts will hold that bright color longer. Another alternative is the newer no-iron, all-cotton dress shirt first sold by Brooks Brothers. After sewing, a compound is baked into the fabric with an adhesive on the seams that prevents the shirt from puckering at the cuffs, collar, and placket. Depending on where you buy these shirts, expect to pay $30 to $65 per copy. So far, this process is only workable for smoother cottons such as pinpoint oxford and 2-ply broadcloth. The process is not yet available for finer weave cottons.

While they are even more prone to wrinkling than cotton, linen casual shirts have exceptional drape and look very elegant. You will be rewarded for paying the extra money and doing the extra ironing.

Follow Alan Flusser's tips on combining patterns from his book, Dressing the Man. If you combine two patterns of the same design, make the size of each as different from the other as possible. If you have chalk stripes on your suit that are three-quarters of an inch apart, your shirt needs narrow stripes; if your shirt has a narrow stripe, your tie needs a wider stripe. A windowpane jacket can work with a shirt that has a small-gauge check, but two large checks compete with each other.

Suiting Up

Buttoning a suit or sport coat: Two-button coat: button only the top button

three-button coat: button the top two buttons or the middle button only.

Four-button coat: button the top three buttons.

Double-breasted (DB) suit: DB suits are referred to as 4/2, 6/2, or some other number combinations. The first number refers to the number of buttons visible on the front of the coat, while the second number refers to the number of them that are functional. If there is more than one functioning button, leave the bottom one unbuttoned.

If you are a bit overweight, the extra cloth wrapped around your middle will emphasize your girth when you wear a DB suit.

DB suits are more formal than single-breasted ones. When you wear one, wear your best watch, a shirt with French cuffs if you have one, and a silk tie.

When sitting, unbuttoning your suit coat will look more natural and prevent stress on the buttons.

When wearing a coat and tie, consider adding a dash of color with a silk pocket puff in your coat's breast pocket. Choose one that picks up a color in your tie or a color in a subtle stripe in your suit or sport coat.

Trousers should break over the top of your shoe and strike just above the heel of your shoe.

Look for lined trousers, at least to the knee. They will have better drape and will wear longer.

Trousers with pleats are often dressier than plain-front trousers. Trousers with pleats look best with cuffs.

In both casual and dress slacks, the trend is toward flat-front instead of pleated. Plain front trousers will give you a trimmer and less dated look.

Do not remove your jacket when making a business presentation.

Shoes & Belts

Buy shoes late in the afternoon. Your feet are at their largest at the end of the day.

Lace-up shoes are normally worn with a suit, but high-quality, dressy loafers may sometimes substitute. You can wear either loafers OR lace-up shoes with a sport coat or blazer and slacks.

Keep a good shine on leather shoes. People WILL notice.

Good shoes are expensive, but will pay for themselves in quality, style, and longevity. Be sure to own at least a black and a brown pair. Cordovan is another good color choice that will match many colors of slacks.

One of the best investments you can make for your shoes is a pair of shoe trees. Storing your shoes with the trees inserted will keep them looking newer. Cedar shoe trees are best. They absorb moisture and add a pleasant aroma.

Never wear both a belt and suspenders.

The prong of a properly fitting belt will go through the strap's third hole.

Casual Moments

Business casual dress is often abused. Some firms have abandoned the concept because some employees wear: Blue jeans

Sweat pants and sweat shirts

shorts

sneakers

Business casual usually does mean: A nice sports shirt or sweater with a pair of dress slacks. Add a sport coat over either for a little more class.

White pants and shoes are not wise choices for the office, but are great for parties and weekends. Wear your whites between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

When wearing a sports shirt or v-neck during warm weather, don't be afraid to show a little neck. It makes us look vulnerable to women, which, of course, we are.

When wearing a v-neck during cooler weather, try a t-shirt with contrasting color underneath. Be sure that the collar of the t-shirt is pressed flat and smooth.

You can wear many kinds of tops with blue jeans, including a sweater or a dark-colored sport coat over a shirt or light sweater. One can't-miss option with blue jeans, and my personal favorite, is a white oxford, button-down collar shirt.

Wear rougher-finished, casual shoes with jeans. Nubucks or boots are good choices. Sneakers or running shoes are for the gym and the track, not for jeans. This fashion rule holds true no matter how often you see it violated by both men and women.

Slacks should rest on the top of your hip bones.

Skin-tight jeans or leather pants look great on rock stars. When you take your band on the road, you should wear them on stage. Until then, wear looser-fitting pants.

