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| Skin Dimensions |
| 10.31.07 (10:37 am) [edit] |
*This is a sponsored post.Skin Dimensions is a cosmetic skin care line of products that supplies to doctor's offices, spas, and high end department stores. Their products include moisturizers, acne care, anti-aging products, and green tea antioxidants. One of their big products is a 1% retinol introductory line. But the online store carries a wide range of products, from many different companies. There are lots of different brands on the market, and usually, once you find your favorite, you are more likely to want to stick with them. This site realizes that, and offers a wide range of products, so that everyone can keep their favorite brand. The other brands include Guinot, Kinerase, and Obagi. |
| It's Project Runway Time! |
| 10.31.07 (10:17 am) [edit] |
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A lot of you know about my history with Project Runway. For those who don't, let's leave it at- I'm a big fan. :) The new season is starting very soon, and I'm reviewing the contestants and how I think they will stand up in the competition on my other blog at ToastTheTrends- Fashion. Enjoy, and please feel free to leave a comment with your thoughts. |
| Oscar de la Renta- Chains |
| 10.31.07 (10:15 am) [edit] |
 If someone told me that wrapping chains around the waist of a dress would make it really pretty, I would have told them they were nuts. But this is absolutely perfect in every way. The high waist really works. |
| Oscar de la Renta- Beautiful Grey Suit |
| 10.31.07 (10:13 am) [edit] |
 First of all... WIDE LEGGED PANTS ARE BACK!! WIDE LEGGED PANTS ARE BACK!! WIDE LEGGED PANTS ARE BACK!! Okay. I think I got that out of my system. lol I love this suit. The sleeves are beautiful, the crisp, tailored look works; even the belt is nice. Perfect. |
| Gossip Girl |
| 10.27.07 (12:31 am) [edit] |
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*This is a sponsored post. Some of my readers may remember that I know someone who knows Chace Crawford from Gossip Girl. Well, have you heard he's dating Carrie Underwood?!? ;) Even though that first little bit is true, and the second part may or may not be, it just goes to show you the power of gossip. You say one thing, and even if it isn't true, if it's a great story, it will certainly get passed on to others. Gossip Girl is about a female blogger who talks about a group of young people in NYC. Everyone in the group knows that this mysterious and seemingly all-knowing Gossip Girl is talking about them, but nobody knows who it is. And no, even though I'm a blogger, and even though I engaged in just a wee bit of gossip up there, it isn't me! I swear!! lol |
| Oscar de la Renta- Beaded Skirt |
| 10.27.07 (12:02 am) [edit] |
 I've been seeing a lot more of this style skirt. While I like the look and think it's a pretty, sexy, fun look, it's got to also be really uncomfortable. Is it even possible to sit down while wearing this?? I would think that the beads would either poke you or pop off the skirt and roll around the floor. Nice look, but horrible on the wearability factor. |
| Oscar de la Renta- Basketweave Sweater |
| 10.27.07 (12:00 am) [edit] |
 This sweater is so amazing. I'll confess right now, I can't knit at all. But I would love to be able to make something like this. It's absolutely breathtaking. |
| Oscar de la Renta- Bad Prom Dress |
| 10.26.07 (11:58 pm) [edit] |
 Oh man. This brings back a few fashion nightmares. I'm sure my parents would have loved for me to wear something like this to the prom. Well, except for the color. Red is a little too vampy. And except for the top. That seems to skimpy. Oh, and maybe it could be a little longer. ;) Okay. It's more or less got only one idea that my parents would have liked. Too bad. I think it's awful. |
| Spocked |
| 10.25.07 (5:21 pm) [edit] |
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*This is a sponsored post. There's a new people search site called Spock. Now, the way it works is a little different. Say, for example, that you are searching for Alek Wek. She is the dark-skinned African model that you see in a lot of these photos, and I decided to search for her because A) it's related to my blog, and B) she's so incredibly beautiful. When you get to the page about Alek Wek, you will find that people have tagged her photo with different things. For example, you will find the tags "dinka" and "The Four Feathers". The reason for that is because she is from the Dinka tribe in the Sudan, and because she starred in the film "The Four Feathers". Now, the cool thing is, not only can you tag the photos, but you can add photos, web links, etc. You can even vote on whether you think the tags are relevant or not. It gives you a chance to share your opinion with the world. Have a politician you really hate? Tag them with something horrible. lol Just remember, others can vote on whether that tag really applies. You can search not just by people, but by the tags as well. So if you type in "fashion", all the people who have been tagged with "fashion" show up. But it even works with something more obscure. 62,703 people were found with the tag "blue eyes". In essence, it's a people search engine, complete with photos, links, related people, and descriptions. I have to say, the funniest tag I've run across so far is, "randomly attacks coworkers with balls". Oooooo-kay! lol I was curious how many people came up under "fashion blogger". There are 24, including Margret Cho, who is a fashion designer. I didn't even know that! Needless to say, I could sit here playing on this site all afternoon. It's a cool tool, and I am certain I'll be going there much more often. |
| Oscar de la Renta- Choir |
| 10.25.07 (4:59 pm) [edit] |
 This was the opening scene of the Oscar de la Renta show. Possibly he was trying to make the statement that his collection is "heavenly". Who knows? If that was the intent, he was right for the most part. By the way, a funny story... every year, a message board I belonged to had an awards party. They were just silly little awards given out, and everyone got to vote on them. Well, needless to say, there was a red carpet. And every year, one of the members would choose a virtual outfit done by "Oscar de la Grouch". HA!!! Love it! |
| Gareth Pugh- Tabs |
| 10.25.07 (4:44 pm) [edit] |
 Lots of designers have done the tabbed dress. None of them have made the tabs quite so long. This dress wouldn't look so crazy if the tabs were a normal length, but instead, they are just so strange looking. |
| Gareth Pugh- Strips of Fabric |
| 10.25.07 (4:42 pm) [edit] |
