Returns of Over 52% From Best Stock Investment Within 10 Days

This has been a bad week for the Dow, to say the least. On Friday, it saw its biggest weekly drop since October.

There have been a lot of long faces on Wall Street lately - but there's no reason you have to be one of them. In fact, it would prove to be quite a bit more profitable (not to mention less stressful) for you if you just steered clear of stocks all together.

If removing yourself from Wall Street's nastiness sounds like too big of a leap for you, we urge you to keep reading. We promise there is big money to be made...and you won't have to touch stocks with a ten-foot pole.

Imagine using a "Shadow Market" technique to double your investment in less than two weeks.

Without ever buying a single best stock, bond, commodity or managed fund.

Doesn't seem possible?

I've seen it done. I'll show you.

And in the next 24 hours, you could have a chance to profit just as big ― or bigger.

You see, Phase 3 of a brand new "Shadow Market" trading technique has just gone public for the first time.

And it has the potential to be the biggest recession-proof money making opportunity Agora Financial has ever offered you.

686 privately invited Phase-1 and -2 testers have already made 100% returns in as little as 48 hours. Now, the opportunity is finally open to you.

And, by side-stepping the mainstream markets to harness hidden "Shadow Market" gains, Phase-3 is on track to make you even more.

With hold times of as little as a few days.

Other Phase-3 testers are already starting to take record gains from this "Shadow Market."

And they'll be happy to continue taking those gains whether or not you decide to join in.

Today, I'm offering you a chance to be one of the lucky ones raking in quick "Shadow Market" gains.

A chance to sit back and watch your account fill up with cash.

Understand...the "Shadow Market" seems very easy to play.

And it is.

Yet it is not easily tamed.

Warning: the "Shadow Market" can drain every penny in your account

I'm not going to lie. The "Shadow Market" is brutal.

Conservative investors...weak-stomached investors...stop reading now.

If you're hoping to make a mint using your last $500 let me assure you...

This opportunity is not for you.

The "Shadow Market" moves at a break-neck pace.

Unlike every other market in the world, the "Shadow Market" never closes.

It's open 24 hours a day, five days a week.

And even the tiniest movements in this market can make or break you in a matter of hours if not minutes.

That means never leaving your computer screen ― keeping one eye fixed on your indicators at all time.

Playing it successfully requires every minute of your time.

Sleep? Playing the "Shadow Market" won't give you time for sleep.

Investments are made, money changes hands, "regular people" are made and then broken... 24 hours a day.

And that's yet another reason why it still lurks in the shadows ― who wants to be up all night, trading?

The "Shadow Market" can triple your losses in a matter of minutes

The money needed for a typical investment can be substantial.

When you play the "Shadow Market" you are highly encouraged to leverage your investments 100:1.

Sure, that gives you the opportunity to get in with very little out of pocket.

But, toying with that kind of leverage, even a tiny move against you means your losses can be crushing.

In a matter of minutes, you're on the hook for way more than your initial investment.

But what if you found out some way to tame this market, to keep its power in check... it IS possible, you see...

While every other market is in a historic slump. . .This "Shadow Market" trading technique is banking returns of 100%, 42% and 70%

Phase 1 experiments began back in July 2008.

686 of Agora Financial's most elite readers volunteered to put this great new money-making strategy to the test. They had heard about the power of the "Shadow Market" and volunteered to test-run a new research service that aimed to profit from it.

These test subjects received their first recommendation on July 30, 2008.

Using just a fraction of the power locked in this unorthodox trading technique, 686 Phase 1 testers set their sights on average gains of 10% every month.

If they were successful, they would have doubled their money in just over eight months.

But the numbers just didn't add up. So our intrepid 686 "Shadow Market" volunteers were hungry for more ― much more.

So we turned up the juice and launched into Phase 2 just three months later.

The first buy recommendation went out to the same 686 test subjects on October 27, 2008.

What happened over the next 10 days was astonishing. As you can see in the chart below, just $1000 in the first three plays would have landed you a profit of $1566.33...a mere 10 days later.

That's more than $156 a day in pure "Shadow Market" profits.

If you'd invested $5,000 in each play, starting on October 27, and followed our first three recommendations to a "T", you would have been sitting on $12,831.50 in pure profits just 10 days later.

And $10,000 would have turned into $25,663...that's a daily average of over $2,500!

How would you like to double your money in little more than 10 days. . . by using my secret technique in a little-known "Shadow Market"?

Not a bad start for a test run, wouldn't you agree?

Especially a test run that started on October 27, 2008. Barely a month after the hot stocks market took one of the worst tumbles in history.

But as you can see, we're not talking penny profits here.

Phase 3 could easily mean solid, consistent, five-figure profits in as little as two weeks. Regardless of what the other markets do!

Sure, not every play is going to double that fast. In fact, Bill picked a couple of losers along the way too. But I'll bet a few back-to-back plays averaging 52.2% would look pretty nice right about now.

Am I right?

I mean, we're all scared to death in this economy. And rightly so...

Many investors have completely pulled their money out of stocks, commodities and funds.

The conservative investors tuck their cash under a mattress for a rainy day (what they have left of it anyway).

Meanwhile, the lucky Phase-2 "Shadow Market" volunteers had the chance to double their money in a matter of days.

Grabbing gains like:

23.39% gains in just two days...

33.24% gains in one week and...

100% gains in just 24 hours...

And projections for Phase-3 are far greater than anything we've seen yet.

Learn how to tame the "Shadow Market" and grab insane profits ― in any market

You see, more than $4 trillion changes hands in the "Shadow Market" every day. That's more than triple the amount of all top stocks and futures combined.

Making the "Shadow Market" the single-largest market in the world.

And yet it remains virtually unknown and untouched by comparison.

But why is it so cut off from the mainstream?

Because although the "Shadow Market" is massive and powerful...it is equally dangerous and terrifying.

That's why it remains hidden in the shadows.

Sure, the profit potential is virtually limitless.

But so are the losses.

So it can be scary.

Those who slip into the "Shadow Market" without the right know-how, crawl home broke and battered ― with barely a shirt on their back.

In a market that moves this quickly, thousands of dollars can be lost in a matter of days, if not hours and minutes.

And that's why you must tame it before you can take steady profits...

So give me just a minute and I'll show you how you could not only tame the "Shadow Market," but use its fullest power for some unbelievable profits.

