fashion Archives - Serendipity Mommy

The Perfect Diamond Necklace for Your Significant Other

June 15, 2017 by Mandy

For many people, getting the right kind of gift for a loved one sometimes poses a challenge. Will they like it? How much will it cost? Does it look too tacky? Most men will have these thoughts when picking out a piece of jewelry for their significant other. This is especially true when it comes to necklaces.

Such a large piece of jewelry is designed to be showed off. Diamonds and other precious stones are often set into it, or they come in the form of pendants. Whatever the case may be, all you need to do is have a look at the varieties out there and perhaps invest a little time in diamond education. This will help you to know what you’re looking for!

Formal or Casual?

If you’re going to buy a diamond necklace as a gift, you may want to decide whether it is for formal or casual wear. In this case, consider what your wife or girlfriend wears the most. Does she work in a high-powered job where she’s required to attend formal business events, dinners or galas? In this case, a beautiful pear diamond necklace will go well with any formal dress.

If you do want to be on the safe side, jewelry fitting for more casual styles is probably your best bet. Many necklaces that are good for casual wear can also work well for formal wear. Should you feel that it may be a little too much, you can always take it back and perhaps try out another one.

The Four Cs – Really, Know Your Stuff!

The “Four Cs” refer to cut, color, clarity and carat weight. These are the factors that jewelers use in order to value diamonds. By taking a little time to learn about them (essentially, what makes a diamond truly sparkle), you’ll be closer to getting a diamond that’s worth the money. A piece of advice: don’t confuse diamond carat weight with “karat” which is a unit used to measure the purity of gold.

There are plenty of tutorials on the Internet that’ll help you get to know your way around a diamond. So, use the information and resources that are at your fingertips! If you really want, you can also shop around and compare using your new-found knowledge.

Don’t Get Stiffed

Jewelers are essentially there to sell their wares – though they are also more than happy to dole out advice. However, take what they say with a pinch of salt when it comes to how a diamond or necklace will look. After all, you know your partner and therefore should have an idea of what sort of taste they have when it comes to jewelry! Don’t let a jeweler trick you into buying the most expensive piece just because.

These handy tips can help you to steer clear of any trouble if you’re looking for the perfect present. There is a stereotype that men have no idea when it comes to gifts – well, it’s time to prove it wrong!

Curves Are In This Year So Embrace Yours

February 26, 2017 by Mandy

Over the last few years, the body positive movement has been gaining traction. Ashley Graham, the plus size model who rose to fame in 2016 as the cover model on the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue, has said that curvy women have been ignored for far too long in the fashion industry, but says that plus size fashion is no longer being ignored.

The average American woman now wears a size 14. In most stores, that size and up is relegated to the “plus size” department where the styles and colors are limited and often matronly, and in the past, few designers were interested in making clothes in larger sizes that were fashion forward and fun to wear. Over the past few years, however, that seems to be changing as more designers are designing for real women and recognizing that you don’t need to be a size two to look fashionable.

The most challenging clothing to design for larger sizes is the swim suit. It is also the most difficult for curvy women to buy. Selections in traditional retail stores are still limited, prompting many customers to try to find swimwear deals online. Knowing what style of suit will be most flattering for a particular body type helps the customer choose a suit without trying it on.

In order to address the shortfall, Ashley Graham has even designed her own line of swim suits available online, and her custom line of swim suits from swimsuitsforall.com emphasizes comfort but doesn’t fall short on trendy styles. Curvier women should look for tummy control panels, underwire bras and other slimming features. Clever design can also work to make a suit flattering, and the popular tankinican be a great option for some women. The pieces can be mixed and matched. The top can be fitted or loose and flowing. The bottom can be high cut or boy short or anything in between. This allows the buyer to address individual issues while still sporting a fashionable style deserving of any Sports Illustrated cover.

Surprisingly, the traditional bikini can also be a good option, especially if the bottom is high waisted. It also gives the customer the ability to custom fit the top, often a problem area for women.One piece suits continue to be the style of choice for full figured women and there are flattering design elements that can make this traditional style slimming as well as fashionable. High-cut bottoms can make the legs look longer and slimmer just as a V-neckline elongates the lines of the upper body. The swim dress has gained popularity from women of all sizes because not only is it flattering, it doubles as sportswear away from the beach. Follow Ashley Graham’s lead and embrace the body positive movement by finding swimwear that actually fits. To find swimwear deals online, visit swimsuitsforall.com where curvy women are the norm.

