Fabulous faux diamonds - Glamour that is affordable

"Diamonds are a girl's best friends.. "

"Diamonds are for ever.. "

Popular sayings about ladies and diamonds are many. Women's love for diamonds has been talked about many a time. However, real diamonds may not always be affordable. Not everyone can celebrate an occasion with a pair of diamond earrings or a diamond ring. But don't we all love the look and feel of a diamond? Well, there is a solution for this dilemma faux diamonds.

Technology has enabled man to produce diamonds manually, known as faux diamonds, that look and feel exactly like real diamonds, but at much more cheaper costs. Consequently, faux diamonds are available at highly affordable rates. Faux diamonds are known by several names, such as lab-made diamonds, man-made diamonds and imitation diamonds. Faux diamonds look so much like real diamonds that it is very difficult to distinguish between the two. Only a highly trained person can differentiate the two, and even then, in certain cases, a microscope or other equipments might be required.

Initially, when faux diamonds were introduced, they were looked down upon. Later, as the prices of diamonds began shooting up, as did the prices of almost all commodities, out of reach of the middle- and low-income group, faux diamonds began to be accepted. Just as the invention of cultured pearls brought about a new trend in the pearl jewellery industry, faux diamonds have revolutionized the diamond jewellery industry.

There are different kinds of faux diamonds available in the market today, from Cubic Zirconia (CZ) to Moissanite. There are a number of ways in which faux diamonds can be produced. These stones are priced depending upon the type of manufacturing process used and their qualities. However, they are usually far less expensive than original diamonds.

Once one has decided on the budget for purchasing jewellery, there is a wide range of jewellery to choose from. Faux diamond set in metal offers the look and feel of diamond at highly affordable rates. If, however, one is looking for slightly better quality, faux diamonds set in gold and silver is available. A bit more expensive than jewellery set in ordinary metal, it is more durable, and the stones used in it are of better quality and cut. Such jewellery often looks more real and professionally made.

Quality tests carried out on faux diamonds have proved that they are as good as real diamonds. These tests include a test of brilliance, refractive index, fire, luster and hardness, among others. Here, the brilliance test refers to allowing light to enter into a stone and studying the amount of light that is reflected back, and the fire test refers to allowing light to enter the stone and studying the ability of the stone to break this light down into various colours. At times, faux diamonds have been found to outperform diamonds in these quality tests! Moissanite, a type of faux diamond, ranked higher than an original diamond when brilliance, fire and luster were tested. In case of hardness, it ranked only slightly lower than an original diamond. In fact, so many jewelers were unable to differentiate Moissanite from original diamonds that a specialized instrument had to be designed for this very purpose!

Why should one go for faux diamonds? First and foremost, they offer the gorgeous real-diamond look that very few can tell apart with the naked eye, that too within a limited budget. Apart from this, they offer several other benefits, such as:

• With imitation jewellery, one need not worry about theft or insuring your jewellery.

• One need not be worried about the fraudulent pricing mechanisms that are sometimes observed in the diamond jewellery market showing very high prices for the products and then declaring a huge rate of discount, so as to attract more buyers.

• The processes of diamond mining, cutting and polishing have been observed to involve inhuman working conditions and child labour in many parts of the world. Faux diamonds are laboratory-made, and hence, such situations can be avoided.

• Original diamonds vary in quality, while imitation diamonds have a uniform quality. The chances of frauds are thus minimized.

• In case of original diamonds, monopolization of the market through diamond cartels has been observed. Faux diamonds are very reasonably priced, and hence, monopolization is not encouraged.

• Last but not the least, the attention that one gets is worth a mention. One can flaunt a rock-sized diamond without burning a hole in ones pocket!

Diamonds might be a girl's best friends, but it is quite clear that faux diamonds are probably a girls best decision when it comes to buying diamonds! So, what are you waiting for? Just go ahead and buy all the jewellery you have always wanted to buy! Flaunt your faux diamonds with style!

References:

1) http://www.suite101.com

2) http://www.buzzle.com

Heels over the years

The high-heeled shoe - the ultimate piece of fashionable footwear - has come a long way. This shoe, which has often been a matter of discussion and debate, has not always been what we know it as today. With the passage of time, it has considerably evolved. And that is what this article seeks to study - the journey of the high-heeled shoe till date.

The formal version of the high-heeled shoe is believed to have come into existence during after the year 1533. However, rougher, more informal versions have been known to exist since long back.

Egyptian murals dating as far back as 3500 BC show men and women wearing shoes, some of them in heels. It is believed that these heels were mostly worn for special occasions. Butchers in Egypt were also known to wear heels, so as to avoid stepping on the carcasses of animals.

Evidence has also been found to indicate that people in Ancient Greece and Rome wore heeled shoes called 'Kothorni' or 'Buskins'. These shoes would have heels made of wood, and would be worn mainly by actors. Another evidence of the wearing of high heels in the olden times comes from Ancient Rome, during the times when prostitution was considered illegal. During this period, sex workers would wear high heeled shoes for the purpose of identification.

In the Middle Ages in Europe, a product called 'Pattens' was largely used by males and females. It referred to wooden soles that could be readily attached to shoes, so as to avoid stepping on dirt when walking outdoors. 'Pattens' were believed to be the forerunner for the invention of the 'Chopines'. 'Chopines' referred to a more primitive version of the platform heels of today, invented in Turkey in the 1400s. It was largely used all over Europe until the middle of 1600. Chopines would be up to 30 inches in height, and women would be required to use a cane or the help of a servant to enable them to walk comfortably without tripping over. Like pattens, chopines would also be strapped to shoes, and were worn mostly by ladies.

This practice of making heels as a separate component that could be easily attached to shoes continued till the 1500s. With the passage of time, this led to the production of heeled shoes as a single piece. The popularity of the heeled shoe went up considerably in the 1500s. Mostly, they were used by riders, as they prevented the feet from slipping out of the stirrups while riding. The heeled shoe that was originally designed for riders was about 1 to 1-1/2 inches high, and was similar in appearance to the cowboy boots or riding boots of today.

