Traditional German Clothing

Fashion trends now-a-days are on similar lines all over the world. Germany may not be recognized as an important fashion destination but fashion did have a significant role to play out here. German fashion is known by their classic style of dressing. Germany also boasts of some creative fashion designers as well. Of course, the scene today is quite different from the traditional German clothing. In the olden days, colors also had an important part to play as far as German clothing was concerned. Have you ever wondered what traditional German clothing was really like? Was fashion as liberated as we see it today? Get to know all the know-how about traditional German clothing right here.

Traditional German Clothing:

Dirndl:
A dirndl is a traditional dress, which was worn in the Southern area of Germany. Originally, the dirndl is a simplified version of the folk costume. The dirndl was actually the uniform of the Austrian servants. This was during the 19th century. In the ancient days, every village even had its own particular style of this dress.

The dirndl comprises of many garments that makes up the entire outfit. This has a bodice, which is worn with a blouse, a full skirt and even an apron. The ancient days saw many simplistic designs of the dirndl. Today, one can come across many expensive versions of the same. This traditional German outfit was styled into a heavier design for the winter days. In such cases, materials such as thick cotton or even wool were used for the skirts or even the aprons.

The dirndl is worn today only for traditional events. In the earlier days, the dirndl was often in softer colors as compared to the brightly colored outfits one may see today. The designs available today are also modified to suit the modern trends. A knot on the apron of the dirndl is considered to be a symbol to indicate that the woman is married.

Lederhosen:
The lederhosen mean leather trousers in German. These are knee breeches and were worn by the Germanic men of the Alpine areas and the surrounding locales as well. The lederhosen are made of leather. This traditional style of German clothing was also worn by young German boys till the age of 16. As compared to the traditional Bavarian garment, the lederhosen were less decorated in these cases. It always had features such as the suspenders and the front flaps. The lederhosen were worn in the mountains of South Germany and were preferred by riders or hunters.

Tracht:
Traditional German clothing cannot be complete without the mention of tracht. The style of the traditional tracht has even resulted in the creation of the Landhausmode. Landhausmode sees its influences from the costumes that were worn by the farmers and the peasants. For this outfit, there is major use of linen and loden material.

Gamsbart:
The Gamsbart is also a part of traditional German clothing. The Gamsbart is actually a tuft of hair that is used as a form of a decorative element. This is worn on the trachten hats. Here, the lower end of the hair is set into metal and the upper portion tufts out like a brush. As per the old traditions, these were placed only on hats. Even today, the Gamsbart is used as a part of clothing and is infused in female clothing as well.

It was probably only till the 16th century that people who belonged to the lower strata of society had to wear shades of brown or gray. In fact, clothes in shades of blue were worn only on holidays. When the industrial revolution took place in the middle of the 19th century, factory made outfits started to conquer the markets. Even then, the end of the 19th century saw a revival of these native dresses. This can be seen in the modern styles of dirndls that are found today in the market.

Ancient Chinese Clothing

The Chinese people are a fashionable kind and have set many trends since ancient times. The Chinese clothing has seen immense variations and influences from the olden days. Today, the modern Chinese people have adopted various fashions from all over the world. Even then, there are many designs that still draw inspiration from the ancient Chinese culture. The ancient Chinese clothing has its own beauty and grace. Therefore, we can see that there are many ancient Chinese styles prevalent even today. These are popular not only in China, but around the globe as well.

Ancient Chinese Clothing:
There are various dynasties that influenced the styles of the ancient Chinese clothing. From long robes to wide sleeves, each had their own distinct pattern, which made its mark.

The pre 17th century ancient Chinese clothing or the Han Chinese clothing has a long history in terms of the clothing worn. The Han Chinese clothing or the Hanfu covered all the traditional Chinese clothing worn by people in that era. The Hanfu was considered to be very important by the Han Chinese as far as their culture was concerned. It was also known that one has to follow the rules of dressing that belonged to the Hanfu styles, as a mark of respect. The basic style and design of the Hanfu were developed to a great extent in the Shang Dynasty. The Shang dynasty saw 2 basic styles-The Yi and the Shang. The Yi is the coat worn on top and the Shang is the skirt that is worn beneath. There was a major use of sash instead of buttons and the sleeve cuffs were styled narrow. The colors of the fabrics were basically in warm tones.

The western Zhou Dynasty also followed similar styles and designs of the Shang dynasty. This is where one saw the variations in the sleeves-narrow as well as broad. The lengths of the skirts saw different levels, from the knee to the ankle. Here, the different styles that were worn also created a distinction between the people.

It was during the Sui and the Tang dynasty, one saw the acceptance of more ideas. The ancient Chinese dress was divided into 2 patterns-The Pien-fu and the Shen-I. The ancient Chinese clothing also used minimal stitches on the fabric. The structure was plain and there was a wide use of embroidery and silk sashes to add to the design of the dress.

Ancient Chinese clothing saw a lot of robes that are popular even today. These robes were used by emperors and very heavily embroidered with various patterns. The dragon robe was one such popular robe that had patterns of dragons embroidered all over. This was actually seen first in the Zhou Dynasty. These robes consist of nine yellow dragons and five cloud patterns that are considered to be auspicious for the wearer. The dragon robe derived its name in the Qing Dynasty.

The clouds on the robes further incorporate 12 patterns. These also have a symbolic meaning to express. The nine and five combinations were deliberately calculated when designing the robe, as it symbolized the dignity of the throne. These dragons are embroidered on the front, back, knee areas or even the shoulders.

Yet another kind of ancient Chinese clothing is the cheongsam. This is very popular even on the international market. Also known as the qipao, the cheongsam was actually a one-piece dress. The ancient Chinese Manchu women mainly wore this in the olden days. These were easy to adorn and maintain and complemented the figure of a Chinese woman. The basic style of the cheongsam consists of a high neck with a closed collar and sleeves that are either short or medium. The cheongsam is buttoned on the right side and has a fitted waist. It also has slits that go up from the sides. Today, we can see many variations of the cheongsam available, to suit the modern tastes.

The ancient Chinese also saw a dominance of the tunic suit. The Chinese also know this as the ‘Zhongshan Zhuang’ or the ‘Zhongshan suit’. This consisted of a tunic that had 4 pockets and a turned down collar. This style also found an acceptance and went through few modifications along the way.

The ancient Chinese clothing often used patches of embroidery, which were mainly animal prints. This kind of embroidery was called the Buzi and was seen in the Ming and Qing Dynasty. These embroideries are very intricate and beautiful in its appearance. The various animals that were used also symbolized the rank of the officers who wore them on their garments.

The ancient Chinese clothing showcases a rich and cultural tradition that has influenced its design. These continue to be a major form of inspiration to young designers even today.

Ancient Chinese Traditional Customs

A custom is often an established behavioral pattern that prevails through years. It is commonly the result of social influences on the people of a society. Traditional customs have their own analogies. They associate certain things or actions with certain happenings in life. Traditional customs are meant to invite good omen while warding off the evils. Lets find out all about the ancient Chinese traditional customs.

Traditional Customs of China

    * Chinese considered tea as one of their seven basic necessities. Firewood, oil, salt, soy sauce and vinegar were some of the other basic needs. Ways of tea preparation, the ways of tasting it and the occasions on which it is consumed make the Chinese tea culture unique. Children serve tea to their elders as a token of respect. People of lower order are supposed to serve tea to people of higher ranks. This custom is still practiced on formal occasions. When a person is served tea, he knocks on the table with bent index finger and middle finger to say, "thank you". Chinese tea is not only their drink but also an ingredient of herbal medicines.
    * Chinese weddings have certain traditional customs associated with them. As a form of expressing gratitude, the bride and the groom kneel in front of their parents and offer them tea. In response to this, parents drink a small portion of tea and gift the pair a red envelope. The tea ceremony was once an occasion of the families of the newly wed couple to know each other. In olden times, drinking the tea offered showed acceptance of marriage while refusal represented opposition to the marriage.
    * As a part of the Chinese tradition, the husband has to carry his wife over a pan of coals so that she can successfully pass through labor. Pregnant women are supposed to be very careful in everything they do, as it is believed that their actions influence the unborn baby. The hour, day, month and year in which the baby is born determine the Eight Characters of Chinese Astrology under which the baby falls. The Chinese believe that these characters are highly influential throughout the life of the newborn.
    * Chopsticks form an integral part of Chinese cutlery but few know what they stand for. Chopsticks are believed to symbolize kindness and gentleness. Confucianism taught the Chinese to abandon knives and forks from the dining table. So they have their food cut to bite-size before it comes on the table.
    * New year is one of the most prominent festivals of the Chinese calendar. According to a Chinese myth, Buddha had asked animals to visit him on the New Year’s Day. Twelve animals came and Buddha named the year after each of them. The Chinese celebrate the lantern festival on the fifteenth day of each lunar month. New Year is about getting together. Red is believed to abolish bad luck. So people clothe in red for the New Year celebration. A long dragon made of silk, bamboo and paper is carried along streets. Young men hold the dragon and dance while carrying the dragon along. The Dragon dance is an ancient Chinese tradition.
    * On meeting someone for the first time, the Chinese shake hands. A handshake may be accompanied by a bow to show respect. According to the Chinese customs, guests always gift their hosts on visiting them. It is best to present the host, fresh flowers or fruit. The hosts are not supposed to unpack the gift until the guests leave. Hosts usually escort their guests to a considerable distance when they leave.
    * In ancient times, people used to cover the bodies of the dead with brushwood and clay and leave it in the family’s home. They left utensils filled with food near the corpse. They thought the spirit of the dead would re-enter the body and would need food. Food items, which would not perish soon were kept beside the dead body. The ancient Chinese dwelt in natural or artificial caves. The Chinese tradition of burying the dead in caverns emerged from this kind of dwelling. As time passed, people sought a separate place to bury their dead and this ancient practice changed.

