1. Sapphire

Blue sapphires are a huge trend in wedding jewelry because of the famous royal wedding between William and Kate, but sapphires also appear in white, yellow, purple and green. White sapphires look very much like diamonds, and could be a cost-effective engagement solution for some couples. Sapphires represent truth and serenity, two good themes for any marriage. Actress Penelope Cruz also famously wears a blue sapphire engagement ring. Jean Harlow, a well-known glamour girl in the 1930s, received a 150-carat sapphire engagement ring from beau William Powell. The fantastic piece of jewelry can be seen in her movie Saratoga.

2. Pink Sapphire

The word sapphire means blue, but pink is always the color that’s used to represent femininity. And what’s more fitting than a pink sapphire engagement ring? Pink sapphires give brides a little bit of Kate Middleton, a little Sex & the City and a perfectly sweet, unique engagement ring that will turn heads. Pink is a popular color in Hollywood engagements as well. Ben Affleck famously proposed to J-Lo with a pink diamond.

3. Chocolate diamonds

Sometimes, diamonds are a girl’s best friend, especially when they are chocolate. Chocolate diamonds are chocolate brown in color, and make for a stunning contrast against ring settings and light-colored stones. Big-name diamond retailers are starting to feature entire lines of jewelry made with chocolate diamonds. The brown color of the diamonds is natural, though some stones may be heat-treated in order to enhance the rich, chocolate look.

4. Emeralds

Emerald is the gemstone of Venus, goddess of love. The rich green color of emeralds is bound to draw attention, and emerald engagement rings also have a royal connection with United States royalty, anyway. John F. Kennedy proposed to Jackie with a 2.88-carat diamond and emerald ring. Jackie Kennedy became a style icon during her husband’s term as president, with millions copying her hair and clothing styles.

5. Ruby

Rubies are the gemstones of royalty, historically speaking. Rich in color, rubies have graced many a tiara, but they also make gorgeous engagement rings. Prince Andrew proposed to Sarah Ferguson, more popularly known as “Fergie,” with a jaw-dropping ruby and diamond engagement ring

6. Citrine

Citrines have a deep, buttery-yellow color that brings to mind images of sunlight and happiness. What’s more perfect for an engement ring? The gemstone citrine represents brightness, energy and courage, and it is believed that the stone takes away sadness and stress. Citrine engagement rings are also more affordable that diamond engagement rings in any color.

7. Pearl

Pearls are perhaps even more traditional at weddings than diamonds. To ancient Romans, the lustrous pearl was a strong symbol of wealth and prestige. Greeks included pearls in their wedding traditions; any bride without pearls would not have a happy marriage. White is the color of brides, and no gemstone is prettier in white than pearls. Colored pearls also make a strong statement and create a truly unique look for engagement rings.

8. Aquamarine

Aquamarine is named for its beautiful, blue-green color that, to many, represents the sea. The stone stands for lasting love, fidelity and happiness, which makes it a very meaningful gem to use in an engagement ring. The birthstone for the month of March, aquamarine may be the perfect gem for a bride who was born or is getting married in that month.

9. Opal

Opals are white, but when you start to look more closely you’ll find the gems actually contain every known color within their depths. The rich look of opals makes them a beautiful showpiece when they’re featured in engagement rings. In Victorian times, opals were said to bring good fortune to a newly engaged couple.

10. Black Diamonds

Black is the new white, and what better way to get a unique engagement ring look than to do the exact opposite of tradition? Instead of a classic white diamond, go for drama with black diamonds. Carmen Electra has worn a huge black diamond engagement ring on her finger since promising herself to Rob Patterson, and she says the ring is “perfect” for their relationship.

11. Tourmaline

For the bride who wants something truly one-of-a-kind, only a tourmaline will do. The name translates to “stone of mixed colors,” and that description fits. Tourmalines are available in almost every imaginable color, and some stones display dazzling color mixtures rather than solid shades. You will never find two tourmalines that are exactly alike, which is why they make a very unique engagement ring choice.

Diamonds are an engagement tradition, but not all girls are traditional. Carrie Bradshaw asked longtime boyfriend Mr. Big not to give her a diamond when they became engaged, and near the big finale of the Sex & the City movie he famously proposed with a shoe. But you can’t wear the same shoes every day! Colored gemstones last for ever.