Mens Fashion

2007-01-26T17:32:00.001-08:00

www.fazed.com

By Esohe Ebohon

www.fazed.com

Fashion and clothing shopping has always been seen to be a women's domain, something in which men until recently have not taken an active interest.

However for men, fashion and the pursuit of couture has always flitted in and out of favour. Think of the highly preened men of 17th century Europe with their puffed sleeves, lace collars and powdered wigs. Today men once again are interested in looking good, with roll models like David Beckham who enjoys shopping and has his own stylist - it is not 'girly' to want to wear cool clothes and be individual looking.

Having said that most men do not lust after fashion as obsessively as their female counterparts and this reluctance to hop aboad the fashion bandwagon has meant that large name retailers are having to reconsider their investment in their range of male clothing lines as men are simply not spendign enough money on clothes. Towards the end of 2001, 'The Acadia Group' in charge of some of the biggest names on the high street, including Topshop and miss selfridge, was to close the male departments of some of their biggest stores.

The managing director of Acadia claimed simply that "men are not spending enough". Furthermore "we are unable to cater to a market that just isn't interested" his point was fairly obvious -. If you don't shop then we will focus on those that do.

However the Christmas holidays of 2001 was a bumper time for male fashion shopping, a stark contrast to the views expressed by Acadia as shops reported an increase in takings from their male departments

It seemed suddenly there was a rise in the number of males keen to spend their dosh. But why?

The trend can be attributed to many things including an increase in men's style magazines and the changing patterns in the way designers are catering to male customers.

Homme and GQ are among the biggest selling magazines in the UK with FHM alone overtaking the sales of many women's monthly magazines. As FHM et al increasingly feature fashion in their pages, they are unintentionally encouraging more men to adopt an attitude towards fashion, something they have not being previously forced to do.

Designers that originally designed for women only are beginning to introduce lines for men while high street giants such as Benetton and Gap now have extensive male sections.

Who knows how long the trend will last, but for the time being it seems we have seen an end to the time when women use to shop and their partners had no choice but to stand around. The industry's changing attitude with the help of the media means that now while your partner shops, you can simply nip over to the male section to do some shopping of you own.

Fashion Tips for Men

2007-01-26T17:31:00.001-08:00

www.psoriasisconnect.com

Patterns

Skip the worn-out, tone-on-tone look when putting on a suit and tie. Try mixing your patterns by accenting your suit with a striped shirt and solid tie. And as you may well know, lighter colors and patterns usually hide flakes better than dark solids.

Blended, natural fabrics that breathe can keep irritation to a minimum by reducing chafing. It's also a good idea to wear a cotton tee shirt under your dress shirt or sweater or ves to keep moisture away from your skin.

Hint: To make two different patterns work well together, make sure they're the same size (for example, big plaids with big stripes, small plaids with small stripes.) But if you're wearing two striped items, make sure the stripes are varied in size (some thick, some thicker).

Here's a fashion cheat sheet:

Bigger, bolder patterns make you look bigger.

Horizontal patterns make you look wider.

Vertical patterns make you look taller and thinner.

Trouser cuffs make short legs look shorter.

Mixing it up

Combine your casual and dressy clothing this winter. Remember, layering in the winter helps you better regulate your body temperature and cut down on perspiration. This can help ease the irritation of psoriasis.

Try layering a single-breasted suit coat with a cool, casual, button-down shirt over a dark tee shirt (great for hiding stains from ointment). Then pull on your favorite older-looking jeans.

Or wear your suit trousers with a tee shirt, white button-down shirt, and a jean jacket. And by all means, leave the tie at home.

Remember, contrast makes this winter's look really work. Choosing what's comfortable can make fashion work for you. So get bold. There's no reason not to attract a little positive attention to yourself.

Get glam on accessories

2007-01-26T17:30:00.002-08:00

http://women.indiatimes.com

Get lots of silver and bead trinkets. Mix and match and you have made a designer statement

In shoes stilettos, platform and even pugs are gone and done with. Pamper your feet and get some flats with basic heels in bright hues. Of course it would also mean splurging on the pedicure and the latest nail paints.

For your hair, now that winter is here, leave your hair open. You have tied them up enough all summer. For the fashion tip, give it slight waves so that it can prettily frame your face. A La Antara Mali style.

And then not forgetting the make up. What else but the shimmer and shine look. After all one cant go for a party or a wedding, looking all bedraggled.