Many of the ancient Chinese traditional customs are followed till date. They have undergone modifications and reforms due to the changing times. But if you visit China, you will realize that hospitality is a Chinese tradition!

Chinese People: Men and Women Clothings

The key fashion trends in modern China incorporate a lot of changes in the silhouettes compared to the ancient clothing worn by the Chinese people. Today, the men and women’s clothing’s have seen a major metamorphosis in terms of designs patterns and textures used. With influences from all over the world, the modern styles incorporate a lot of looks and patterns from the modern palette.

The ancient Chinese clothing saw the dress system being brought into the social circuit by the Xia and the Shang Dynasties. For the Chinese people, the Chinese clothing meant not only an expression of elegance but also an internal symbolism. Prior to this, the ancient Stone Age saw the invention of the bone needle, which was then used to sew winter dresses. (Leaves and animal skin). The archaeological Chinese artifacts unearthed, have produced items such as stoned beads and shells that have holes bored into them. This itself shows the existence of sewing in the ancient Chinese civilization. The sophistication of the Shang Dynasty was further seen in the remains of certain articles that reflected the refinement of clothing in that era.

It was during the Sui and the Tang Dynasties that the economy of China flourished. This also brought about new ideas and thoughts and one saw a whole of changes in the fashion scenario. The Chinese people also saw a major influence by the culture of middle Asia.

The traditional Chinese clothing is the ch'ang-p'ao (One piece garment that extends from the shoulders to the heels), pien-fu (Two-piece ceremonial garment) and Shen-I (Combines the first two). The Shen-I consists of a tunic with a skirt or trousers. Here, the tunics and the skirt or trouser are sewed together.

Chinese clothing is known for its varied design. The Chinese man and woman always wore clothes that were plain and structured. Wide sleeves and loose flowing fabrics characterized the clothing. Also, one saw a lot of add on’s such as detailed embroidery, elaborate sashes, bands that were used as decoration and the use of silk. This later became a very exclusive feature of the Chinese clothing.

One also saw loads of geometrical patterns being adopted and also the use of pictures of plants and animals being infused into the designs. Till the Shang and the Zhou dynasty, the patterns were pretty primitive. Post this era; one can see a neater look and balanced designs and compositions. The plant and the animal forms took a realistic turn on the garments during the Ming and the Qing Dynasties.

The Chinese clothing also saw a major use of darker colors in the early days. The Chinese woman generally wore lighter colored clothing at home. The Chinese people are also known to have strong belief in the fact that certain colors are associated with specific seasons. For example, White is said to represent the autumn season.

Today, the traditional Chinese dress is back in vogue. Fashion designers are always thinking of new fashion ideas to amalgamate the use of ancient clothing basics in order to churn out some of the most versatile designs. A lot of stores today display fashions that incorporate religious motifs and masks that are based on ancient Chinese opera characters. The Chinese man is now seen adorning the traditional Chinese gown. The Chinese woman is often seen wearing the ch’i-p’ao, which is a modern version of the designs that were prevalent in the Ching Dynasty. This garment has stand-up collars and wide sleeves. Decorative borders used in the late Qing period and are popular even today.

Traditional Chinese designs have also gained impetus today. The Chinese people are known to scour various boutiques, malls and shops in pursuit of that ultimate design that is required. Perhaps this is the prime reason why one can see traditional styled garments flooding the markets. Most of them have been modified under the influence of Western clothing. The Chinese woman can take her pick from short-sleeved clothes that have thigh high splits.

In the present day, the Chinese have adapted themselves to embrace all the influences and have learned to play around with various colors and fabrics to suit different occasions. The traditional Chinese dress lays the strong base for modern fashion today.

Dresses with Sleeves to Wear to a Wedding

Which is the best dress to wear is probably the first thing that many women wonder after receiving a wedding invitation. While there are a number of styles available in wedding wear, you might want to don a modest outfit. If funky and ultra modish is not the thing you would like to opt for, then why not checkout the variety in dresses with sleeves to wear to a wedding which are classy and elegant?

Styles in Dresses With Sleeves For Wedding Guests

The huge variety in wedding wear offers you dresses in almost any type. If you are attending a wedding and have decided to don a sober look instead of a modish look, then you have a lot of options to explore in decent dresses. To start with, let me tell you that dresses with sleeves instantly add a touch of elegance to the outfit. Apart from wedding wear outfits with sleeves, make sure that you browse through the various options in sleeve patterns. This can help you design a nice dress by choosing the best sleeve pattern and adding it to a sleeveless dress.

Go for a nice body fitting, full length gown with a side slit which is graced with a lovely short cap sleeves. If you have picked a lace gown then simply add lace cap sleeves without any lining, hence keeping them semi-transparent. Next pattern that you can consider opting for is a lovely strapless cocktail length dress in baby pink or sky blue. A knee skimming dress or a loose pleated dress, both can look great with a fitted bodice. Further, add a sheer jacket with ¾th sleeves. Adding a lace shrug with short sleeves to wear a sophisticated look is a good alternative to a simple jacket. Bolero jackets are also amongst the popular add-ons to such wedding dresses. Jackets with sleeves can also be added to thin strapped dresses.

Another good pattern in dresses with sleeves to wear to a wedding is a knee length dress with full sleeves. Make sure you add semi-transparent sleeves and not the opaque ones. Two piece dresses with short balloon sleeves also look beautiful. If you want to give a fashionable touch to simple dresses with sleeves to wear to a wedding, go for ¾th sleeves with an off-shoulder pattern. Tea length dresses with sleeves in organza look beautiful and give you a charming and 'out of the crowd' appearance! Flashy color like magenta, dark colors like brown, or a soft color like lemon yellow can be suitable for such an outfit.

Colors and fabrics must be chosen rightly so as to make the dress pattern look even more beautiful. Single colored, one piece dresses look extremely sophisticated. A single colored piece can be spiced up by accessorizing it with colored trims and borders. A navy blue dress can be played up with white or silver piping for neckline, a bottom hem and sleeve hem line as well. You can add tiny ruffles to the hemline of the sleeves and the bottom hem.

When you add sleeved jackets to strapless or thin strapped dresses, there's a lot of scope in experimenting with colors and combinations. A plain dress can be adorned with a sequined fancy jacket having long sleeves. Shrugs or jackets can be chosen in a shade darker than that of your outfit or a muted shade which is further made attractive with embellishments. Another idea is to have a self printed outfit with plain jacket. Many also opt for outfits with minimal prints which can be graced with plain jackets.

If you choose to wear a dress with a jacket, be careful while choosing the jewelry. In case you pick a single colored dress with sleeves, the same can be accessorized with diamond or pearl jewelry in the best way. A clutch bag and suitable pair of footwear is all that you require to finish this classy look!

Wedding Guest Dresses for 2011

If you are to attend a wedding and you go to shop for an appropriate dress, you have so many options in front of you that you're bound to be confused. The first thing you need to realize at such times is that you can't buy a dress just because it looks beautiful. There are a lot of other things you need to consider before you pick up any dress, some of which are mentioned below. Your attire in public speaks a lot about the kind of person you are, and this makes it even more important that we pick up the very best, isn't it? There are a few choices this article offers you, options from which you can choose one dress.