686 Agora Financial's Phase 1 and 2 volunteers have tamed the "Shadow Market"

With the help of a self-made "Shadow Market" tamer, they've been using a cutting-edge investing strategy that landed them average returns of 52.2% in the first 10 days.

And in just another minute, I'm going to offer you the opportunity to join the just-opened Phase 3 so you could take similar "Shadow Market" profits.

Profits that could make Phase 2 look like pocket change.

Offering double and triple-digit returns:

Without buying a single stock, bond or commodity

Without throwing money away in a fund

Without waiting weeks, months or years

During a time when hot stocks 2009 are down almost 50%, Phase 1 and 2 testers have had the chance to more than double their money.

And as Phase 3 opens to the public, you'll have the chance to profit right along with them.

Using a proven strategy for taming the "Shadow Market" that's fast, safe and won't take more than 10 minutes out of any given day.

My "Shadow Market" Taming System REVEALED!

You might have guessed that the "Shadow Market" is my name for the Forex market.

It's virtually untouched and uncharted financial territory to even the most seasoned traders.

But, we've found a way to make safe, fast, double and triple-digit gains.

The tamed FX market represents the largest most powerful money-making machine on the planet.

And I'm going to show you just how easy it is to make its power work for you.

Best of all, no matter what happens to stocks, commodities, real estate and funds of every shape and size ― as long as the world keeps spinning we'll be there to profit from every move.

Phase 3 uses the power of options to tame and benefit from the wild "Shadow Market"

If you've ever played the stock market 2009, chances are you've heard of options.

But even if you've never bought a stock, you can put this strategy to work for you with just a few simple, easy-to-follow steps.

I'll show you exactly how it works in just a minute.

But the gains I've already told you about are proof that using options allows you to make staggering profits from the single-biggest market on the planet.

But what really sets this taming strategy apart from the "Shadow Market" is that these profits come with:

Virtually limitless profit potential

Extremely fixed and limited risk

A standard stock-trading account (no special accounts or
brokers necessary)

Plus, using options means you don't need to watch the "Shadow Market" around the clock.

Not only do these "Shadow Market" options protect your risk, they allow you to make killer profits without giving up your sleep!

Make staggering Forex gains, no matter what's going on in the other world markets

The tamed Forex system works.

And happy Phase 1 and 2 testers are proof positive:

"I made 27% on my first trade....what a psychological boost in this current bear market."

� Michael S.

"Thanks for another great option call! 30% in 48 hours―nice!

Thanks again."

� Jack M.

Nice call! 22% in 24 hours. Thank you!

� Andrew T.

That's because, up or down... big or small... there is money to be made in any fluctuation in the FX market.

And thanks to hundreds of social, political and economic variables, a currency's value can go up and down several times in a single day.

For the diehards, that means taking huge risks, watching the charts all night and eating every meal in front of the computer screen.

That's why I want you to have your chance to jump on Phase 3 of my Forex trading system...

Playing the Shadow Market market means there is money to be made 24 hours a day, five days a week.

But don't worry.

When the Shadow Market's tamed, using options plays, you don't have to keep those kinds of hours to take quick profits.

Our cutting-edge "Shadow Market" trading strategy
actually tames the FX market for you

Our "Shadow Market" tamer watches the charts, gauges his technical indicators and does all the work for you.

Using simple options plays, we can actually slow down the "Shadow Market," minimize your risk and super-charge your profit potential.

What kind of profit potential am I talking about?

How about doubling your money in just 48 hours.

How easy is it? It couldn't be easier

In fact, it's no different than buying or selling a stock.

All it takes is a single click of your mouse or a single five minute phone call and you're in.

A twelve-year old could do it.

Because, once you're on board, you'll get an email with all the details you'd need to buy into each play―what to click or what to tell your broker, word-for-word.

Two Easy Steps to Tamed Shadow Market Riches:

Decide if you want to act on the urgent play emailed to you

Then we'll email you again when it's time to get out and bank
your profits

Boom, boom, you take your gains.

Even if you've never bought a stock... know nothing about options... have never even heard of the FX market...

You'll find everything you need to know, spelled out, in the pages of The Easy Way to Trade Currency Options.

This report strips away the "investor-ese" and shows you exactly how FX options work, how to set up an account (if you don't already have one) and start grabbing incredible gains.

Just another minute of your time, and I'll show you how to get your hands on this report, absolutely FREE...

So you too will have a chance to see 23.39%. . . 33.24%. . .100% returns, or better!

It's practically fool-proof.

But before I explain how you can put this strategy to work for you...

Let me tell you about the "Shadow Market" genius behind these profit plays.

He's the man watching the computer screen 24 hours a day so that you don't have to.

And his name is Bill Jenkins.

The son of a carpenter and a homemaker, he's the fifth of seven brothers, a minister, a father of eight and a husband of 26 years.

And although you wouldn't know it after speaking to him, he doesn't have a degree in business, finance or economics.

He didn't spend years on the trading floor, wiping the boiler room sweat from his brow.

But he just might be the hardest working man we've ever brought onto our team.

Bill went to college and then seminary school in Western Pennsylvania. From there he went straight into the ministry...

"Minister's salaries being what they are, and having a growing family, I was quickly forced to find a way to supplement my income. 

Somebody told me I could make money in the best stock investment..."

The stock market had its ups and downs for Bill. But the real money came rolling in once he learned how to tame the FX market.

Interestingly enough, he got his start with his brother.

"My oldest brother, Jim, and I made a little money trading stocks, but we made the most on a pair of currency options on Eurodollars. 

It was 1993, and we bought 2 Euro calls for $200.00. 

We cashed them out at $1,200.00." 

That was a quick gain of 500%. And, naturally, Bill was HOOKED.

Over the next 15 years Bill tried his hand at stocks, commodities and real estate with mixed results.

He was raising a family, running a church and he launched and ran his own construction business.

At the same time, he devoured everything he could. Books, newsletters, arcane charts ― he analyzed every building block of trading.

But, more than anything else, Bill realized that you learn more by doing than by reading and studying.

So he put all of his other investments aside and dove headlong into the madness of the FX market.

His success came slow at first.

But the more he played, the more he learned.

And the more he learned, the more cash he started raking in.

Bill knows how to trade currencies and currency options like no man I've ever met.