In the mid 1500s, the heel became thinner and more stylish. This change came about on account of the fashionable high-heeled shoes popularized by Catherine de Medici, who married Henry, the son of King Francis I of France, in the year 1533. Catherine, who wore high heels on account of her short stature, made them more popular as 'fashion accessories' rather than as 'functional accessories'. By the year 1580, fashionable high-heeled shoes were worn largely by the affluent class of the society, which led to the coining of the term 'well-heeled', meaning a person who was well-to-do.

In the beginning of the 1700s, King Louis XIV of France used to wear heels as high as 5 inches, which would have elaborate scenes of battle on them. These heels later became popular as 'Louis heels'. During the century, heels evolved to become more thin, arched and more fashionable. As they were believed to make feet look more attractive and desirable, laws were passed over time, banning women from wearing high heels to 'capture' a man. Women who violated this law would be declared witches and would have to face trial.

In the year 1791, high heeled shoes were completely banished by Napoleon. In spite of this, high heels made a comeback in the year 1790s, courtesy Marie Antoinette with her 2-inch heels. The heels worn during this period were relatively low, just about a wedge in size.

After a fall, the high-heel fad picked up again in the 1860s. Heels began to be available in different lengths. Some people highly advocating wearing high heels, stating that they were not harmful to health, but, in fact, were beneficial. According to them, wearing high heeled shoes prevented people from stooping excessively, thereby reducing the probability of backaches, and also helped in walking properly and in a less tiring manner. Some critics, however, believed that wearing high heels gives rise to a promiscuous gait, while some believed that the high heel was symbolic of the curved claw of a witch or a devil.

High heels gained full-fledged acceptance in the latter part of the 19^th century. This was replaced by the demand for comfortable flat shoes in the earlier 20^th century. In the mid 20^th century, fashions changed, and as hemlines grew higher, the demand for stylish high heeled shoes went up. Again, in the 1930s, heels became shorter in length, a trend that was soon replaced by the demand for elegant high heels in a variety of patterns, ranging from glittery to colourful ones. This trend was popularized by the new varieties of heels sported by Hollywood celebrities. In the 1940s, due to the Second World War, the availability of luxury items went down, and heels became thick, simple and unadorned.

The world of heels underwent a revolution with the invention of the stiletto in the 1950s by Christian Dior. The stiletto had a low vamp and a narrow heel. However, they were not very well accepted, and some public buildings banned the use of stilettos as they were believed to damage the floors.

With the rising popularity of the miniskirt in the beginning of the 1960s, shoes with stiletto heels also became popular. Again, with the upsurge of the feminist movement, stilettos began to be opposed by feminists because they were believed to restrict the movement of women and slow them down when escaping from male violence. As a result, low-heeled shoes with square toes were developed. Later, in the 1960s, the platform shoe was developed, which became hugely popular in the 1970s.

High heels came back in fashion in the 1980s, a trend that continued into the early 1990s as well. In the late 19^th century, factories producing high heeled shoes began to open in Italy and other parts of the world. This was followed by America, which opened its first heel factory in the year 1888. Manolo Blahnik's high heels began making a large-scale appearance in the fashion circuits, reviving the fad. With the passage of time, high heels began to be considered as signs of designer and fashion wear for special occasions, while flat shoes became the norm for the corporate world. Designers like Jimmy Choo and Emma Hope designed extra-tall heels in the 1990s. Again, in the later part of the 1990s, the fashion of the high heels started declining.

With the onset of the 21^st century, heels again got a lift, with the introduction of the 'heel-less' high heeled shoe by Manolo Blahnik, as well as several varieties of heels being developed by many other designers. Women began to have a wide choice of heels to wear for different occasions.

The fashion of high heels still continues to be evergreen. High heels are very commonly found at parties, special occasions as well as on the ramp. Heels, even after such a long period of time, remain symbolic of fashion, style, and class. It is now a must-have in the wardrobe for fashionistas.

That is the long story of the journey of the high heeled shoe. So, the next time you shop for a pair of shoes, don't forget to add a pair of heels to your shopping list!

References:

• http://www.allaboutshoes.ca
• http://www.lifeinitaly.com
• http://www.randomhistory.com

Picture Courtesy:

• http://www.myshoes.us
• http://www.olrikdenmark.com
• http://z.about.com
• http://culturegarage.com

Apparel Exports Create New Milestones in Bangladesh

The Bangladesh textile and garment industry has been plagued by a lot of problems in the last one year. But this has not affected the sector which is blazing new trails and setting new milestones in its apparel shipments in the last fiscal year, in the midst of rising energy and raw material costs and an ever growing labor unrest in its garment factories.

The fiscal year 2007-08 saw Bangladesh textile and garment sector earning US $14.11 billion in export revenues, registering a growth of 15.87 percent compared to the previous year. The largest contribution, as always, came from the readymade garment (RMG) sector.

Garment exports from this small Asian country grew from $9.21 billion in the corresponding period of last year to touch a nadir of US $10.71 billion in the Bangladesh fiscal year July07-June08, to post a growth of an astounding 16.18 percent.

The Bangladesh garment sector has none other than the Chinese textile and garment industry to thank partly for the robust growth achieved in the last 12 months, and mainly due to the down trend witnessed by the Chinese textile juggernaut in the last few months.

Chinese goods which at one time were the most price competitive in the global market, have lost their edge, because of ever increasing costs of raw materials, appreciation of the RMB and rising energy and labour costs.

This in turn has helped garment exporters from other Asian countries like Bangladesh, India and Vietnam. Bangladesh is one of the few countries to have taken the maximum advantage from this situation.

While exports of woven garments grew from $4.65 billion in the previous July06-June07 fiscal to $5.16 billion in July07-June08 fiscal to register a growth of 11.0 percent, shipments of knit apparels on the other hand rose by an awesome 21.48 percent to touch $5.53 billion from $4.55 billion in the corresponding periods.

There is no doubt that the key driver in growth of garment exports has been the contribution of shipments of knit garments.

During the fiscal under consideration, exports have consistently recorded growth in each month of the year, except for three months. Exports grew from $691.98 million in July07 to $1143.56 million in June08 to register a growth of a remarkable 65.41 percent.

In comparison, shipments for the corresponding months of July06 climbed from $904.89 million to just $961.24 million in June07 to clock a growth rate of a marginal 6.30 percent.

