Lakme India Fashion Week 2009

Lakme Fashion Week, as we all know is a well known fashion event organized in various metropolitan cities of India from time to time. Recently the Lakme India Fashion Week 2009, was organized in Mumbai. The fabulous fashion event took place at the Grand Hyatt Hotel of Mumbai from March 27th till March 31st.

Lakme Fashion Week, had received 189 applications including applications from gen next and emerging fashion designers. This LFW also witnessed some totally new advents like Men's Wear Day & Barbie All Doll'd Up. Many glittering stars of bollywood also took part in the 10th Lakme Fashion Week, to name a few: Katrina Kaif, Shahrukh Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Priyanka Chopra and many others.

The Advisor of Lakme, Mr. Anil Chopra, expressed his views about the Lakme Fashion Week by saying, "This season, Lakme Fashion Week is going to pleasantly surprise the fashion industry with its new and unique initiatives like the Men's Wear Day, Group Accessory Show and Art Studio. LFW Spring Summer '09, to be held at NCPA Mumbai from 20 to 24th October, will not be just another fashion week to showcase designer collections, but it will be a unique platform to reach out to its varied audiences. The overall response for the number of entries is a proof in itself that LFW has created a benchmark for fashion designers."

Many established and renowned fashion designers took part in the Mumbai LFW 2009. Few major names include Abdul Halder, Anmika Khanna, Archana Kochhar, Asmita Marwa, Deepti Toor, Digvijay Singh, Krishna Mehta, Manish Gupta, Nandita Mahtani, Neeta Lulla, Sabyasachi, Vivek Kumar and Wendell Rodricks. All these and many other fashion experts took part in the fabulous fashion event.

India is emerging as a big market for the fashion industry. Because of this reason only, the people associated with the fashion field are getting attracted towards India. Besides LFW, there are various other fashion events that are organized time and again in India and abroad. Few major events include Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week, Hongkong Fashion Week, L'Oreal Fashion Week, Bridal Asia and Helsinki International Fashion Fair among others.

The fashion events are giving rise to new trends in men and women clothing, especially to women fashion clothing. They are also boosting the fashion industry at a constant pace. In the current context, one may expect the organization of even bigger fashion events and fashion shows in India in the coming years.

Lakme India Fashion Week 2009

Lakme Fashion Week, as we all know is a well known fashion event organized in various metropolitan cities of India from time to time. Recently the Lakme India Fashion Week 2009, was organized in Mumbai. The fabulous fashion event took place at the Grand Hyatt Hotel of Mumbai from March 27th till March 31st.

Lakme Fashion Week, had received 189 applications including applications from gen next and emerging fashion designers. This LFW also witnessed some totally new advents like Men's Wear Day & Barbie All Doll'd Up. Many glittering stars of bollywood also took part in the 10th Lakme Fashion Week, to name a few: Katrina Kaif, Shahrukh Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Priyanka Chopra and many others.

The Advisor of Lakme, Mr. Anil Chopra, expressed his views about the Lakme Fashion Week by saying, "This season, Lakme Fashion Week is going to pleasantly surprise the fashion industry with its new and unique initiatives like the Men's Wear Day, Group Accessory Show and Art Studio. LFW Spring Summer '09, to be held at NCPA Mumbai from 20 to 24th October, will not be just another fashion week to showcase designer collections, but it will be a unique platform to reach out to its varied audiences. The overall response for the number of entries is a proof in itself that LFW has created a benchmark for fashion designers."

Many established and renowned fashion designers took part in the Mumbai LFW 2009. Few major names include Abdul Halder, Anmika Khanna, Archana Kochhar, Asmita Marwa, Deepti Toor, Digvijay Singh, Krishna Mehta, Manish Gupta, Nandita Mahtani, Neeta Lulla, Sabyasachi, Vivek Kumar and Wendell Rodricks. All these and many other fashion experts took part in the fabulous fashion event.

India is emerging as a big market for the fashion industry. Because of this reason only, the people associated with the fashion field are getting attracted towards India. Besides LFW, there are various other fashion events that are organized time and again in India and abroad. Few major events include Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week, Hongkong Fashion Week, L'Oreal Fashion Week, Bridal Asia and Helsinki International Fashion Fair among others.

The fashion events are giving rise to new trends in men and women clothing, especially to women fashion clothing. They are also boosting the fashion industry at a constant pace. In the current context, one may expect the organization of even bigger fashion events and fashion shows in India in the coming years.

An Introduction to Industrial Knitting

Most of us love to wear knitted fabrics that are so comfortable due to their perfect fit and stretchability. However, I am doubtful as to how much each of us know about the knitting process followed by the apparel manufacturing companies for making highly popular clothing such as sports wear, underwear, sweaters, suits, coats, rugs and other home furnishings.