And that's why he insisted on opening the Phase 3 round of his Forex system to you, if you want to join.

So you'll have a chance to profit right along with him...

Minimize your risk, super-charge your profits and cash in on the power of the FX market

Like I said earlier, the FX market is easy to play ― but it's wild and it's dangerous.

It took Bill's cutting-edge strategy to tame it.

So...

If you're looking for a tame, safe, easy way to play the FX market...

If you enjoy making steady double and triple-digit gains with barely any effort at all...

If you're looking for a profit-driven strategy that keeps your risk known and at a minimum...

And if you enjoy getting eight hours sleep each night...

Then our brand new Master FX Options Trader research service is your key to cash-grabbing success in 2009.

You read that right.

The fastest, easiest, most direct way to grow your money. . .

It doesn't matter if you've never played options before.

In fact, you don't need any investment knowledge whatsoever.

Because, when you sign up for Master FX Options Trader today, we'll send you a copy of The Easy Way to Trade Currency Options absolutely FREE.

We'll show you everything you need to know to get started.

Even if you've never bought a single stock, when you've got an FX master like Bill Jenkins in your corner calling all the shots, it couldn't be easier!

Like I said before, our Phase 2 beta test delivered average returns of over 52% in the first 10 days!

Best of all, it takes less than 10 minutes to get in on each of Bill's recommendations.

A few clicks of your mouse or a few minutes on the phone, and you're in.

How does it work?

Every week Bill will send you an email to let you know what's happening in the world currencies market. And how it can impact each of the major currencies.

He's got a pretty complicated analysis. He uses candlesticks, trendlines, moving averages, Bollinger bands, stochastics and a series of proprietary grids.

Here's just one simple example of the kind of thing Bill looks for:

You see that spike? Bill saw it coming a mile away.

He keeps one eye on his indicators and the other on the international news.

Using his knowledge and understanding of the FX market, he combines those charted trends with any major announcement...

Then bang!

When the timing is right, he'll tell you word-for-word, in plain English, which options play to get into...at what price...and why.

If you like the play, you can actually call your broker and read him Bill's email word-for-word.

Just to show you how easy it really is, here's a copy of the alert that Bill sent out on October 27, telling his readers about the British pound calls that would land them 100% returns just two days later...

As you can see, Bill lays everything out very clearly.

If you decide to take advantage of his recommendation, you can actually call your broker and just read him Bill's email ― it couldn't be easier.

Best of all, unlike playing the "wild" FX market, Bill's "taming" strategy means your out-of-pocket is rarely more than a couple hundred dollars per position.

Your risk on tamed Forex options plays are fixed. You always know exactly how much is at stake ― it's strictly known and completely manageable.

You are 100% in control.

So while a typical FX trade could easily drain your account a hundred times over with a single position...

With tamed currency options:

There's no fine print...

No hidden danger of losing more than you put in...

And your profit potential is virtually limitless!

Of course, not every play is going to be a winner.

Like I said before, even someone batting 1.000 is going to swing and miss from time to time.

That's why only serious readers should take advantage of Bill's Phase 3 Forex system.

Even though Bill's track record has been overwhelmingly profitable so far, you must be able to admit the possibility of a losing play...

But unlike any other investment, Bill's "taming" strategy works in any market environment.

It doesn't matter what happens to top stocks and bonds...

It doesn't matter how many hedge funds go bust or how many CEOs go bankrupt...

It doesn't matter what happens to gold or silver, oil or coal, gas or corn...

As long as the world keeps spinning, currencies will continue to change hands and Bill Jenkins' Master FX Options Trader will help you profit, every step of the way.

A chance to grab returns of 100% or better in just 48 hours! Sign on today for 50% off and start seeing profits as early as next week. . .

Maybe you've seen the late-night Forex infomercials. They tout $10,000 FX services claiming to make you money "while you sleep."

They're pretty hard to miss. And they're equally hard to believe.

And for the most part, they go out into the Wild Forex market, exposing you to unlimited risk. In fact, I've never even seen one that uses options to tame the FX markets like Bill does...

For $10,000 they'll send you a CD, a flimsy report and a fast, one-way ride to financial ruin.

But the brand new Master FX Options Trader won't run you anywhere near that.

Plus, with the Master FX Options Trader you get:

Specific options plays: Bill keeps one eye focused on his charts at any given minute, so you don't have to. And when the time is right, he'll immediately fire off an email with all the details you need to get in on his next play. Up to 52 plays a year!

Breaking news: At least once a week, you'll get the latest on what's going on around the world. You'll get an update on any open positions, details on what's happening in the currency markets and how they can impact your FX options plays.

Expert experience: 15 years worth of Bill's investing experience, uncanny instinct and targeted investment recommendations. Laid out in easy-to-follow language that even an amateur could follow with ease.

FREE Gift #1: Our brand new currency options report, The Easy Way to Trade Currency Options, is yours FREE. It'll tell you everything you need to know about the FX market. How it works, why it can be dangerous, how we've used options to tame it and the easy steps you can follow, in just minutes, to set up your own options trading account (if you don't already have one).

FREE Gift #2: Elite level access to the Master FX Options Trader web site. In it you'll find detailed archives, current alerts, our profit portfolio, free reports and more.

And of course, beyond all of the above...

You get the opportunity to join Phase 3 of Bill's Forex research service to rake in double and triple-digit gains while the majority of investors lose sleep.

So how much will the Master FX Options Trader service run you?

Like I said, a service of this caliber could easily go for $10,000 or more per year.

Especially when you consider that a $5,000 investment in the right recommendations during Phase 2 would have paid for your subscription and then some... in less than two weeks.

But, I want you to have every opportunity to hit the ground running with Phase 3. So we've decided to keep it at a very reasonable $2,000.

However, since I want to make sure there's nothing stopping you from signing up today, I cut the price in half.

That means a full year of Master FX Options Trader will run you just $995!

But I can't guarantee this price forever. My publisher may jack it back up to $2,000 at any time.

Now, I have to warn you:There are no sure things in this world. . .

Is Bill going to make the right call 100% of the time?

Of course not.

23.39%...33.24%...and 100% returns, in the first 10 days were a heck of a good start!

And although Phase 2 came out ahead of the game, his fourth and fifth plays were losers.