Technorati Tags: alternatives to diamonds, engagement rings, gemstones

The sight is utterly tragic — waves of white sheets and witch hats, the unflattering billows of wizard robes. A street is dominated by tedium. Families come trudging down the sidewalk, intent only on securing treats instead of honoring tricks. And you are…disappointed.

Halloween is to be a celebration of the strange and wonderful. Too often, though, is it shaped to bland expectations. There is hope to find, however — new trends are appearing in the public’s shopping habits, and these offer promising effects for the future:

Night of the Living Costume

Horror isn’t meant to be tamed to sulking monsters and their quests for redemption (the immortal, yet all too moral, vampires). It’s instead to be shaped to the perverse, and an emerging trend is to embrace that with zombie costumes. These outfits are collections of blood, bones and exposed brains. They feature intricately detailed pieces, with facial masks and accessories all tailored to appear grotesque. Wander the streets with the deliberate gait of the undead. Terror can be discovered once again.

Halloween Meets Bollywood

The season of ghosts and goblins is forever deemed frightening. It’s meant to conjure images both bizarre and unsettling. There is a sense of joy that is beginning to invade the anxiety, however, and Bollywood costumes will soon become common. Experience the giddy style of Indian cinema with this unique ensemble. It’s defined to bright colors, bold patterns and dramatic designs. The look is flattering to both men and women, and offers distinction among the expected ghouls.

The Decade of Excess

Trends never truly fade. They simply tuck themselves away until the seasons summon them once more. Fashion always wanders back to its beginnings, and Halloween is proving this yet again. The styles of the 1980s are soon to be seen along all chic streets. A new pattern of white-washed denim, parachute pants, fingerless gloves and sneakers is beginning to appear. Individuals are expressing themselves through the always bold — and often questionable — designs that defined an entire decade. It’s a collection of plastic bangles and glittery headbands, and it’s certain to continue.

Wonderland Whimsy

Fantasy has forever dominated October. It is a month of whimsy and wonder: with the young and the young at heart able to indulge in all things surreal. This has led to a sudden revival of Lewis Carroll and his creations.

The story of Alice and her looking glass discoveries is known to all, and such knowledge has generated an interest in blue gowns and white pinafores. Become the befuddled heroine (with her patent-leather shoes and blonde curls) and explore the holiday. This costume is a particular favorite among large groups as supporting characters are also available — queens, kings and march hares can all be found with ease.

Create a Halloween that is like no other: one of terror, decadence and surrealism. Are you prepared to embrace your inner-monster?

Technorati Tags: alice in wonderland, bollywood, bollywood costumes, costume trends of the future, halloween, lewis carroll, night of the living dead costumes, zombie costumes

Attorneys might know more about the law than paralegals, but paralegals often take care of important details that allow lawyers to present their cases with convincing authority. This not only includes research and arguments, but fashion as well. Lawyers often forget the importance of choosing the right outfit before meeting a client or heading off to court. When lawyers forget to straighten their ties and shine their shoes, paralegals are there to remind them that fashion is important.

Paralegals Provide an Audience for Lawyers

One of the reasons that paralegals can spot problems with a lawyer’s appearance is that they can serve as an audience. When a lawyer has worked hard on a case, she often forgets to make sure that her hair is in place and that her clothes are appropriate for a court appearance. Many lawyers are simply too worried about their work to think about how they look. Paralegals, however, can stand outside of the lawyer’s perspective to see what she really looks like before heading into a conference or courtroom.

Fashion Accessories

Paralegals can spot little details that can alter how a lawyer presents himself. The paralegal might, for instance, notice that the lawyer’s shoes do not match his briefcase, or that he missed a button on his jacket.

When it comes to fashion accessories, paralegals often seem to know more about what looks good and what doesn’t. Instead of keeping her mouth shut, a paralegal can grab a lawyer’s attention to tell him that his tie doesn’t quite work and suggest other options that will pull the outfit together.

When it comes to tech- you can do simple and subtle things with hp printers – something as creative as a laptop decal (if you want to be tasteful and its a company laptop, I suggest the company logo) or, depending on your company culture, something fun and funky.