Industrial Knitting
Knitting is the second most popular method of fabric construction, after weaving. The complex knitting industry has two primary divisions, one of which manufactures knitted fabrics for garment manufacturers, sewing centers, consumers etc. and the other one produces completed apparels such as hosiery, sweaters, underwear etc.

A knitted fabric is made with yarns formed into interlocking loops with the help of hooked needles. Crocheted fabrics are the simplest form of knitting where a chain of loops is constructed from a single thread with the help of a hook. When the interlocking loops run lengthwise, each row is called a wale identified with the direction of warp in woven fabrics. When the loops run across the fabric, each row is called a course which corresponds to the filling or weft in woven fabrics.

Apart from the number of stitches or loops per square inch in a knitted fabric, the needle quality also decide its properties. With varying thickness and length of needles the stitches will also get thicker and longer respectively. There are three types of needles that are mostly used for industrial knitting- the latch needle, spring-beard needle, and compound needle.

Types of Knitted Fabrics

Depending upon the wales and courses, there are two types of knitted fabrics
1.Weft knit fabric, where one continuous yarn forms courses across the fabric.
2.
3.Warp knit fabric, where a series of yarns form wales in the lengthwise direction of the fabric.

Weft Knitting has three basic stitches- Plain-knit stitch; Purl stitch; and Rib stitch. Any other stitch is a variation of these three stitches. basic stitches of hand knitting can be identified with weft knitting. When done on weft knitting machines, individual yarn is fed to a single or multiple needles at a time.

In warp Knitting, each needle loops its own thread. The needles of warp knitting machines produce parallel rows of loops that are interlocked in a zigzag pattern. The stitches on the front side vertical with a slight angle. The stitches on the back are horizontal as floats at a slight angle. These floats are called laps or underlaps and are a distinguished features of warp knit fabrics. There are seven basic types of warp knitting- Tricot knit; Milanese knit; Simplex knit; Raschel knit; Ketten Raschel knit; Crochet and Weft-insertion warp.

Warp knit fabrics are smooth, sheer, wrinkle resistant, shrink strength and abrasion resistant as such they are very popular with the masses. Warp knit fabrics are considered better than the weft knit fabrics as these fabrics do not ravel easily, are less prone to sagging and have superior dimensional ability.

An Introduction to Industrial Knitting

Most of us love to wear knitted fabrics that are so comfortable due to their perfect fit and stretchability. However, I am doubtful as to how much each of us know about the knitting process followed by the apparel manufacturing companies for making highly popular clothing such as sports wear, underwear, sweaters, suits, coats, rugs and other home furnishings.


Industrial Knitting
Knitting is the second most popular method of fabric construction, after weaving. The complex knitting industry has two primary divisions, one of which manufactures knitted fabrics for garment manufacturers, sewing centers, consumers etc. and the other one produces completed apparels such as hosiery, sweaters, underwear etc.

A knitted fabric is made with yarns formed into interlocking loops with the help of hooked needles. Crocheted fabrics are the simplest form of knitting where a chain of loops is constructed from a single thread with the help of a hook. When the interlocking loops run lengthwise, each row is called a wale identified with the direction of warp in woven fabrics. When the loops run across the fabric, each row is called a course which corresponds to the filling or weft in woven fabrics.

Apart from the number of stitches or loops per square inch in a knitted fabric, the needle quality also decide its properties. With varying thickness and length of needles the stitches will also get thicker and longer respectively. There are three types of needles that are mostly used for industrial knitting- the latch needle, spring-beard needle, and compound needle.

Types of Knitted Fabrics

Depending upon the wales and courses, there are two types of knitted fabrics
1.Weft knit fabric, where one continuous yarn forms courses across the fabric.
2.
3.Warp knit fabric, where a series of yarns form wales in the lengthwise direction of the fabric.

Weft Knitting has three basic stitches- Plain-knit stitch; Purl stitch; and Rib stitch. Any other stitch is a variation of these three stitches. basic stitches of hand knitting can be identified with weft knitting. When done on weft knitting machines, individual yarn is fed to a single or multiple needles at a time.

In warp Knitting, each needle loops its own thread. The needles of warp knitting machines produce parallel rows of loops that are interlocked in a zigzag pattern. The stitches on the front side vertical with a slight angle. The stitches on the back are horizontal as floats at a slight angle. These floats are called laps or underlaps and are a distinguished features of warp knit fabrics. There are seven basic types of warp knitting- Tricot knit; Milanese knit; Simplex knit; Raschel knit; Ketten Raschel knit; Crochet and Weft-insertion warp.