Women wearing ties

2007-01-26T17:30:00.001-08:00

By Noriko Wada January

So men are no longer wearing ties. Even in Asia where men have traditionally been more formal, I notice that several companies have relaxed their dress codes. Particularly on Friday, I see that a lot of men no longer dress formal. I hear that they think they look stiff. I have always had problem with men, particularly Asian men, associating ties with stiffness. In fact I think otherwise. A tie actually adds color and charm to their otherwise dull clothes. When they switch to drab white shirts and black slacks there is nothing to remember about them. I have been to so many after-work happy hours and dinners and the next day when I want to talk about someone whose name I did not know I can no longer say "the guy with the red tie with yellow stripes".
But I do not cry for men. In fact, I decided to embrace ties abandoned by men. We women have always been big fans of accessories and now that men have abandoned one of their most attractive accessories, we will just use it ourselves. The reaction so far has been very positive from women and men. More importantly I like it when a tie on me attracts immediate attention. So it was not difficult to convince several girlfriends of mine to put a tie on whenever they wanted to cause a little stir. I hear that Avril Lavigne has been been causing similar waves among fashion critics by wearing a tie.

There are several techniques for a woman to wear a tie without necessarily looking like a man. In fact I believe that a tie suits a woman's style more than it does with a man's. The idea outfit for me when I choose to wear a tie is a black tie wit a skin-tight, well-tailored button-down shirt. So as not to wear like men do, you can leave it a bit loose, one or two buttons undone, and show some skin, particularly if you have small breasts. You might want to match it with well tailored pants or mini-skirt. Boots or stiletto-heeled shoes will complete the sexy look. If you are headed for a power-meeting with one of those groups of boring and dull investment bankers or lawyers, increase your power-factor by dressing like them. Just close all your buttons like men do and walk into any conference room with confidence. Notice the intimidated faces of all these powerful men. You can always wear it with a tank top for a very casual style.

Of course, let me prepare you for the reaction from men. Think skirts versus pant-suits. Men still do not react favorably to women in pant-suits, particularly in some parts of the world. A tie will only insult these men even more. So if you think you are in a position of less power (e.g. a job interview or a sales person), think again. But if you are in a peer-level environment and can actually gain a few points by showing your 'girl power', go for it. If you just want to look sexy, then no complicated analysis needed - when you put on a tie, men will sweep on you.

If You Could Start & Stop a Trend

2007-01-26T17:29:00.001-08:00

By Jillian Lite

Trend to stop:
1. Hoop earings: MUST GO, they look really cheap and make you look like a pirate.
2. Peasant Tops: If you wear a bra, I suggest most not-likely to wear a peasant top.
3. Make-Up on young kids: My parents have a theory that wearing make-up all the time makes you look nice, but when you take off the make-up you look terrible and most fashionably don't look as good as the other kids/girls wearing make-up!!!!!

Trend to start:
1. Baseball T-shirts: are really cool and look good on everyone.
2. Denim Shoes: Look awesome stylish and cool with any out fit.
3. Denim Jackets: AS some people like I say there's nothing like a good 'ol denim jacket and it goes with anything.

History of tattoos

2007-01-26T17:28:00.000-08:00

By Vince Hemingson

Their is ample anthropological and archeological evidence to show that women have been altering the appearance of their breasts in order to enhance their attractiveness since the dawn of time. I am speaking primarily of tattooing, but also of body-painting and piercing. This phenomenon is more widespread than isolated and cuts across many different cultures around the world. Mummies of ancient Egyptian courtesans show that their breasts and bellies were tattooed. Berber women in North Africa still tattoo their breasts with beauty marks to this day. Tattooing of the breasts has been practiced by the women of the hill tribes of The Philippines, the Maoris of New Zealand, many of the Polynesians of the South Pacific, and many of the native peoples of North America. It is an extraordinarily common practice.

In modern Western society since the mid-18th century there has even been a significant percentage of the women of the population who have been tattooed and contrary to popular myth, not all of them have been prostitutes or women of easy virtue. When Captain Cook and his crew returned from their voyages to Polynesian, the salons of London and Paris and the other capitals of Europe were abuzz with tales of tattooed savages. Many of Cook's men, and even his Officer's, had gotten tattooed. This craze even extended to member of the upper classes and it was not uncommon for members of the social elite in England to gather after dinner in the great country houses and partially
disrobe in order to show off their tattoos. Winston Churchill's mother, Lady Randolph, or Jenny as she was called by close friends, is known not only to have been tattooed but to have had her nipples pierced.