This year, pick up something that is YOU, but according to the 2011 wedding trends. Pick up a dress that fits you perfectly not only in terms of size, but also in terms of personality. A shy person is bound to feel uncomfortable in absolutely bold colors, and similarly, a person with a vibrant personality will somehow not look perfect in pale shades. Have you ever wondered why some dresses look so good on the shelf and somehow not so good on you? Or why some dresses don't look that good at first glance but turn out to look great once you wear them? Yes, that is because each garment, each type of stitch, suits a different person.

Unique Wedding Guest Dresses for 2011

Vintage Wedding Dresses
Suddenly, vintage themes are a part of contemporary trends now. You can consider vintage dresses as your first option in wedding guest dresses for 2011. These dresses would give you a royal and classy look without having to try hard. Choose a dress in the colors of terracotta, yellow, pastels, cream and blue if you plan to wear something that portrays a vintage look. If it's a summer wedding, you can experiment with some lace around the dress, but if you plan to wear the dress at night, you should probably only stick to black lace. Bustles can be another added element in these dresses.

Flaunt the Colors
Until some years back it was assumed not to experiment with colors. Everyone usually wore the normal shades to be on the safer side. This year, you can surprise everyone with wearing some really nice shades of colors that are different and unique. In the summers, you can probably wear something that has cooling shades of blue, earth green and lilac. If you're planning on buying this dress for a winter wedding, you can try shocking red, sensual violet or maybe, majestic bottle green. Don't be skeptical about choosing a color that is bright, unless you're going to feel very uncomfortable wearing it.

Make a Statement
Your third option in wedding guest dresses for 2011 would be a dress that makes a statement. How do you choose such a dress? Well, it's simple. Choose a dress that has a meaning and its inspiration can be felt immediately. Are you someone who was inspired by the dresses in the 60's? Then, this year you can choose or get a similar dress stitched. In the 60's, it was all about shoulder pads and the famous Jackie Kennedy pillbox hat. If it's a late evening wedding, you can team up a formal shirt and knee length skirt as your dress. You can also try music inspired clothing depending on the particular music, and the era in which it was a trend.

Keep It Stylish
There are many women who always prefer to be clad in simple clothing but they might just want to consider doing that again. We've just stepped into a new decade where fashion has just got a new meaning, and everything is about keeping it stylish. Pick up a dress that has wonderful style and patterns that would make anyone's head turn. We all know the difference between something that is fashionable, and something that is not, so choose something that has immense styling. I'm not saying simple dresses don't look good but this is just not the time.

Theme It!
If we're talking about wedding guest dresses for 2011, we have to be prepared for all weddings, isn't it? Many couples today decide to have a theme for their wedding and it's very important that you dress perfectly in accordance with the decided theme. Most of us receive invitations before hand to decide our attire for the wedding, but sometimes we don't. For such times, always keep a simple black, red, white and violet dress ready. According to the theme, you just need to pick up accessories instead of picking up dresses, and this way you have multiple options ready in time when you need them the most.

Now that you know these ideas for wedding guest dresses for 2011, make sure you choose a dress that is unique, and has an individual style of its own. If you follow the tips above, this year you might just make everyone jealous of your beautiful attire at the weddings. Hope you get your hands on that perfect dress soon!

Black Wedding Dress Ideas

Are your friends and family slightly shocked by your decision to wear black at your wedding? Well, it is not surprising since most people consider black to quite an unorthodox color to wear at one's own wedding. What most people remain unaware about is that black is in fact not such a unique choice. In fact, the color white became synonymous with wedding dresses only after Queen Victoria's wedding to Prince Albert in the year 1840. Prior to that, most brides got married in any color that they fancied, with black actually being a very popular color in Scandinavia. While today black may still have not become an extremely popular wedding dress color, it is not completely unheard of. In fact, fashion icon and actress Sarah Jessica Parker wore a black dress for her own wedding to Matthew Broderick in a bid to ensure that there is no unwanted attention drawn to the wedding. If you are convinced about a wedding dress in black, then we give you some black wedding dress ideas.

Ideas for a Black Wedding Dress

A lot has been said about the beauty of the color black, and everyone is aware of the necessity to own an elegant LBD, but why is the color still not accepted at weddings? The answer may have a lot to do with societal customs and traditions. The fact remains that choosing a black wedding dress may allow you for a lot more than just having an unconventional wedding dress. Any long dress in black spells elegance and there is also the factor that black is a color that gives you the illusion of being slimmer than you are. With a black wedding dress, you are sure to stand out and there is no need to accessorize much. If you are looking a black dress, it may be a great idea to opt for a tighter fit than you would normally and also try and avoid long sleeves, as it can seem too constricting. Most brides have a problem actually finding black wedding dresses. Some of the options that you can try out are buying a white wedding gown and dyeing it black, scouring the prom dress section of a boutique, or searching for dresses in the bridesmaid section. Given below are some black wedding dress ideas that you can try out for your wedding.

All Black
One of the options that you could definitely try out as a wedding dress is an all black option. Opt to not have accents of any other color on the dress. If you want, you could accentuate the dress with rhinestones and self embroidery. If you are opting for a full skirt, then have an underskirt that is column like in design with an over skirt that is made of tulle or lace. This could be a beautiful and elegant option for a wedding gown. Opt for a strapless dress or a dress with thin straps.

Black and White
If you are not comfortable with the idea of wearing something that is so spectacularly bold, then opt for a wedding dress in shades of both white and black. You could have a white dress with black embroidery and sequins on it. You could also have a black wedding dress with a white sash and white accents on the rest of the dress. Another option could be to opt for a white dress that is then overlapped with a black sheer cloth like lace or chiffon, or even tulle.

Black and Other Colors
If you want to make your wedding dress slightly more different, then an option that could work for you would be to add a pop of color by using accents in another color. This color could be the color that is predominantly featured in your wedding decor. Use a sash in the color that you want or wear a hair accessory in this color. You could also choose to get a custom designed dress that uses accents of the color on a black base.

Black wedding dresses can add a lot of drama and boldness to your wedding. If you think that you can carry it off well, then this can be a great option for any bride. Just choose the right dress and be ready to shock and surprise people on your wedding day.

Greek Style Beach Wedding Dresses

Dreaming of a fairy tale wedding is normal for every woman. From when you are a little girl, you have this image of how you would be dressed for your wedding day. The perfect twilight setting, twinkling lights adorning the aisle as you walk down, the sound of the sea in the background, and the most beautiful flowing wedding dress; these are some of the images every bride-to-be has in her head. If you have somewhat of the same fantasy for your wedding and have decided on a beach wedding, then the perfect dress to accentuate your beauty and create an ethereal look would be a Grecian wedding gown.

Greek style beach wedding dresses have become extremely popular in recent times, especially because of the very fairy tale exotica that most weddings tend to prefer. These wedding dresses are feminine, flowing, and the perfect option for a beach wedding because of the light fabrics that are generally used for these gowns.

Grecian Beach Wedding Dresses

A wedding at the beach has become a statement of sort in the recent past. Many couples are opting to have their nuptials at a beach side instead of traditional locations. If the same is true for your wedding, then you need to be dressed to match the beauty of the occasion. Beach wedding dresses with a Greek influence can be perfect answers because not only do they provide the classic look that a wedding demands, but also give you that desired feeling of lightness and an angel like appearance. Most Greek style wedding dresses are designed in such a manner that they achieve a very Goddess like look which can be absolutely stunning. As a bride, there are many different designs and options that you can try out. We give you some of the most beautiful design options.

One Shouldered Dress
A classic style for a Grecian wedding dress is a one shouldered wedding gown with an empire waist that then drops down into a skirt that flows to form a long skirt with a circular trail. If you would rather opt for a dress that is slightly more form fitting, then you could opt for a body hugging skirt instead of a flowing one. You could have a single layer of sheer Georgette over the skirt to give it a feeling of lightness.

Empire Column Gown
A popular option among Greek style wedding dresses is the column style of the sheath style. You could do well by opting for a column style wedding gown with an empire waist and a strapless top. If you want, you could opt for a long flowing skirt or go with a ruched and pleated structured look that can be a more modernistic option for a wedding gown that takes from Greek elements.

Cowl Neck Gown
Another great design for a wedding dress would be a full length gown with a cowl neck. A twist to this could be to keep the neckline simple and give the back a deep cowl neck look. Allow the top to gather up at the waist and let the pleats fall asymmetrically for a Greek Goddess look that could be hard to top. If you are looking for something slightly less structured, then you could add a long trail to the gown made entirely of tulle.