Warp knit fabrics are smooth, sheer, wrinkle resistant, shrink strength and abrasion resistant as such they are very popular with the masses. Warp knit fabrics are considered better than the weft knit fabrics as these fabrics do not ravel easily, are less prone to sagging and have superior dimensional ability.

Color Trends for Summer 2009!

Summers are here and the sun is set to work without rest! In summers, heat and high humidity levels make our body to produce more sweat in order to cool off. And therefore, we all know what summer fabrics should be- breathable, lightweight, and light-colored! Skin has to be literally pampered so it's wise to stay away from chemically dyed fabrics and wear more herbal textile that use natural dyes to produce fantastic colors. And if these colors are chosen according to the current color trends, what's better then that?

Say Bye to Metallic Colors!
If we believe the predictions made for Spring-Summer 2009 the trend seems to be moving away from metallic colors towards more earthy and subdued color palette.

Color Trend for Classic Looks
The classical color palette holds vivid and saturated colors that bring with them cool breezes of beach side – blues and the sandy hues. Deep sea blue, aqua sky or midnight sky, dark, medium or light brown, sand color - all will give that classical touch to your clothes.

Color Trend for Stylish and Trendy Looks
The Chic color palette holds the nature inspired hues. They represent simplicity with style including the Earthy colors heavily on the side of brown but more than just brown. Go for any color inspired by mother nature- morning grass green, subdued orange, violet or golden yellow!

Color Trend for Casual Looks
The Casual color palette makes a move from nature based colors to city life inspired colors- glassy blues, unnatural pinks and street light yellows.

Color Of the Year 2009!
Now hold your breath to know the top color of year 2009! It's none other than the Superb yellow! Match it with black, brown, plum or blue and get as bright as you can!

Color Trends for Summer 2009!

Summers are here and the sun is set to work without rest! In summers, heat and high humidity levels make our body to produce more sweat in order to cool off. And therefore, we all know what summer fabrics should be- breathable, lightweight, and light-colored! Skin has to be literally pampered so it's wise to stay away from chemically dyed fabrics and wear more herbal textile that use natural dyes to produce fantastic colors. And if these colors are chosen according to the current color trends, what's better then that?

Say Bye to Metallic Colors!
If we believe the predictions made for Spring-Summer 2009 the trend seems to be moving away from metallic colors towards more earthy and subdued color palette.

Color Trend for Classic Looks
The classical color palette holds vivid and saturated colors that bring with them cool breezes of beach side – blues and the sandy hues. Deep sea blue, aqua sky or midnight sky, dark, medium or light brown, sand color - all will give that classical touch to your clothes.

Color Trend for Stylish and Trendy Looks
The Chic color palette holds the nature inspired hues. They represent simplicity with style including the Earthy colors heavily on the side of brown but more than just brown. Go for any color inspired by mother nature- morning grass green, subdued orange, violet or golden yellow!

Color Trend for Casual Looks
The Casual color palette makes a move from nature based colors to city life inspired colors- glassy blues, unnatural pinks and street light yellows.

Color Of the Year 2009!
Now hold your breath to know the top color of year 2009! It's none other than the Superb yellow! Match it with black, brown, plum or blue and get as bright as you can!

Men's Formal Wear – A Personality Symbol for Men

By Men’s Formal Wear we simply mean the clothing items which are usually worn by men on formal social events like wedding, formal parties or dinner and other such occasions. They are also worn by men in offices, official meetings and in interviews. Nowadays, the formal wears are also worn for general use to enhance ones personality. The contemporary formal clothing items have totally revolutionized the idea of men clothing. Men’s formal wears are more or less becoming a personality symbol for men.

In today’s world when the vogue for clothing items is constantly rising among men and women of all age groups (esp. teenagers); men’s formal wear is emerging as a dressing sense of men or we can say as a new trend in men’s clothing. Formal wears are the best medium for reflecting a man’s personality. Men admire the formal wear as it enhances their masculine look even more. Women also prefer a man who is well dressed and looks elegant. This could also be one of the reasons for the popularity of formal wear among men.

Formal men wear can be categorized into two primary categories viz. western formal wear and traditional formal wear. By and large, these two categories are almost same. But, the main difference lies in the fact that western formal wear has an exotic look, while traditional formal wear is country specific. An example of Indian traditional formal wear is the Sherwani, which is a common outfit worn in marriages etc. by men in India these days.

Numerous synthetic and natural fibers are used for fabricating men’s formal wear. Some of these fibers include wool, poplin, broadcloth, polyester, rayon, velvet, linen and so. Various types of men’s formal wears in fashion are formal suit, formal shirts, tuxedo (semi formal wear), blazers and formal trousers. No doubt, the world is becoming more fashionable day by day and no body is untouched with this change. After women, now men are also becoming fashion conscious; the prevalence of modern men’s formal wear is a clear indication to it.

