Category: Fashion

Clothing Upcycling: A Beginner’s Guide to Transforming Old Clothes

The best clothing upcycling project does not begin with scissors. It begins with one question: why are you not wearing this garment now? The fit may be off, one damaged spot may catch your eye, or the style may no longer feel like you. Start with the smallest change that solves that problem, because a wearable result is more useful than a dramatic makeover that becomes another unfinished experiment.

The goal is not simply to make the garment different; it is to make it wearable again.

No-Sew and Low-Risk Upcycling Projects

Use these projects to test a new shape or surface treatment before committing to major construction. No-sew does not mean no planning: adhesives, heat, dye, and raw edges still need fabric-specific checks.

1) Test a New Length Before You Cut

Best for T-shirts, button-downs, dresses, and long skirts when the main problem is proportion.

  1. Put the garment on and fold the hem to the shortest length you are considering.
  2. Pin or use removable fabric tape, then sit, reach, and walk.
  3. Mark the final line only after checking the front, back, and side view.
  4. For a permanent change, add the allowance required by the finish you will use.

Knits may curl at a raw edge; woven fabric usually frays. A temporary test lets you choose the length before deciding between a sewn hem, binding, or a product-rated no-sew finish.

2) Turn Jeans into Cutoff Shorts

  1. Try the jeans on and mark the desired finished length on both legs.
  2. Add extra length for a cuff, hem, or controlled fray.
  3. Lay the jeans flat, align the seams, and cut one leg first; use it as the guide for the other.
  4. Wash once if you want a frayed edge, then trim long threads without cutting into the weave.

Keep the first cut conservative. The shorts will look shorter once the edge rolls or frays.

3) Cover a Small Hole or Stain

A fusible patch, repair tape, iron-on appliqué, or removable patch can stabilize a low-stress area or turn a stain into a design detail.

  1. Trim loose threads and place the garment flat without stretching it.
  2. Choose a patch that extends into sound fabric around the damage.
  3. Test heat and adhesive on a hidden area, then follow the product directions exactly.
  4. After cooling, flex the area gently. Add stitching later if the edge lifts or the location carries stress.

4) Refresh Faded Color

Dye works best when the fiber, original color, stains, thread, and trims are all considered. Read the dye instructions before choosing the product; many synthetic blends need a different process from cotton or linen.

  1. Prewash the garment without fabric softener.
  2. Test a hidden area and confirm that stains will not remain darker or lighter.
  3. Protect the work area, wear gloves, and use ventilation as directed.
  4. Rinse and wash the finished garment according to the dye instructions, separately at first.

5) Make a Removable Detail from Scraps

Turn a scarf or stable scrap into a headband, bag tie, removable bow, belt, or cuff. Start with a tie-on or pin-on version so you can test scale and placement before sewing it permanently. This is also a useful way to preview colors and prints on a plain garment.

If the idea works but needs a stronger, washable finish, move into the beginner sewing projects next.

Beginner Sewing Projects for Fit and Function

These projects use short, controllable seams. Choose thread and needles that suit the fabric rather than forcing one setup onto every garment.

1) Reinforce Damage with Visible Mending

  1. Identify the full weak area, not only the visible hole.
  2. Place a patch behind or over it so the patch reaches sound fabric.
  3. Baste the patch flat, then use rows of running stitches or another simple reinforcing stitch.
  4. Check the repair from the inside and remove any loose threads that could catch.

Visible mending works best when the repair is allowed to look intentional. For more repair methods, including hems and zippers, use our clothing repair basics.

2) Add a Patch Pocket or Appliqué

A pocket can cover wear while adding function; an appliqué can cover a stain without adding bulk.

  1. Make a paper template and test the size and placement on the worn garment.
  2. Cut the fabric with enough allowance to turn the edges under.
  3. Press the edges, baste or pin the piece, and check that it sits level while worn.
  4. Stitch around the appliqué or around three sides of a pocket, reinforcing the upper corners.

3) Shorten a Hem or Reshape a Neckline

Small changes to length and neckline can make a garment wearable without rebuilding it.