Halter Gown
This style is a slightly modern take on traditional Greek style. Opt for a heavily embroidered corset top with a halter neck that instead of tying up in the back is attached to skirt with a single column of fabric. Allow the skirt to be made of a free flowing fabric. This creates for a stunning look that can be just what you need for your wedding.

These are just some of the more popular Greek style beach wedding dresses. If you are looking for wedding dresses with sleeves, you could choose to opt for bell sleeved dresses with empire waists, but these are generally more reminiscent of the Renaissance period. Grecian wedding dresses are the perfect answer when you are looking for a dress that will make you look like a princess on your special day.

How to Dress for a Daytime Wedding

Colors of white, yellow and pink harmonized in attires, the natural beauty unadulterated with dollops of makeup and you exuding elegance with minimalist jewelry! This gives you the perfect picture of your deck up for attending a daytime wedding. Flashy and bright dresses are never in conjunction with morning weddings, rather you would look much more charming when you keep your outfit and makeup simple. The choice of your dress would also depend on the nature of the occasion and the destination of the wedding. So how to dress for a daytime wedding? We explain you the details over here...

Choosing the Dress
If you have been invited with sheer formality, then your costume has to be formal. Pastel shades of white, pink, olive, yellow, lavender and mauve blend well in women's costumes in a bright sunny day. If you are attending a formal ceremony, then it would be preferable to wear a long flowing gown with a halter neck. No matter if it's an A cut gown or a fish cut gown, you can keep the back cut deep or attach fine straps at the back. Men can wear formal trousers with full sleeved shirts. Tuxedos complement daytime winter weddings. A formal black suit is probably the classiest of all. The options exist in galore when it's an informal wedding. Skirts, pinched dresses, sheath dress, cocktail dress and laced frocks should be your choice for attending beach weddings or tropical weddings. Pick up dresses stitched from cotton, satin or chiffon. You can design your dress with ribbons, laces and frills. A fine embroidery work on your dress would also uplift its elegance. Men can carry themselves with a pair of casual jeans with a semi-formal or a casual Tee or a shirt while attending informal wedding ceremonies.

The Right Footwear
A badly paired footwear mar your sense of fashion irrespective of your gender. If you are wearing a gown, then a pair of stilettos would match perfectly well. Avoid wearing glittering and dazzling pairs since it's a morning wedding. Classy stilettos wrapped in white satin or muted shades let you step ahead daintily. Men should match up the color of their shoes with their belt. A mismatched belt and shoes shows one's lack of taste. Thus, if you are wearing a brown belt, make sure that tone of your footwear is nearest to the shade of brown. Wear formal leather shoes while attending official weddings during daytime. An unofficial wedding ceremony calls for donning a pair of loafers, leather slip-on, sneakers or canvas for men. Women can experiment with fashionable ballerinas, gladiators and strapped sandals. Kitten heeled closed shoes match up well with skirts and frocks. You can either match up the pair with your outfit or wear a contrast pair of moderately bright shades.

Makeup & Accessories
It would be a blunder on your part if you fail to apply a proper makeup during a daytime wedding. You can apply a mild coat of water based foundation or concealer and then dust some loose powder on it. Say a big 'NO' to glitters, shimmers and bronzer! Glossy lipsticks of peach, pink and light brown shades would suit you the best. Outline your eyes finely with a black or dark brown colored kohl. You can also coat your eyelashes with a waterproof black mascara. Men can go for a normal bleach before attending the ceremony and moisturize their skin with a light water based moisturizer before stepping out. In short, let the natural glow on your face enhance your glamor! Wearing shiny stones and heavy metallic jeweleries at daytime weddings would be a big blotch. An exquisite and finesse platinum or silver chain with a diamond pendent would match up well with every kind of dress. You can also wear a swish bracelet of similar type along with a solitaire as your ear piece. Wearing jewelry during daytime weddings is strictly restricted for men. Instead they can wear an expensive and aristocratic watch!

Styling Your Hair
There are versatile hairdos for weddings for both men and women. However, the styles are much limited when it's a day time wedding. Straighten your hair if it's long and frizzy. You can also incorporate loose curls or waves in it. Adorn your hair with tiny beads or flowers while attending a beach wedding. You can either roll up a vintage bun or leave your hair open for complementing it with your gown. Short and chic hairstyles like razor cuts, fringes and bob, go well with informal dresses. You can clutch your hair with small pins, clips and ribbons. Since it's a day time wedding, men should try to poise a more natural look with their hairdo. Do not overdo with gels and sprays, rather give a neat cut to it. Avoid wet looks while attending weddings in the morning. The more you keep your hairstyle casual, the more beautiful and handsome you look in a day time wedding.

I hope this short guide on how to dress for a daytime wedding has proven useful to you. After reading this article, you must have well understood the fact that daytime weddings want you to remain simple, casual yet elegant. And you can acquire the much coveted look by following the tips explained to you! Enjoy the wedding and let people appreciate your carefree look.

Vintage Inspired Wedding Dresses

The wedding day is quite possibly one of the biggest, most important, and best days in most girls' lives. With every attempt to make it perfect, how can she miss out on herself, especially on a day that is meant to be hers. But the one big thing that just cannot go wrong after all the perfect preparations is the wedding dress which should be nothing short of divine! So, if divine is what we're aiming at, what's better than a vintage style wedding dress? I'm guessing, not much! So how about we take a look at a few different styles... Short, long, and maybe even affordable vintage inspired wedding dresses. Let's move on then...

Vintage Wedding Dresses

Vintage if worn the right way can help achieve an array of looks. Right from traditional and conservative, to contemporary and chic, it can work well with it all. A little help with the right jewelry, and possibly the right kind of makeup, and a bride could look like a vision in white in a vintage inspired wedding dress. See what all there is to choose from when working with this timeless look.

Short Vintage Inspired Wedding Dresses
Who ever said, vintage meant endlessly long dresses? There are absolutely no hard and fast rules when it comes to vintage wedding dresses. In fact, the short look works really well in combination with the classic touch. Lace, taffeta, ruffles, bows, classic cuts, delicate detailing... There's so much to pick from.

Did you know that it was Coco Chanel who introduced the concept of short wedding dresses in the 1920s, and once it was done, it was done! Brides took to the concept so well, that there was no turning back. Except for the slight lull in the 1930s, this trend was here to stay. If you give it some serious thought, a short wedding dress screams practicality! You can dance your heart out, and it can be modified and worn again!! (What can I say, I feel inspired by 27 Dresses). Whether you choose to work with something fitted, or something with more body is entirely your decision, because no matter what you pick, it'll look good either way.

Imagine a classic fitted dress made entirely of satin and an overlay of some vintage looking lace. Get it in a length that hits just a little above the knee and complete your look with some really classy shoes, and you're good to go with this style. Another option could be something more out there... While the first option was a more elegant look, the second is about going all out and girly!! A snug bodice with a high waist made of lots of delicate details along with the lower half resembling a skirt with a lot of volume, this portion of the dress could be done with heavily bodied fabrics like taffeta (not everybody's thing!) or perhaps even organza. As long as you know how to work it, this dress will look perfect.

What makes it better is, if you are going ahead with a summer wedding, or maybe even choosing to have a beach wedding, a short dress will just be so convenient and make so much sense.

Full Length Vintage Inspired Wedding Dresses
Contrary to the short wedding dress is the ever popular full length wedding dress. With a variety of options to choose from, there is no way you could go wrong with long and vintage. I know that a lot of ladies are partial to the longer dresses, and I think it's well within reason. The best part is, any kind of work done on a short dress can be used on a long one too, and there's a lot beyond that too.

An empire waist gown can work wonders for women with the perfect figure. A popular style from the 40s and 50s, you could mix styles, and play with bits of old and new in the same dress. For a trendy touch, you could get something with embellishment right at the empire line, or if heavy accessorizing isn't your deal, leave it plain and simple with nothing more than a satin sash. An elegant white or ivory gown with a basic black satin band, or maybe even teal for a change, could work very well.

If you don't care so much about the above mentioned style, you could ditch it for something with a slim silhouette, or jazz it with the mermaid cut in a rich fabric instead. In case of simpler designs, it is always the fabric that plays a bigger role, so as to make the dress look more alluring. An A-line gown is an almost foolproof option too. A dropped waist with embroidery on the lower half could be so charming, it could make heads turn. Another option is keeping the dress simple, but going big on the accessories. You decide!