 Okay, I can't believe I'm going to say this, but there is something about Gareth Pugh's work that I like. In this outfit, you can see that the strips actually continue all the way up the bodice, and they are all sewn together. It's kind of interesting. It makes the whole dress look like it could come apart at any moment, and yet, it holds together. |
| Hispanic Business Networking |
| 10.25.07 (8:42 am) [edit] |
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*This is a sponsored post. Most of my long-time readers know that I own a commercial property. One of our tenants is a Hispanic family that runs a restaurant. Just through watching what they go through, I've become privy to a few of the unique things that come up as a result of being a Hispanic businessperson. Where do you find a staff when you are first starting your business, and most of the people in the area do not speak Spanish? Where do you get supplies when you offer cheeses that are made in Mexico, and you are hundreds of miles away from it? Obviously, you need distributors, but many of the food distribution companies in the US don't offer a wide range of ethnic foods. You have to find a distributor who is usually smaller and more specialized. Questamente is a site for Hispanic business professionals. It gives them a chance to connect with each other and help meet their unique needs. Furthermore, the site is in both English and Spanish, which allows a wider range of professionals to discuss their needs with each other. There are live chats, bulletin boards, blogs, and personal profile pages. And more on the business side, there are job boards and business plans available. |
| My little secret |
| 10.25.07 (8:21 am) [edit] |
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Now, this is a must read for any woman out there who isn't a perfect size 2 with the cutest little figure. I've always been a cheapskate when it comes to jeans. I'm sorry, but I hate wearing them in the first place, and if I had my choice, sweatpants would be the epitome of fashion. ;) Yeah, that's right. Your humble fashionista here is really a closet comfort junkie. Hey, just because I follow fashion doesn't mean I don't long for Elie Saab to make a silver sequined ball gown that is so comfortable you lounge around the house in it. :D So let me share with you my favorite little fashion secret. About a year ago, I went to a clothing store where I used to work. I was getting ready for my Project Runway New York trip, and I needed some new clothes. I found a pair of jeans, and even though they were on clearance, they were still a little more than I really wanted to spend. But I tried them on because I was trying on pretty much everything else in the store, and I wanted to see if they really lived up to their name of being the Tummy Tuck Jeans. They did. I expected that they would be uncomfortable, or feel weird when I put them on, and I expected the style to look awful around my thighs. Instead, when I walked out of the dressing room to show them to a former co-worker, she gasped. I mean LITERALLY gasped. Hell, I'll take that reaction. If I was a smarter girl, I would have bought every pair they had in the store. Now, after a year of constant wear, they are finally wearing a bit thin. And I'm absolutely heartbroken. They make my waist appear smaller, lift my butt, and overall make me look a whole lot cuter. :) And they do it without that weird shifting of fat that corsets do. I have no idea how they manage it, but it's like they take your tummy and transport it elsewhere when you're wearing them. I feel sexier when I wear them, and frankly, that's worth a million bucks. :D |
| Gareth Pugh- Lab Rats |
| 10.25.07 (8:08 am) [edit] |
 Consider that title will you, because it's not one I expected to ever write on a fashion blog. I've talked about articles of clothing looking "skunky" before because they combined long white and black fur, but I never expected to see a capelet that looks like it's made from stuffed lab rats, complete with their little albino red eyes. I have a pet rat at home, and he's quaking at the thought of this horrible fashion designer who is terrifying all rat-kind. Because needless to say, I don't think Pugh is trying to honor rats with this piece. Nor fashion. |
| Gareth Pugh- Fringe |
| 10.25.07 (8:02 am) [edit] |
 Gareth Pugh has long stuck in my mind as one of the strangest designers out there. I mean, it's all well and good to experiment with some odd choices, but this is one of those designers where every piece looks like runway night at the lunatic asylum. Don't believe me? Visit my other fashion blog at ToastTheTrends-Fashion, and check today's entry. It's wild. This piece is no exception, even if it's one of the more normal ones in his collection. I mean, where other designers would have gone for fringe that was maybe as long as six inches, Pugh does it with some that's up to 12", and even includes it on the shoes. Not to mention, the skirt is completely sheer. I have no idea what's to keep her naughty bits from showing. Although in Pugh's world, that's actually one of the tamest things he's ever done. |
| An update from a previous post. |
| 10.24.07 (9:13 pm) [edit] |
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Some of my longtime readers will remember that a while back, I talked about Crackheads candy. I called it "A yummy candy with a scandalous name." Well, I still stand by that. I mean, what other candy could let you tell your boss (honestly) that you're bringing some Crackheads to work. That alone makes it priceless. :D Well, it seems the genius behind the candy read my post, and offered to send me some. Now, I've NEVER turned down candy before, and I'm not going to start now. Especially not when white and dark chocolate covered espresso beans are on the line. So I was especially excited to see these in the mail today. Last week, I got some dark chocolate covered coffee beans from the grocery store. They were underwhelming. The coffee bean was old and musty tasting, and the flavor of it was a lot stronger than the chocolate. It was a bad balance of flavors, and I won't buy them again. But the Crackheads candy was perfect. I can't even begin to describe how amazing the balance of flavors was on both the white and dark chocolate. Furthermore, these are fresh espresso beans, so when you bite into it, the bean tastes delicious. Not to mention, the chocolate is very smooth, and it has an excellent mouth feel to it. But the part I like the best is that I honestly can't say which one was my favorite. Typically, when I try a candy with more than one flavor in the box, I have one flavor that I like much more than the others. Not with Crackheads. The white chocolate is creamier, and the dark chocolate has a bit more of a bite, but they are both perfect. I want to say a special thanks to Crackheads candy for letting me experience this. It was absolutely my pleasure, and I'm proud to call myself a fan of Crackheads. ;) :D |