So you see, there are very few sure things in this world. And even someone who bats 1.000 is sure to take a swing and a miss from time to time.

But the gains he's achieved have more than made up for the occasional losses.

So, if there's anything keeping you from signing up for Master FX Options Trader, let me offer you this safety net.

If you choose to enroll as a Phase 3 tester today, you can put Bill's insights to the test RISK-FREE for the next 60 days.

That means, a chance to get in on as many as four options plays.

But, even if you don't make any investments of your own ― even if you just paper trade for the next month ― if he doesn't show you an opportunity to make at least double your money on at least one play, as reflected in his track record, just give us a call and we'll refund every penny of your subscription price.

No questions asked.

There's no such thing as a "slow down" in the Forex market

Bill's taming strategy and the launch of Phase 3 can be the safety net you're looking for during the worst economic slump in more than two generations.

His next triple-digit profit opportunity could come at any moment. And I would love for you to profit right along with his lucky Phase 1 and 2 readers.

So why wait another minute? Visit this link, sign up today and save 50% on a full year of Master FX Options Trader now!

 

Mineral Makeup (info you should know)

Mineral makeup is made from all natural minerals that come from the earth. Most of them are a combination of serecite, mica, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are natural sun blocking agents and are used in almost every bulk store bought sun block or lotion you can buy. Most minerals are also water proof so the hold of mineral makeup is usually all day with little or no touch up needed. The minerals used in the makeup are very finely milled into a powder that is micro-fine and will blend well into the skin and look very natural. An outstanding range of colors in the minerals make it possible for mineral makeup manufacturers to offer a vast array of colors. A virtual rainbow has been made from blush, eye shadows, lipsticks, and foundation in hundreds of shades. It's easy to buy two or three different foundation shades and blend them for a custom color of your own because minerals blend very easily together. Because our cosmetic grade minerals are so finely milled they won't clog your pores, and if some of them do happen to get into the blood stream, do not worry, after all they're all natural and they are completely safe for the body. Many doctors and dermatologists have proclaimed mineral makeup as the skin care makeup because it is so healthy for the skin and does not aggravate acne and it covers blemishes, acne, large pores, and scars very effectively. If you're interested in a safe and natural alternative to chemical, oil and preservative laden makeup, minerals may be something for you to look in to.

 

 Mineral Makeup Differences

How, you ask, can one Mineral Makeup differ from another? There are several reasons actually, the first being economic. Big affiliate companies spend lots of money on the advertising package (sheer/bare) etc. Some (un-named) will take their minerals and fluff them with fillers (corn starch etc) to make more product, and sell it at a similar price. The facts are the facts. Mineral makeup in its purity is very all natural and simple, and no matter how you cut it, we all use the same minerals. So please ask yourself this question. Why does "A" cost so much more than "B" or these are the same price, but "A" does not have as much product as "B" . Where will you stand!! You need to ensure whatever mineral makeup company you choose uses ONLY the all natural minerals with no fillers or additives. There are many new upstart makeup comanies around today, so make sure you do your homework, and at least know what you are buying, no matter who you are buying it from.

 

The Mineral Makeup Rainbow The Mineral Makeup Rainbow.

The Cosmetic grade mica used in my CMH Essentials makeup comes in a vast array of colors. But, for those of you who really dare to be different the color spectrum can be endless. Why? You ask. Because, since all of my makeup is 100% pure minerals with no additives, they can be mixed and matched to create all new colors!! Whatever shade or color you purchase, it can always be changed, or altered to the perfect shade for you. Mineral Makeup is so easy to work with, and fun, that even the younger generations can have fun with it..

 

 The B.O. (Bismuth Oxychloride) in Mineral Makeup

  Some cosmetics companies will use it in their cosmetics because it is an inexpensive filler. Bismuth does have some adhesion qualities, so the makeup will hold to your skin better, however there are other products that are just as good at sticking to your skin, and are better for your skin. Other than being an inexpensive filler it is very reflective, which is what companies want, because it will camouflage fine lines, wrinkles and discolorations. If you use a brand with Bismuth you will see a shiny or shimmery, yet heavy look. B.O. is a thick, heavy mineral, which makes it difficult for many people to wear. It has to be packed into your pores (heavy application) otherwise it can fall off the wearer's face. The heaviness can sometimes result in plugged pores and irritation of the skin. B.O will feel smooth between the fingers. Mineral makeup companies who don't use B.O. have a smoother feeling makeup that will apply to the skin better and with less effort. Some women who use Mineral Makeup experience itching when they sweat. Alot of times this can be from the chemical composition in B.O. So, if you find you're experiencing some problems with your current mineral makeup and it contains Bismuth, the remedy could be as simple as switching to a brand that doesn't use B.O.

Spring & Summer 2009 Hair Fashion Trends

Mahopac Falls, NY    Winter brunettes usually give way to blondes during the spring and summer. This year will be no different. Ron Cardillo Sr., President of SO.CAP. USA Hair Extensions offers his predictions and advice for spring and summer hair fashion!

"For the upcoming seasons, you will need to go cooler and lighter with haircolor shades to complement summer tan skin tones. Blondes that stayed blonde throughout the winter will want to lighten it up a little, so you will just need to add some highlights throughout the blonde. Reds that went a shade darker for the winter will want to go a shade or two lighter this spring. Brunettes are going to want to add in some lighter browns and darker blondes to add multi-dimensional haircolor. This is easy to do with hair extensions. Professional hair extensions are so much easier on your client's hair and they won't damage the delicate blondes, because no chemicals are used," says Cardillo.

The haircolor fashions this year are very light with vibrant colors from the blondest blonde to the most luminous reds. It's important that you make these new haircolor shades look very soft, so they will come alive with depth and dimensional haircolor. "Multi-dimensional color will remain a very desired look this year. You can take your client with one solid color and add two to three or more haircolor shades to give them that wanted dimension, without having to color their hair," suggests Cardillo. After applying hair extensions, you can simply cut their hair to match the existing hairstyle, so no one will know they even have hair extensions. "When it comes to highlights, anything still goes. It all depends on your client's personality and lifestyle. With extensions, they can create a much bolder look with different haircolor highlights and lowlights as well as fantasy shades. Change is so easy when they want to change the haircolor. You just need to take out their hair extensions," Cardillo says. Fantasy shades have also now become a much bigger trend, over the past year. Fantasy colors are just coming into their own. More clients are becoming increasingly daring. They want that bold and luscious haircolor without having to bleach the hair and deposit color that will fade while adding more volume. This can easily be achieved with professional hair extensions. SO.CAP. USA Hair Extensions offers 81 different haircolor shades, making it easy to do any color combination you and your client can imagine. The color combinations are endless.