  1. Mark and baste the proposed line, then try the garment on.
  2. For a neckline, cut a shallow version first and keep the shape symmetrical.
  3. Choose a finish that suits the fabric: double-fold hem for stable wovens, binding or a stretch finish for knits, or an overcast edge where appropriate.
  4. Press without stretching and topstitch only after the edge lies flat.

4) Add or Replace an Elastic Waistband

  1. Check that the garment has enough fabric for a casing and comfortable ease.
  2. Fold and press the casing, leaving an opening for the elastic.
  3. Use a safety pin or bodkin to thread the elastic without twisting it.
  4. Overlap and secure the ends, distribute the fullness, then close the opening.

Wear-test the waistband before closing the casing. Elastic that feels comfortable while standing can still bind when sitting.

5) Add a Side Panel or Adjustable Tie

This can rescue a top, skirt, or simple dress that is slightly too tight, but the added fabric must behave like the original.

  1. Open the side seam only as far as needed.
  2. Pin in a test strip and measure the added ease on both sides.
  3. Cut matching panels with seam allowance, then baste them in symmetrically.
  4. Try the garment on, check movement and drape, and finish the seams only after the fit works.

Once you can baste, fit, and finish a short seam cleanly, the larger transformations below become much safer.

There’s more upcycling at the website below.

Source:  frugallifeproject.com

Cute Summer Outfits

Sorry, this post got lost in the wash. Hope you like!

Cute clothes for summer. You will be ready for any summer event: pool parties, cute beach outfits, school outfits, casual date outfits for summer, summer night outfits.  This mini collection of summer dresses, denim shorts, and bags says summer fashion is the best.

OK, first a white tee.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How to Dress on Easter

Easter Outfits Ideas – Easter signals the height of spring with little lambs and baby chicks bouncing around, Easter eggs appearing in every household and the season’s flowers coming into full bloom. What would you wear for Easter? Which colors are suitable and attractive? How would you do make-up to fit in with this season? 

Read on to discover how to dress for Easter.

What do people wear at Easter?

In general, people tend to dress up for Easter and embrace spring style, even if it’s still a little chilly out. You’ll see a lot of floral dresses, pastel tones, or white outfits. Dresses with ruffles, lace, or soft pleats are popular choices. And layering lightweight jackets like a tweed jacket or a tailored blazer can be helpful if the weather is a bit chilly. If you prefer separates, a blouse paired with a flowy skirt or white jeans works beautifully.

Latest Trend to Try for Easter 

Our absolute favorite trend this year is the choice of feminine colored, check print dresses. They’re available in a variety of colors and styles these days but we absolutely adored this look by blogger Alexis as she has flawlessly styled a dress with puffed bishop sleeves. Loving the Gingham vibes of this look.

 

 

 

What Not to Wear on Easter Sunday

While we’ll be talking about what to wear this Easter, there are, however, a few things to avoid. Dark, heavy fabrics can feel out of place, and overly revealing outfits aren’t appropriate for more formal gatherings or church services. And they also don’t lend themselves very naturally to spring weather anyway. Also, while sneakers can be a comfortable option for egg hunts or casual brunches, avoid athletic sneakers. It’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed when it comes to Easter.

What Color Should I Wear on Easter Sunday?

When deciding what to wear Easter Sunday, pastel shades such as soft pink, lavender, mint green, and baby blue are traditional Easter colors. White and cream tones also work beautifully, especially with delicate lace details. Floral prints in soft hues are a timeless Easter favorite. If you prefer bolder colors, opt for cheerful tones like coral or yellow.

Can you wear white on Easter?

Yes, absolutely. Easter is actually one of the best times to wear white. It feels fresh and celebratory (as it should be)! Whether it’s a white dress, a white blouse, or even white accessories, it’s a classic choice for Easter Sunday.

What to Wear for Easter Church Services

Your Easter outfit should reflect your style, but also keep reverence in mind. If you’re attending a formal church service, opt for a knee-length or midi dress with classic detailing like lace or ruffles. A flowy maxi dress or a chic skirt with a tucked-in blouse will work perfectly for a casual Easter brunch or an outdoor gathering.