Bangladesh garment exports have no doubt been fueled by the Chinese slowdown, but other global factors have also contributed to this above average growth rates.

The continuous appreciation of the Indian rupee in 2007, due to which exports of apparels and textiles from India had witnessed a slow down, in turn also helped exporters from Bangladesh to deliver such incredible results

The scorching growth rates achieved in the last fiscal has emboldened the garment sector to set ambitious export targets for the next few years. It has set a target of $25 billion to be achieved by 2010.

The Bangladesh garment industry has achieved an appreciable level of self sufficiency, in its raw material requirements. Due to the rapid investments made in the downstream sectors, the knitwear sub-sector obtains 80 percent raw materials from the domestic market while woven sub-sector is able to source 40 percent of its requirements.

This has resulted in a massive savings in outgo of valuable foreign exchange which otherwise would have to be spent in importing of raw materials.

The growth of the garment industry in the economy has no doubt filled up the space left vacant by the once effervescent jute industry. But the continuous labor unrest and labor shortages could prove to be a dampener in its goal of reaching a target of $25 billion by 2010.

Infact at a recent meeting organized by the labor commissioner with members of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers Association to bring out a solution to the ever-growing labor unrest, it was suggested that strong motivational role of the owners, creating a sense of belonging among workers, timely intervention of management in case of agitation, would surely bring about a positive change.

In the coming months the garment sector also may not have the same global competitive advantages it has enjoyed in the last few months. The Chinese government has recently raised the tax rebate availed by exporters from 11 to 13 percent.

The Indian rupee has also seen a downtrend against the US dollar in the last few months and is showing signs of stability. The exporters will have do a lot more to retain the edge that helped the sector post record figures.

Garment Exports from Bangladesh (July-June)

Fashion designing - the then and now

Fashion designing can be loosely defined as 'the art of creating fashionable apparel'. With the passage of time, however, the concept of 'fashion designing' has extended to other things such as fashion accessories such as jewellery, bags, footwear, etc. Keeping in mind the evolution of fashion designing, it would not be wrong to define it as 'the creation of fashion'.

Fashion designing has indeed come a long way from the mere designing of clothing. Fashion designing has evolved into a full-fledged industry today. It is well accepted as a career option all over the world. Apart from designing, there are a number of other career alternatives that have emerged in this industry with the passage of time. This article seeks to study the evolution of the industry of fashion designing the then and now.

The origin of fashion designing dates as far back as 1826. Charles Frederick Worth is believed to be the first fashion designer of the world, from 1826 to 1895. Charles, who was earlier a draper, set up a fashion house in Paris. It was he who started the tradition of fashion houses and telling his customers what kind of clothing would suit them.

During this period, a number of design houses began to hire the services of artists to develop patterns for garments. Patterns would be presented to the clients, who would then place an order if they liked them. It was during this timeframe that the tradition of presenting patterns to the customers and then stitching them began, instead of the earlier system wherein the finished garments would be presented to them.

In the beginning of the 20^th century, new developments in fashion would take place in Paris first, from where they would spread to the rest of the world. New designs of clothes would be born in Paris before they found their way to other parts of the world. In other words, Paris emerged as the 'fashion capital'. 'Fashion' during this period was mostly 'haute couture', exclusively designed for individuals.

Towards the mid-20^th century, fashion garments began to be mass-produced. The bulk of production increased, and people began to have more choices of garments. Towards the end of the 20^th century, fashion awareness among people increased, and they began choosing clothes for themselves based on comfort and their own style, instead of relying on the trends prevailing in the market.

Today, as stated above, fashion designing is well accepted as a career option. A number of institutes have come up the world over, offering courses in various arenas of fashion. The number of students who consider fashion as a serious career and who have gone in for courses in the same has gone on rising over the years.

Specializations in fashion designing have come into being. There is a wide range of options for a designer to choose from, such as lingerie, swimwear, women's wear, bridal wear, children's wear, men's wear, footwear, handbags, etc. Fashion designers used to be self-employed earlier now find a number of career opportunities open for them. They can work with garment firms and export houses. They may also be engaged in the job of remodeling haute couture and adapting them to the tastes of the mass market. They might also hold jobs in departmental stores or specialty stores.

Developments in the field of fashion designing have given rise to other related career paths such as hairstylist, make-up artist, fashion journalists, fashion advisors, fashion photographers, etc.

Another significant change that has come about in the fashion designing industry in recent times is the increased use of computers and technology. A number of software packages have come up to aid designers in the process of designing as well as other stages in the production of a garment, easily and speedily.

Fashion designing as a trade has also grown. Fashion designers have gone on to get repute not only in their own countries, but internationally as well. The number of fashion shows and participation in the same has gone up considerably in recent times.

Fashion designing is thus no longer only the designing and creation of a garment, but it is a world in itself involving fashion, design, creativity, technology as well as business.

References:

• http://www.ezilon.com
• http://en.wikipedia.org

Picture Courtesy:

• http://blogging-class.blogspot.com
• http://www.vintagetextile.com

New choice for intimate apparel

It is not that time any more when lingerie used to be only lacy and frilly. Leather lingerie is an in thing these days, looking as glamorous as lace lingerie. It is gradually becoming popular and gaining acceptance in the fashion world. Leather lingerie is also being paired with a number of other clothing items, to create a unique effect. This article seeks to study this fashion of leather lingerie in detail.

Leather lingerie today is available both for men and women, in a variety of colours, patterns and finishes. Belts, corsets, bras, teddies, panties, stockings, thongs, etc. are some of the commonly available types of leather lingerie. The sizes available range from normal to extreme plus. Leather lingerie is commonly available in the traditional colours of leather such as black, brown, white, and tan. A number of lingerie producers have now started producing leather lingerie ranges, sensing the rising demand for the same. Leather lingerie is easily available in most lingerie shops over the world, as well as in online stores.

The quality and feel of leather lingerie depends upon a number of factors, such as the properties of the leather originally used, the agents that are added during the process of making the garment, as well as the technology used for the same. Modern technology has made it possible to make leather lingerie in different colours than the traditional ones, and to give different types of finishes to them.