The Power of Appearance

If you think that these little details don’t matter in the long run, then you might want to reconsider that opinion. Clients and juries are often influenced by how lawyers look, even when they are not aware of their prejudices for well-dressed professionals. A potential client will simply have more faith in the abilities of a lawyer that can dress himself properly for a meeting. It shows that the lawyer has the ability to handle numerous obligations. After all, why would a client want to hire a lawyer if he looks too frazzled to take on another case?

Small Changes for Big Effects

Just because a lawyer needs to look professional doesn’t mean that he has to spend a lot of money on fancy clothing. A few well chosen items can spruce up any wardrobe. Consider using a matching pocket handkerchiefs and ties to add a splash of color to your suit. Women might want to find a tasteful brooch that will add style to their outfits. These small bits of color show that you have paid attention to your appearance and clients will notice. When in doubt, lawyers can ask their paralegals whether certain items look good on them.

When lawyers consult their paralegals for more than just legal research, they can move their careers forward by attracting more clients and winning more cases. Don’t go to a meeting looking like you’ve been working all night, even if you have. Just ask a paralegal for a once over before that important conference.

Technorati Tags: fashion for lawyers, paralegal fashion

As “Friends” evolved, so did Rachel’s career. No longer serving lattes, Rachel had transformed her career into the world of fashion. She took her talents for style and accessories and became a stylist. Many women wonder how they too can become a stylist like their favorite “Friend” did. Well here’s an easy too guide on everything you need to know to have the kind of stylist career that Rachel Green had.

The key to any long career in the fashion industry is about three things: education, equipment and experience. While experience is a variable you can’t always control, education and equipment is always within your command. To get started in the fashion industry it’s important to pick out the right school.

Accreditation

This is the universal sign of a quality fashion program. Anything that is accredited means that it is recognized in the education field as meeting the proper guidelines for learning about the industry. Anything that isn’t accredited could mean that you are likely to receive the same kind of education that had Rachel serving drinks.

NASAD

If you want to go a step further and make sure the school you are thinking of attending is top notch, then make sure that they accredited with NASAD which is the National Association of Schools of Arts and Design. To be part of this accreditation there has to be rigorous standard met and kept at all times. This ranking is specifically for design so getting a school with this standard on your resume will speak volumes about your commitment.

Narrowing your choices down to the NASAD schools will put you in the running to attend some of the elite design institutions in the world. If you are having trouble deciding which school is right for you, there are three really top notch choices for you to pick from.

California College of the Arts

CCA is the perfect mixture of broad artistic study, as well as specific training in the artistic field of your choice. Their fashion design program will teach you the fundamentals of design and conceptual development. It’s the perfect education for the perfect career in fashion.

Pratt Institute

Pratt features practical learning as well as design theory. So much of their program focuses on working with others as a larger part of a group. Since the design world is a collaborative one, this gives you the experience you need to work in the field.

Cleveland Institute of Art

The CIA features a wide array of studies that touch on both the business and creative side of art and design. This makes the Cleveland Institute one of the best schools for a well rounded education that not only allows you to participate in design but excel in making money from it.

BOTTOM LINE

A good education is the beginning of a great career in design, just like Rachel from Friends. However, it won’t guarantee a hit sitcom. Make sure that as you’re going through your education, you’re setting up a cataloging system of anything that you design or actually produce. Investing in digital SLR cameras (and perhaps training someone to help you with it) will allow you to have help when shooting models wearing your fashion, or with any hair and makeup that you produce.

Technorati Tags: California College of the Arts, Cleveland Institute of Art, Fashion, fashion industry, fashion school, Friends, how to become a stylist, NASAD, Pratt Institute, Rachel from Friends, Rachel Green

Can you look at a piece of clothing and identify the designer? You know very well that you belong in a fashion design career. Here is a quick look at some schools that can help you achieve your goals:

California College of the Arts (Campuses in Oakland and San Francisco, California)

This school is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, as well as the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. The design degree program places an emphasis on combining education experience with practical experience. The college’s alumni include Lucille Tenazas and Michael Vanderbyl.

Parsons The New School for Design (New York City, New York)

Parson’s is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. Parson’s students engage in an innovative education process that includes the use of cutting-edge technologies. Students are also prepared to deal with problems and issues in the real world of design. During their tenure, students interact with industry professionals.