Also, for Easter church services, opt for a modest, conservative outfit, keeping in mind that different churches have varying dress codes.  If you aren’t sure, a knee-length or midi dress in a pastel shade or a floral print is a safe bet.  A blazer or a cardigan adds warmth and elevates the  outfit.  White pants paired with a blouse are a chic alternative for Easter church outfits. 

 

Matching Mother Daughter Easter Outfit

 

If you’re a mom to a little doll then Easter is just another occasion to dress up with her in a matching outfit as it’s the most adorable feeling ever and you only have a few years to enjoy it. Here’s a cute look and for more inspiration, you can check out  cute mother-daughter matching outfits on the internet.

 

Be the Chic Lady in White Jeans

 

 

Women love looking all chic and pretty. A nice idea to do is wear a tea pink feminine top with off white skinny pants and to add more glamor wear heels of the same shade as your top. This will add a dramatic yet subtle look to your dress. To add on more, you can wear a delicate necklace or the watch of your choice for some glam arm candy.

 

Source:   outfittrends.com©

 

WHAT IS BUSINESS CASUAL FOR WOMEN? Part II

A continuation of the first part of this series.

BUSINESS CASUAL JACKETS OR BLAZERS

Jackets or blazers are more of a requirement during colder months for warmth going to and from home, not necessarily to wear in the office since this is business casual attire. But don’t think that means you can throw on that denim jacket and get away with it. You still need your outerwear to be professional-looking. (You never know when you might need to go to lunch with the boss or a client!)

To get the most bang for your buck, stick with neutral colors; black, charcoal, brown, and navy work best. If you want something a bit different, try a jewel tone, small pinstripe or herringbone pattern, very classic. The fit is a big issue with jackets and blazers. Nix the boxy blazer and stick to something that nips in at the waist. Make sure that the jacket doesn’t pull or gape when buttoned. As an alternative to a blazer, you can try a wool moto jacket.

I love to layer blazers over all my business casual outfits because you never know how cold an office or location will be. So instead of being cold, you are prepared and also look stylish. In the outfit below I cuffed my blazer sleeve to soften the look and show off the cute striped lining. In the business casual outfit below I layered the blazer over a forest green dress. Added a skinny belt to the dress to create some definition and added a pretty silk neck scarf to brighten up the outfit and also soften it.

BUSINESS CASUAL SKIRTS OR DRESSES

While pants might be your go-to business casual attire, don’t forget about skirts and dresses. The blouses that you wear with your pants will most likely pair well with a skirt. Try a pencil, A-line, or pleated skirt in a solid color or a pinstripe or herringbone pattern. If the skirt has a slit, make sure it is a modest one and appropriate when sitting. Try a variety of colors and prints to see which style you like best. Ann Taylor always has so many nice options to choose from.

Dresses are a natural choice for business casual attire. It’s one item on and off you go to work. With dresses, you don’t have to worry about what pants match which top or vice versa. They also work well with cardigans and blazers when the weather is chillier. Necklines and sleeves should follow the rules noted above for blouses. Hemlines for both skirts and dresses can range from a few inches above the knee to just below the knee. Minis, high-low, and asymmetrical hemlines are best left in the closet during the week.

To accessorize a simple dress think about adding a silk scarf in a pretty print and color. If you need styling ideas on wearing a scarf with various outfits check out, Ways to Wear a Scarf & How to Tie a Scarf: The Definitive Guide.

5 BUSINESS CASUAL DRESS SHOPPING TIPS

1. Length
The length of a dress or skirt should not be so short that you feel uncomfortable. Look for a skirt length that ends right above the knee or, if you are tall, a mid-thigh length. This length will make it easy to get up and down out of chairs and appropriately cover you if you are walking up stairs or on an escalator.

2. Neckline
Necklines of both dresses and blouses need to be somewhat modest and not show too much—if any—cleavage. Leave the plunging V-necks and halters at home. Try a happy medium, wearing modest v-neck, round or scoop neck, boat neck, square, keyhole, or collared style. And also consider your body shape. If you have a larger chest avoid, high necklines, boat neck or keyhole, and opt for a v-neck or scoop neck. If you have a smaller chest, you can get away with wearing a boat neck and necklines such as the dress I’m wearing.