The kinds of leather that are commonly used to produce garments are those of the cow, pig, sheep and goat. These days, artificial or man-made leather is also being largely used for the production of garments, which is known as faux leather. Faux leather is similar to original leather in appearance and qualities, except for the smell. Moreover, it is cheaper than original leather.

There are many reasons as to why leather lingerie is being preferred by more and more women around the globe. First of all, leather lingerie looks absolutely gorgeous and sensuous. Available in a variety of sizes, colours, finishes, and patterns, leather lingerie makes a wonderful fashion statement. It is suitable for all body sizes.

Good quality leather lingerie is soft and supple, and it does not irritate the skin when worn. Leather lingerie, when worn, heats up and reaches the same temperature as the body. This makes it well-fitting and comfortable to wear.

Leather lingerie is very easy to care for, and does not require much maintenance. The use of leather cleaners and conditioners helps in keeping the material soft and supple in the long run. Leather has good breathing properties, which makes leather lingerie quite comfortable to wear. Leather is a highly flexible material, making it form-fitting and adding to its comfort factor. Leather lingerie fits like a second skin, making movement fairly easy. Initially, a leather garment may seem tight, but with the passage of time and continuous wearing, it gets moulded in the shape of the body. It is highly durable, and does not tear easily.

Leather lingerie can make a wonderful fashion statement, and can speak volumes for the wearer. It can make a great gift item as well. So, if you are looking for something new and exciting in lingerie, do not forget leather lingerie!

References:

• http://www.nowpublic.com
• http://plussize.lovetoknow.com
• http://contentdig.com
  
  

Picture Courtesy:

• http://www.leatherobsession.com

Indian Womenswear Foresees Lucrative Market by 2010

The beauty of a woman lies in her graceful charm, and it is the desire of every woman to look gorgeous without losing the essence of what makes her uniquely attractive. A right kind of apparel enhances her beauty and makes her look presentable. Womenswear is more complicated comparatively with menswear. Its trends are capricious and keep changing constantly and swiftly in every season in design, fabric, color, and style, whereas, men's wear trends evolve slowly with predictable changes.

Womenswear Market Scenario:

Indian womenswear market is going through a phase of renovation. Total value of womenswear market is estimated to be around Rs. 37,000 crore during 2007. It further indicates a positive growth rate of 14% a year, for the next five years reaching Rs. 61,000 crore by 2010. With the increasing number of working women, and simultaneously; the amount of their disposable incomes, womenswear market has taken a new dimension with the entry of many new as well as foreign brands. Consistent changes in fads, increasing information and knowledge of dressing sense due to media exposure, have also supplemented to the metamorphosis. With more women coming into spotlight now, they seek to dress well, look presentable and also prefer to buy branded clothing. Thus this segment of the apparel market has ample growth opportunities, as the market still remains untapped with only a few notable brands.

Womenswear includes both intimate wear and outerwear. Main categories are suits and coats, T-shirts, jumpers, tops, jackets, skirts, blouses, sweaters, and sweatshirts. Ethnic Indian wears like salwar suits also add to it. As the number of working women increase, market for fusion wear and western wear are likely to grow simultaneously.

Prominent Womenswear Brands:

Indian retailers believe that womenswear and lingerie are the two categories that have a potential market and new brands can be introduced frequently. Branded wears for women is having an encouraging conversion rate of 60% on large store formats. Many manufacturers who were initially concentrating only on men's wear have started to focus more on the formal wears for women. Their main targets are working women in the age group, 22-40. Raymond has established its womenswear brand through its flagship brand 'Park Avenue', and its casual wear with the label 'Color Plus'. It is targeting to achieve 25% of the share in womenswear market estimating a revenue of Rs.400 crore by 2010. Premium labels such as Allen Solly, Esprit, and Mango have a solid market. Indian Terrain, with an intention to refocus its business has expanded its portfolio by including womenswear in its collection.

Lingerie market is also seeing a rosy future in India. Organized players will comprise 40% of the total lingerie market by 2009. Branded intimate wear 'Jockey' registered a 50% growth for womenswear during the first half of 2007, comparatively with a 30% growth in the menswear segment. French brand 'Etam', and Italian 'La Perla' have already made their Indian debut.

With organized retail structure gaining much more importance and new malls springing up, potential for branded wears foresee a lucrative market. Women like to look and feel attractive in the clothing she wears. With more and more women coming out of their shells for work, their challenging job environment, and women involving in jobs requiring long-haul travel, more requirements is felt for western wears. Retailers have to take care of providing a more conducive environment as they like to shop in privacy. With all positive aspects retail market for womenswear will witness a cut-throat competition in the forthcoming years with every retailer fighting for a slice in the pie.

References:

1. http://www.expresstextile.com
2. http://www.rediff.com
3. http://www.thehindubusinessline.com

Fashionable embroidered jewellery

Trends in Indian jewellery demand are fast changing. Preferences are shifting from traditional forms of jewellery to trendy jewellery - commonly known as junk jewellery, fashion jewellery, imitation jewellery, and a gamut of other names.

A new trend is emerging in junk jewellery - embroidered jewellery. A far cry from the traditional heavy jewelry, embroidered jewellery is colourful, light, creative and fun to wear. This kind of jewellery that suits almost all kinds of garments is gradually gaining acceptance in the fashion world. Though embroidered jewellery has been around for quite some time on a small scale, the national and international demand for embroidered jewellery has been rising constantly in the past couple of years. It is now being considered as an item with a considerably high export potential.

Embroidered jewellery is commonly made of materials such as metal, shells, wood, cloth, sequins, glass, beads, horn, bone, lac, leather, etc. These materials are used in different combinations to create various kinds of artistic designs. A considerable amount of time, effort, creativity and precision is invested in the preparation of such jewellery, as most pieces have intricate workmanship. Bracelets, bangles, earrings, necklaces, rings, pendants and cufflinks are the commonly available forms of embroidered jewellery.

Usually, the base of the jewel is made of cloth, leather, metal, wood or lac. In the last three cases, the base is covered with cloth. Embroidery is done on the cloth, using colourful threads, so as to create attractive pieces of jewellery. Silver and golden threads are also made use of, to add to the elegance of the jewel. Sometimes, embellishments like glass, sequins, shells, beads, horn and bone are used to add to the beauty of the design. In some cases, precious and semi-precious stones are also made use of.

