Fashion

Choosing the perfect Christmas gift for older teens can be tricky. A lot of the time it can seem like they would rather just have the money and choose something for themselves, but you still want them to have something exciting to open on Christmas morning that you’ve been able to put a lot of love and thought into. A lot of teens want electronics as gifts, but if your teen daughter doesn’t need a new phone, laptop or tablet, then getting something that has that ‘big present’ feel can be more difficult.

But this is why a designer bag can actually be the answer. If your teen is really into fashion, but you want to give them something a bit more lasting and useful than new clothes, a bag is the luxury item that your daughter will be thrilled to own! Here we look at why bags can be so special, and how to choose one as a gift.

The Best Designer Item to Own

Teens who love fashion tend to covet things from the big name designer brands, but of course, since they don’t earn their own money yet, they can’t really be stepping out in head to toe Prada or Versace! This makes any luxury stuff they own really special to them, and something they will want to show off all the time. A bag is the best example of this because it is something they can pair with all of their outfits to give them a designer lift! Unlike shoes which need to fit with what they’re doing, or other popular accessories like sunglasses, which you can’t wear all the time, a bag can go anywhere, so when it’s the first or only designer piece she has, it’s the best one to choose.

Lasting, Classic Style

Another great thing about designer bags is that they can last for years if they are well looked after, and if you choose a chic, classic style that won’t go out of fashion, like one of the beautiful Saint Laurent bags you can find at SSENSE, then she can be making use of this new bag right through college – and maybe even at her first job. It may not be quite as permanent a gift like jewelry, but it is definitely more practical and will be something she will want to keep for a long time. SSENSE has all of the latest collections from all of the most desirable high-end fashion brands, including Gucci, YSL, Givenchy, and many more, so you will definitely be able to find a beautiful bag there.

Choosing a Bag

If your daughter has already expressed an interest in a certain brand or admired the designer bag someone you know has (or one of your own), then that can be a good starting point. You can also think about her favorite colors to wear, or what will go nicely with some of the outfits she wears the most, such as her winter coats. Another important thing to consider is the size of the bag. You can really choose anything from a pretty clutch bag through to a day bag, but if you want her to be able to use it a lot, it is better to go for a day rather than evening style, which will have room for the things she usually keeps in her bag.

As you can see, a designer bag is a delightful thing to receive as a teen for Christmas, so why not consider shopping for one for your daughter this year?

 

There comes a time in your life when you feel sad and down. Sometimes life can be quite tough on you, and you need to do something to lift your broken spirit. To restore your confidence, you need to find an outlet and do something new and exciting for a change. For most women, going on a shopping spree can make them feel better.

Shopping at online stores like https://www.emilyheart.com for a few pieces of personalized jewelry can immediately transform their mood and personality. Being confident matters to many people because it says a lot about their character. Also, a significant number of individuals do believe that wearing high-quality accessories like jewelry has something to do with their self-esteem. Here are some of the common reasons that are worth sharing.

Wearing jewelry makes you more appealing

If you are working in a corporate setting, it matters to your bosses and clients that you look beautiful and presentable every day of the week. Paying much attention to your physical appearance and choice of clothing is essential However, you should wear jewelry to look more smart, sophisticated, and confident. If you are trying to apply for a job or you are vying for a promotion, you have to work hard to make a positive and lasting impression. It is not enough for you to have excellent credentials and outstanding performance. Your overall appearance and other people’s perception of you matters also.

It makes you stand out

If you are the type of person who loves attending parties and special gatherings, it is a must to look great at all times. Aside from having a lovely looking gown or a well-tailored suit, wearing a matching set of jewelry can make you look classy and elegant. If you want to become the center of attention, plan your outfit and accessories carefully. Be careful not to go overboard when wearing jewelry. Choose designs that are unique and yet sophisticated at the same time.

An excellent way to convey a message

You can express your personality towards other people through your fashion sense. The same thing goes with the kind of jewelry that you wear. You can make an impression on other people by the way you choose and wear jewelry in public. If your outfit looks dull and boring, you can choose to wear a few pieces of jewelry to compliment your overall look for the day. If you want your presence to command respect and attention from people around, choose to wear genuine pieces with simple yet elegant designs.

Lastly, wearing pieces of jewelry during parties and special occasions can help you meet new friends and acquaintances. Not all people are naturally friendly. Some are quite shy and nervous when they are around strangers. You can make use of jewelry as a topic if you wish to strike up a conversation with other people. Dish out a few compliments about the jewelry and ask more follow up questions and turn it into a meaningful discussion.