I know that a wedding dress could get expensive for some, for affordable options, look online, check out discounts being offered, or even get it stitched from the best seamstress you know. Believe me, it'll be so much more affordable if you do it that way. Apart from that, irrespective of the style / pattern / design you choose, make sure you indulge in some full bodied fabric, mainly because a wedding dress should stand out like no one else's. Team it with a look to die for, and work it with confidence, and you'll leave people envious for days to come, that's a promise! ;)

Destination Wedding Dresses 2011

Opting to have your wedding away from where you actually stay can be a huge decision because a lot of planning can go into such a wedding, but if you have made the decision then you should get caught up in the romance and adventure of a destination wedding. Buying a wedding dress for a destination wedding is no different from buying a normal one. The destination wedding dresses 2011 trends will tell you that. But, there are certain tips to keep in mind while picking out a wedding dress for a wedding away from home.

Choosing Destination Wedding Dresses

If you are getting married away from your hometown, then there are already several things that you will have to pay attention to. Add to this the stress that can come from choosing the perfect wedding dress that reflects the beauty of the place that you are getting married at. There are many things to keep in mind while choosing the perfect destination wedding dress. We give you some tips that will make your job easy.

    * While picking out the wedding dress, you need to be sure about where you are getting married and be acquainted with the seasonal conditions of the place. You do not want to wear a wedding dress that you freeze in if you are getting married in a town in Alaska.
    * It is also important to pick out the wedding dress according to the time of the day when you are getting married. If it is a morning wedding, then pick out a dress with lace and ruffles. For an evening wedding, choose a gown that has embellishments and a slight, subtle shimmer.
    * Another thing that will help you pick out a wedding dress for yourself is the kind of landscape of the place that you are getting married at. Depending on whether you are getting married on a beach, a manicured garden, a castle, or a sand dune, you will need to pick a dress accordingly which fulfills all the basic functionality needed from it. Wearing a dress with a long trail may be completely out of place on a beach where it will trail on the ground and end up getting dirty.
    * You also need to pick out a fabric that is comfortable in the climate of the place that you are getting married in. If the wedding destination is a tropical zone, then opt for a natural fabric that will allow you to breathe in. Of course, if you are getting married in a destination that has extreme temperatures, then you need to get married in a fabric that keeps you warm.

Once you have chosen your wedding gown, remember that you need to travel with the same to your destination, unless of course the boutique you have bought the gown from can ship it for you. If that is not possible, then you may have to buy a seat for the dress on the flight that you are taking so that it does not get crumpled in the overhead compartment. You will need to ensure that you can find a professional cleaner where you are getting married. If you need to steam your dress on your own, then all you need to do is to close the bathroom door and allow the hot water to run to steam up the bathroom. You can hang the dress in the bathroom to steam it. This will ensure that the dress does not retain the rumpled look that it may have from the traveling.

Trends for Destination Wedding Dresses in 2011

If you check the latest trends for wedding dress patterns, you will notice that there are many designs that you can actually opt for. Once you have kept the factors mentioned above in mind, there aren't many restrictions on you to buy a specific type of dress. Some of the most popular trends for destination wedding dresses 2011 are mentioned below.

Layered Gowns
This is a huge trend amongst brides nowadays. The fairy tale wedding has taken center stage again and more and more brides are opting for a princess style wedding dress. Opt for graceful layers that fall gently to create a cascading vision. Allow the skirt to be made of a material that falls well and has a soft, ethereal look about it.

Strapless Gowns
It was Victoria Beckham who can be credited with making this type of gown such a hit for weddings. It remains a popular choice this year as well and if you are opting for a tropical wedding, this may be the dress to try. For a beach wedding, especially in the day, this could be the perfect way to show off your sun kissed shoulders and let the warm breeze caress your shoulders.

Gowns with Embellished Backs
Taking a cue from Pippa Middleton's bridesmaid dress, focus on the cut of the back of your dress. Allow simplicity and subtlety talk for the dress otherwise but go in for a deep cut in the back. Alternatively, you can also opt for a halter neck dress or a dress which has a lace cover on the top of the dress.

These are just some of the more popular designs for wedding dresses in 2011. As long as you keep the theme of the wedding in mind and understand what is needed from the dress for a particular location, you can experiment as you want for your wedding dress.

Best Natural Moisturizer

Skin loses its moisture due to several reasons. Environmental factors such as dry weather, pollutants are few of the factors that strip the skin of its moisture, thereby making it dry and listless. Besides, age is yet another factor which makes it difficult for the skin to hold its moisture. As a result, you have to replenish the lost moisture content externally, to make your skin soft and supple. Moisturizer is a product which injects moisture back into your skin. Moisturizers are available commercially for every skin type. But if you have sensitive skin, then these commercial skin moisturizers with chemical ingredients may not be appropriate for you. In that case, a natural moisturizer can be your best bet. Let us know which is the best natural moisturizer for your skin type.

Best Natural Moisturizer for Dry Skin

Dry skin needs moisturizer more than any other skin type. Dry skin continuously loses its moisture content which makes it dry, flaky or scaly. People with extremely dry skin need to apply moisturizers very often to keep their skin moist. Extremely creamy moisturizers work well for dry skin. Natural moisturizer such as yogurt which is thick, creamy is ideal for such skin. Yogurt has been used for ages for making skin youthful and soft. Apply yogurt (non-flavored) directly on your face and rinse it off after 10 minutes. You may have to rinse it with warm water to get rid of the oily film. The end result is often soft, fresh and glowing skin. Shea butter which is rich in vitamin A and E is also an effective natural moisturizer for dry skin.

Best Natural Moisturizer for Oily Skin

Many people falsely assume that since they have an oily skin, they do not need a moisturizer. However, this is far from truth. Oily skin loses as much essential moisture as dry skin, hence needs a moisturizer to replenish this lost moisture. Sorbitol which is found in grapes and berries is a great moisturizer for oily skin as it replenishes water without any sticky, greasy film on the skin. Jojoba oil is also best natural moisturizer for face. It keeps your skin hydrated for several hours, due to its deeper penetration. Alternatively, you can also use olive oil as a night time moisturizer. Aloe vera based moisturizers are best moisturizers for oily skin as they hydrate skin without adding excess oil.

Best Natural Moisturizer for Acne Prone Skin

People with acne problems are wary of applying moisturizers to their face for the fear of aggravating acne. However, some natural moisturizers have the property of moisturizing your skin and reducing acne at the same time. Honey is a great natural moisturizer for acne prone skin. Honey has antibacterial properties which kills bacteria present in the acne, thereby reducing their appearance. Simply apply a spoonful of honey on your face like a face mask and rinse it off after an hour or so. You can also use ripe fruits like banana, papaya and such as moisturizers. Simple mash these fruits and apply on your face. The nutrients in these fruits nourish your skin and makes it youthful. Since, they have toxic materials in them, the acne problem cannot get worse. Steam is also a great natural moisturizer for face, as it directly injects water in the skin. People with acne problems benefit from steam in number of ways.

Use natural moisturizers in combination with other natural skin care products. If you wish to go for commercial products then those with natural or organic origins are safe for your skin as they are closest to their natural counterparts. Hope, this article on best natural moisturizer was resourceful.

Oil Free Moisturizer

Topical products have always played a vital role in managing and curing skin issues. Dermatologists are of the firm opinion that using the right skin care products is the key to maintain healthy complexion of the skin. As the name suggests, skin creams labeled as oil free moisturizer do not contain any oil based products and so are often recommended to treat oily skin. Non oil based products act as excellent moisturizer and prevent dryness in skin.

Oil Free Moisturizer for Acne

We are always on the look out of oil free moisturizers for the treatment of common skin problems like acne. With plenty of choices available in the market, selecting the right one can be a daunting task. Some of the popular products considered to the best moisturizers for oily skin that have worked in reducing acne are mentioned below:

L'Oreal Pure Zone Skin Relief
When it comes to relieving acne, opting for this skin moisturizer is a good choice. This oil free moisturizer can certainly help to get rid of acne. It is an ideal topical product for skin susceptible to acne. Unlike other creams, it does not block the pores and hence contributes to clear mild to moderate acne within a span of two weeks. So, those looking for a healthy glowing skin can certainly rely on this acne skin care product. Although, it might not smell good, it definitely works to heal acne.