Usually, in case of rings, the base ring is made of metal, while an embroidered stud made up of felt, jute or leather is attached to it. Similar is the case with bracelets. The base may be made of metal, while embroidered studs or pieces of embroidered fabric may be attached to it. Some of the embroidery styles that are commonly found in case of embroidered bracelets are knot stitches, Romanian crocheting, woven picots, bullion knots and Tunisian Intarsia crocheting.

The craft of making embroidered jewellery was largely practiced in the villages of India, but with its rising popularity, it has begun to be produced in the urban areas as well. Sometimes, embroidered jewellery is also custom-made, to suit the individual requirements of customers.

Some of the main reasons behind the picking up of the trend of embroidered jewellery are that they are trendy, attractive and go with all kinds of apparel. Also, they are inexpensive, and can be easily afforded by all classes of people.

So, the next time you are looking for some trendy jewels, don't forget to shop for some great embroidered jewellery!

References:

• http://www.indian-embroidery.com
• http://www.fireworkszone.com

Picture Courtesy:

• http://www.indian-embroidery.com
• http://blog.peruvianconnection.co

Fusion Fundas - A Note on Indo-Western Fusion Fashion

As is the case with a number of things, Westernization has had its impact on Indian clothing as well. A significant part of the Indian population has turned to Western garments such as jeans, trousers, skirts, T-shirts, suits and shirts, and prefer them over traditional clothing such as sarees and dhotis. There is, however, a certain section of the population that prefers to stick to traditional Indian clothing. Interestingly in the last decade, a beautiful amalgamation of Indian and Western clothing has become popular, which has come to be known as 'Indo-Western' garments or 'Indo-Western fusion' garments.

Indo-Western fusion garments are being largely preferred by Indian consumers males, females and children alike and have now become 'the in thing'. These garments are gaining acceptance in the Indian mindset, and are becoming the choice of apparel at formal and informal events, as well as for work wear. There are several designers who have taken to the designing of Indo-Western fusion garments. Consequently, there are several such pieces of apparel available in the market.

Indo-Western fusion garments are usually a combination of Western-style patterns and Indian designs. Usually, in Indo-Western style salwar kameez, decorative stoles are used as an accessory for added effect. Another way of fusion commonly found in today's times is the use of ethnic embroidery styles from different parts of India - such as Phulkari from Punjab and mirror work from Rajasthan - on dresses with Westernised patterns. Sometimes, more elaborate embroidery styles such as Meenakari, Kundan, Resham and Zardozi work are also used. Denim jackets and pants with Indian-style embroidery and other embellishments on them are all the rage in India today. A shorter version of the kurta, called 'kurti', paired with denim pants or trousers is also quite popular, both among males and females. Another piece of Indo-Western fashion wear that is highly preferred in India is a kurti paired with a straight-cut pant-style salwar and a dupatta. With the passage of time, newer fusion styles are being developed such as short dupattas, pants with slits and sphagetti-style tops in case of salwar kameez. Patiala-style salwars worn with short shirts is yet another example of Indo-Western fusion wear largely preferred by youngsters in India.

This trend of Indo-Western fusion wear has also gradually spread to bridal wear. Sarees are being draped in the Grecian style, and saree blouses are becoming more and more Westernised in pattern. Lehengas worn with halter tops is another example of Indo-Western fusion fashion that is being accepted as wedding wear.

This amalgamation of elements from the Indian and Western cultures is found in accessories as well, especially in case of jewellery. Usually, a light Western touch is added to Indian traditional jewellery, so as to make it suitable for wearing with fusion wear. Apart from this, large, dangling earrings, beads, and fancy bracelets are also in vogue with fusion garments.

Coming to the reasons as to why Indo-Western fusion fashion has become so popular in India, several can be cited. Indo-Western garments have an elegant and trendy appearance, without losing the touch of Indian culture, making them suitable for wearing at all kinds of occasions. They are the perfect blend of elements from both Indian and Western cultures, balancing both, i.e. neither too Americanised nor too ethnically Indian. It is, thus, suitable for wear by almost all age groups, and is all the rage among the youngsters in India today. Indo-Western fusion garments are available in different styles, from daring ones to modest ones. They suit the Indian body type rather well. Fusion wear is more comfortable to wear, as against the cumbersome traditional Indian dresses, which is why it is being largely preferred by the working class.

So, the next time you are out shopping for something trendy but comfortable to wear, don't forget to stop for a few pieces of Indo-Western fusion wear!!

References:

http://www.americanchronicle.com

http://www.waytoindia.com

http://www.utsavsarees.com

http://www.sitagita.com

http://en.wikipedia.org

http://www.indobase.com

Picture Courtesy:

http://lh3.ggpht.com

http://www.meenalsindianfashions.com

http://www.zardosi.co.uk

The WSA show: The global footwear & accessories marketplace- Part IV

Source : World Shoe Association

Las Vegas Review-Journal

LOSING THEIR VERY SOLES

Crowds sparse at twice-a-year shoe convention

Sparse foot traffic this week in the Las Vegas Convention Center suggests fewer people than usual made tracks to town for one of the shoe industry's biggest conventions.

Thanks to an economic kick in the shins from increased manufacturing costs and decreased consumer spending, folks flogging footwear this week at the World Shoe Association Show say it's unlikely the 35,000 or so people who typically attend the semiannual event made the trip this time.

People who did make it say they weren't surprised attendance is down because manufacturers and retail buyers - especially small, specialty companies - are finding it hard to make ends meet.

"Customers owe money to their suppliers. They don't want to run into them," said Neal Marks of Hazan Shoes Inc., maker of affordable, stylized dress shoes sold in stores such as Mastroianni Fashion in the Las Vegas Valley.

Marks said he has attended the show regularly for about 20 years and expected fewer people would make the trip to Las Vegas for the event, which ran Monday through Wednesday at the convention center and The Venetian.

"The little guy is not here," said Marks, who estimated it cost his company about $20,000 for space, hardware and other expenses related to exhibiting at the show.

Others suspect larger firms are cutting costs by sending fewer people to conventions. If that's the case, shoe manufacturers might still write enough orders to make the show a success, but there will be fewer people spending on hotel rooms, restaurant meals and other building blocks of the Las Vegas economy.