 

A wristwatch is a classic accessory which has withstood the test of time and for good reason. Wristwatches can be incredibly functional and practical, as they don’t just tell the time – they can perform a number of brilliant functions as well, depending on the type of wristwatch you choose. And speaking of type, there are plenty out there – there are diver’s watches, field watches, aviator watches, and so on. So, when you are thinking of buying a wristwatch, which type or kind should you go for, and which one should you select based on your need and preference? In other words, what kind of watch should you buy? Here’s a look at the different types of wristwatches available to help you narrow down your choice.

• A field watch

A field watch is an iconic timepiece, and it’s a practical wristwatch if there ever was one. In World War I, soldiers were still carrying watches in their pockets. But this was encumbering because conditions were muddy and cold, and soldiers were usually wrapped up in loads of clothing to protect them against inclement weather. But they still needed to tell time accurately. As a solution, soldiers began fitting straps onto their pocket watches so they could attach them to their wrists. And when they went home, they continued using their watches this way until watchmakers began to make watches with straps expressly for use by the military. During the Second World War, field watches became a standard. Today, field watches come with some varied features. They often have an analogue display, although their functionality doesn’t go much beyond timekeeping. They also come in small to medium sizes to prevent them from catching on a person’s cuffs, and they are known for their durability and simplicity, with easy-to-read dials as well. They also feature inexpensive straps made from nylon or cloth, such as the popular NATO strap available on certain Burberry watches for men which keeps the wristwatch from falling even if a particular lug gets loose or breaks. Field watches are also water-resistant, and they also feature luminous dials.

• A dive watch

A dive watch is also referred to as a diver’s watch or a diving watch, and it is an easily recognisable kind of watch as well. The first dive watch was developed to address a certain need, which was for the watch to be worn by scuba and deep-sea divers. A dive watch is distinguishable due to its durability and ability to withstand rough wear and tear, and it can also serve as a great timepiece even if you are underwater. Dive watches often have a heavy stainless-steel case, and the display is quite simple. The hands of a dive watch are usually designed so that you can easily distinguish the minutes, hours, and seconds, and the numerals or marks are also large and distinct. The bezel of the dive watch can also either be turned anti-clockwise or locked in. Dive watches are known for their easy adjustability, and they can come with cloth straps, rubber straps, or stainless-steel bracelets.

• A dress watch

A dress watch, just as its name implies, is ideal for more formal events and occasions. You can wear a dress watch to impress others with your status and style as well. Dress watches are usually sleek and thin, and they are also quite lightweight and elegant. A dress watch doesn’t have too many functions as it serves more as a fashion accessory, and most dress watches don’t even come with a second hand.

Image attributed to Pixabay.com

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It’s not only women that accessorise, but men too. Whether you are looking for accessories for yourself or you are looking for a gift to give to someone, there are men’s accessories that are must-haves that you may want to consider. Here are some of them.

Black and brown leather shoes

Men need leather shoes to wear in the office and on formal occasions. Black and brown are the best colours to have since they can work well with any style or shade of outfit. Instead of pairing them with the typical black or white socks, go for dress socks as they look better with these shoes. The thickness of socks varies, so you can go for thinner ones if the weather is hot or thicker ones if the weather is cold.

Black and navy-blue tie

Like leather shoes, ties are also must-haves for office work and formal gatherings. Go for black and navy-blue ties, especially if you want ties that you can use with all your suits. These shades will match well regardless of the suit colour or style, making them convenient and practical.

Black and brown leather belt

Black and brown are basic colours that are easy to match with any other shades, which make them also ideal for leather belts. Belts are not only used for formal wear, but for casual wear too. They will keep the trousers secure and also give that complete look to the outfit.

Watch

Another staple men’s accessory is a watch. Depending on the occasion, style, or activity, there are different types of watches to choose from. If you are a sports enthusiast, some watches are perfect for your activities like fitness watches that can track your progress. Leather watches can be used both for formal and casual events. There are also watches with replaceable straps that let you conveniently switch straps, like Omega. Choose from a wide range of Omega Nato strap colours that are made from leather and textile, and use the one that you like based on your mood or outfit for the day. They are amazing because you can have different styles using the same watch.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses give that cool vibe, and most of all, they protect the eyes from the sun. Heat and brightness will make you squint, which can create wrinkles. Purchase a classic pair to go with all your outfits. Be sure to choose those that will complement the shape of your face. If you have a rounded face, you will look best wearing angled sunglasses. Find rounded shapes if you have an angular or longer face.

White sneakers

Another must-have is a pair of white sneakers. If you want to make your formal attire look more casual, wear it with these shoes. They’re also versatile as you can wear them with jeans, shorts, and any other outfit regardless of the shade or style.