Men's Formal Wear – A Personality Symbol for Men

By Men’s Formal Wear we simply mean the clothing items which are usually worn by men on formal social events like wedding, formal parties or dinner and other such occasions. They are also worn by men in offices, official meetings and in interviews. Nowadays, the formal wears are also worn for general use to enhance ones personality. The contemporary formal clothing items have totally revolutionized the idea of men clothing. Men’s formal wears are more or less becoming a personality symbol for men.

In today’s world when the vogue for clothing items is constantly rising among men and women of all age groups (esp. teenagers); men’s formal wear is emerging as a dressing sense of men or we can say as a new trend in men’s clothing. Formal wears are the best medium for reflecting a man’s personality. Men admire the formal wear as it enhances their masculine look even more. Women also prefer a man who is well dressed and looks elegant. This could also be one of the reasons for the popularity of formal wear among men.

Formal men wear can be categorized into two primary categories viz. western formal wear and traditional formal wear. By and large, these two categories are almost same. But, the main difference lies in the fact that western formal wear has an exotic look, while traditional formal wear is country specific. An example of Indian traditional formal wear is the Sherwani, which is a common outfit worn in marriages etc. by men in India these days.

Numerous synthetic and natural fibers are used for fabricating men’s formal wear. Some of these fibers include wool, poplin, broadcloth, polyester, rayon, velvet, linen and so. Various types of men’s formal wears in fashion are formal suit, formal shirts, tuxedo (semi formal wear), blazers and formal trousers. No doubt, the world is becoming more fashionable day by day and no body is untouched with this change. After women, now men are also becoming fashion conscious; the prevalence of modern men’s formal wear is a clear indication to it.

Balenciaga Brights!!!

I spent the day shooting some nice neon-y things from Balenciaga with my stylist friend Annabet (of the Doucette Duvall dress duo)....It's cool to sometimes play dress up complete with all the trimmings of hair, makeup and photographer....

Facts Behind the Eco-Friendly Fibers

Everyone these days seem to be talking about eco-friendly products. Textile industry too has become aware of the trend and has introduced many eco-friendly fibers for manufacturing eco-friendly fabrics. There is a common understanding among the masses that all natural fibers are eco-friendly and the man- made fibers are not. However, There are certain if's and but's regarding this general theory. Let's know what the actual meaning of eco-friendly fibers is!

What are Eco- friendly Fibers

All natural fibers are not eco-friendly. If there is extensive application of harmful pesticides or insecticides while cultivating, say, cotton- it doesn't remain eco friendly. Also the textile chemicals applied during the finishing and other processes of textile production goes to kill the eco friendly character of these fibers. However, if it's an organic cultivation without any pesticides etc. and if they are processed with mechanical or other ways without any chemicals then only a fabric can be termed as eco-friendly. The same is true for animal fibers like wool where pesticides are used in sheep dips and harmful drugs are given to cure animal diseases but then organic wool is there which is eco-friendly fiber.

As far as man made fibers are concerned, they too can be eco friendly. These are regenerated fibers. They are of two types- having protein origin and having cellulose origin. Protein origin regenerated fibers are obtained from plant protein like corn, soy, peanut etc. or from animal protein like casein from milk. Regenerated fibers of cellulose origin are derived from cellulose of wood pulp or leaves such as rayon fiber. If manufactured in environmental friendly way, they can be very well put into the category of eco friendly fibers.

Some Eco- Friendly Fibers

There are many eco- friendly fibers that are gaining popularity these days. Stinging nettle fiber comes from the Brennessel plant, naturally resistant to vermin and parasites and can be grown without pesticides, herbicides and with very little fertilizers. They are often blended with organic cotton to make a very eco-friendly fiber. It is stronger than cotton and finer than linen having fine weft and glossy look. Then there is eco-friendly pineapple fiber, the pina fiber made from pineapple leaves. The pineapple fabrics are lightweight, soft, transparent and a little stiff fabric with glossy appearance.

Milk yarn derived from milk protein fiber is yet another eco- friendly fiber that goes into making skin friendly, antibacterial, antifungal, and highly absorbent fabric. Bamboo fiber, the cellulose fiber- mechanically processed from bamboo plant, makes smooth, soft, antibacterial and luxurious fabric which has become very popular in present day fashion circles. Yet another eco- friendly, strong, shiny, lightweight and bio-degradable banana fiber is used extensively for fashion clothing and home furnishings.