"It only takes a couple of orders to pan through and a slow show becomes a great show," said Ken Struss, West Coast sales representative for Goorin Bros. Inc., a San Francisco-based retailer.

Struss was pushing products from Goorin's 1333 Minna brand, a line of hats styled by artists and aimed at younger buyers. In Las Vegas, the line is available at Stash Clothing stores, he said. "For the big guys it is status quo," Struss said. "For the other, smaller, exhibitors it seems to be pretty slow."

It isn't just the shoes, either.

Through May, the number of convention visitors to Las Vegas is flat compared to 2007 at about 3.3 million. But the number of conventions and trade shows is down almost 3 percent and the amount of money conventioneers spend in Las Vegas is down nearly 5 percent.

"Flat is good in this type of economy," said Chris Meyer, vice president of convention sales for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority.

The authority, which runs the convention center and boosts conventions at resorts throughout Las Vegas, is trying to juice attendance with increased marketing.

In March it launched a telemarketing service it says has made about 65,000 calls to potential convention attendees. About 2,000 of those responding told operators they would attend an event. At the typical spending level of $1,500 per person while in Las Vegas that translates to more than $3.1 million.

But attendance remains stagnant for some events, especially in hard-hit sectors of the economy.

"Anything that is in that retail space, they are having troubles," Meyer said.

The short shelf life of fashion trends has always lent an air of even greater volatility to footwear and other fashion-oriented industries.

But current economic problems seem deeper than sartorial sensibilities.

On the demand side, consumers who feel insecure about their jobs and the value of their homes are reining in spending on all but the most basic staples, such as gasoline, food and sensible clothing.

It's happening as the supply side faces dramatic increases in the cost of bringing products to market. Petroleum, which is needed to transport and manufacture shoes, costs about twice as such now as it did last year at this time.

And in China, where many of the shoes sold in America are produced, factories face rising costs because workers are organizing for improved workplace safety and higher wages and the government is enforcing stricter environmental regulations.

According to a report by specialty news service Internet Product Development Group, more than 2,300 shoe factories in one Chinese province closed during the first half of the year.

The news service, with bases in Prague, Czech Republic, and Washington, D.C., quoted factory owner Tim Hsu saying, "Shoe factories, clothing, toys, furniture, everyone is shutting down."

And it could worsen. A risk analyst from the firm Sovereign Advisers told the news service the problems in China haven't yet seeped through the supply chain in the form of higher costs.

"We expect a lag of two to three quarters before the real impact occurs," analyst Kevin O'Brien said.

The global squeezes on supply and demand are already taking their toll in Las Vegas.

"I think we are in a period of time now where it is that much more dramatic," said Diane Stone, chief operating officer of the WSA Show and the Collections at WSA. "There isn't just one thing going on now."

But Stone says the 60-year-old WSA show is better positioned than most Las Vegas conventions to weather the current economic storm. It moved to Las Vegas from Long Beach, Calif., 20 years ago and has been held at the Las Vegas Hilton and, now, the convention center and The Venetian in summer and Mandalay Bay and Sands Expo Center in winter.

With about 1,300 exhibiting companies, the event is widely known as the sole event for many retailers who want a one-stop shop to take in everything available on the market, an asset in tough times.

When people pare back, they tend to cut superfluous expenses first. Stone says that for many in the footwear industry, WSA is must-do event.

"In economic times like these, the shows that do best are the ones that are recognized industry leaders," she said.

The show changed hands late last year and management is cutting back on fancy parties and big concerts by the likes of Rod Stewart and Stevie Wonder in order to put the focus on feet.

That helps people who attend get more business done for less money.

"They are outrageously expensive to stage," Stone said of the concerts. "This is a business event. You want to invest in the right places."

The WSA Show: The global footwear & accessories marketplace- Part III

Source : World Shoe Association

CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE SOLE

WSA exhibitors hone in on comfort

Women have spoken and the shoe industry has obliged: Pretty shoes are now comfortable. Or, at least their manufacturers are doing everything they can to make them so.

The World Shoe Association, the bi-annual shoe and accessory convention at Las Vegas Convention Center and The Venetian, was in town this week and comfort was the big trend generating buzz on showroom floors.

If you're picturing Crocs and nurse shoes, you have the wrong idea.

We're talking footwear with a strong fashion focus. Velvet Angels, a new line designed by former head designer of LAMB, Joe Ponce, boasts a few nose bleed-inducing heels named after bars in L.A. The line's bowed heels, flats and kitten heels all come with silicone-padded insoles.

"For me it was a natural transition because I come from an athletic footwear background," Ponce said. "And when I started designing the line my wife said, 'Why can't these ever be comfortable?' "

Some of the Velvet Angels shoes sold locally in C-level and Shooz, hurt just to look at them and could consequently struggle with comfort claims. However, other shoe lines can rely on their reputations to uphold their claims, like the joint effort of Foot Petals and RSVP.

Foot Petals is known for its shoe inserts that relieve foot pain and RSVP is a comfort concentrated shoe line. Their collaborative collection, RSVP Cushioned by Foot Petals, is strictly sold on the Las Vegas-based retail shoe site, Zappos.com.

The Foot Petals Tip Toe and Haute Heel inserts are sewed into each of the shoes' sock liners to add a feel good element to each shoe. The line launches the end of August.

Paris Hilton's line of shoes, Paris Hilton Footwear, may include sky-high platform stilettos but even the heiress has taken steps to improve the wearability of her shoes. A cushy "comfort heart" is inside the inner sole of every shoe to make them viable options for women who "are on their feet all day."

Whether these lines hold up to their claims remains to be seen. But, rather than have you empty your purses testing each out, Shoetube.tv does the work for you. The online video channel aims to bring women together through their love of shoes. Part of its vast shoe coverage includes testing shoes' wearability and reporting the results.

Host Jill Hodges, who grew up in Las Vegas, reported from WSA and took note of the comfort efforts among manufacturers. A life-long shoe addict, Hodges has worn foot-straining shoes so long she's damaged her feet to the point she now needs corrective podiatry surgery. She plans to blog about it on the online video channel.