Hassle Free Shopping for Brides: The Basics of Buying a Wonderful Wedding Dress Online

February 14, 2017 by Mandy

Finding the perfect dress for your special day can be stressful and frustrating, especially if you’ve already had several appointments at the bridal store and still haven’t found anything you like. Buying a wedding dress online is a great idea – as long as you know the ropes. Here are some tips to help you.

Think About your Budget

Because of the surging trend in online bridal stores, there is currently a lot of competition. This is good for you as a bride-to-be because it means you have a lot of affordable options, whatever your budget. You can also take advantage of sales, bonus offers, and special services like free shipping. This is a great way to undercut your budget, so you have money to spend on other areas of your wedding, or your honeymoon.

Consider a Pre-owned Wedding Dress

If you are shopping online for a wedding dress, you may want to consider looking at pre-owned wedding gowns. You will have a wide range of styles, sizes and colors to choose from and you’ll also get the option of a wide range of designer labels. Here’s a list of wedding dress designers to choose from.

It’s a Matter of Convenience

If you have a busy life and a tight schedule, it can be very difficult to plan an appointment at a brick and mortar store. Online shopping takes the pressure off your schedule because Internet stores are open 24/7. You can browse to your heart’s content, leave comments, email questions and sometimes talk to a live person online. You can even scope for dresses on your lunch break.

Almost Unlimited Variety

Because online stores are not limited by retail space, many have a much wider range than traditional bridal stores. If you’re looking for a specific skirt style or neckline, you’re much more likely to find it quickly online. You’ll also have a choice of a much wider range of sizes, so it will be easier to have them fitted with the minimum of adjustment.

Do you Really Need to Try Them On?

Some brides-to-be are concerned about buying a bridal gown that they have not been able to try on first. You can get around this by visiting a high street bridal store and trying on a few gowns so you can feel comfortable with the styles you like. You can also get a feel for what size is your fit. Remember that wedding dresses are usually one or two sizes smaller than regular clothes sizes, so don’t be perturbed if you need a bigger size than you would normally wear.

The most important thing to remember when you are searching for a wedding dress online is patience. It will take some time to find a dress that you are completely in love with. When it show up, you will know it’s the one. Meanwhile, enjoy dress shopping.

Amy Dunn is a fashion designer with a specialty for contemporary wedding dresses. Her articles mainly focus on wedding dress trends and appear on various lifestyle websites.

10 Fashion Pieces to Pack on a Cruise Ship Vacation

January 26, 2017 by Mandy

Source

A cruise ship vacation can be a great way to see a region of the world without having to worry about extensive travel planning. Instead, you and your family can simply relax and enjoy the scenic ports, the fun excursions, and the luxuries aboard your ship. Packing for a cruise that is sailing through the islands takes some care. Beyond some summer outfits and your bathing suit, here are 10 essential fashion pieces to pack on your cruise vacation.

1. Extra Hangers

Packing extra hangers is a must if you want to keep your clothes looking great and ready to wear. Most cruise ship cabins don’t have more than a handful of hangers inside of their closets, so you’ll need to bring your own to accommodate all of your looks. An easy way to keep your hangers packed tight in your suitcase is to use lightweight wire hangers. Slip each of your outfits on a wire hanger and flat pack your clothes into your suitcases.

2. Formal Evening Wear

Many cruises still hold several formal dining events on board. If you want to make an impression and experience this unique event, be sure to pack several options for formal evening wear. Forgetting these essentials means you and your party will have to skip the formal dining room and make do with a casual buffet meal on those nights instead.

3. Fine Jewelry

To complete your formal evening wear look, be sure to pack your best pieces of fine jewelry. These are the nights where you’ll be posing for lots of formal portraits with your family or by yourself. If you’re nervous about bringing expensive pieces on board, pick up some authentic looking costume jewels for your ensemble instead.

4. Comfortable Walking Shoes

When you’re ready to go out exploring on those exciting excursions off of the cruise ship, you’ll need a pair of comfortable walking shoes. Sturdy shoes with a strong sole can help you keep your feet from getting too sore and uncomfortable as you navigate port.