Facts Behind the Eco-Friendly Fibers

Everyone these days seem to be talking about eco-friendly products. Textile industry too has become aware of the trend and has introduced many eco-friendly fibers for manufacturing eco-friendly fabrics. There is a common understanding among the masses that all natural fibers are eco-friendly and the man- made fibers are not. However, There are certain if's and but's regarding this general theory. Let's know what the actual meaning of eco-friendly fibers is!

What are Eco- friendly Fibers

All natural fibers are not eco-friendly. If there is extensive application of harmful pesticides or insecticides while cultivating, say, cotton- it doesn't remain eco friendly. Also the textile chemicals applied during the finishing and other processes of textile production goes to kill the eco friendly character of these fibers. However, if it's an organic cultivation without any pesticides etc. and if they are processed with mechanical or other ways without any chemicals then only a fabric can be termed as eco-friendly. The same is true for animal fibers like wool where pesticides are used in sheep dips and harmful drugs are given to cure animal diseases but then organic wool is there which is eco-friendly fiber.

As far as man made fibers are concerned, they too can be eco friendly. These are regenerated fibers. They are of two types- having protein origin and having cellulose origin. Protein origin regenerated fibers are obtained from plant protein like corn, soy, peanut etc. or from animal protein like casein from milk. Regenerated fibers of cellulose origin are derived from cellulose of wood pulp or leaves such as rayon fiber. If manufactured in environmental friendly way, they can be very well put into the category of eco friendly fibers.

Some Eco- Friendly Fibers

There are many eco- friendly fibers that are gaining popularity these days. Stinging nettle fiber comes from the Brennessel plant, naturally resistant to vermin and parasites and can be grown without pesticides, herbicides and with very little fertilizers. They are often blended with organic cotton to make a very eco-friendly fiber. It is stronger than cotton and finer than linen having fine weft and glossy look. Then there is eco-friendly pineapple fiber, the pina fiber made from pineapple leaves. The pineapple fabrics are lightweight, soft, transparent and a little stiff fabric with glossy appearance.

Milk yarn derived from milk protein fiber is yet another eco- friendly fiber that goes into making skin friendly, antibacterial, antifungal, and highly absorbent fabric. Bamboo fiber, the cellulose fiber- mechanically processed from bamboo plant, makes smooth, soft, antibacterial and luxurious fabric which has become very popular in present day fashion circles. Yet another eco- friendly, strong, shiny, lightweight and bio-degradable banana fiber is used extensively for fashion clothing and home furnishings.

Why Women Look Gorgeous in Silk Sarees?

Silk as you must be knowing is a fabulous fabric. Silk possesses unique qualities of its own. It is a fabric among fabrics. That's the reason of it being used in almost all types of cloths nowadays. Mostly used for making women cloths, silk is a fabric closely associated with sarees. Silk saress are a fascinating clothing item of women, even now. In today's modern world, when the traditional women cloths are being replaced by the contemporary clothing like jeans & top; silk sarees have not lost their charm at all.

A gracefully wrapped silk saree reveals the real beauty of a women. They are commonly wore by women on special occasions like marriages, parties, festivals etc. Even teenage girls are admiring them very much these days. Apart from its gorgeous and shimmering look, silk has several other qualities which make it a unique fabric for women clothing. Silk is the most hypoallergenic (good for sensitive skin) fabric; its smooth surface resists soil; it is the strongest natural fiber; silk is easy to color, spin, weave, knit and sew. All these characteristics of silk make it the most appropriate fabric for making sarees.

Nowadays, there are a large variety of silk sarees available in the market. The most prevalent types include Tissue Silk Sari, Banaras Silk Sari, Bandhani Silk Sari, Maheshwari Silk Sari, Tussar Silk Sari, Embroidered Silk Sari and Baluchari Silk Sari. These sarees adds to the beauty of women, which is their most precious asset. No doubt, silk sarees are a woman's pride.

Why Women Look Gorgeous in Silk Sarees?

Silk as you must be knowing is a fabulous fabric. Silk possesses unique qualities of its own. It is a fabric among fabrics. That's the reason of it being used in almost all types of cloths nowadays. Mostly used for making women cloths, silk is a fabric closely associated with sarees. Silk saress are a fascinating clothing item of women, even now. In today's modern world, when the traditional women cloths are being replaced by the contemporary clothing like jeans & top; silk sarees have not lost their charm at all.

A gracefully wrapped silk saree reveals the real beauty of a women. They are commonly wore by women on special occasions like marriages, parties, festivals etc. Even teenage girls are admiring them very much these days. Apart from its gorgeous and shimmering look, silk has several other qualities which make it a unique fabric for women clothing. Silk is the most hypoallergenic (good for sensitive skin) fabric; its smooth surface resists soil; it is the strongest natural fiber; silk is easy to color, spin, weave, knit and sew. All these characteristics of silk make it the most appropriate fabric for making sarees.