| Softball Cruise |
| 10.24.07 (5:03 pm) [edit] |
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*This is a sponsored post. I just got some details and read a press release concerning a Fastpitch Softball Cruise with Crystl Bustos, Natasha Watley, and Amanda Freed. I've included the details from the press release below, so that you can find out more of the details, and where to check for more info. I think this is a good experience for those who are 13-18 years old and into softball. Though I wasn't into athletics in high school, a lot of my friends were. They had various training camps and practices, and I know that any of them would have loved to have this type of experience. They can meet Olympic level pros, get autographs by them, train and party with them, and get to hang out with other girls who share the same interests as they do. Everyone has a hobby or something that they love to do. I'm sure that if you think of your hobby, and think about the professionals in that field, you would realize just how much this could mean to a teenage girl. Also, I know that many parents would be hesitant to send their teenage girls out to sea without being able to supervise them. The cruise takes safety and security very seriously, and they've already planned it out so that your children are going to be just fine. As promised, here's the press release. Fastpitch Softball Cruise with Crystl Bustos, Natasha Watley, and Amanda Freed October 23, 2007 – Long Beach, California – On December 21st and 22nd girls ages 13 through 18 will have the opportunity to embark on a land and sea cruise expedition with some of the world's greatest Fastpitch Softball Olympic stars. YourCitySports.com, a provider of services within the Softball industry, together with Crystl Bustos, Natasha Watley, and Amanda Freed are offering this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. For detailed information on the cruise please visit the website at http://www.softballcruise.com... The two-day, two-night event starts off with a Bon Voyage party where all the parents and guests are invited to mingle with the stars and crew. The boat sets sail on Saturday morning and makes way towards Catalina Island while the guests have breakfast followed by an exercise session on the top deck. The cruise arrives at Descono Bay where the real training begins. The star athletes will focus on subjects such as conditioning, agility, pitching, batting, and fielding. Back on the ship is where most of the incredible lifetime memories will be created. For dinner, the athletes will compete in a cooking competition judged by the guests. After eating, the guests and athletes will unite their vocal cords to create a Rock Video with the stars and DJ. In the evening the guests will have the chance to reflect on their day and socialize with friends. Sunday morning the fun continues when everyone disembarks for a beach picnic and Volleyball game. On the way home, guests will be able to obtain up to two autographs and personal photos from each star. Since there will be a photographer most of the time, photos and other great memorabilia will be available for sale at the end of the trip, although each ticket does include one professional 8½" x 11" photograph. Upon arrival, parents are once again invited to board the ship for a Farewell Award Ceremony. For more information please contact: Dain Turner / 800-604-7247 http://www.softballcruise.com... sales@yourcitysports.com |
| Comme des Garcon- Stars |
| 10.24.07 (4:50 pm) [edit] |
 It's shocking how many of these Comme des Garcon outfits I'm liking this time. Usually, it's so easy for me to dismiss them because they have an absurd quality to them. But this time, they actually seem like they get the whole point of fashion better than most designers. More on this in a minute. The starburst pattern is cute. The dress is really interesting, and with a little better shaping, it would be killer. The starburst pattern and the grey fabric help balance each other out. Now, as far as Comme des Garcon, when I call them absurd, I hope you understand that I'm not saying it as an insult. To me, they are like the Salvador Dali of the fashion world. It's a little mad, a little fashionable, very innovative, and DEFINITELY unique. I'm not saying they are absurd in the sense that they should be dismissed. I'm merely pointing out that that's their style of designing. It works for them, so who am I to argue? |
| Comme des Garcon- Ruffles |
| 10.24.07 (4:45 pm) [edit] |
 Okay, this is bordering on actual serious fashion. Is it pretty? Not really. Is it wearable? Definitely not. But is it innovative? YES. The small ruffles at the edges is actually kind of pretty, although in this case it needs to be drastically toned down. Attach a really tall collar, and it could have some potential. With a LOT of reworking, of course. |
| Comme des Garcon- Puffy Ruffled Skirt |
| 10.24.07 (4:43 pm) [edit] |
 I do believe this is possibly the fullest skirt I've seen in a long time. lol If you look closely, you will notice that it's a sheer fabric, but there are so many layers that it is completely opaque (and also quite bulky). Now, on its own, it's a mess. But the idea of it is actually kind of cool, and it makes me think of different possibilities. |
| Open Source and the Information Age |
| 10.23.07 (2:47 pm) [edit] |
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*This is a sponsored post. I read a press release today that fascinated me (I am including it below in order to give you more information so you can understand how amazing this really is). The press release talked about how Barracuda Networks joined the Open Invention Network (OIN). The OIN is an intellectual property company that acquires patents related to promoting the Linux system. In other words, as long as you are trying to further Linux and make it more useful, the software is open to your use. Now, why this is so significant is because a growing number of people have realized the benefits to open source. But it is still a relatively new thing. You know how you see that little phrase in your End User License Agreements when you install new software about "reverse engineering"? It means that they really don't want you messing around with their software and trying to figure out how it works. Why? Because they are under the impression they can't sell as many copies of it. But those in the open source community take a different point of view. They think that by allowing people to change the software, you end up with a product that more people will find useful to them. Let me give you a little example. My laptop came with a button on the side that I can press to control my music. The only problem is, I don't use that music player. Now, if I wasn't able to change