If, as many of us would believe, breasts approach perfection, why would so many cultures advocate and encourage their alteration, some might even say mutilation? Like most things in life there is probably no one answer but a number of theories have been put forward. Tattooing in many cultures is a ritual closely tied to the rite of passage from adolescence to adulthood. In both men and women tattooing demonstrated to the rest of the community that the individual tattooed was now an adult, ready to take on an adult role and assume adult responsibilities. The tattooing was a rite that was painful and bloody, a clear demarcation line between childhood and adulthood. For men, it meant they were now warriors, expected to protect the community with their lives if necessary. For women it meant they were now sexually mature and ready to bear children

Dress to impress

2007-01-26T17:24:00.001-08:00

By Mehmet Aksoy (From the book Want a Girl)
How should a man dress to impress? First, always wear clothes that correspond to the occasion. Second, always wear a well put-together outfit.

If you have trouble deciding on what to wear, it is always better to be overdressed than underdressed. You wouldn't want to show up in casual wear for dinner at an expensive restaurant with a woman dressed to kill. A man should always be dressed to meet the occasion or situation. No matter where you are going with a woman, you should always be wearing clean, well-kept clothes. Believe it or not, women prefer clothes that are well-kept and clean to clothes that are worn out or dirty! That may seem obvious to you, but it is important to remember. By taking care of how you look, and by showing some style, you show women that you really care about your presentation - and women notice!

Always... Look Your Best! You should always take the time to look your best whenever you go out. You never know when you may have the opportunity to meet a stunning, beautiful woman - the grocery store, Laundromat, or coffee shop. Be sure to pay attention to the whole outfit. It's worth the extra money to buy yourself some nice clothes to wear out. And don't forget about the shoes or boots, a new belt and a nice watch. Accessories do make a huge difference. If you wear a well put-together outfit you will look sharp and portray more confidence.

The way you dress actually will change how you behave. Think about it- if you wore a clown costume all day, you would feel silly and goofy. So if you want to have more sex appeal, wear something that makes you feel sexy. Women will respond to the image you project. Figure out what image you portray now and then make the necessary changes in your wardrobe to attain your desired image. Whatever image you want to give women be sure to act the part. You should consider all behavior that attributes to your overall personal image - physical gestures, eye contact. Use your clothes to emphasize your desired image.

With all my experience, and from talking with other guys, a successful look to maintain is to wear a pair of nice pressed or ironed pants and a sport shirt. Add to these basics a trendy blazer, leather jacket or simple sport coat. Wear some good-quality stylish leather shoes or boots (match your leather jacket if you wear one!) and be sure to always keep your shoes polished.

Be sure to show good taste. The whole outfit can be relaxed, trendy, conventional, or professional, but any route you take you must look sharp. Try to stay away from wearing a tie. You want to stay loose and approachable - not uptight or snobby looking. A simple well put-together outfit is best. You'll be more successful with women than you've ever imagined if you wear a clean, classic, well put-together outfit that exudes style and self-pride.

Refine Your Looks
Women notice every little thing about a man's grooming. Every time they see a guy they go through a mental checklist. Is his hair washed and styled? Are his fingernails clean or manicured? Are his shoes polished? Clothes clean? Is he bathed? Does he smell good? These things really matter to women! Clean and neat counts! Find a grooming regime that works for you and stay polished!

Always, I repeat ALWAYS, shower and shave and use deodorant before going out to meet a woman. You might think the smell of your sweat is manly and sexy, but most women would strongly disagree! Hold off on sharing your rugged body odor until you're hot and heavy in bed. If you are going out specifically to meet new women or for a date, be sure to take some extra time getting ready. Show women that you care about your appearance.

Make sure your hair is done properly and your nails are filed and cleaned. Brush your teeth and use cologne - not too much though, as women generally have a better sense of smell than men. Take pride in how you look, and you instantly improve your chances of success!

Hosiery 101

2007-01-26T17:20:00.000-08:00

Autor: Diana Pemberton-Sikes
www.fashionforrealwomen.com

What color of hose should I wear?" is one of the most frequently asked questions I get, second only to "What color should my hair be?"

Hosiery is the finishing touch, not the focal point. A lot of women get this wrong by wearing hose that are either too dark or too light for the rest of their ensemble.

Here are some guidelines:

1. Hosiery needs to be in the same color base as your garment. Don't mix warm hosiery colors with cool garment colors.

2. To instantly look taller and trimmer, go monochromatic by matching the color tone of your hosiery to your shoe and your hem.

3. With neutral colored skirt or pants, match all three color elements. Example: black skirt, off-black hose, black shoes.

4. Colored hosiery for dressy or business situations needs to be very sheer. Charcoal gray or off-black is more subtle than a solid black.

5. Colored hosiery may either match the garment or the accessory/accent color.

If the hose match the color of the dress or skirt, they add the illusion of height and slimness. This concept works especially well with neutrals like navy, gray, brown, beige, taupe, and even burgundy and rust, but NOT with red.

If the hosiery color matches the accessory/accent color, it should not outshine the garment color.