Neutrogena Oil-Free Anti-Acne SPF 15
This is one of the best oil free moisturizers to alleviate symptoms of acne. With the use of this topical product, managing acne has never been so easy before. Apply it just once daily and one will soon notice a substantial improvement in the appearance of the skin. One of the most important components of this oil free moisturizer is salicylic acid, which is a common ingredient found in various topical acne products. As per oil free moisturizer reviews, this products can also be used safely on sensitive skin. Its anti-acne ingredients are easily absorbed by the skin, which in turn helps to reduce redness associated with acne. Moreover, it is light and has a great smell and so one would certainly love to use it everyday. This is indeed one of the best face moisturizer for acne.

Oil Free Moisturizer for Oily Skin

Oily skin is indeed troublesome as it is susceptible to wide range of problems. Blemishes that include blackheads and whiteheads, often appear on oily skin. In order to control problems associated with oily skin, it is essential to apply an oil free moisturizer daily. Some of the best oil free moisturizers are given below:

Zenmed Oil Free Moisturizer with SPF 30
Oily skin problems are bound to vanish with regular use of this cream. Be it sensitive or acne prone skin, it works on all types of skin. Its application on a daily basis will provide protection against the harmful UV rays. This oil free moisturizer is non greasy and leaves the skin smooth and non sticky. Its top quality ingredients are effective to give a charming complexion to the skin. Those hunting for topical products that could remove the dullness of the skin must buy this skin cream. Its deep moisturizing activity assists to restore natural look of the skin. Most importantly, it regulates sebum production, thereby keeping oily free skin.

St Ives Elements Mineral Moisturizer with SPF 15
This is yet another non pore clogging product that revitalizes and protects the skin from the harmful UV rays. It is apt for men and women with oily skin tones. It maintains normal sebum levels and promotes silky and smooth skin. It also contains minerals like calcium, iron and potassium that nourish and maintain the beauty of the skin.

Olay Complete All Day Moisture Lotion UV Defense Combination
A youthful looking skin is guaranteed with regular application of this product, as this oil free moisturizer is a unique combination of essential nutrients like vitamin C and vitamin E. It is formulated to protect the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. This double protection assures no damage to the skin from sun exposure. With so many features and on top of that being 100% oil free, it qualifies as a perfect remedy for oily skin issues.

A point to note that whenever choosing any oil free moisturizer, do not forget to check the label of the product. Make sure that the label mentions terms like 'oil free', 'SPF 15 or 30' and recommends its usage for oily skin.depending only on oil free moisturizers to eliminate skin problems won't work unless it is a complemented with a healthy diet and an exercise routine. So, besides using these topical products, make sure that you drink plenty of water and have green leafy vegetables everyday. Discarding sugary foods (cakes and pastries) from the diet is also equally important to heal common skin issues.

Face Moisturizer for Men

It really shouldn't come as a surprise to you anymore when you see guys pamper themselves with as many face products as girls do. Believe it or not, sometimes their collection is even bigger!! (They just don't like admitting it!) Truth be told, a well groomed man is always appealing, and I'm sure there isn't a girl out there that would like to differ in opinion. Whatever the look, rugged or metro-sexual, that extra neatness unquestionably helps them score brownie points. The list of products they can indulge in is long, so let's just start with the most basic of 'em all… a face moisturizer for men!

Skin moisturizers available for men nowadays are just as fancy as the ones available for women. Right from the natural ones with simple ingredients to the ones with exotic ingredients, you'll find it all. But what's the point? Why do men need these products too? The answer is simple… Aging happens with all, and one of the most evident signs of aging is when your skin starts losing its youthful look and starts looking different. A good facial moisturizer for men would help prevent that to some extent. Daily moisturizing of the face helps retain that glow a little longer and keeps your skin from getting damaged. In addition to that, it also helps reduce the chances of skin cancer, somewhat.

Good Skin-Care Products

Why not just about any product? Why do we have a special face moisturizer for men in particular? It starts with the obvious, both genders have different skin types. As strange as it may sound, men have oilier skin than women. This is because they have smaller sebaceous glands or oil glands. As a result, you'll tend to notice that they deal with the problem of an oily face more often! Another factor that makes a difference is that men have thicker skin than women, therefore, they need a different routine for their skin. Any face moisturizer for men would definitely cater to that difference, as opposed to a mild skin product (product for women) which wouldn't show the same results. Yet another surprising fact is that although men have thicker skin, they also have more delicate skin than women, and that in itself would need care of a certain kind. Finally, we have the unfortunate truth… A woman's skin ages faster than a man's. This is primarily because as we get older, the amount of collagen in a woman's skin decreases to a greater extent than it does in a man's skin, and this is exactly why women look older than men who may be of the same age.

Best Face Moisturizer for Men

What according to you are the things to be kept in mind while choosing a good product? How do you get your hands on the best face moisturizer for men? You could start with checking the ingredients that have gone into making the moisturizer. The more natural the ingredients, the better it is. It definitely is a good idea to steer clear of all those ingredients that could have ill effects on your skin in the long run. Also, it would be a good idea to look into something that can help with skin problems such as roughness, redness or even rashes that arise due to shaving. If you are looking to buy a good moisturizer for these purposes only, it might be a good idea to find something that has anti-inflammatory substances which will help deal with your problems well. A suggestion for one such kind would be something with aloe vera gel as one of its ingredients, but make sure you know that you aren't allergic to it. The benefits of aloe vera for your skin are plenty, so you know that you aren't really making a mistake by turning to it. Apart from a natural face moisturizer for men, you could also check out something with glycerin content as it helps keep the skin well moisturized during the winter. For those of you dealing with that problematic oily skin, here's a suggestion… Try getting something that contains shea butter. Believe me when I say that it would qualify as a really good oil free face moisturizer for men. Another good idea would be to buy something with SPF content. A good moisturizer with an SPF 15 content would go a long way for your skin during the summer. Also, a small but important point to be kept in mind is not to turn to drug stores for products like such. No prejudice against them, but you never know if a drug store product will suit you or not.

Some Good Products

Trying something higher end is always a good idea, especially when it comes to matters regarding your skin. You could also try some of the products LUSH has to offer. One suggestion is their highly recommended Cosmetic Lad Moisturizer which should cost you roughly $21.95 for 1.5oz. As LUSH describes it, "Cosmetic Lad is a calming moisturizer for after shaving, using the soothing properties of lavender, aloe vera and linseed mucilage". However, if you aren't really the finicky kind, you could try Olay Regenerist UV Defense Regenerating Lotion SPF 15, since it ranks as one of the best facial moisturizers overall. Despite its plain looking packaging, the Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream is the best sensitive skin moisturizer, while for the best moisturizer for oily skin, you could try Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel. For more options, you could even go to your nearest LUSH counter or whatever your choice of skin products is, and see what they have to offer.

So for all you girls out there… The next time your man wants to indulge in himself, and get himself a special face moisturizer for men, you might want to give in, 'coz it'll be a treat for you too!

Homemade Face Moisturizer

Your skin is your first barrier against many bacterial and viral infections. Hence, keeping your skin well hydrated and moisturized, gives it extra protection. Also, keeping your skin moisturized will help you to maintain a beautiful and healthy looking skin. There are many skin moisturizers. However, the commercially available ones are a cocktail of chemicals, and even if they say that they contain natural ingredients, these ingredients are in a very less amount. Though, the commercially available face moisturizers might smell and look great, they still contain chemicals. If you want a safe and natural moisturizer for your skin, then consider making your own homemade face moisturizer. Here are five recipes of homemade face moisturizers that you can use to make all natural moisturizers for your facial and body skin care.

How to Make Homemade Face Moisturizer?

Face Moisturizer for Sunburned Skin/Sensitive Skin
Aloe vera gel is one of the best facial skin care product. It is very mild and is an excellent moisturizer. It can even help to recover from sunburns and prevent the skin irritation. To use aloe vera as a moisturizer you can buy aloe gel jars and apply it to your face whenever you want. However, for sunburns use fresh aloe leaf gel. To do this, take a fresh aloe leaf, and slice it lengthwise. Then take a spoon and scoop out the gel into a bowl, and apply this gel to the face liberally. Do this 4-6 times a day. Aloe gel also works great on sensitive skin. The below mentioned moisturizer recipes can also be used, however, if you are prone to nut allergy then avoid using these recipes.

Homemade Face Moisturizer for Dry Skin
To make a nice homemade face moisturizer for dry skin use shea butter. You can find natural face moisturizer in jars. Do not go for the refined variety, as it doesn't contain much nutrients. For ultimate skin care, use pure unrefined shea butter. In a bowl of shea butter, mix 6 drops of patchouli oil. This will make this face moisturizer for dry skin smell great. This homemade face moisturizer cream can be filled into small container, and you can carry it with you when you are traveling.