Professional hair extensions are now much more than just a trend. They are more of a necessity for some. You can actually reconstruct hair for someone who is experiencing hair loss, alopecia or the effects from chemotherapy. You will be able to give them the look they desire, to help them feel good about themselves again and to give them the confidence they need to face the world. Remember that as a hairstylist, you must create and adapt the seasonal trends to fit your client's lifestyle needs. Your imagination with hair extensions can be endless, You are creating a work of art and customizing each hairstyle!

SO.CAP. s.r.l. Hair Extensions Company is based in Naples, Italy, with several offices across Europe and North America. SO.CAP. USA, the official North American branch, is headquartered in New York, with 14 other regional offices around North America, with offices also in Canada, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and Latin America. They have been featured in numerous international professional beauty trade and consumer publications.

Diversify Your Salon Clientele With New Passion International Barber & La Vida Stylebooks

Hawthorne, CA - Daniel Funk, the publisher of Passion International Stylebooks announces the release of two exciting new Passion International Stylebooks for those salons that want to expand their business with barber haircuts and designer styles as well as Latin clients. These stylebooks are great for client consultations, to share creative new hair design ideas as well as to offer extra new haircolor and texture services.

The new Passion La Vida Stylebook ~ Volume 6 features creative haircuts, haircolor and hair fashion designs on many beautiful Latin women as well as many handsome men from over 50 top North American salons including ACP San Juan de D of Guadalajara, Alejandro Loccoco of Guadalajara, Alta Pelequeria Ludy Licea of Monterrey, Erik Pacheco Salon of Monterrey, Gio Alta Pelequeria of Monterrey, Loccoco of Guadalajara, Los Betos of Monterrey, Oscar Acosta Estilistas of Monterrey and the Rafael Lugo Salon of Monterrey. This new stylebook shares special sections with Long, Short, Medium Curls & Waves, Updos and Men with a combination of very contemporary and fashion forward hair designs.

The new Passion Barber Stylebook ~ Volume 6 features over 80 pages of progressive barber cuts, designer haircolor and creative hairstyle designs on some very attractive men, boys, teens and women by 58 top salons from across the United States including Artistically Yours of Colton, CA, Cutt-N-Up of San Diego, CA, Gentleman's Headquarters of Rancho Cucamonga, CA, Hair Icon Barber Shop of Lake View Terrace, CA, House Of Style Barbershop of San Diego, CA, Mirror Mirror Salon of Long Beach, CA, Our People Hair Salon of Carson, CA, Panama Jo Hair Designs of Costa Mesa, CA, Samara Studios of Inglewood, CA and Tiffany's Natural Haircare of Fairfield, CA with many other talented barbershops and salons from across the USA. This special new stylebook shares special sections for Short Cuts, Texturizers, Afros, Beards, Spikes, Trends, Women, Kids & Teens. It even comes with a free wall poster for your salon.

Passion Beauty offers you a variety of new reception area stylebooks each year inclusive of Passion Hair Extensions, Color, Family, Women Over 35, Black Passion, Haircolor, Family and La Vida. Today, Passion International remains respected as the global leader in professional stylebooks that are provided to salons for use in their reception areas across the globe.

Publisher Daniel Funk notes, "Now is your chance to get published and to make your hair designs -- famous! We work exclusively with our own Passion photography sessions being held across the United States each year. We do not accept photography submissions, so you will always see fresh new creative hair designs. This allows you to have a distinctively unique collection of updated hairstyle artistry with the advantage of contemporary wearable hair fashions. Should your salon team get involved, plan to be prepared to come with very attractive professional and non-professional models. Those published, will receive complimentary copies of their stylebooks as well as an array of outtake photographs to use in your own future local marketing and advertising programs. This really is a wonderful opportunity to gain national and international attention for your hair designers and salon! If you would like to be invited to participate in a future Passion Photography Competition Session, many of the future 2009 Passion International Stylebooks are now being planned for special invitational photography competition sessions across the USA."

To order your new Passion Stylebooks, check with your local beauty supply distributor or to find a local distributor contact Passion Beauty at 800-362-7071 or 310-263-7360, email Daniel@PassionBeauty.com or visit their website at www.PassionBeauty.com. You can also look for Passion Beauty at many regional and national beauty trade shows.

Tips For Hair Extensions

It is very important to do some research before you have your hair extension done. Some extensions will be better for you than others. Some salons and stylists are better trained and more experienced than others. In general you get what you pay for. Hair extension prices vary by salon and method, they are not cheap.

Tips:

• Always schedule an initial consultation and explain your wishes and concerns.
• The stylist should analyze your hair to make sure your hair is in a condition for successful hair extensions.
• Ask about the training and experience of your stylist.
• The stylist should inquire about your lifestyle, health and hobbies etc.
• Make sure you are well informed about the method and hair quality that will be used for your extensions (read more in "Hair Extension Methods" and "Hair").
• Ask to see before and after pictures.
• Ask how long the hair extensions will last and how much it will cost to remove them.
• Ask if the hair can be used again.
• Make sure to get a written estimate for your hair extensions.
• Get a maintenance plan (follow-up appointments, recommended products, tools, wash and style instructions, etc.)
• A good general rule is that hair extensions should not be longer than twice your own hair length (there are of course exceptions).

These tips are no guarantee that you will be 100% satisfied with your extensions but it will help with some issues that may occur.

Body Hair. The Next “Big Thing” in Hair Restoration Scams

No longer should prospective hair transplant consumers be weary only of bad plug jobs and hair transplants that look like a picket fence in Huckleberry Finn. Now there is a new black cloud that has no silver lining. This would be the promise of body hair transplantation or "BHT".

First off, what is BHT? BHT is the transplantation of body hair from various parts of the body with the intent of placing it in the scalp. If performed correctly there is a great potential source of donor hair that would be, compared to scalp hair, limitless depending on the amount of body hair that a patient has.