3. Sleeves
Usually, offices are on the cold side, so for dresses opt for longer sleeves. You can go full-length with a cuff or try a three-quarter-length sleeve, which is said to be the most flattering. A three-quarter sleeve ends between your wrist and your elbow.

The lower the sleeve is on your forearm; the thinner your arm will appear. So a three-quarter sleeve length has many positives. It’s office-appropriate, it’s the most flattering, it hides your arms if you’re self-conscious about them, and you won’t be as cold. Layer with a cardigan or jacket like I did in this outfit if your office is on the colder side and you can easily remove the layer as needed.

4. Fit
The fit of your dress is probably paramount. Fit = Appropriateness. Too tight is certainly frowned upon and looks unprofessional, while at the other end of the spectrum, baggy and ill-fitting clothes won’t do your figure any justice and tend to look sloppy. Look for dresses that are loose but accentuate the waist. You want the dress to be figure-flattering, but not just figure-focused. A-line, shift, sheath, and classic wrap dresses are all good choices.

5. Color or Print
Your style will help dictate the color or print of your garment. When it comes to solid-colored dresses, you’ll want to wear colors that look best with your skin tone. Of course, you can also go with basic black or navy which will make everyone look nice, but dare to try a color like burgundy, midnight blue, red, or forest green. In addition to wearing colors that look good with your skin tone look for colors that go with the seasons.

And don’t be afraid of prints. Florals, pinstripe, windowpane, plaid, or houndstooth prints are all great.

BUSINESS CASUAL SHOES

When it comes to shoes, you’ve got a lot of great options. Flats, wedges, heels, boots, and certain sandals can be worn with your business casual outfits. Flats are a comfortable option, worn primarily with pants. Try a loafer or driving moc, round or pointed toe ballerina style, or even an oxford. Heels are more typical in a work environment, but keep them around 4 inches or less, to be both appropriate and more comfortable. You can slip your feet into pumps, slingbacks, T-straps, peep-toe or wedged heels. And if you are going to be walking around a lot or on your feet for most of the day either opt for flats or a very thick block heel. Skinny heels will get you tired quicker.

Color is excellent for both flats and heels, as is a subtle animal print. During the colder months, pull on a pair of booties or knee-high boots, either flat, heeled, or with a wedge. Boots should be leather (or vegan alternative) and in a neutral color without over-embellishment (multiple buckles, say). While nylons and stockings are not required with your shoes, they certainly can be worn, as can tights and socks with boots.

Summer presents some challenges for women when choosing business casual outfits. The heat or humidity in many locations warrants wearing as little as possible, which isn’t appropriate for the office. Instead, wear clothing made from breathable material (cotton, silk, linen) and lighter in color.

If pants are your average daily attire, go for lightweight cotton or linen in white, cream, or beige. Pair your pants with a wide-strapped tank in a pretty color or wear a slightly sheer blouse with a camisole that will help to wick away the moisture.

Better yet, switch to skirts and dresses. Both of these items allow air to circulate below the knee and, yes, up the skirt. Wear skirts and dresses that have some movement, rather than a pencil skirt that hugs the body. Pair skirts with tops that have short or cap sleeves or that wide-strap tank or semi-sheer blouse with a camisole, so you stay fresh throughout the day.

You can also opt for heeled sandals, rather than close-toed shoes. As with general casual shoes, the height should be around 4 inches or lower and can include a wedge. Try to avoid dressier sandals that have embellishments, lots of straps, or look like they belong at a club. And, sadly, flat sandals are really not appropriate for most business casual work environments.

WHAT IS NOT BUSINESS CASUAL FOR WOMEN?

While the business casual dress code for women isn’t written in stone, there are some hard and fast rules on what not to wear. Here is what you should avoid when the dress code for women is business casual. Remember you want to keep it classy.