Nowadays, there are a large variety of silk sarees available in the market. The most prevalent types include Tissue Silk Sari, Banaras Silk Sari, Bandhani Silk Sari, Maheshwari Silk Sari, Tussar Silk Sari, Embroidered Silk Sari and Baluchari Silk Sari. These sarees adds to the beauty of women, which is their most precious asset. No doubt, silk sarees are a woman's pride.

The many faces of Janete...

To me, she's a cross between Tilda Swinton, Lily Cole and Karen Elson...She actually made her arrival in my inbox in a package over 2 months ago...Her booker sent the polaroids and I gagged!!! The days that I had open however, she wasn't available. Such as life as new girls arrive here. They get off the plane and are lined up with castings and jobs less than 24 hours later...Janete, was put on the backburner...until today.

Here are a few sneak peeks from a beauty shoot I did with her:

Enhance Your Personality with Fashionable Cotton Stoles

Stole as we all know is a piece of clothing consisting of a wide band of cloth or fur, worn by a woman around the shoulders. Stoles are really in fashion nowadays. Especially, the cotton stoles. Cotton stole is a very popular piece of clothing among young women which enhances their personality. However, it had been in use for long, but its appearance has undergone a great change in the modern context.

Today's cotton stoles, unlike the traditional ones have improved many a times in quality, design, comfort and elegance. They are one of the most admired clothings of women. They enhance the beauty of a women. Cotton stoles are appropriate for both formal and informal use. Besides cotton, other fabrics like silk, georgette, pashmina, wool etc. are also used for making stoles. But, cotton due to its unique qualities of being hypoallergenic (doesn't irritate sensitive skin), soft and long lasting; among others, is most preferred for making women stoles and other items of clothing.

These women cotton stoles are specially embellished with glass, beads, stones and other such stuffs. Not only this, their beauty is enhanced by means of traditional block prints, deity prints, floral patterns and exotic designs. Nowadays, cotton is blended with other fibers also to make stoles. This practice is giving rise to an all exclusive range of women stoles.

Today's customers want the best worth of their money. Perfectly suiting to this ideology of theirs, cotton stoles give perfect value for what one pays. They are a multipurpose item of clothing and can be worn in any season and at any occasion. In today's fashion conscious world, the vogue for stoles and especially fashionable cotton stoles is constantly rising among the women. Well, it is a clear sign, that for cotton stoles the future is perfect.

Enhance Your Personality with Fashionable Cotton Stoles

Stole as we all know is a piece of clothing consisting of a wide band of cloth or fur, worn by a woman around the shoulders. Stoles are really in fashion nowadays. Especially, the cotton stoles. Cotton stole is a very popular piece of clothing among young women which enhances their personality. However, it had been in use for long, but its appearance has undergone a great change in the modern context.

Today's cotton stoles, unlike the traditional ones have improved many a times in quality, design, comfort and elegance. They are one of the most admired clothings of women. They enhance the beauty of a women. Cotton stoles are appropriate for both formal and informal use. Besides cotton, other fabrics like silk, georgette, pashmina, wool etc. are also used for making stoles. But, cotton due to its unique qualities of being hypoallergenic (doesn't irritate sensitive skin), soft and long lasting; among others, is most preferred for making women stoles and other items of clothing.

These women cotton stoles are specially embellished with glass, beads, stones and other such stuffs. Not only this, their beauty is enhanced by means of traditional block prints, deity prints, floral patterns and exotic designs. Nowadays, cotton is blended with other fibers also to make stoles. This practice is giving rise to an all exclusive range of women stoles.

Today's customers want the best worth of their money. Perfectly suiting to this ideology of theirs, cotton stoles give perfect value for what one pays. They are a multipurpose item of clothing and can be worn in any season and at any occasion. In today's fashion conscious world, the vogue for stoles and especially fashionable cotton stoles is constantly rising among the women. Well, it is a clear sign, that for cotton stoles the future is perfect.

Crocheted Fabrics - An Introduction

Man has always been attracted towards beauty and in his pursuit of beauty, he has discovered many beautiful things too. Crocheted fabric is one such inventions of men which are made from simple materials like yarn or thread using a crochet hook. Crocheting is very similar to knitting as it is simply pulling loops of yarn through other loops. However, in crocheting, only one loop is active at a time with the exception of Tunisian crochet. It also differs from knitting in respect of its crochet hook which is used instead of knitting needles.