The problem with this, like so many other ideas in the unregulated hair transplant industry, is that good ideas do not necessarily work out to be so great in reality. BHT is relatively new in the hair transplant field and is only practiced by a few clinics worldwide. These clinics however tend to promote the use of body hair as being reliable and effective. The truth however is that BHT is not only NOT reliable there are few success cases if these cases can be called successful to begin with.

BHT is not performed like a traditional hair transplant. The standard method of transplanting hair for the purpose of increased volume and density on the scalp is via the "strip" method. This is where the doctor removes a strip of tissue from the back and/or sides of the scalp. The effectiveness of this procedure allows for consistent growth. This is not to say anything about artistry and naturalness as these qualities in a surgeon vary widely but we know that in most hands this technique works. For better or for worse the hair tends to grow in the vast majority of cases. Body hair is taken with a small punch tool that will vary in diameter from .75mm to 1mm or slightly larger. The challenge lies in the extraction of these grafts and whether or not the follicles will be damaged during the procedure.

These punches that are used in BHT are carried over from another technique called FUE. FUE uses these same punches but to extract hair from various areas of the patient's scalp. This procedure in and of itself is more challenging than the traditional strip method as it is essentially blind harvesting of hairs. Once the punch disappears below the surface of the scalp it is nothing more than a guessing game as to whether or not the hair or "graft" will be damaged.

The difference for body hair however includes but extends beyond this challenge. While extracting body hair the tissue surrounding and underneath is more pliable and has more give. The more give that the tissue has the more the follicle will bend thus distorting the angle that the surgeon felt should have been taken to begin with to successfully remove the hair without damage. It is similar to taking blade of grass, standing it on one end, then pushing down on the top end. The blade of grass will "bow" which is what happens to the body hair in this situation.

Body hair transplantation is a method now being advertised by some clinics as being reliable and effective for the right patient. Personally, with results shown on the web, I have yet to see any case that I would call successful. There are only one or two cases I have seen where I feel that growth was at best only OK but none that I feel were worth the money spent. What is more, is that some of these cases could have saved tens or yes even hundreds of thousands of dollars by not undertaking the BHT route and having traditional scalp hair transplanted to their scalps. Did I say "hundreds of thousands"? Yes, I did because these clinic tell patients that it takes far more body hair grafts to get acceptable results because of the generally finer caliber hairs that grow on the body as compared to hairs that grow on the scalp. When the least expensive of these clinics charge 5.00 per body hair graft (some as high as 10.00 to 14.00 per body hair graft) and some cases including graft counts as high as 30,000 grafts(!!!!!) then the math, while incredulous, works out.
It is my opinion that body hair as a viable source of hair for transplantation into the scalp should be outlawed as a procedure that is anything beyond experimental at best. Worst case repair cases are probably the only cases that should be considered for this procedure and even then it should be approached with caution. Virgin scalp patients or those that have never had any sort of hair transplant procedure in the past should NEVER consider BHT as a first line offense against hair loss. If anyone is considering a hair transplant and they are told that body hair would be a good option then run, don't walk, toward the door. If a virgin scalp patient has never had a procedure and is told they are not a good candidate save for body hair then they should walk to their nearest drug store, buy a Bic razor then head to their nearest tanning salon. A shaved head would look multitudes better than someone with curly chest hair covering their entire head that has all the density one would expect from a dandelion.

Always remember to think, learn then apply. Do your research and always look for consistency to verify any claim, especially those that seem a bit odd or too good to be true. If these claims are true then you should have no problem verifying them through your own research.

why I chose the X5 laser over the laser comb

 I have been asked if the laser I purchased was the Hairmax laser comb.  It is not the same laser.  The laser I have is the x5 laser by Spencer Forrest.  I chose this one over the laser comb for a few reasons.  I researched the laser comb and compared it to the x5.  The laser comb was given FDA approval/clearance to sell only to men.  The laser comb has been marketed for women also, but the FDA has just now blocked them.  That annoyed me because the makers never tested the laser comb on women, but they're trying to sell it to us.  That's why the FDA restricted them from saying that it will work on women's hairloss--because they never tested it for female-pattern hairloss!  Also, I'm assuming because they were given FDA clearance, the laser comb costs twice as much as the x5 laser.  The x5 laser is sold by a company I recognize as a hairstylist (they make Toppix hairfibers and many other familiar accessories/treatments.)  I found the x5 laser on the Spencer Forrest website, but purchased it from amazon.com because it was cheaper.  It has a 6-month guarantee--which is good because it takes at least 4 months to see new hair growth.  The x5 laser uses the same laser power as the laser comb (650 nanometers), but claims to have more diodes (laser points) than the laser comb.  I found it to be easy to use and quite comforting.  

I got my test results today.  I was tested for iron, thyroid, insulin, cholesterol and FSH hormones.  I was happy to see that my cholesterol was much lower (from 227 to 174) than last testing two years ago (I've been working very hard on my diet and exercise!)  And my insulin was normal at 85 (diabetes runs in the family.)  I was disappointed, however, that my iron, thyroid and FSH were labeled "unremarkable" or normal.  I was hoping for a cause for my hairloss, since it doesn't seem to be hereditary.  But now that I've read some of the comments on here (such as my iron should be above 70 for hair growth), I wonder if my doctor is wrong in her diagnosis.  My iron level is only 44.  I'm considering taking these results to my naturopath for a second opinion.  The doctor did the tests during a gyno annual visit and is a conventional, Western doctor.  I've had problems before with their diagnoses and treatments.  I always feel like I need my naturopath as a backup...

 I also purchased a Verilux light box--and found it cheaper on amazon.com.  Living in the Northwest, I've read that vitamin D deficiency is pretty common here.  Also, being a hairstylist, I have never seen so many skin and scalp problems and alot of hair thinning in women.  I think the wet climate and the lack of sunlight may be a contributor.  Also, the pH of the city water in and around Seattle is very high (alkaline) at 7.6.  Hair and skin is best with an acid environment (at 4.5 to 5.5.)  I tell every client to avoid bathing and shampooing every day because the alkalinity of the water.  Alkaline is what is used in color,perms and relaxers to open the cuticle of the hairshaft and transform the shade or shape of the hair.  It is also drying and strips natural oils from the skin and hair.  So, I avoid bathing on a daily basis.  There are many good quality dry shampoos, powder deodorants, and wet wipes that can be used on the days I don't shower.  My skin and scalp is definitely in better condition than many people around here who bath every day.  Northwesterners not only bathe too much, they also are addicted to tanning beds.  The problem is that they are very dangerous (much more UVA/UVB than natural sunlight and cancer-causing) and they DO NOT provide vitamin D.  Only a light box (which many doctors recommend) can provide vitamin D.  I think there may be something to this--I never had thinning hair and scalp issues before I moved to the Northwest.