These are the things that you must have in your wardrobe. You will never go wrong with these pieces.

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We hear quotes about time all the time.

“Time is gold.”

“Time is precious.”

“Love is sweeter the second time around.”

Oops! Wrong article. The last one seems rather out of place here. We can talk about that another time. Anyway, we’re here to discuss something you always use every day. You wear it to work, probably to social gatherings, and many other places. Maybe, you’re even the kind of person who never takes it off.

I’m talking about wristwatches. Not as deep and critical as life and love, but an important topic to discuss nonetheless.

The Importance Of Telling Time

You know how adults always say “You never know how important time is up until you’ve got none left.” Well, I think it’s true. When you’re young, able, and you feel like there’s a whole future waiting up ahead for you, it’s hard to appreciate the concept of time. Therefore, we end up wasting it.

One thing we fail to understand when young, however, is that time flows continuously. It doesn’t stop for pauses or breaks. It flows just like how the river continues down a stream. No matter how much you try to halt its movement, it continues to move on. Even if you barricade it, then it just overflows. Time works like that – and it has worked like that since the world began.

So if you think that time will wait around for you, then it’s high time you change that way of thinking. Time is definitely not going to pull its reigns just so that it can wait for you to pull through. You should be the one to develop a more conscious attitude towards time. You have to make sure that you put every second to good use. You have to make sure that you get the best out of this life. After all, you’re the only one that can do that for yourself.

You can start by recognizing the importance of telling time. When you accept its necessity, you’ll begin to see changes in your life. You’ll act with more discipline, you will work twice as hard, and maybe you’ll live life in a way that you minimize any and all forms of regret. When you learn the importance and value of time, you see things a little differently – perhaps more clearly. You begin to see that you’re being here is nothing but temporal. However, the moments you create are things that can last forever. Maybe by knowing such things, you’ll begin to take life a little more seriously. Learn more about the importance of time management here: https://www.successconsciousness.com/blog/time-management/importance-of-time-management/.

How Can You Start Disciplining Yourself When It Comes To Managing Time?

Well, first of all, you need something to help you track it. The more aware you are about how fast time is moving, the more you’ll be able to push yourself to accomplish things faster. This is where the trusty old wristwatch comes in.

Sure, there are other things that can tell you what time of the day it is. There are wall clocks, pocket watches, smartphones, and maybe even sundials. However, nothing beats the convenience of the wristwatch. It literally rests on your wrist without causing any bother, enabling you to do many things whilst still having perfect view of the time. You can swiftly peer into the watch and get back to what you’re doing without causing any sort of delay. It’s the perfect thing to carry around when you’re a busybody like me.

Some argue that having a watch can make a person feel overly conscious about time. They say that it inhibit productivity rather than improves it. I beg to differ. When you have a clear sense of time, you are able to plan better. You are able to think ahead. You are able to strategize as to how you can get things done. It teaches you discipline and proper management – two things that are very important if you want to succeed in life.

So, I Need A Wristwatch – Which One Should I Get?

Well, as much as I would want to say that it’s up to you to decide, I do have a recommendation: Seiko Watches.

Now, don’t get me wrong. I am in no way a spokesperson for the company. I have my own reasons for loving the Seiko brand and I think you can resonate with these reasons too once you get to hear them. I personally use Seiko watches for men (I have a huge collection, btw); it’s kind of my addiction. Hopefully, you’ll get to try them out too.

Here’s why I think you should get a Seiko Watch for yourself:

It’s A Trusted Brand

Seiko has been around for decades and they helped set the quality standards for watches high. They are a leading watch manufacturing company and they have given due justice to their fame. Instead of compromising quality now that they’ve already reached the peak of their fame, the company continues to look for ways to make their brand experience better. Seiko has been with us for ages and I’m excited to see them grow even better in the years to come. If this is your first time buying a wristwatch, I recommend buying this brand. I’m sure you won’t regret it!

It Prides Itself For Using High-Quality Materials

From the straps to the watch itself, Seiko never disappoints. They have been recognized as one of the world’s biggest watch brands thanks to their strong dedication to quality (check this out). The company never uses substandard materials for their watches – which also explain the price. But hey, shelling out a little more is much better than buying a bad watch, don’t you think?

It Looks Great!

Come on. Let’s not all pretend to be watch connoisseurs all of a sudden. I know that many people (including me) buy based on what they see. “When it looks cool or pretty, consider it sold!” Or, something like that. Seiko watches aren’t just durable; they look awesome too. They give off a classy and professional feel but they don’t come off as “gaudy” or anything of the sort. They’re simple yet elegant, smart yet grounded – definitely a must-have!