Rhode Island School of Design (Providence, Rhode Island)

One of the oldest design schools in the United States, this school tries to educate its students about the importance of distinctive design and art and design appreciation. Students of RISD are also taught to understand how their designs can impact the economics of the business.

Massachusetts College of Art and Design (Boston, Massachusetts)

Accredited by the Nation Association of Schools of Art and Design, and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, MassArt was the first college to award an artistic degree in America. At this school, students are pushed to “think outside the box” of the usual boundaries. Students are taught both practical and creative parts of the design field. They also study areas such as the marketability and economics of design.

Woodbury University (Burbank, California)

Originally, this university got its start as a business college. The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and various other accreditation bodies. Faculty at Woodbury includes professionals from the fields they are teaching about. The school provides students the opportunity to develop their design skills, as well as other skills that can help them meet their individual career goals.

The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (Four campuses throughout California)

This design school has produced alumni such as Pamela Skaist-Levy of the Juicy Couture label, Kelly Arsenia of the True Religion label, as well as several Project Runway finalists. The school focuses on making its students not only successful, but also ethical, leaders within the industry.

The school constantly updates its programs to make sure that its students are receiving the most up-to-date training and experience available.

This was a quick look at only six of the top design schools located across the country as well as the world. Along with these brick and mortar institutions, there are options to study fashion design online, as well. So, as you can see, there are many avenues for the obtaining the skills and experience to carry you toward your fashion design goals.

Technorati Tags: apparel design, California College of the Arts, college, design school, designers, fashion design, Massachusetts College of Art and Design, Parsons The New School for Design, Rhode Island School of Design, The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, Woodbury University

Curious what kind of bra was supporting the girls back in the 19th century? Take a look

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Technorati Tags: an inside look at the bra, bras in history

1. Thongs and Flops.

Whether you’re planning to spend a day at the beach or the evening mingling at someone’s patio get-together, flip flops and thongs are an easy choice. With a wide range of color options for men and women, these barely-there shoes let the feet breathe. For women, most thongs had a flat heel and a built-in comfort. Decked out in adornments such as sequins, bead work, and faux precious stones, these shoes transitioned seamlessly from day to night. Men found style and comfort with flip-flops. Perfectly paired with clothes designed to be “casual cool,” flops were the preferred choice for guys during the warm weather months.

2. Feminine Pumps.

Obviously, this category is for the ladies. Pumps covered in lace, nude fabrics, and leopard prints embraced the foot, making it look super sexy and feminine. Designers such as Gucci and Christian Louboutin offered their own take on this trend. The upside of this style was that women could achieve a seductive look without having to endure the pain of stiletto heels. Speaking of pain…

3. Stiletto Spikes.

Pair them with tight pants, a business suit, or a short skirt and you’ve got a dynamite look. Stilettos rarely fall out of favor and continued to earn adoration from fashionistas during 2010. The spring brought some funky versions of stilettos, such as the creation by Alexandra Neel that incorporated pearls and fur!

4. Patent Leather and Glossy.

A popular material for shoes this year, patent leather made its way onto the feet of men and women. Classic dress shoes for men came in patent leather. Women saw patent leather used to make Mary Janes and certain boots, such as the “Yugo” by Stuart Weitzman.

5. Tall Boots.

Call these boots drama for your legs. High boots that reach to the knee or even above it were popular with women in 2010. There were many choices of materials, though black was the dominant color. Some of the more adventurous designs used fur, wedge heels, and platforms.

6. Short Boots.

Not to be outdone by their taller siblings, these boots gave women many choices too. From open-toes to cutouts, some of these designs obliterated the notion that boots are supposed to cover the foot completely. Shapely and feminine details were popular on booties, such as the lace-covered darlings by House of Harlow.

7. Sneakers.

While women like a good sneaker, this trend belonged to the men in 2010. Vibrant, colorful takes on this traditional shoe gave them a fresh look.

With so many designers choosing to have fun with these trends in 2010, there was no shortage of styles. You could find something to suit almost any taste.

Technorati Tags: Alexandra Neel, boots, Christian Louboutin, Gucci, House of Harlow, Mary Jane, pumps, shoe trends, shoes, sneakers, stilettos

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Designer Sebastian Errazuriz created this dress out of 120 zippers. Think of it as reconfigurable clothing that isn’t ugly. Zipper Dress (Britannica.com)