I received my x5 laser in the mail and have been using it consistently for one week.  I stopped all use of Nioxin, Nizoral and anything topical that may interfere with my experiment.  (I am still taking my vits/mins and hair supplements.)  I have not had any shedding this week!  Not at all.  I was going through a pretty bad shedding phase prior to using the laser.  I like using it--it's like a heated massage 15 min. at a time, three days a week.  It's made by Spencer Forrest, but I found it a bit cheaper on amazon.com.  It's the same company that makes Toppix.  I'm trying that, too, and I like it.  The laser has a guarantee of six months.  With any hair growth product, you shouldn't expect noticeable results for at least four months, so the six month guarantee is a good thing.  I'm excited to see even better results in the months ahead!       

 

Natural Human Hair Extensions

Natural Human Hair Extensions are the most popular form of extensions because they look and feel so natural and are so easy to wear. There are several ways of attaching real hair, but we choose our custom rubber bond system because we feel it is the safest method for your hair. When it is time to remove them all you have to do is apply the remover and the bond turns to powder and is gently combed out with no discomfort or damage to the hair.

Each individual extension is individually colour matched as it is applied allowing for subtle highlights and lowlights to the hair giving a perfect natural colour match every time.

Another advantage of the technique we use is that, unlike some other extension systems, ours are not pre-bonded therefore we can precisely choose the size as well as the colour of each individual extension as it is applied. With human hair it is often possible to re-use some of the hair for a second application which will result in a reduced cost the second time around.

The hair we use at Lucinda Ellery is the very best of what is available in top quality human hair. We offer:

Indian hair

A very popular choice as the hair quality is excellent but not quite as good as the Euro grade hair. There is a more limited colour range on this type of hair and you can expect that it will dry with a natural wave. All the hair is pre-dyed to match a colour chart from which we can match a client's hair.

Euro Grade Hair

This is the most popular choice for its soft natural feel and extensive colour range. This type of hair will dry with a natural wave. All the hair is pre-dyed to match a colour chart from which we can match a client's hair.

Russian Virgin Hair

This is the most exclusive beautiful and rare type of hair as it has not been dyed or chemically treated in any way. The colour range is limited and may have to be dyed to match individual client's requirements.

Brazilian Virgin Hair (Naturally Curly)

This beautiful hair type is rare in the UK and is naturally curly in texture, this hair will remain curly even after washing and is not processed in any way. Again the colour range is limited in the hair types and may need a colour treatment to match you hair.

Women’s Hair Loss Survey Debunks Myths - Women’s Hair Loss Project

New York, NY (PRWEB) January 10, 2008 ― In a survey conducted during the months of November and December 2007 by The Women's Hair Loss Project (www.WomensHairLossProject.com), a website uniting and empowering women around the world who suffer from hair loss, one-fifth of 517 female respondents said that they began to see signs of hair loss between the ages of 15 and 20. These results debunk the myth that women primarily suffer from hair thinning as they age. It also reaffirms scientific studies linking hair loss to the use of birth control pills.

Website survey participants were asked: "How old were you when your hair loss first started?" Results signified that hair loss onset is strongly weighted during one's teen years, tapering off to just three percent after age 60.

Complete survey results are as follows:

• Age 15-20: 20%
• Age 20-25: 19%
• Age 30-35: 18%
• Age 40-50: 17%
• Age 25-30: 14%
• Age 50-60: 9%
• Age 60+: 3%

"Information from both member emails and our recent survey are telling," explained the Project's founder. "A considerable number of women start to lose their hair at a young age, coinciding with the use of birth control pills. This can be extraordinarily crippling to a woman's self-esteem at any age, but even more so during these extremely delicate years of self-discovery." Though surprising to most women, even The Mayo Clinic warns that birth control pill use may result in hair loss. "The Women's Hair Loss Project aims to educate women about various risks, while fostering a supportive and empathetic environment," she continues. According to The American Hair Loss Association (ALHA), all women, especially those with a family history of hair loss, should be aware of the drugs potential for exacerbating the issue, recommending the use of low-androgen index pills or another non-hormonal form of birth control.

To learn more about this survey and other important information regarding women's hair loss, visit www.WomensHairLossProject.com.

About The Women's Hair Loss Project

The Women's Hair Loss Project (www.WomensHairLossProject.com) is an interactive blog uniting and empowering women around the world. The website provides up-to-the-minute news, tips and information to help sufferers' understand and cope.

Why Does It Make Me So Happy?

The number 38 can mean a lot of different things to different people. The number 38 is:

The number of slots on the American Roulette wheel

38 is the largest even number which cannot be written as the sum of two odd composite numbers

A 38 is often the name for a snub nose .38 caliber revolver

And…. 38 is the number of hairs I lost combing my hair after my shower today!!! That is a huge victory and success for me considering just a short while ago I was loosing 500+ hairs a day. I don't want to jinx myself, but things seem to be getting better and my horrific shed that has lasted consistently for the last 2 years has finally slowed down. I can't describe how much of a relief that is, and it gives me hope that perhaps I can gain back a little ground. For some people who never have experienced hair loss, 38 hairs lost in a comb may seems like a lot to them, but for me it is a giant step in the right direction. After living with hair loss for 8 years, I am at peace with settling for a lot less than I use to hope for, and I'm fine living with thin hair as long as my hair loss is stable. The panic that sets in is derived from the possibility of the unknown when the shedding continues with no end in sight. I'd be thrilled if I could regain some hair lost from 2007, but even if I couldn't and things stayed as they are now, my mind would be at rest. I have very very thin hair, but at least I would be more comfortable exploring the option of adding hair to my own if the shedding subsides. So I'm staying hopeful and positive that I'm finally getting a break and looking forward to better days ahead.