  • No jeans or denim
  • No low-rise pants
  • No capri pants
  • No shorts or skorts
  • No sweatpants or yoga pants
  • No overalls
  • No leather pants or skirts
  • No short/mini skirts or dresses
  • No body-con dresses
  • No ankle- or full-length dresses
  • No tops or dresses with a plunging neckline
  • No tops or dresses with skinny straps
  • No crop tops/halters/razorback/strapless
  • No sandals/flip flops
  • No baggy clothes
  • No super tight clothes
  • No sundresses
  • No sequins
  • No neon
  • No bra showing
  • No clogs/stilettos/high-platform shoes
  • Nothing that looks like you’re hanging out with friends, going to a picnic, going to a party/club, or going on a date.

This “what not to wear” is not a comprehensive list, but it does give some key points on what you should not wear.

Article by (stylishlyme.com)

Copy and paste this link to Part 1 of this story: WHAT IS BUSINESS CASUAL FOR WOMEN? [YOUR DEFINITIVE GUIDE] – TUTORING YOU

WHAT IS BUSINESS CASUAL FOR WOMEN? [YOUR DEFINITIVE GUIDE]

Trying to decipher what is business casual for women can be a little difficult in today’s work environment. A business casual dress code can vary depending on the company you work for, the work you do on a day-to-day basis, and the city you’re based in. As you know a business casual dress code is different depending on which cities, states, and parts of the world you’re in. Because dressing appropriately can often make or break a career, it’s wise to follow a few simple rules when it comes to business casual for women.

WHAT IS BUSINESS CASUAL FOR WOMEN?

The easiest way to think of business casual is a hybrid of business professional and casual wear. Business casual is not wearing a full-on suit, but a strapless sundress with flip-flops is not appropriate. It’s more about mixing elements of more formal business attire, like a blazer, suit skirt, or pants in neutral colors with more casual pieces like a patterned shell top or leopard print flats.

For the majority of companies, business casual is a daily requirement. So understanding how to put together stylish work outfits is essential if you don’t work from home.

It’s wise to have the majority of your main business clothing in neutral colors: black, gray, navy, brown, beige, and white. Starting with essential pieces in neutral colors and then adding pops of color not only allow you to bring some life and personality to your office outfits but you will also get a lot of use from your essential pieces. You could wear a pair of gray trousers two to three times a week and swap the top and accessories. If you get a pair of bright printed pants, you would only get away with wearing them once in a while as they would be very memorable.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN BUSINESS CASUAL ATTIRE

One of the most challenging aspects of dressing for work is finding the right business casual pieces. Shopping for business casual clothing is half of the challenge, then you have to put those items together in stylish and comfortable outfits for work.

In the following sections, I’ll share a few shopping tips when you’re looking to add business casual pants, tops and sweaters.

WOMEN’S BUSINESS CASUAL PANTS

Pants are an obvious choice and the first option for most women in the workplace. Make sure that they fit you well, are wrinkle-free, and without frayed hems or ripped seams. I like wool, cotton (including corduroy), linen and gabardine, and you can also add in polyester, which is easy to care for. There is also a nice selection of colored denim available these days, make sure the color is pure with no fading, and it’s good to have a bit of stretch in them to make them more comfortable for sitting for long periods.

Basic neutrals work best, as you can pair them with a lot of colored tops, but you can opt for colored pants in a dark muted color like burgundy or forest green. You can also try pinstripes or a small plaid. Mid- or high-rise both work, and the hems can be cuffed or uncuffed. I like wide-legged trousers, but you can also go with a straight leg, boot cut, or ankle-length.

You can also change up the style of your business casual pants during the seasons. During the fall and winter look for thicker fabrics in dark colors and patterns more synonymous with the season.

In the spring and summer look for lighter pants in fabric and color. You also have a lot more options during this time of year. Depending on your style you could even wear wide-leg cropped pants in white or blush.

BUSINESS CASUAL BLOUSES AND TOPS

To add a pop of color or pattern to an outfit, think blouses and tops. There are a lot of choices out there in pretty colors that will complement your skin tone, eyes, and hair color. Pastels, jewel tones, plaids, muted florals, and prints (paisley, geometric, polka dot, ikat) are all acceptable.