Development of Crocheted Fabrics
It is believed that primitive man did crocheting with the help of bent forefinger and as such there is no material evidence of its existence in those ages. However, crocheting as a tradition was prevalent in Arabia, South America, or China though there is no decisive evidence regarding this. It became popular in 19th century in Europe as craft. With industrialization, when the inexpensive cotton threads became readily available, crocheting saw a boom in its popularity. It saw a downtrend after World War I but again became popular after World War II when people regained their interests in various crafts. The crocheting patterns reappeared in many magazines and in the present times, it is such a popular craft that most of the yarn stores offer crochet lessons along with the traditional knitting lessons apart from full magazines dedicated to the craft of crocheting.

Crocheting Process
Crochet patterns are based on mathematical structure and are quite difficult to understand when viewed in a two-dimensional presentation. Crocheting is done by placing a slip-knot loop on the hook, pulling another loop through the first loop, and repeating this process a number of times till a chain of required length is created. The chain is used in two ways- it is either turned and worked in rows, or joined to the beginning of the row with a slip stitch and worked in rounds. Rounds can also be made by working many stitches into a single loop. Stitches are made by pulling one or more loops through each loop of the chain. At the end of a stitch, there is always only one loop left on the hook.

Types of Crochet
There are many types of crochets that include Filet crochet, Tunisian crochet, broomstick lace, hairpin lace, and Irish crochet among others. Filet crochet is a type of crocheted fabric or a crocheted lace made with chain stitch and the double crochet stitch. It is mainly used to create decorative items such as doilies, tablecloth, coasters, placemats etc. Tunisian crochet is the most unique as it keeps many loops active while crocheting and thus it is sometimes equated with knitting also. Broomstick lace uses a crochet hook and a long slender item like a knitting needle and the fabric made from this type of crochet is used for clothing and blankets. Hairpin lace is made with the help of two parallel metal rods. Strips are made by this method and then joined together to create a lightweight fabric. In Irisish crochet, motifs are made separately and then assembled into a mesh background.

Crocheted Fabrics - An Introduction

Man has always been attracted towards beauty and in his pursuit of beauty, he has discovered many beautiful things too. Crocheted fabric is one such inventions of men which are made from simple materials like yarn or thread using a crochet hook. Crocheting is very similar to knitting as it is simply pulling loops of yarn through other loops. However, in crocheting, only one loop is active at a time with the exception of Tunisian crochet. It also differs from knitting in respect of its crochet hook which is used instead of knitting needles.

Development of Crocheted Fabrics
It is believed that primitive man did crocheting with the help of bent forefinger and as such there is no material evidence of its existence in those ages. However, crocheting as a tradition was prevalent in Arabia, South America, or China though there is no decisive evidence regarding this. It became popular in 19th century in Europe as craft. With industrialization, when the inexpensive cotton threads became readily available, crocheting saw a boom in its popularity. It saw a downtrend after World War I but again became popular after World War II when people regained their interests in various crafts. The crocheting patterns reappeared in many magazines and in the present times, it is such a popular craft that most of the yarn stores offer crochet lessons along with the traditional knitting lessons apart from full magazines dedicated to the craft of crocheting.

Crocheting Process
Crochet patterns are based on mathematical structure and are quite difficult to understand when viewed in a two-dimensional presentation. Crocheting is done by placing a slip-knot loop on the hook, pulling another loop through the first loop, and repeating this process a number of times till a chain of required length is created. The chain is used in two ways- it is either turned and worked in rows, or joined to the beginning of the row with a slip stitch and worked in rounds. Rounds can also be made by working many stitches into a single loop. Stitches are made by pulling one or more loops through each loop of the chain. At the end of a stitch, there is always only one loop left on the hook.

Types of Crochet
There are many types of crochets that include Filet crochet, Tunisian crochet, broomstick lace, hairpin lace, and Irish crochet among others. Filet crochet is a type of crocheted fabric or a crocheted lace made with chain stitch and the double crochet stitch. It is mainly used to create decorative items such as doilies, tablecloth, coasters, placemats etc. Tunisian crochet is the most unique as it keeps many loops active while crocheting and thus it is sometimes equated with knitting also. Broomstick lace uses a crochet hook and a long slender item like a knitting needle and the fabric made from this type of crochet is used for clothing and blankets. Hairpin lace is made with the help of two parallel metal rods. Strips are made by this method and then joined together to create a lightweight fabric. In Irisish crochet, motifs are made separately and then assembled into a mesh background.

Beachwear – A Fascinating Clothing of Women

Beachwear as the name suggests refers to the item of clothing worn by people at the beach. Women are closely related with beachwear. This is the reason why, whenever we talk about beach clothing the picture of a woman (wearing a beach suit) flashes through our mind at once. Frankly speaking, beachwear most suits on women and increases their sex appeal.