Face Moisturizer for Extremely Dry Skin
If you have extremely dry skin, so that even the cracks show up, then nothing works better than using oil. You can use oil for locking moisturizer in the skin, and regularly using oil for moisturizing will give a healthy glow to your skin. So, which is the best moisturizing oil when it comes to healing dry skin? The answer is olive oil. Buy 100% natural olive oil, and if you can get the organic variety, then nothing like it. You can mix some essential oils to add scent and more nourishing properties to it. Take a 200ml bottle of olive oil and mix 30 drops of essential oil in it, and mix it well. This will make a refreshing natural moisturizer for face. Moreover, you can also use it for body skin care in winters. To do this, after you you taken a shower, pat your skin and but don't dry it completely. Then apply the homemade face moisturizer olive oil liberally on your face, lips and the rest of the body.

Homemade Face Moisturizer for Acne Prone Skin
If you have acne prone skin then use this best face moisturize for acne recipe. To make this moisturizer mix jojoba oil and tea tree oil in a 10:3 proportion and apply it to your face, and avoid using it near your eyes. Apply this moisturizer twice a day. Tea tree oil is an antibacterial and jojoba oil is a light oil. These two together work great as an acne remedy and moisturizer.

This was all about homemade face moisturizer. The best way to apply moisturizer is on damp skin. So, wash your face and pat it a little then apply the moisturizer on the face and lips. Do this twice a day, to maintain beautiful looking skin. Regular moisturizing helps to prevent dryness and even signs of aging.

Using Olive Oil As a Moisturizer

Spending on various skin care products can really burn a hole in your pocket. And moreover, most of them do not work as they are projected to. So in such situations, going the natural way to care for your skin would be a smart thing to do. Olive oil has long been known to be one of the healthiest choices for cooking in multiply cuisines across the world. In particular, it is one of the heart-healthy oils available. However, besides this, it has also earned the reputation of being a natural skin treatment option, which has benefited many people. The following tells you how using olive oil as a moisturizer can benefit you in many ways.

Using Olive Oil as A Moisturizer

One of the major reasons olive is being increasingly used for skin care is its abundance in antioxidants (A and E vitamins, as well as some polyphenols). These agents prevent free radical damage to the body. The oil not only repairs skin damage, but also keeps it hydrated and prevent dryness. The below steps tell you how to go about using olive oil as a facial moisturizer.

    * The foremost thing to look for would be a good quality olive oil. Best it is to go with extra virgin olive oil.
    * Get an empty spray bottle and fill it with the oil till a quarter, and add some water, leaving enough space for you to shake the bottle.
    * Now after you had taken a shower, pat dry your skin with a clean towel. Once properly dried, spray the oil all over the skin. Watch out for the eyes and other sensitive areas.
    * You may have to wait for about 15 - 20 minutes. That would be the time for the oil to penetrate your the skin.
    * For the face, it is better to use a cotton ball to apply the oil. Before bedtime, apply the oil on your face, and gently massage in circular directions. The advantage of using olive oil is, it does not clog the skin pores. The next morning, you can wash you face with your regular facewash.
    * You can also put a drop or two of lavender essential oil in the mixture of olive oil and water, and use it after shower. But better avoid it while using it for the face.

Some More Tips

    * Using olive oil as a moisturizer for the face is not the only benefit you may reap. You can use it as an effective exfoliating agent, by mixing it with sugar. First, apply the oil on your face generously. Then take some sugar and rub your hands with it. Now gently rub the sugar all over you face. Do this for 20 - 30 seconds. Thereafter, rinse with warm water and ensure that all the sugar has gone. Use a cotton ball to wipe off the oil that is till clinging on to the skin.
    * Another recipe that enhances the efficacy of olive oil as a moisturizer includes mixing it with honey and egg yolk. Blend these ingredients well and massage it on the face. This will not only moisturize your skin but also lighten it, making it look softer, and glowing.

That would be all from my end on using olive oil as a moisturizer. Know that all these tips seem easy and beneficial in black and white, but they may not in reality. That is why, repeated use of such methods is recommended if you wish to get the utmost benefits. And in conjunction to that, you would also have to take care of your diet, and realize the importance of regular exercises.

Best Moisturizer for Acne

If you have acne prone skin, you need to take excess care while choosing any of the skin care products. While a deep cleansing face wash and a hydrating moisturizer has no alternative and is the most essential part of your skin care routine, choosing the best of these is essential. Well, I know that you are here to find out the best moisturizer for acne that's available in the market right! Mentioned below are a few points that will help you pick the right product. Also find a list of the top rated moisturizers for acne prone skin in the last section.

What Makes the Best Moisturizer for Acne

Well, I need not mention that the best moisturizer will rightly moisturize your skin. But while you choose a moisturizer for acne, it must moisturize your skin without leaving it oily and greasy. The cream or lotion must get absorbed in the skin after a quick and gentle massage. As oily skin is most prone to acne, a moisturizer that does not lead to oiliness is best pick. Well the simplest thing to do is read the label. So, instead of blindly picking the best moisturizer for dry skin with acne after watching a catchy advertisement, why not do a quick research. All you need to do is read the label and look for words like 'for acne', 'non-greasy', 'oil-free' and 'hydrating'. Finding a non-comodogenic product is essential to avoid acne breakouts. A non-comodogenic moisturizer is the best for acne prone skin as it does not clog the skin pores, hence restricting any chances of acne formation. Avoid thick and creamy products which might lead to an oily effect. Best to opt for gels, lotions or serums which are lightweight.

While the aforementioned points will help you have the best moisturizer for acne prone skin, here are a few more tips that will help you pick a moisturizer that moisturizes your skin and also helps fight acne. Moisturizers that offer some extra elements to keep your skin protected from extreme environmental factors are best for acne prone skin, like those with a sunscreen protection factor are good picks. You can also grab the ones with ingredients like retinol, benzoyl peroxide antioxidants, alpha hydroxy acids, salicylic acid and exfoliating ingredients which cure acne and also improve the overall skin texture. Make sure that you use the ones with formulations including any of these ingredients only if a topical acne cream is not being used. There are some higher range moisturizers for acne which also form a good base for makeup. You can opt for these if you apply makeup regularly. Browse through tinted moisturizers for acne which will restrict the use of other makeup products, hence keeping your skin in good condition.

Best Moisturizers For Acne

    * Olay Regenerist UV Defense Regenerating Lotion SPF 15
    * Neutrogena Oil-Free Anti-Acne Moisturizer
    * Murad Anti-Aging Moisturizer - SPF 20
    * Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel
    * Laura Mercier Oil-Free Tinted Moisturizer - SPF 20
    * Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream
    * Aveeno Ultra Calming Daily Moisturizer - SPF 30
    * Clean & Clear Advantage Oil-Free Acne Moisturizer

Finding a moisturizer that's best for acne prone skin is not a tough task. Once you start using a moisturizer, you must keenly observe your skin condition. If the acne aggravates or application of the moisturizer causes irritation, itching and redness, it's best to discontinue its use. Taking advice from your dermatologist is the best way to have the right product for your skin condition. Using a trial pack or the smallest pack of any moisturizer is good idea while you test a new product on your skin. If the same gives you good results after using it at least for a week, you can opt to continue its use.

Shea Butter Moisturizer

Shea butter is a type of fat which is derived from the nuts of the Shea tree, native to Africa. This butter is largely used in various cosmetics for its excellent rehydrating properties. Since ancient times, Africans have used this butter for making candles, cooking, in medicinal ointments, and for waterproofing purposes. However, as more and more people are realizing its benefits, it is widely being used by big brands to promote their range of cosmetics. Creamy in texture, this ivory colored cream soothes the dry patches on your skin, rehydrates it, and restores the lost glow. With innumerable advantages of using Shea butter moisturizer for your skin, it is a must-have product in your vanity case. However, if you are too worried about spending on an expensive bottle of cream, you can make some at home too. Here's how.

Shea Butter Moisturizer Recipe

Ingredients

    * 1 bowl of Shea Butter
    * 6 tablespoons of coconut oil
    * 2 capsules of vitamin E
    * 3 teaspoons fragrance oil or 10 drops of essential oil
    * Blender
    * Empty jar

Method

    * Make a double boiler by placing a bowl on hot boiling water. Now pour the Shea butter into the upper bowl. The indirect heat will melt the butter slowly. Keep whipping it to make it smooth and then allow it to cool down.
    * Once the Shea butter becomes lukewarm, break the vitamin E capsules and add the oil to the butter. Next, add the coconut oil as well.
    * Blend this mixture till it starts looking like a cake's batter and reaches an even consistency.
    * Next, add the essential oils or the fragrance oils. Add a hint of vanilla to the cream, as the fragrance is known to arouse your sensuality.
    * Once again, continue whipping the cream so that the ingredients are mixed well together.