Her love-hate relationship with shoes makes it easy for Hodges to understand why women who watch Shoetube.tv are just as concerned with wearability as they are new trends.

"Chicks want to know if they're comfortable but they don't really care if they aren't," she said. "They just want to know what they're up against."

The WSA Show: The global footwear & accessories marketplace - Part II

Source : World Shoe Association
At Vegas Expo, It's Shoetime'

LAS VEGAS- This city is a haven of glamour, glitter, and greed. Could there be a more natural location for one of the most elaborate shoe events in the world?

The World Shoe Association expo, billed as a "global footwear and accessories marketplace," took over the Vegas strip this week, drawing 35,000 guests and hosting retail players from more than 90 countries. Most flocked here to take in the Spring 2009 shoe collections. Fetishists met their match.

WSA is a surreal world where phrases like, "Your foot-beds are amazing!" and "We're combining trends, from the bootie to the gladiator to the bondage," and "like Ugg boots, but sexier" are uttered without irony. Where black, gold, and silver are tarted up as "black iris," "marigold," and "silver rose." Where the neologism "flexy" a conflation of flexible and sexy doesn't raise an eyebrow.

Showgoers - a stylish melange of buyers, vendors, designers, and brand founders - appeared to run on a steady fuel of caffeine, booze, and sugar. Fishbowls outside of every gleaming display booth - practically mini-boutiques within the enormous Las Vegas Convention Center - tempted with piles of wrapped chocolates or sticky confections.

Shoe companies constructed elaborate pavilions in which to hawk their wares. Me Too boasted a two-story wooden structure, while a lush white expanse of Panton chairs and Saarinen Tulip tables marked the Italian Shoemakers' base. Skechers ensconced buyers in a striking white capsule with gleaming blue panels and bamboo.

"The Box," an uber-chic compound, complete with a dreadlocked DJ and plastic goblets of red wine, hosted sleek collections from Velvet Angels (think knee-high filigree laser-cut leather boots) and Kathryn Amberleigh.

At the Venetian Hotel, more than 350 designer and luxury exhibitors at the Collections at WSA (think higher-end, aspirational brands) set up shop within the hotel's bedroom suites. There were United Nude colorful wedges splayed out on 600-thread-count sheets, strappy Isaac Mizrahi Couture numbers perched on an armoire, La Fenice stilettos balanced on mini-bar boxes of exorbitantly priced jelly beans.

Forget "Le Reve" down the street. This shoe-heaven dream was for real.

The WSA Show: The Global Footwear & Accessories Marketplace- Part I

Source : World Shoe Association

The WSA Show Steps up to Celebrate Product Excitement in another Successful Marketplace

New Trends with Global Reach Took Center Stage at World's Largest Footwear & Accessories Event

ENCINO, Calif.

The footwear and accessories marketplace was in full-swing this past week at The WSA Show and The Collections at WSA, held in Las Vegas. The industry's biggest names were out, and business flourished in every market category, from men's, women's, and kids' shoes, to jewelry and accessories, with exhibitor participation that included category leaders, emerging brands and rising stars. An estimated 29,515 participants from 99 countries/territories were in attendance in Las Vegas, representing a 2.8% increase over the February show.

"We are extremely pleased with the participation in this edition of the show," said Diane Stone, Chief Operating Officer. "We approach buyer recruitment by talking one-on-one with the top-tier retail organizations that are important to the brands, and 86% of those retail organizations attended the show. Like all businesses today," Stone continued, "some of their teams were smaller in line with controlling their costs, as we all are, but their buying power was here and that's what's most important."

On the first day, the show floor was buzzing when singer and actress "Fergie" appeared at the Brown Shoe Co. booth to launch her new footwear collections: Fergie and Fergalicious by Fergie. The Fergie collection boasts sophisticated, sexy shoes with a glam rock influence while the Fergalicious by Fergie line embodies the popstar's fun and funky pop rock edge. Both lines will make their in-store debut for Spring '09.

Major brands such as Steve Madden and Geox benefited from being at The WSA Show. "The WSA Show has been a very successful show for us," stated Phil Pine, National Sales Manager, Steve Madden. Kitty Bolinger, Director of Sales, Geox, mirrored Pine's sentiment by saying, "We're very pleased with the attendance to the show. We maintained a strong, consistent traffic flow to our booth and received tremendous response to our womens sandals."

Another part of the show causing a stir was The Box at WSA. Doubling the size from its February debut, The Box at WSA offered retailers and buyers better, contemporary, trend-driven handbags and footwear in an open, hip boutique-style environment, allowing visitors to freely explore and discover next season's trends from new and established designers including Velvet Angels, Sergio Tomani, Gwyneth, Boutique 9, Dikuza, Sacha London, Dulce, GogoGear, Anouk, NeuAura, Peta Martin, Joan & David, Manas Spa, Kathryn Amberleigh, Tara Crystalle, YOU by Crocs, Nina, Charles David and Kowalski.

"Exhibiting in The Box has been a terrific experience for us. As a new brand, it was the perfect venue for buyers to discover our product, and with a very minimal investment, we were able to make a really big impact," said Joe Ponce, president, Velvet Angels. "The Box really has become the venue that WSA envisioned it to be."

Attendees from all 50 states, plus Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, were among those to walk the show floor alongside buyers from 99 countries/territories from all continents. The global buyer recruitment efforts were strengthened significantly for this show, and in addition to the efforts of WSA's Retail Relations Team, The WSA Show and The Collections at WSA were recently accepted into the U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) International Buyer Program, which accepts only 32 tradeshows per year.

In addition to hosting international buyers, the DOC was on hand to field inquiries from U.S. brands seeking international distribution. According to Joe English, senior international trade specialist, "We have had more inquiries at this show from U.S. companies seeking to establish or expand their global reach than at any show I can remember, and we at the DOC are pleased to find companies in the footwear industry so vigorously interested in transcending borders to build their businesses."

Also, returning after its debut last February was the Materials at WSA category, which continued to add a whole new dimension to the floor by rounding out WSA's comprehensive offerings to help service the supply chain needs of manufacturers and retailers. Materials at WSA offered industry leaders access to booths from over 70 exhibitors, educational workshop programs, hands-on demonstrations and an innovative trend area featuring fall/winter '09/'10 forecasts.