In colder months, stick with long or ¾ sleeves; for spring and summer, short or cap sleeves work well, and you can even wear a wide-strapped tank. In the warmer months look for light blouses with cap sleeves, sleeveless, and shell tops in silk, light cotton, or other light fabrics.

Keep your neckline somewhat modest with a collared, boat neck, square neck, or turtleneck. If you go with a scoop or V-neck, make sure that cleavage is not on display. Keep your shirt tucked in or, if worn out, make sure it covers your waistband by several inches. And it should go without saying that you must wear a bra, and a tank or camisole if your blouse is at all sheer.

SHOPPING FOR BUSINESS BLOUSES AND TOPS

Shirts and tops are a category where you have almost unlimited options. It’s easy to get carried away because of the variety and affordable options. You’ll invest more money in pants and blazers as those are the work essentials that you’ll wear over and over through the years. But with tops, you don’t need to invest so much in them as you’ll most likely want to add a few new business casual blouses every year.

In summer and spring look for shirts in bright colors and fun prints. Like polka dots, florals, lace, windowpane, stripes, leaf prints, and mixed prints. If you light colors on the lighter side, opt for blush, pale yellow, pink, baby blue, light gray, or cream. If you love brights, look for tops in pink, green, yellow, orange, red, and bright blue.

I know it can get cold in the office so even if you wear a sleeveless silk top you might want to layer with a blazer. In the business casual outfit below I paired a green silk polka dot top with a striped blazer. The two colors look great together and added neck detail on the shirt adds to the dimension and looks great against the straight-cut blazer. This is the variety and fun you can have with business casual

BUSINESS CASUAL SWEATERS

You can also wear sweaters in a variety of ways, either as a top or over a shirt if you want to layer, with pants or a skirt, or over a dress. The fit of the sweater is essential here, so try to stay away from anything too baggy or ill-fitted. Fine-gauge knits work best; bulky sweaters not so much.

Your basic cardigan is a staple in business casual attire, and it can be a simple waist-length cardigan or a longer boyfriend one. Your sweater can have buttons, no buttons, or have a draped front collar. With longer cardigans, you can even use a skinny belt to add some definition and a different look to an outfit.

My favorite types of sweaters to wear to the office is thin, v-neck, long sleeve sweaters, like the pink one I’m wearing below. I love business casual sweaters because you can layer a button-down shirt underneath and pop out the collar over the sweater like in the outfit example below. The bright pink sweater is a high contrast between the striped collard shirt and black bottoms.

Another business casual sweater that I believe is essential is the simple long black cardigan. You can see in the outfit below I paired it with the pink v-neck sweater, this is an excellent option for fall and the colder months. You can layer a long black cardigan over a variety of outfits, and it’s also very comfortable.

More business casual attire (Blazer’s, skirts, dresses and shoes) in tomorrow’s post.

Source: (stylishlyme.com)

Differences Between Blazer, Sport Coat, and Suit Jacket

Today, the term “blazer” and “sport coat” are often used interchangeably, but historically there’s a difference. Let’s first discuss what separates a blazer from a sport coat.

Blazer vs Sport Coat

A sport coat is inherently more casual than a blazer, making it the least formal of the 3 jacket types. They are typically made of visibly textured fabrics like tweed or corduroy, while a blazer can be made of those fabrics as well.

Another distinguishing feature of a sport coat is its bolder patterns and colors, but a blazer can be bold and in a variety of colors too. Historically speaking, the sport coat was worn during “sporting” activities, hence the name. But since there’s little actual difference between the two, I just naturally default to saying blazer.

Blazer vs Suit Jacket

A suit jacket should always be worn with the pants that it was meant to be paired with, as it’s a mistake to wear a suit jacket with chinos or jeans. A blazer can be worn as a separate, but not a suit jacket. And a blazer can also be worn with denim or chinos, but a suit jacket should not.

The suit jacket is dressier than a blazer and is made of finer woolen fabric, whereas the blazer is often made heavier weighted fabrics. One final differentiator is that traditionally, the navy blue blazer has gold buttons, while suit jacket does not.