To read more on topics like this, check out the fashion category.

You know what they say, giving is better than receiving. Is your giving game on point? Or are you looking for ways to spice up your gifts so that those who will receive them will be beyond happy? Do away with shirts, socks, and toys for gifts to your loved ones. Be innovative. Be creative and think of ways that you can give the best gift that they would not expect from you but will nonetheless be happy to receive. Here are some great and unique gift ideas that you can look into.

Go personal

The best thing to give someone is something personal. Silver personalized jewelry is an excellent gift idea. Learn about what the person likes in jewelry and add a personal touch to it, such as a necklace with their name on it, or a pendant with a picture inside the locket. Another gift idea is a framed photo of the person and their family that they can put up in their living room. Choose a frame that goes well with the home’s interior. If you are a little short on cash, you can still give them a unique gift. Make coupons for a one-hour massage by you, a car wash or even offer to clean their house for a day. No one will refuse a free cleaning service.

Plane tickets

Yes, plane tickets may be in the more expensive range, but imagine the joy that you will give if they receive roundtrip tickets to their dream destination. Know where they really want to go without hinting that you are going to provide them with plane tickets and surprise them with the trip of a lifetime. If you have more money to spare, then you may book a hotel room for them too. They will forever remember your generous gift, immortalized by photos that they will take on the trip.

A pet

Who doesn’t love a furry friend to keep? Has the person you are going to give a gift to been wanting to get a pet? Then this is the best time to surprise them with a furry animal to love and care for. A puppy, a kitten, a rabbit, the list is endless. Know what pet they want to have and look for the perfect one to keep them company for years to come.

Gift cards

If you really don’t know what to give someone, the best route – but still a unique one – is to hoard gift cards. What is their favorite restaurant? Where do they frequently buy their supplies? Are they big fans of spa days and pedicures? Get a gift card for each and see their face light up with your gift.

In this digital age where virtually everything gets posted online, wouldn’t it be great to see your unique gift posted for everyone to see? The thing with giving gifts is that they should come from the heart, and it should reflect the personality of the recipient.

An adult game

No, adult games don’t mean XXX-rated games. Believe it or not, there are hundreds of card games out there designed to stimulate adult minds and to competitively play against your friends.  Whether it’s drinking games, truth or dare games or strategy games, the adult card game industry has something for everyone. And guess what – I bet you most of your friends don’t own a card game at. Check out this article on some of the most popular games on Amazon today (I own Cards Against Humanity and I swear by it!).

 

Image: https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2017/03/16/16/46/necklace-2149668_960_720.jpg

In the old days, society looks down on women who ride on motorcycle because nice women do not ride on motorcycles, even as a passenger. Women who want to learn to ride a motorcycle has to overcome many personal challenges and cultural expectations. Many women have decided to break free from all societal stereotypes to embrace the freedom and independence of motorcycling. Women bikers are on the increase in spite of all the obstacles they have to face.

The interest to ride in most women was first planted in them when they ride with their father as a child and the experience of riding has stayed with them. Some are fortunate to be able to ride with their partners. Some pursued their dream to ride by signing up for riding lessons after their children left home.  Once they started riding, they have never looked back.

The early women bikers had no choice but to be content with wearing men’s riding apparel until manufacturers started to release motorcycle jackets for women into the market. These days, women bikers are more fortunate when it comes to wearing motorcycle riding jackets and other safety gears.

Riding motorcycles and staying safe on the road is serious business. Motorcyclists should take safety precautions when riding on their bike such as wearing a motorcycle helmet to provide life-saving impact resistance when taking a hard tumble. Wearing a motorcycle helmet and a motorcycle jacket made from high quality materials with extra padding provide better protection and comfort while on the road. When shopping for motorcycle helmets for women, safety features should take priority over styles and looks.

There are many kinds and brands of women’s motorcycle jacket on the market. There are cool jackets, tough leather jackets, and sleek touring jackets from top brands and these jackets provide great protection without compromising on style. Women’s motorcycle jackets are specifically designed to protect the women’s body. Jackets come in various colours and trendy designs. Modern women bikers are blessed with a wide selection of cheap Alpinestar jackets and discounted jackets from other top brands at many of the online stores. Besides helmets and jackets, there are also boots, pants and the protective gear to shield vulnerable areas of biker’s body.

Handbags are a fundamental element of any wardrobe. But not just any bag, every person is craving for and raving about designer handbags. Yes, people are willing to spend thousands of dollars on designer handbags. After all, stylish designer products are not just great accessories; they are also excellent in making outfits. Whether it’s a satchel, clutches or shoulder handbag, a designer handbag provides it courier with status and make them feel really great about themselves.