The WSA Show's July seminar series was second to none, offering 11 individual seminars and four workshops featuring the best assortment of speakers in the industry including Marshal Cohen (NPD Group), Mercedes Gonzales (Global Purchasing Group), Ellen Campuzano (Fashion FACTS Folio), and others.

Another unique facet of the show was the incredibly well-received Style Walk Lounge. The fun, inviting space, sponsored by American Express OPEN, entertained attendees with five live fashion presentations per day, expert commentary from TV personalities Lawrence Zarian ("Live with Regis and Kelly" and "Extra") and Monica Jackson (Las Vegas' "Fox5 News Live"), and upbeat music from the Playboy Mansion's resident DJ - DJ Crash. The Style Walk Lounge provided an exciting space with front-and-center exposure for a variety of new and undiscovered labels including Aetrex, Clarks, Blossom Collection, Nina, Grendha, Joan & David, Prima Royale, Lishan International, Florsheim, Toms Shoes, Wanted Groove/VYBE, Koolaburra, Report, Mia Shoes, YOU by Crocs, Ed Hardy, DiKuza and Tara Crystalle.

"Despite the economic challenges at the moment, at the end of the day it's all about the product," added Stone. "When editors came to talk to me during the show, I asked them what they thought of the product offerings and many told me they saw excitement. I strongly encouraged them to write about it because that's what retailers need so they can excite customers who will buy things that are new things they don't have. We are part of an industry that's great at innovation and creativity and the most exciting brands and retailers will make their way through these turbulent times. Everyone who mattered gathered in Las Vegas and I am confident that this industry's energy charged them up. We had numerous exhibitors who had a terrific show due in large part to their outstanding product offerings."

The WSA Show is gearing up for the next marketplace, which will take place at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center and the Sands Expo Center February 12 -14, 2009. The Collections at WSA, making its debut in a 3-day format in February '09, will continue to be held in the suites at The Venetian.

About The WSA Show

The WSA Show is the world's largest and most comprehensive footwear, handbags, and accessories marketplace, offering a 360-degree viewpoint of the footwear industry. The twice-yearly event in Las Vegas attracts more than 37,000 participants from 95 countries in 2.1 million square feet of space. The Collections at WSA, an exclusive premium footwear and fashion jewelry show within The WSA Show, features 350 luxury footwear, handbag and jewelry designers from around the globe in an exclusive upscale setting. Materials at WSA, which launched in Las Vegas in February 2008 alongside The WSA Show, further expands the breadth of this industry marketplace to include the supply chain by focusing on materials, design, components, technology and sourcing alongside the finished product, becoming easily accessible to brand and retail leaders. For more details, please visit www.wsashow.com.

Junk it up!!!

'Junk it up!!! - dress up in style with junk jewellery'

Talking of jewellery, gold, diamonds, silver and platinum have always been the choice of women worldwide. However, this is not the case any more. The trend now is that of junk jewellery, popularly known as funky jewellery, imitation jewellery, bling bling jewellery, modern jewellery or fashion jewellery.

More and more people are going in for junk jewellery, for office wear, school and college wear, and even for parties and other occasions. Not only teenagers, but people of all age groups are going in for junk jewellery. It's not only the women who are getting attracted by these trendy accessories, but men as well.

Junk jewellery is now available in almost every nook and corner in all the cities of India, and that too in a large variety. There are also several online stores that sell junk jewellery.

Such jewellery is in high demand all over the world. India, China, and Africa are major exporters of junk jewellery to USA, Australia and UK, in which there is a tremendous preference for this kind of jewellery.

The main reasons behind the rising popularity of junk jewellery are that it is colorful and trendy. It is lightweight, unlike traditional gold or diamond jewellery, and easily affordable, due to which it does not have to be safeguarded closely. The vast variety of colours and designs in which it is available as well as its easy availability has made it wearable on all occasions. One of the other reasons behind the picking up of the junk jewellery trend is the popularity created for it by film and television actors.

The materials in which junk jewellery is available are various:

Wood: Jewellery made from wood is trendy, and at the same time, has an elegant and natural look to it. Different kinds of wood can be used for making jewellery. Wooden jewellery is available in a number of natural colours. Usually, wooden jewellery is polished with beeswax, to give it a smooth finishing.

Beads: Beaded jewellery is available in a vast range of colors and designs. The fusion of different kinds and sizes of beads helps in creating unique and attractive designs. Bead jewellery can be very colourful and trendy.

Bone and horn: Bone and horn are used to create natural-looking, elegant pieces of jewellery. Different kinds of processes are done on the basic material, to create unique effects. Smoking, burning as well as bleaching and staining the horn or bone are some of the special processes carried out to create specific effects.

Brass: Brass is another material that is commonly used for making junk jewellery. Brass bangles are well liked by ladies the world over.

Resin: Resin is a highly versatile material, which can be moulded into a variety of shapes. Different kinds of finishes can be given to resin jewellery. Resin can be used in combination with other materials for making jewellery. It can be painted with a wide range of colours. On account of its flexibility, resin is a favourite material for jewellery makers.

Other materials: Some of the other materials used for making junk jewellery are paper, leather, glass, ceramic, clay, and plastic. Various kinds of stones are used with different materials. Semi-precious stones might also be used at times.

Junk jewellery is suitable for wearing with both modern as well as traditional outfits. It is available in large, ornamental patterns as well as in subtle designs. It is available in humourous and fun designs as well from zodiac signs to animals. Antique-look jewellery, oxidized, silver and gold-plated, stone-studded- name it and you can find it with a junk jewellery dealer. Junk jewellery is available in various kinds as well, from bangles, earrings and nose pins to arm bands and necklaces. Sometimes, a wonderful combination of traditional and contemporary designs can also be found. There is something for everybody, as far as junk jewellery is concerned!

It is quite obvious that junk is now in, as far as jewellery is concerned. Make sure you have a few pieces in your wardrobe too. Just junk it up!!!

References:

• http://www.deccanherald.com
• http://matrimonyxpress.bharatmatrimony.com

Picture courtesy:

• http://www.quirkycat.co.uk
• http://www.mongaglobalexports.com
• http://randomfashioncoolness.blogspot.com
• http://www.numerospeaks.com