5. Lightweight Beach Bag

For the days when your cruise ship is docked at each destination, you’ll definitely want to check out the gorgeous Caribbean beaches. Because you’ll be constantly on the go, you’ll need a lightweight beach bag option to take ashore. Look for one that is made of a sturdy material, like straw or linen, to hold all of your beach essentials.

6. Wide Brimmed Hat

While the warm rays of the sun in the Caribbean can be comforting, you’ll need to prepare yourself for the trip with some sun protection. Being closer to the equator means you’ll need extra tricks to help keep the sun from making your skin burn or causing too much fatigue. Try packing a wide brimmed hat to keep the sun off of your face.

7. Easy Sundresses

For your fun days on board your ship while it cruises to further destinations, you want to look your best without having to put in too much effort. A light sundress is the perfect option for those lazy days. Best of all, sundresses are easy and effortless to pack.

8. Chic Sandals

Don’t forget your great sense of fashion for your feet when you’re setting up your packing list. While flip flops are a standard for any cruise ship vacation to a warm weather destination, you should also consider bringing some gorgeous heeled sandals to dress up your outfit. You can find a great selection of sandals with online store Tobi.

9. Casual Gym Wear

It’s also a good idea to include some casual gym wear. This way, you’ll be able to start off each day with a workout on board your ship. Or, if you aren’t ready to hit the gym, you can simply stroll the top deck of the ship each morning.

10. Light Jacket

While it’s true that your cruise destinations may be warm and sunny with mild temperatures, things can get chilly on board at night. It’s smart to pack a light jacket for those colder nights just in case. Sometimes, the cruise ship’s air conditioning can be too powerful as well.

Getting ready for a cruise to a sunny destination can be a thrilling part of your trip. Before you set out on your boat, make sure you pack these essential fashion items to keep your style picture perfect each day of your trip.

7 ways to standout from all the other moms

December 20, 2016 by Mandy

Being a mom can be tough. Some call it the toughest job around. But taking care of babies is just one part of the challenge. The other part is trying to avoid being a stereotypical mom and standing out in the crowd. Women want to be more than just a parent. They want to be an individual.

The following are 7 ways you can really become your own person that will impress others.

Dress to impress. This doesn’t mean you have to wear designer clothes while hanging around the house changing diapers. But when going out, wear something with a style that fits your personality. Don’t be afraid to stray a little out of your comfort zone. And you don’t have to spend a fortune on your wardrobe. You can buy very fashionable clothes that are affordable if you know where to look. For example, you can find great deals at Saks Fifth Avenue with coupons and promo codes.

Be outgoing. For many moms, especially new ones, meeting new people can be difficult. The key is to be outgoing. While this is easier said than done, being outgoing simply means to talk to new people. Find other moms to have conversations with (you do have something in common, after all). Don’t just stay home every day.

Have a hobby you’re passionate about. Having something to do that you love, other than being a mom, will open up new possibilities for you. For example, certain hobbies are very sociable and have close-knit communities. This will help you expand your horizons beyond just being a mom.

Be confident. Having confidence in yourself means you’re not afraid to be the center of attention. You can talk about any subjects, even ones you don’t know anything about because you know the right questions to ask. People are drawn to you because you can make the best of any social situation.

Read books about interesting topics. Being well-read will help you be more confident when out and about town. Reading will also expand your horizons beyond the world of parenting. You can easily find a new passion while reading. Think about joining a book club. Most meet in the evening, giving you much-needed relief from your parenting duties.

Travel. Yes, traveling with kids can be a challenge. But there’s no substitute for getting out and seeing the world. Traveling will also help you meet new people, have new experiences and give you an education you can’t get anywhere else. Traveling doesn’t have to be expensive, great travel deals are all over the internet.

Be strong with your opinions. This means not to compromise what you believe just to please others and avoid conflict. Your own opinions about the world around you make you unique, so embrace them. But this doesn’t mean you can’t be open to new ideas. Listen to what others’ opinions and try to see things from their point-of-view. And always remember to be respectful.

Standing out as a mom doesn’t have to be hard, or even that expensive. Keep an open mind and be proud of who you are. Everything else will follow.