However, while many people dream of getting the Gucci Soho Leather Cross-Body Bag, the Prada Saffiano Leather Tote and other top designer handbags, they are only able to purchase them at prices below retail. As a result, they go on a pursuit for pre-owned versions in consignment shops and online discounters. Unfortunately, this opens up an opportunity for bootleg handbags. When it comes to designer handbags, there are a plethora of sophisticated fakes and seeing through the charades can be quite tricky.

Getting duped by a ‘super fake’ designer handbag can be quite frustrating and infuriating. Imagine showing off your recently-purchased Louis Vuitton Neverfull Tote to your girlfriends only to have one of them point out that you might have bought a fake. It can be quite embarrassing, not to mention you’d have spent hundreds or maybe thousands of dollars on it. So, how do you save yourself from such an ordeal? It’s straightforward, see through their deception – learn how to distinguish a real designer handbag from fakes. Here are tips to help you spot a counterfeit designer purse:

If It’s Shiny Think Again

While you can always distinguish a real Balenciaga BB Bleu Nuit Quilted Velvet Chain Wallet from a fake one, counterfeiters are improving their game and make it quite challenging for a novice to tell the difference. However, phony designer purses seem to have something in common, the color is often off and are shinier than the real thing. So, if you come across a designer handbag that has an exaggerated shine, think again before you make the purchase. Contrary to a common misconception, not all designer handbags are shiny. Moreover, most designer purses darken with age whereas fake bags that use vinyl materials retain their color.

Off-Scale Prices

To identify fakes, you need to do a little homework on designer handbag prices. Typically, the market will determine the rate for designer purses. Therefore, when you come across a designer handbag being sold at a price that is way off the sale – chances are it’s a counterfeit. For instance, the Bulgari’s Serpenti Forever Shoulder Bag goes for $2,700 from their store. So, when you find it online going for $500, buy at your own peril. While everyone loves a great deal and of course, designer handbags, very few shops, if any, would sell you an authentic Bulgari at such a throw-away price. Are you on a tight budget and can’t afford a designer purse? It’s OK; besides, you can always save and wait to get your dream Gucci purse than get a fake bag.

Made In China Label

This might come out as a cliche, but a made in China label is a dead giveaway. Gucci purses are made in Italy. Therefore, if you see the made in China label, then you know it’s a fake. Research on where designer handbags are manufactured to help you spot fakes.

Pay Attention To The Details

When buying a designer purse, you’ll probably be spending thousands of dollars for it – so, mind the details. After all, the devil is in the details. Thoroughly inspect the handbag to authenticate it and make sure you are purchasing an authentic bag. Some of the things to look out for when verifying a designer handbag include:

– Craftsmanship & Attention To Detail

How are the pockets placed? How are the words written? Are all the pockets there? Often fakes will not pay attention to details and will misspell the name of the brand and even the materials used. Sometimes the real thing will have pockets but some with zippers and other without the zippers. However, fakes might have the same pockets but all with zippers. Designer handbags are not labeled as such for nothing, their craft speaks for itself. They stand by their craftsmanship, and the stitching is usually perfectly even. The sticking on a fake will be uneven unlike for authentic designer purses where everything is precisely matched.

– Material: Many designer handbags are made of leather, but not all. However, most have leather flaps or straps. For instance, the Gucci Marmont is made of velvet material with leather straps. Also, popular Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas is a canvas coated bag but also has leather straps. So, if the material should be canvas or leather, make sure it is before you buy. Also, note that leather feels dry, velvet is soft and smooth whereas canvas is a bit rough. So, if the material is shiny, sticky, oily and slippery, it’s definitely a fake.

– Lining: Often, counterfeiters don’t have access to the authentic product and will, therefore, work with photos to make fakes. And even if they have access to a real designer handbag, when they mass produce, they will slip up and mess the lining of the purse. Carefully inspect the inside of an authentic designer purse and check the color. All handbags from the same brand have the same color and not a close approximation. So, don’t gamble and assume that they made a mistake – because they didn’t, it’s a fake.

When shopping for a designer purse, you should get nothing short of a fabulous handbag. So, when you are out looking for your favorite designer handbag, touch it, don’t overlook anything and know who you’re buying from. Don’t be tricked into spending hundreds and hundreds of dollars for a fake. However, some malicious shoppers have no clue when it comes to designer handbags and falsely label authentic products as fakes. To make sure you don’t call shenanigans on authentic designer purses, get familiar with designer bags to help you tell the difference between a fake and the real thing.

To read more on topics like this, check out the fashion category.