The bottom line:
Blazers/sport coats are more versatile than a suit jacket. Don’t make the mistake of wearing a suit jacket as a separate.

By Khoi Nguyen for Gent Within©

Off-Black Hair Is The Coolest Dark Dye For Spring

Winter may be on the way out, but a sleek off-black hair color never goes out of season.

It’s easy to think going blonde is the move for warmer temperatures. Nectar blonde and expensive blonde looks have been taking over Instagram, plus Gigi Hadid and Florence Pugh just went back to the popular shade. 

Dua Lipa attends The Fashion Awards (Photo by Stephane Cardinale – Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images)

There’s nothing like being the trendsetter, though, and off-black hair will be the sleeper hit of this spring. A full black hair dye can be a dramatic change to make, but for those looking to try a cool brunette tone that can look close to black, off-black hair dye is an excellent choice. 

“While very dark, this hair color is actually the darkest shade of brown with a very cool, ashy undertone, giving the appearance of black to the untrained eye,” says Tom Smith, celebrity hair colorist and creative director at Australian haircare brand evo. “This stops the shade looking too harsh or draining, but retains the striking, inky appearance of the hair. Off-black is a current celebrity favorite, recently seen on Billie Eilish, Dua Lipa, Olivia Rodrigo, Megan Fox, and Maya Jama.”

Off-black is a great way for brunettes to try out a darker color, even if jet black isn’t their favorite. To achieve this color for your hair, ask your stylist for the darkest shade of brown with a cool ash tone. 

This style achieves the look of a dramatic dye, but it won’t take arduous trips to the salon to maintain. Smith says this shade can be maintained perfectly with the evo fabuloso colour boosting treatment in the shade of cool brown.

Don’t forget to consider the hair cut possibilities with this dye. The refresh doesn’t have to stop at color. A boy bob could give the new color a natural feel, or try the blowout bob for a ’90s throwback. 

By Janae McKenzie for Glamour©

Never Wear This Type of Clothing on a Plane

With holiday travel in full swing, you’ve likely already noticed that those security check-in lines at the airport are much longer than usual. From getting to the airport at least two hours before your flight leaves to double-checking that you have all your essentials in your carry-on bag, it’s always smart to make sure you’re fully prepared for your trip. But being ready for your flight goes far beyond how well you manage your time and packing. According to flight attendants and travel experts, how you dress for your flight matters, too, and it can have an impact on how comfortable and safe your time in the air is. As it turns out, there’s one particular piece of clothing that would be better off left in your suitcase. Read on to learn the one thing you should never wear on a plane because of a serious health risk.

Never wear skinny jeans on a plane.

Whether you’re right next to the window or stuck in the middle of two strangers, sitting on a plane usually means you’re in a fairly compact space. With limited legroom and other people surrounding you, there’s not much of an opportunity to stretch out, unless you leave your seat. That’s why what you wear on a flight can make a difference to how cramped you feel. Specifically, there are certain pants that you shouldn’t wear when flying to your next destination.

“It’s best to avoid wearing skinny jeans on a lengthy flight,” says Molly Fergus, general manager of the travel site TripSavvy. “They limit movement and are likely more annoying to deal with in cramped, dirty airplane bathrooms.”

Some passengers experience bloating in their stomach during flights.

Air travel can affect your body in different ways. During flights, some passengers experience discomfort and bloating, known as “jet belly,” due to the increase in air pressure. In a 2016 interview with Condé Nast Traveler, Peter Hackett, MD, director of the Institute for Altitude Medicine in Telluride, Colorado, explained that “gas in the intestines will expand about 30 percent with a cabin altitude of 7,000 feet.”

And while not everyone feels this discomfort on a plane, tight clothing can exacerbate the problem. “Bloating is a major issue, even for flight attendants, so wear something comfortable around your waist like elastic,” Andrea Fischbach, American Airlines flight attendant, told Who What Wear in October.

Skinny jeans on a plane can also put your health at risk.

Experts say that wearing tight pants on a plane can put your health in jeopardy. In fact, skinny jeans can increase your risk of developing a blood clot, generally in your legs, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Symptoms of this medical condition include swelling, pain, or discoloration of the leg, along with your leg feeling warm, per the Mayo Clinic.