In today's world, when fashion consciousness is increasing at a fast pace, women are the most exposed to it. In this context, beachwear holds an important place as a fashion wear. Beachwear, since their invention in the early 1900s, have undergone a considerable change. Initially, the beachwear or beach suits were made of thick cloth. Women beach suits were also designed to cover the whole body. But today's women's beachwear are made of modern fabrics like nylon, acrylic, polyester, velvet and so on. Besides giving it an elegant look, these fabrics made the beachwear more flexible and comfortable to wear.

Today's women's beachwear are much more revealing and exotic than the previous one. They provide a glamorous look to the women and enhances their beauty. Nowadays, even fashion shows are arranged in different cities of the world, for demonstrating the various types of beachwear and swim wear designed by fashion designers. The new styles and types of beachwear introduced through these fashion events are relevant to women only.

The various types of women beach clothing items in fashion at present include Women Swimsuits, Bandeau, Women Pareos, Halters, Sarongs, Beach Skirts, Bikinis and many more. No doubt, the increasing fascination for beachwear among the young women is giving rise to an all exclusive range of beach clothing.

Beachwear – A Fascinating Clothing of Women

Beachwear as the name suggests refers to the item of clothing worn by people at the beach. Women are closely related with beachwear. This is the reason why, whenever we talk about beach clothing the picture of a woman (wearing a beach suit) flashes through our mind at once. Frankly speaking, beachwear most suits on women and increases their sex appeal.

In today's world, when fashion consciousness is increasing at a fast pace, women are the most exposed to it. In this context, beachwear holds an important place as a fashion wear. Beachwear, since their invention in the early 1900s, have undergone a considerable change. Initially, the beachwear or beach suits were made of thick cloth. Women beach suits were also designed to cover the whole body. But today's women's beachwear are made of modern fabrics like nylon, acrylic, polyester, velvet and so on. Besides giving it an elegant look, these fabrics made the beachwear more flexible and comfortable to wear.

Today's women's beachwear are much more revealing and exotic than the previous one. They provide a glamorous look to the women and enhances their beauty. Nowadays, even fashion shows are arranged in different cities of the world, for demonstrating the various types of beachwear and swim wear designed by fashion designers. The new styles and types of beachwear introduced through these fashion events are relevant to women only.

The various types of women beach clothing items in fashion at present include Women Swimsuits, Bandeau, Women Pareos, Halters, Sarongs, Beach Skirts, Bikinis and many more. No doubt, the increasing fascination for beachwear among the young women is giving rise to an all exclusive range of beach clothing.

Keep Cool with Summer Fabrics!

Beat the Heat with Natural Fiber Fabrics this Summer! Your comfort in the hot season depends largely on your fabric choice. To stay cool, dry and comfortable, choose fabrics that are made up of smooth and absorbent fibers. Avoid Spun fibers, or napped, pile or fuzzy fabrics. Go for open, smoother, looser weaves or knits like mesh or seersucker. Light-colored and lightweight fabrics are good choices as far as summers are concerned.

Cotton: The all time favorite cotton is the best deal in summers. It is soft, breathable, soaks sweat, allows the body heat to escape, thus giving you cool feeling. It is available in lots of qualities, colors and blends. As it wrinkles a little, you can opt for cotton and polyester blend with a bigger proportion of cotton. Cotton will keep you cool and polyester don't needs ironing.

Linen: Pure linen that comes in different weights from ultra thin to heavy, is ideal for summer clothing- lighter ones for blouses and dresses and the heavier for summer jackets and slacks. Linen is strong, durable, absorbs perspiration and dries quickly, doesn't lint and softens as it ages. It feels cool and comfortable more than any other fabric. However, it wrinkles a lot so you can go for the luxurious blend of linen and cotton.

Rayon: Rayon derived from cotton linters or wood pulp, comes in many types-viscose, high wet-modulus, lyocell (tencel) etc. and is often blended with other natural and synthetic fibers. A comparison of rayon with other fibers show that rayon is a a good conductor of heat and thus is appropriate for summer clothing. It is one of the most absorbent fabrics, even more than cotton or linen.

Denim: Denim is also a popular fabric for summer times. It is made from tightly woven cotton and is breathable, sweat-absorbent just like cotton. However, when compared to pure cotton, denim is more heavier than it. Therefore, one must go for lightweight denim in order to keep cool in summers.

Lightweight wools: Not many people know that, with correct engineering, wool can be made to act as a very cool fabric for summer heat. The astonishing and interesting fact about summer suits is that they are made of light weight wool apart from cotton and linen. Wool has excellent insulating properties and as such it keeps wearer warm in winter and cool in summer provided the fiber diameter, length, spinning technology etc. are appropriate to produce 'Cool wool'.