this, I'd be stuck having to start it manually, which is more frustrating, or I'd have to switch over to listening to music on that factory installed player that some random corporation decided was the perfect music playing software. I've used an example before that I will repeat here. In each age, the thing that the age is named after is the thing that controls the economy. In the Bronze Age, he with the most bronze wins. In the Space Age, the country that does the most space exploration wins. It's the Information Age, people. What do you think is driving us right now? By allowing your software and hardware out there, you get a more refined product, and people will be vastly loyal to it because they helped contribute to it. Now what does this mean for a company like Barracuda Networks that specializes in IM protection, Spam Filter, and that sort of thing? Wouldn't you want to keep your technology out of the hands of spammers? No. I've always said that any form of security is a catchup game. You are always trying to predict what could go wrong based on what has gone wrong in the past. By widening the field of people who can contribute, it's less of a catchup game. And if the spammers tried to do things that weren't in the best interest of it, it would be seen and removed sooner. It almost defeats them by letting them play. lol Okay, as promised, here's the press release. Please do take the time to read it, because I think this is an exciting step towards the future. Campbell, Calif., Oct. 2, 2007 – Open Invention Network (OIN), the company formed to spur innovation and protect the Linux System, and Barracuda Networks, Inc., the worldwide leader in email and Web security appliances, announced today that Barracuda Networks has signed a license agreement. By becoming a licensee, Barracuda Networks has joined the growing list of companies who are supporting OIN to ensure Linux-based and open source intellectual property protection. Barracuda Networks joined OIN to help secure the future of Linux by building a legally protected environment where developers can innovate freely. A large number of Barracuda Networks’ products utilize the Linux Operating System. Patents owned by Open Invention Network are available royalty-free to any company, institution or individual that agrees not to assert their patents against the Linux System. This enables companies to continue to make significant corporate and capital expenditure investments in Linux and open source – helping to fuel economic growth. By developing a web of Linux developers, distributors, sellers, resellers and end-users that license its patent portfolio, OIN and its members are creating a shielded Linux Ecosystem that is a deterrent against organizations looking to harm or slow the pace of Linux and open source growth and adoption. “As we grow the Linux Ecosystem, we are pleased to have Barracuda Networks become a licensee,” said Jerry Rosenthal, CEO of Open Invention Network. “Barracuda Networks is one of a growing number of companies that value the openness and collaborative culture of the Linux and open source communities.” “Barracuda Networks is strongly committed to promoting the use and adoption of open source software,” said Dean Drako, president and CEO of Barracuda Networks. “We are proud to support Open Invention Network in its mission.” Barracuda Networks is an active member of the open source and free software communities, donating hardware, code, funds and other resources to fuel open source technology innovation and collaboration. Barracuda Networks combines its own technology with open source technology to provide affordable, easy-to-use and powerful network security appliances. Open Invention Network has accumulated more than 100 strategic, worldwide patents and patent applications. These patents are available to all licensees as part of the patent portfolio that OIN is creating around, and in support of Linux. Through the accumulation of patents that may be used to shield the Linux System, including users of Linux software, OIN has reduced the need for offers of protection from others. This makes it economically attractive for companies that want to repackage, embed and use Linux to host specialized services or create complementary products. Additionally, it helps ensure the continuation of innovation that has benefited software vendors, customers, emerging markets and investors. The OIN license agreement can be found at www.openinventionnetwork.com/pat_license.php. About Barracuda Networks, Inc. Established in 2002, Barracuda Networks, Inc. is the worldwide leader in email and Web security appliances. Barracuda Networks also provides world-class IM protection, application server load balancing and message archiving appliances. More than 50,000 companies, including Coca-Cola, FedEx, Harvard University, IBM, L’Oreal, NASA and Europcar, are protecting their networks with Barracuda Networks solutions. Barracuda Networks’ success is due to its ability to deliver easy to use, comprehensive solutions that solve the most serious issues facing customer networks without unnecessary add-ons, maintenance, lengthy installations or per user license fees. Barracuda Networks is privately held with its headquarters in Campbell, Calif. Barracuda Networks has offices in eight international locations and distributors in more than 80 countries worldwide. For more information, please visit www.barracuda.com. About Open Invention Network Open Invention Network is an intellectual property company formed to further the Linux System by acquiring patents and ensuring their availability. It promotes a positive, fertile Linux Ecosystem, which in turn drives innovation and choice in the global marketplace. Open Invention Network has considerable industry backing. It was launched in 2005, and has received investments from IBM, NEC, Novell, Philips, Red Hat and Sony. For more information, go to www.openinventionnetwork.com. Open Invention Network, OIN and the Open Invention Network logo are the properties of Open Invention Network, LLC. Barracuda Networks and the Barracuda Networks logo are the property of Barracuda Networks, Inc. All other brands and trademarks are the property of their respective owners. |
| Comme des Garcon- Lots of Layers |
| 10.23.07 (2:23 pm) [edit] |
 A lot of women have trouble making up their minds. Although apparently this woman found the solution. Just wear everything hanging in your closet. Make sure that every bit of it clashes, and then paint your face like a clown. Nobody will give you crap over the decision because they will all think you are completely loony! :D |
| Comme des Garcon- Granny Skirt |
| 10.23.07 (2:21 pm) [edit] |