“DVT is a rare but serious condition that is more likely to occur when you’re sitting in one position for long periods of time—like on a long-haul flight,” Fergus explains. “Constricting, tight clothing can also increase the likelihood of developing a blood clot, so it’s not a good idea to mix the two.”

In order to prevent any potential health complications, be sure to give yourself as much room as you can while in your seat. “It’s very important to be able to move around a bit in your seat—very difficult, I know—and keep your blood flowing,” Fischbach told Who What Wear. “If you are tall, travel a lot, or are on a long flight, this is extremely important because you face the risk of developing DVT.”

There are other clothes that you shouldn’t wear on a plane.

Skinny jeans aren’t the only items you should avoid wearing on a plane. In a TikTok video posted in July, flight attendant Tommy Cimato explained a few things you shouldn’t do on a plane, including wearing shorts. He pointed out that you never know what touched your seat or how many people wiped their hands on it. So, for sanitary reasons alone, be sure to keep your legs covered.

Article by Amber Raiken for BestLife©

These Colors Make You Less Attractive, Say Psychologists

Believe it or not, there are some colors you’re wearing that can actually lower your attractiveness. Therefore, you’d be wise to avoid them. Learn about the colors that secretly make your less desirable. (As well as the two colors that can enhance your appeal.)

Yellow

 

Synonymous with the sun, Big Bird, and taxis, yellow is a color that catches the eye quickly. However, it isn’t going to do your dating life any favors. A study found that both men and women ranked yellow as among the least attractive colors to see a potential mate wearing. “In summary, our results have shown that clothing color affects perceived attractiveness of males as well as females,” the study concludes.

(A certain shade of) Brown

 

Phrases like “that’s the worst outfit I’ve ever seen” or “I just had the worst day ever” are thrown around a lot these days. But most of the time that’s just an exaggeration. Well, turns out there really is a “worst color ever,” and you don’t want to be caught wearing this shade on a blind date.

Technically called “Pantone 448 C,” the color can be described as a “drab, dark brown,” as Time puts it. It’s also described as an “olive brown,” and is the current title holder of the “the ugliest color in the world.” In fact, this shade of brown is visually repulsive.  What’s more, it’s even been chosen as the main color for tobacco packaging in Australia to discourage the habit. 

Gray

Every color invokes a certain emotion within us, and in many cases, it happens on a subconscious level. Gray isn’t a particularly exciting color, and is associated with bad weather, depression, and negativity. Also, a study that investigated which emotions people tend to associate with certain colors found gray to be connected with sadness. So, going all gray may not be the best idea the next time you want to dress to impress.

Context is key when choosing colors

Colored clothing of all colors of the rainbow / spectrum hanging in the wardrobe.

Life is full of exceptions, and certain occasions call for different colors. “The impression that the color of clothing gives is also subject to the particular occasion or scenario. Bright, flirty colors such as red and turquoise are attractive choices to wear on dates and parties. However, they’re not the best options for a job interview.  Whereas in which cool, deep colors such as navy, grey, or black work best.

This notion is supported by research as well. A series of experiments was conducted to see if men would prefer their dates wear red over other colors. One notable finding did appear, the observation that women tend to like wearing blue on dates.  Chiefly, the study authors ended up concluding “color preferences for each individual are inherently unique.”

However, you can’t go wrong with black

Many believe red is the best color to wear to attract others. Red is definitely associated with love and warmth, but black may have it beat when it comes to universal appeal.

“Red is traditionally seen as the color of love, but more recently research has shown that both black and red are perceived as equally attractive.  However, the two colors may simply increase attractiveness in different ways.

“While red may increase perceived attractiveness through evolutionary mechanisms, dates appear to rely more heavily on black in order to attract a potential mate. Basically, this suggests that cultural and societal influences may play a much larger role in the way people dress than the use of evolutionary signals. 

Article by John Anderer for ETNT

Photo’s © Provided by Eat This, Not That! 

So good readers, what do YOU think?

Related reading:    So, What’s Your Color? – TUTORING YOU