6. With a brightly colored garment, choose neutral shoes and match hose to shoes. Example: red dress, taupe hose, and taupe shoes.

7. Two-color spectator pumps look best with hose matched to the lighter color, NOT the darker one.

8. Very dark, light or bright hosiery colors and patterns or textures draw attention to your legs.

9. Off-white or light beige can be worn with black during the summer season.

10. Keep leg coverings in the same mood and weight as your shoes. Chunky, casual shoes work with heavier, textured hose or socks.

11. Control top hose are more durable than regular hose, and Lycra extends the resiliency of both.

12. Avoid emergencies by purchasing hose in quantity and keeping a spare pair in your desk drawer and glove compartment.

So what's one of the biggest bugaboos I see? Wearing dark hose to hide spider veins. Unless your ensemble is dark, you're calling attention TO your legs, not AWAY from them. Dress in darker colors to match the hose, or wear a longer skirt to cover what you want to hide.

Clothing As Magic

2007-01-26T16:58:00.001-08:00

Trovie Craigian
Clothing As Magic

What's magic about clothing you ask?

Any mystic spells attached to a basic T-shirt and blue jeans?

Perhaps not directly, as far as the eye can see, but definitely there as we shall find out.

In the beginning of humanity's existence on this planet, before there was clothing, well, there was perhaps a fig leaf or two. Or not. Some will reason that the fig leaf was only added in religious art because, some people thought that fig leaves were more fashionable than nothing.

Others thought that fig leaves were just an excuse to cover certain parts of the anatomy. Those who had had some experience with fig leaves realized that not only were they extremely limited in size but definitely scratchy and uncomfortable as well. Not to mention difficult to attach to the body back in ancient times before the invention of surgical cement or velcro fasteners. The consumer life of a fig leaf was also quite short, 1-2 hours the norm before it wilted and self-destructed.

More practical fashions were thus needed. The first to realize this were the soldiers of the world. The early clothing designers were warriors. They possessed all the right ingredients for forceful and innovative design: Position of power, extreme purpose, and access to a generous budget.

A very early soldier design consisted of a painted rib cage on the bare torso. The sight of the ribs glowing was supposed to invoke an instant image of Death and thus intimidate the enemy to surrender. Did it work? Hard to tell, but it was such a popular design motif that it has survived into modern times. The frog closures on soldiers' vests, coats, are a relique of the painted ribs.

Other designs included scary head gears, the higher and wider the better. Beastly faces, painted and/or carved into masks, were a specialty. Native Americans excelled at feathery head gears, facial and body paintings as well as beast masks, all specifically designed to scare and intimidate the enemy. It proved not to help much against the rifles of the invading European settlers but was a good effort never theless.

Donning the gear, the earliest versions of uniform, if you will, inspired soldiers to want to do battle. This tradition is maintained today in all branches of military service across the world. As soon as the soldier is in uniform he or she is no longer a free thinking civilian but part of a well-oiled machine that thinks and acts as a unit in a specific chain of command. This is intentional, naturally. The word uniform, meaning as one, is therefore appropriate as individual behavior in thinking or action is anathema to the concept of uniform.

For civilians, fashions followed the soldiers' chain mail, battle armour. Men's jackets sported puffy shoulders, big sleeves, in medieval times, good for making even a tiny fellow appear wider, more powerful. Headgear with feathers, high crowns made them appear taller. Important in the early days when the average height, as late as the 18th century, of Middle-Europeans f.ex. was around 5'.

What relevance does magic have to clothing today then? We don't really believe in all that superstitious stuff, do we?

We may not think we do but a quick look in our closets and bathrooms tell us that there must be something to the magic. Why else do we invest in fashionable clothes that suit our particular life style, toiletries that keep us smelling acceptable to our surroundings, etc.? Or, for those who adore vintage dressing, the right kind of vintage suited to our chosen paths in society?

Like the boy who bought his T-shirt and blue jeans only because of the famous name label on them, we believe in the magic of identification with the right brands, the right styles, to attract our individual idea of the right people.

It's not important that we personally know what we wear. What's important is that those with whom we come in contact recognize it. And if they don't? Then it does not matter because they don't count. It takes one snob* to recognize another, remember?

*snob = abbreviation from the Latin for S.NOB, meaning Sensa Nobilita; Without Nobility. The record keeper monks would enter this term to define donations to the Church from non-titled donors, usually nouveau-rich social climbers anxious to impress the Church with lavish gifts in exchange for cardinalships and other honors.

Catch up with recent articles: The Reverse of Vintage Fashion and The Agony of Fashion in 1942.