 Okay, don't hate me. I actually like this. And now that I've made that statement, let me back away from it. :D I don't know why I like it. I just know that if I had a cuter stomach, it's an outfit that seems to take a fashion risk, without being all that risky. Needless to say, I'd lose the weird head gear, and I'd probably prefer it in a different color. I think a nice summery white would be amazing. But yes, I like it. I suspect this is the only time you will ever hear me say this about Comme des Garcon. Record this moment for posterity. :D |
| Comme des Garcon- Funny Audience Pic |
| 10.23.07 (2:17 pm) [edit] |
  Okay, now the outfit is pretty crazy by normal standards, but these aren't normal standards. This is Comme des Garcon, the circus freaks of the fashion world. For them, it is rather tame and boring. Look at the women on the left side of the picture. Clearly, they see something they don't like on the back of that dress. That is a clear "WTF?!" face. In fact, if you look at the women sitting behind the garment, they also seem rather dismayed by it. But the second photo is where it really gets good. This photo would have been snapped right about when the other dress is coming back down the runway to head backstage. The woman on the left is still looking at whatever is going on with the back of that dress. And so is the woman in back. lol Now, I don't have a clue what the back of that dress looks like. I wish I knew. These photos make me very curious to see what could possibly shock them at a Comme des Garcon show. I figure that if you go there, you have to be fairly unshockable. lol |
| MyWallSt |
| 10.23.07 (12:36 pm) [edit] |
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*This is a sponsored post. MyWallSt.net is a site that lets you use a social network to help you make better stock picks. It lets you talk about different stock ideas with other members, and as I mentioned once before, you can even win $1000 on their virtual stock trading game. My husband is really into financial matters, but I'm not into it as much. Just from listening to him, I know that there's a lot of stuff you have to learn about it. The learning curve is just too high for me to really get interested in it. Furthermore, by the time I read the advice in a magazine, it's usually way too late. These are things that change by the second, and yet financial magazines advise by the day, week, or month. This site makes it a lot easier, because you can discuss the stock market with others in real time. They may know things that you don't know, and as you learn who you can trust, you will take their advice on some things, and they will take yours. It makes it easier to learn, because of the social networking aspect. You can take your time learning different aspects of the stock market, and become an expert in each of those areas, without needing to rush. That's because there's always someone there with some good advice. |
| Comme des Garcon- Granny Dress |
| 10.23.07 (12:24 pm) [edit] |
 Negating what I wrote in the very last post, this is the most wearable item Comme des Garcon has produced in years! Even with that, it's still pretty freaky. The ruffled squares look like a quilt that was sewn into a dress. It's definitely interesting. |
| Comme des Garcon- Folded Top |
| 10.23.07 (12:21 pm) [edit] |
 The whole outfit is hideous, so let's not pretend otherwise. But the top is interesting in its weirdness. The way it's folded is really cool, and by itself, it might work a little better. But Comme des Garcon really isn't about making wearable clothing, so it's kind of a moot point. |
| Comme des Garcon- Falling Trousers |
| 10.23.07 (12:18 pm) [edit] |
 These pants aren't really falling. They just look like they are. With only thin straps on the side, it looks like they are hanging around her ankles. |
| Business Phones |
| 10.22.07 (8:11 pm) [edit] |
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*This is a sponsored post. Packet8 Virtual Office is a business phone system that allows you to set up a full office telephone system. It's a hosted iPBX communications system, which is similar to a lot of these residential telephone type systems, but with many more features. The good news is that because it's this type, it's almost completely hardware free. There's no need for expensive business style telephones, which saves a lot of money for the company. Also, it's self-installable, which can save money. This works because it is easy enough to install on your own, and you won't need to spend any cash on installation. You might think that this would make it a downscaled version of the business telephone systems you're used to. This isn't the case. These systems are even good enough and fully featured enough for call centers. Some of the features include a virtual attendant, unlimited extensions, fax service, overhead paging, unlimited calling to over 42 countries, and even more. If you're needing a Business VoIP system, this is a good one to use. I've never seen one with more features, and the prices are good. You determine the package you need, and so the entire price and package is customized for you. What other business VoIP company gives you that level of customization? |
| Comme des Garcon- Dress Coming Apart |
| 10.22.07 (7:44 pm) [edit] |
 That's right, kiddies! This season, we aren't even sewing our clothing all the way. All the cool kids are wearing clothes that are literally coming apart at the seams. lol Oh wait a minute! NO THEY AREN'T!! |
| Comme des Garcon- Blue Ruffle Dress |
| 10.22.07 (7:41 pm) [edit] |
 About a year or so, I made a skirt that was similar to this dress. It had endless ruffles, although mine was a lighter blue. If anything could convince me to never finish it, it's the idea of being like Comme des Garcon. lol |
| Comme des Garcon- Blue Paper Dress |
| 10.22.07 (7:38 pm) [edit] |
 I believe this is an actual tissue paper dress. Well, actually, it's the outline of a paper dress. I don't believe there is a back to it. I remember my aunt talking about having a paper dress once. I wondered what the point was. You are meant to wear it once, and then it's thrown away. It always seemed like such a waste. |
| Add a chat feature to your site |
| 10.22.07 (12:33 pm) [edit] |