Shea Butter Moisturizer for Hair

Ingredients

    * 1⅓ bowl of Shea Butter
    * ½ cup of olive oil
    * 1 teaspoon of vitamin E oil
    * ½ ounce of fragrance oil

Method

    * Once again heat the Shea butter with a low flame on a double boiler. Melt it completely and then remove it from the heat.
    * When it reaches a lukewarm temperature, add olive oil to it and then mix it once again.
    * Once the butter becomes a little hard to stir, add the vitamin E oil and the fragrance oil to the mixture. Use an electric blender to create the perfect consistency of the mixture.
    * While using Shea butter for your hair, remember to first give your head a nice steam to open up the pores on your scalp.
    * Apply this cream on your hair and use a comb to make sure it reaches your every strand.
    * Leave it on for 30 minutes and wrap your hair in a warm towel.
    * Doing this twice a week will improve the texture of your hair, eliminate the dryness, and restore its luster.

Shea butter is a rich source of vitamin A, which a crucial ingredient for treating a range of skin disorders such as dermatitis, blemishes, and eczema. Its medicinal properties are known to cure insect bites and other types of skin conditions. This excellent moisturizer is known to bring about an anti-aging effect on the skin, as it accelerates micro-circulation. Shea butter moisturizer is a natural sun block due to its high levels of cinnamic acid. It also soothes burns that are caused by prolonged exposure to the sun. Topical application of Shea butter moisturizer on your hair repairs the damaged hair and prevents it from getting brittle and dry. If you have ever colored or straightened your hair, then using Shea butter regularly can restore the vitality of your hair. After listing so many benefits of this natural cream, it is time you make a move to get your skin and hair healthy, the natural way!

Best Lotion for Dry Face

Moisturizers form an important part of skin care routine for any type of skin. Especially when your skin type is dry, you can't miss out to add a specially formulated moisturizing lotion for dry skin to your skin care regime. Well, using a moisturizer for dry face can be a bit tricky. Often using a heavy moisturizer which is suitable for extreme dry skin can result into oiliness which can further clog the pores leading to pimples on your face. So ensuring that you use a 'facial' skin moisturizer for keeping it moisturized and the same is oil-free at the same time is much essential. From the number of lotions placed on the shelves, finding out the best lotion for dry face is essential to keep your skin hydrated and problem free. Well, if you are one of those having dry facial skin, then mentioned below are some lotions that you can consider using.

Best Lotions for Dry Facial Skin

Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion from CLINIQUE
Known as a moisture 'drink', Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion is an ultimate formulation by dermatologists at CLINIQUE. No matter whether you have dry skin or extreme dry skin with dry skin patches on face, you are sure to experience positive results after using this product. Use this lotion regularly to have fresh, soft and glowing skin.

Healthy Skin Face Lotion SPF 15 from Neutrogena
Neutrogena's Healthy Skin Face Lotion is a daily face treatment with multi-vitamin formulation which helps improve the texture of your dry skin, making it smooth and supple. This is a dermatologist-recommended product with AHA, anti-oxidants like Vitamin C and E and sunscreens to fight sun damage and avoid premature aging. This best lotion for dry face gives softer and smoother skin with extra radiance and glow in just two weeks.

Lavender Ultimate Moisture Cream from Avalon Organics
Nourish and rejuvenate your dry facial skin with this wonderful product from Avalon Organics. Made with organic Lavender, Evening Primrose oil and other nourishing and non-irritating ingredients, this is the best face lotion for dry sensitive skin. Use this a day cream for dry and sensitive skin. This can also be used as a night cream for oily or combination skin. Apart from hydrating and moisturizing extreme dry skin, it also provides relief from redness and inflammation.

Bienfait Aqua Vital Lotion from LANCOME
Bienfait Aqua Vital Lotion is a continuous infusing moisturizer which keeps your skin hydrated throughout the day. With an oil-free formulation, this product from LANCOME consist of ultra-charged moisture complex which provides 16 skin-essential elements to your dry facial skin, hence, nourishing it and making it soft and smooth.

Active Daily Moisture Lotion from L’OREAL PARIS
Apply this lotion on your face and neck and enjoy 24 hour moisture with sun protection. This lotion provides day long nourishment with pro-vitamin B5 and other skin conditioning agents which offer a flawless skin. With SPF 15, your skin is also protected from the harmful UVA/UVB rays. Moreover, its non-comedogenic and hence, doesn't clog your skin pores.

Buying a specially formulated lotion for dry facial skin is sure to help you keep extreme dryness at bay and at the same time ensure that the product does not lead to acne breakouts. You must avoid using moisturizing body lotions for dry facial skin. Look for labels like 'for dry skin', 'hydrating lotion', 'for extreme dry skin', 'non-comedogenic', 'oil-free', 'non-greasy' on the bottle of lotion for dry skin and completely avoid using 'body lotions' for facial skin. With the number of options available in this category, you can definitely find a lotion that suits your skin and offers best results.

Almond Oil Moisturizer

The properties of almond oil have been exploited since ages, and today, it has become a significant ingredient of cosmetic products. Dried sweet almonds are processed to extract the oil, that is used as a moisturizer for body and hair. Almond oil moisturizer has an extensive use in households and beauty salons, as it is effective in healing a large number of skin and hair problems. The texture of your hair and skin becomes smooth and lustrous on regular application of sweet almond oil. We shall explore the properties and the utilities of an almond oil moisturizer in the following segment.

Applying Pure Almond Oil

The purest form of sweet almond oil can be easily purchased online or from any herbal cosmetic store. You can use the moisturizing oil for massaging your body regularly. Squeeze a desired amount of oil in a small bowl and spread it on your palm. Apply it thoroughly on every part of your body, followed by a massage. Let your body absorb the oil for at least 15 minutes. Follow this therapy everyday before taking bath and notice the marked difference in your skin within a week.

Pure variety of sweet almond oil is intensely light and non greasy in nature. The oil works wonder on a dry and flaky skin that usually happens due to the cold weather of winter seasons. Sweet almond oil also acts as an excellent moisturizer for infants and toddlers. You can regularly apply the oil on the tender skin of your baby. Also massage your face with a few drops of sweet almond oil before going to sleep and feel the improvement in the texture of your skin after a few days. You can also use the moisturizer for removing makeup from your face and eyes. These are some ways to apply almond oil for the purpose of moisturizing.

Almond Oil Moisturizer: Products

The moisturizing property of almond oil is utilized in manufacturing soaps, creams and body lotions. It acts as a natural emollient and is also capable of healing inflammation, rashes and minor cuts. Soaps containing almond oil, form a smooth lather that is intensely gentle on your body. A few good brands of almond oil based soaps include, D R Harris Almond Oil Soap and Castile Soap Liquid Almond Oil.

Almond oil is also a key ingredient of large number of moisturizing creams and lotions. Body care products containing almond oil are profoundly good, that keep your skin nourished for a long time. Dead Sea Essentials Almond Oil Night Cream, Crabtree & Evelyn Sweet Almond Oil Body Lotion, The Body Shop Almond Oil Daily Hand & Nail Cream and Almond Milk Beeswax Hand crème are some of the best creams that have been enriched with almond oil. Almond oil is rich in essential fatty acids (oleic and linoleic acid) and vitamin E, that make it one of the best lubricating agent for the skin. Due to all these properties that it possess, it is used in makeup removers.

Almond Oil Moisturizer: Recipes

Keeping almond oil as the key ingredient, you can incorporate other essentials into it. You can use the resultant moisturizer for similar purposes, as explained above. Store the moisturizer in air tight bottles and use it whenever required. The recipe for a sweet almond oil moisturizer follows. In a cup of pure almond oil, add 5 teaspoons of olive oil and 3 teaspoons of coconut oil. Pour the oils together in a bottle and shake well. If you wish to prepare an aromatic combination, then you can replace with rosemary, lavender and tea tree oil. You can also use this concoction for massaging your scalp. Homemade moisturizing creams are often blended with coconut pulp, shea butter and cocoa butter. You should store the mixture in a refrigerator and use it within two days of preparation.

I hope this crisp guide to almond oil moisturizer has proven beneficial to you. Now that you know the unique benefits of almond oil moisturizer, you can start applying it on your body and face. The result: a glowing, radiant and flawless skin!