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*This is a sponsored post. For a long time now, I've known about support chat type features that you can add to your site. You know the sort. They let you talk with your guests. Back when I ran my herb store online, I used the same sort of thing on my site. It was handy because if someone had a question about something, say St. John's Wort, I could easily answer their questions. It made it easier for them to figure out whether that particular herb was right for their needs, or whether there might be one that was better. Furthermore, it really helped me out. I could see not only which page they were looking at, but how long they have been looking at it. I would know if they were trying to make up their mind between two different products, and I could guess what they were going to ask me based on that info. Then I just gather up my facts and wait for them to push the button that says they want to chat, or if a lot of time has gone by, I would sometimes contact them and offer to help. It made it more like an in-store experience. Now, I obviously couldn't be there 24/7, so when I was away, it told visitors that I wasn't available. Then it gave them the chance to leave a message. I don't know about other people's experiences with such software, but I don't think I'd have an online store without something like this. |
| We're going retro |
| 10.22.07 (12:24 pm) [edit] |
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Over lunch this last weekend, I was speaking with a friend. We both lamented the fact that the 80's are coming back. All the metallic fabrics, the shoulder pads that hang on the far reaches of your shoulders, and the legwarmers. God save us from all the legwarmers. lol The fact is, fashion runs in cycles. If you look at the early days of my blog here, you'll see that I predicted that the "heroin chic" look (as Christine of Swanktrendz called it) will be back. Why? Because after we hit the metallics and shoulder pads, people are going to grow very tired of the look and shift to something different. In fact, they are going to try and go as opposite as possible. It's going to be a minimalist sort of look, and there will be lots of black and dark colors. I can't tell you exactly when this is going to hit, but it is the next step in the cycle. I think it will look different enough that you won't be able to point directly to the 90's, but that's a little more difficult to predict. Some seasons, the designers pull outfits straight from the past. Other times, it's more of a vague retro feeling. |
| Aquascutum- White Dress with Details |
| 10.22.07 (12:16 pm) [edit] |
 This dress is a good example of the kind of work that designers often do best. Look at just the shape, and none of the details. It's a plain white dress, right? I mean, how could you possibly make that exciting? You can do embroidery and cutouts, which could be good or disastrous, depending on the details you add or take away. With most dresses, the very idea of doing cutouts is not a good idea. It makes it trashy looking. But say you want to keep it innocent enough to meet your significant other's parents for the first time. This dress actually manages to get it just right. Also, you can change small details like the sleeves or collar. This dress has a really interesting collar. I really hate to reduce it down to the level of Barbie Runway Fashion Designer, but the differences in clothing is usually not done in terms of changing the whole design. It's done in the small details here and there. |
| Aquascutum- Two Color Skirt |
| 10.22.07 (12:10 pm) [edit] |
 At first glance, I really liked this skirt. It was simple, but bold at the same time. It had a really interesting look, and because of the colors, it could go with almost anything. But after looking at it a bit, there's one thing that would really turn me off of ever buying it. The fabric just doesn't look very nice. I am talking about the skirt fabric here (the fabric used on the top is just perfect). It's just not a good quality. |
| Aquascutum- Scrubs |
| 10.19.07 (11:53 am) [edit] |
 Uh-oh! It looks like this model is having a hard time making ends meet, so she came straight from her other job as a nurse in the operating room. At least she had time to change her shoes... |
| Aquascutum- Lovely Blue Coat |
| 10.19.07 (11:50 am) [edit] |
 This coat is rather plain, and somewhat bulky, and yet it still manages to be quite lovely. I love the wide belt, and the color is perfect. There is one element here that is really unusual. Look at the collar. It's off center. At first, I thought it might just be the way she's shifted at that exact moment, but that's clearly not the case when you compare where the buttons on the front are in relation to the collar. It's such a small detail, but it makes it so much more interesting. |
| Aquascutum- Interesting Grey Jacket |
| 10.19.07 (11:44 am) [edit] |
 Obviously, the thing that makes this so interesting is how the color shifts from a greyish-blue to white. Let's be honest, that's a really easy way to give an outfit a classy but playful look. I wish that this had longer sleeves, rather than the 3/4 length that is shown. With the color shifting, it's already got a certain amount of playfulness built in. But this just seems like it's trying to force it to happen. Quit trying so hard for it and it will happen all on its own. |
| New Book |
| 10.16.07 (3:39 pm) [edit] |
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*This is a sponsored post. I wanted to tell you about a new book from writer Nelson Pahl. It's a Bronte Prize-winning novella called "Bee Balms & Burgundy". The book is about Mia, a 30-year-old post-mastectomy breast cancer survivor. Mia's friend Nick returns to town for a weekend, and they reunite. But all this time, Mia has had a secret crush on Nick. You can find more info about the romance novella at Nelson Pahl's website. This includes video trailers, and even a sample of the first four chapters of the book. But perhaps the most influential reason to check it out is that 20% of all the proceeds go to breast cancer research. So if this sounds like your kind of book, it's a good way to help out a great cause at the same time. |
| Ann Sophie Back- Sheer Black Top |
| 10.16.07 (3:29 pm) [edit] |
 FINALLY!!! An outfit from this designer that is actually cute! I'm going to ignore the color and sparkle of the dress, because the purple metallic thing just isn't working for me. But the cut is cute. And the top, I love! It's a beautiful, delicate look, and it works really well. |
| Ann Sophie Back- Shaped White Top |
| 10.16.07 (3:26 pm) [edit] |
 A lot of the strangeness of this top comes from the shoulder pads. A lot, but not all. If you look closely, I don't believe the sleeves are detached. It took me a long while to accept that that is what was going on, but I just don't see a seam there. And yes, I regret to tell you, but shoulder pads are coming back. I suggest that everyone buck the trend and tell the designers that we are NOT interested in ever wearing shoulder pads again, thankyouverymuch! |
| Ann Sophie Back- Paillette Shrug |
| 10.16.07 (3:23 pm) [edit] |
 What in the world?!? I mean, I have to admit that even I'm stumped on this one. Shrugs are NOT in right now, and paillettes are pretty dead right now too. So you not only combine them, but do so in the most awful way possible?? There's one other detail I want to call your attention to, and this is much easier than spotting trends. In fact, I'd wager that just about anybody could pick it out. Look at the pants. Why in the world are the pockets so low?? They make the model's hips look enormous, and they are pretty ugly. |
| Virtual Makeover |
| 10.11.07 (2:28 pm) [edit] |
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*This is a sponsored post. Today, I found a new site where you can do a virtual makeover. Maybe there's a specific celebrity hairstyle you've been wanting to try. This tool lets you signup with a free or paid membership (more on this in a sec), and try on various hairstyles and makeover options. The way it works is that after signing up, you choose a photo. If you're on the free version, you get to choose from various pics of model's, and try the style on them. If you're on the paid version, you can use your own photo, which will give you much better results, naturally. Furthermore, on the paid version, you get access to a LOT more hairstyles (including the one I really wanted to try). I have to admit, I found a model that looked very similar, and the exact same hair color I have. I've been sporting a bright red color. No, I mean BRIGHT red. I've had blue hair, and this is the most unnatural shade I've ever worn. lol But seeing it on this model and on this site, I realized that it's not the best color for me. I'm just too eerily pale to pull it off. I'm going to need a tan, or I'm going to need a different color. :) And that's the point. Although I have absolutely no fear about dyeing my hair the most insane colors ever seen, it's a scary thing for most women. I've seen women freak out over a change in shade of one color. Or even panic over using a color wash that comes out in 6-10 shampoos. lol To me, I have no qualms at all about coloring my hair any color, but a tool like this can help me narrow it down to the best colors for me. As far as the additional hairstyles you get access to under the paid membership, well, I cut my hair like I color it. It might not be a bad idea. :D |
| A reminder |
| 10.11.07 (2:09 pm) [edit] |
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Just a reminder. I'm writing those articles that cover the entire collection, rather than just a few pieces from it. I wanted to post the links here so you could make sure and catch it. And keep checking back there, because there will be new articles throughout the season. L.A.M.B. by Gwen Stefani Alexander Wang Abaete |
| Amanda Wakeley- Two Layers |
| 10.11.07 (2:05 pm) [edit] |
 This jacket has the same sort of layered look as other pieces in the collection. It's interesting, but I'm not sure I'm a fan of it in this case. It just looks forced. If you look at the neck opening, the top layer isn't sewn down like I think it should be. I think it should blend completely in, but instead, it's kind of hanging loose, as if it's just floating on top of the layer underneath. |
| Amanda Wakeley- Tight Dress with Pockets |
| 10.11.07 (2:02 pm) [edit] |
 Oh no, no, no! This dress had a cute shape before the model decided to cram her hands in the pockets. Honestly, this dress shouldn't even have pockets in it. It just ruins the whole look. |
| Trouble with finances |
| 10.10.07 (11:58 am) [edit] |
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*This is a sponsored post. It's hard for people that have bad credit. Recently, we've heard a lot of news about people who are having problems with their mortgages, and several years ago, we heard all about the wave of people filing for bankruptcy before the new laws took effect. These people are finding themselves in financial trouble, and without any great solutions?? Do you know how you typically have to rebuild your credit?? You get a credit card with a high annual fee. These credit cards typically give you a credit limit of only $300, and your annual fee takes up a decent chunk of that. Furthermore, the interest rate is typically very high, and they change it for any reason. Some of these reasons include you getting close to, but not going over your available balance, paying off the debt you owe them, or even that they aren't making enough money. I'm dead serious. You could be paying over 30% interest because they can't manage their finances either!! Needless to say, the best solution is not to need a home loan or car loanif you have bad credit. But it's also unrealistic. You need a place to live, and often, people need a car to get to a job so they can help rebuild their credit. But don't settle for those lousy offers, okay?? You do have options, and you don't need to wait around for a lousy credit card offer to be sent to you. Check out your options and figure out what's best for your situation. |
| Amanda Wakeley- Grey and Black |
| 10.10.07 (11:49 am) [edit] |
 This grey and black dress is beautiful. At first glance, it looks like a lot of other gowns out there. But when you start examining it more closely, you notice just how unusual it is. The sheer black fabric is layered over the top, and it does not cover the middle part of the dress. Also, it encases the belt. I love this look. |
| Amanda Wakeley- Futuristic |
| 10.10.07 (11:47 am) [edit] |
 This has a futuristic sort of look. It's done rather well, where none of the elements are overly forward thinking, except for one. More about that in a minute. You can't really pick out any specific detail and say that's what is giving it the futuristic look, but it's just the combination of everything overall. Now, as I mentioned, there is one element that does stand out. The rolled collar. This just isn't done, and it's quite unusual and innovative. |
| Amanda Wakeley- Black and White Sheer |
| 10.10.07 (11:44 am) [edit] |
 This black and white sheer dress has what are probably the biggest arms I've ever seen. I could be wrong, but they look like they stretch all the way to the floor. Also, although black and white are the most noticeable colors, there is also a bit of brown here. I don't care for it. It muddles the look of the dress and turns it from a really bold monochromatic look into a more subdued one. |
| Educational Software |
| 10.09.07 (8:54 pm) [edit] |
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*This is a sponsored post. Most schools have it rough. They have to have computer nowadays, but all those computers require software to run them. I know it was expensive enough to put together my software needs for my two computers, and I can't imagine how expensive it must be to put it together for forty plus machines. Even worse, they are expected to do it on a ridiculously low budget. www.CostCaptain.com provides normal software at special rates for qualified educational buyers. This helps the schools keep costs down, which can help them spend their money on other resources. They offer titles such as Microsoft Office 2007, and Windows Vista upgrades. Qualified buyers include such institutions as school, public libraries, public museums, home school programs, and others. When I was in school, I was homeschooled for three years. My dad taught a class to several people in our homeschooling group. He was a computer programmer, and he taught a computer class. This company would have been helpful, because he would have been able to teach more varied classes. Instead of focusing strictly on DOS, he could have taught other things that would have relevance in the world of computers at the time. Possibly something such as a word processing class, that would help with things such as writing letters or making spreadsheets. |
| Allegra Hicks- Orange Caftan |
| 10.09.07 (8:39 pm) [edit] |
 On my other blog I discussed a beautiful blue caftan by Allegra Hicks. This one isn't quite as nice. That one had a nice shape, this one relies on a belt to hold it in place. That one was mostly solid, with just a little pattern. This one is mostly patterned with rug fringe at the sides and sleeves. Not a good look. |
| Allegra Hicks- Copper |
| 10.09.07 (8:32 pm) [edit] |
 If ever there was a dress that looked like liquid metal, it's this one. I HATE this fabric, but I imagine that if a woman actually wears this dress, she isn't going to care about my opinion. It's an extremely bold look, and it works as far as the liquid metal look goes. |
| Allegra Hicks- Brown Dress |
| 10.09.07 (8:27 pm) [edit] |
 This is a lovely dress, and a very nice pattern. Unfortunately, there's just nothing innovative about it. It's rather like every other brown patterned dress I've ever seen. That's not necessarily a problem. After all a pretty brown dress is still a pretty brown dress. But I wish there was something a little more interesting about it. |
| Jaw Aches |
| 10.08.07 (11:28 am) [edit] |
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*This is a sponsored post. I've had lots of problems with tooth pain, migraines, and that kind of thing. Yes, I'm one of those annoying people that grinds their teeth in their sleep. But give me a break. I don't exactly intend to do it, you know?? lol To be absolutely technical, I don't even grind my teeth so much as I clench them. So it's not that annoying for my husband, but it gives me some pretty killer headaches and jaw aches. A while ago, my dentist had me fitted for a night guard. A Night Guard helps treat TMJ, and although I don't have that, it also helps with bruxism. I should be more diligent about using my night guard, but I'll admit that I'm often pretty neglectful, and only start using it when I've had morning after morning of waking up with a jaw ache. |
| Alice Ritter- Wide Legged Pants |
| 10.05.07 (2:05 pm) [edit] |
 These pants are really great. They are so wearable that I wish I could walk into a store and pick them up right now. They have a little bit of shimmer, but nothing too overwhelming. And it plays really well with the sparkle in the top. As far as the details in the top, I possibly like it more than the pants! Every single thing is just perfect about it. |
| Alice Ritter- Unusual White Bow |
| 10.05.07 (2:02 pm) [edit] |
 Remember what I said a very long time ago, about how fashion trickles down through the various stages before it reaches the consumer? Remember those origami folded couture bridal gowns from a season or two ago?? Well, it's trickled down into the normal designers ranks now. It shouldn't be too long before we see similar pieces in stores. This bow is a little odd, but all in all, I'm glad for the innovation. Would I wear it? No, not in this stage. But it's still interesting to look at. |
| Alice Ritter- Spotted Dress |
| 10.05.07 (1:58 pm) [edit] |
 What a beautiful, yet funky look. I love the pattern on this. I think it's a lot of fun and really youthful. But the thing that gives it that extra something special is the neckline. That ruffled sort of neck is REALLY hot right now, and I couldn't be happier about it. I think it's a very cute look. |
| Photo Morphing Software |
| 10.04.07 (11:05 am) [edit] |
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*This post is sponsored by Zoombli. Morpheus Photo-Morpher is a software tool that lets you combine two photos. Zoombli is offering a special deal on this software right now. It's pretty cool, and actually a lot of fun to play with. You can see the animation I made below. I am a member of a message board elsewhere, and I recently started a thread to discuss Clinton vs. Obama. These two, more than any other candidates, seem to be getting a lot of attention from the press. So I thought it would be fun to morph their photos together, since they look NOTHING like each other! lol Besides, I can go back if I choose, and put the photo on the board for a few laughs. :D  It's really easy software to use. Simply choose two photos, place dots on one photo, move them on another, and the software makes the photo morph based on where those dots are. It's even easier to use than it is for me to explain. lol After you're done, you can send the animations to your friends, or share them on a website full of these kind of morphed photos. It literally took me longer to find photos of each person than it took to morph the photos. There's just no special skill required at all, which I LOVE. |
| Alice Ritter- Puffy Sleeves |
| 10.04.07 (10:31 am) [edit] |
 Here's another outfit with those puffy sleeves that are so cool right now. The zippered shirtdress isn't my favorite, and I'm really hesitant about having the big sleeves with it, but in all honesty, I don't hate it that much. I've seen a lot worse. This is simply going to take me some time to get used to the idea. |
| Alice Ritter- Loose Sleeve Pullover |
| 10.04.07 (10:29 am) [edit] |
 This loose sleeve pullover brings the latest trend to sportswear. I'm sure you've noticed that the loose and puffy sleeves are the hot thing right now. This is a much more innovative look that you might guess. Other designers would have used a looser profile overall, including the body of the garment. But this has the streamlined body, and looser arms. Very cool look! |
| Alice Ritter- Geometric Dress |
| 10.03.07 (2:21 pm) [edit] |
 I really like the way this dress was done. She could have tried to match up the swirly print, but honestly, it would have been impossible. She could have put the seam in the back so that it would have been less noticeable. Instead, she stuck it on the front side. It cuts the circles in half, so that the print actually ends up being even more interesting. Now you have not only curves, but straight lines. I wish the dress itself had more of a shape, and that it was not curved at the bottom, but these are very minor complaints. |
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