What do I attribute the lessening in shedding to? I've lowered my synthroid dosage down to the level I had it at back in 2005. I've had a feeling that the excessive telogen effluvium was due to my synthroid dosage being increased in 2006 and then again in 2007. I've had other side effects that seems to support my hunch that the dosage given to me was too high despite what my blood work "chart" indicated. You cannot just treat the chart and you have to go by how you feel. Numbers on a piece of paper don't tell the whole story. So with the support of a physician I had spoken to on the phone I went to the local Urgent Care and asked if they would provide me a lower dose for synthroid. I explained the whole story and even took my bloodwork records with me from 2007 back to 2003, and they agreed to lower the dosage as long as I came back in 6 weeks for a bloodwork recheck, which of course I'm more than happy to do. My regular doctor would not have made that change in medication for me because he was the one who prescribed the higher doses both this year and last, and according to the numbers that is the level he felt I should be on. But I just didn't feel it was right. So I took action. It's my body and I have to do what is best for me.

What else? I also started taking an Ayurveda herbal supplement 2 months ago that contains 41 different herbs that are suppose to promote health and vitality. It doesn't claim to grow hair, and that isn't what it is sold for. It's rich in antioxidants and is suppose to help with detoxification. I am just trying to give my body the best chance at healing and if possible correcting any imbalances. The herbal supplement tastes so awful I feel like I'm gonna throw up after drinking it and it makes me gag. But who cares right? I'd eat 20 raw eggs a day if I thought it would help! I also am more consistent now with making sure I take my women's multivitamin daily as well.

That is about all that is different. Oh and I started blogging about women's hair loss  I just wanted to let all of you know about my recent improvement to give you hope that no matter how bad your hair loss and shedding is today, it can get better. I'm not kidding you when I say this is the first break and improvement I've seen after about 2 year shedding battle. My fingers are crossed that the shedding continues to slow down.

On a different note, Happy Halloween to everyone! I'm armed with 4 bowls filled with candy ready for the trick'O'treaters. There are a lot of kids in my neighborhood. I try to make sure I get rid of all the candy by the end of the night, otherwise I'll be wearing it on my thighs the next couple of weeks

Taking the Confusion Out of What to Wear

     As the holiday season comes around, many people will begin receiving invitations to holiday parties of all kinds. In some cases, you'll know exactly what is expected of you as far as mode of dress. Let's be honest; your best friend's tree trimming party is easy to dress for, but what about that invitation to your boss' annual New Year's party at the Country Club that says "White Tie Required"? Or, do you know what dress is appropriate for a wedding where the invitation reads "Semi-formal attire is desired"?
 
The Tradition of Dress Codes:
 
      The Dress Codes were created to help people know what was expected of them in a particular setting. It is a function of etiquette, those rules designed to help us interact comfortably with one another. The host of any given function would specify a dress code based on the atmosphere he or she was hoping to create for the event. And as your host or hostess was going to the time and expense of organizing and providing food and entertainment for your enjoyment, it was considered very bad taste to attend dressed inappropriately. The dress code allowed you to know what to wear, and more importantly, what not to wear.
      Therefore, a hostess planning a function that wanted to be elegant and sophisticated could send her invitations and request that her attendees wear "Formal" attire. Doing this, she was assured that no one was likely to show up wearing something to ruin the atmosphere she has worked hard to create, and more importantly, something that would result in the wearer feeling uncomfortable for having chosen.
      If you should ever receive an invitation to a function where there is no dress code suggested, yet you feel it is possible that your host intends for there to be a standard of dress, do not hesitate to call and ask for clarification. Your host will be grateful for your considerate gesture, and you will be much happier when you aren't over-or-underdressed.
 
Modern Adaptations of Dress Codes for Business:
 
      Today, when most people hear the term dress code, they think of school or work and the clothing required for those environments. This is especially true for those persons in corporate environments. Decades ago, we had terms like "Blue collar", "White collar" and "No collar" jobs. "Blue Collar" jobs were those uniformed, labor-intensive, skilled, industrial jobs in machining, fabrication and manufacturing, and were called such because the typical uniforms were blue in color and were all nearly identical regardless of which company you worked for. "No Collar" jobs included unskilled work in retail sales, food service, janitorial service, and general laboring, the "uniforms" for these types of jobs were all varied depending on type of job and where you were employed. And then there were "White Collar" jobs. These were the professional jobs where the workers dressed in suit and tie or at least shirt and tie for lower-level positions.
      "White Collar" jobs today have evolved from the strict "suit and tie" mode of dress and include less formal styles, like "Business Casual" and "California Casual". The Internet Boom and the Dot Com era created a demand for highly-skilled individuals who also tended to be highly-independent and creative. These individuals balked at the "cookie cutter" uniformity of the "Business Dress" environment and companies found that by relaxing the dress codes and adopting more casual attitudes about office attire, they could improve morale and increase productivity.
      All employers will discuss with you their company's policies on office attire and dress codes as part of the interviewing process.
 

Dress Codes in Dining:
 
      Many establishments that serve food and drink strive to create an atmosphere appropriate to their target market - i.e. the kinds of people they wish to serve. Some restaurants don't offer good food, but rather fine dining - indicating that the food may be the star of the show, but the experience of the meal is more than just a "supporting cast". Many places have dress restrictions on specific days or at specific mealtimes. And of course, any given restaurant may have restrictions vastly different from others in the same neighborhood. In the case of resorts and large holiday destinations, there are often restaurants and bars with a wide range of dress codes to allow tourists and guests to select the type of dining environment they want.
      If you're planning an evening out to a fine restaurant, it is a good idea when you phone for your reservations to ask about the establishment's dress code.
 
What The Codes Mean:
 
      Taking into account the three categories of modern life where dress codes come into play, you can easily find yourself facing an amazingly long list of "codes" to decipher. And, as men's and women's fashions are totally different, dress codes mean different things to each gender. Below is a listing of the dress codes you are most likely to encounter in work, dining and social gatherings, where you are likely to see the terms and what they mean for both men and women:
 
Black Tie - generally seen referring to social gatherings, and some fine dining
      For men this means wear a tuxedo or please do not attend. A dark or black suit is not 'just as good' for a black tie affair. It is also not a function where you should take liberties with the tuxedo look. Simple, classic tuxedo with black bow tie is exactly what you want.
      For women, black tie means dressing for elegance - preferably long gowns, although a very nice cocktail dress would suit. A black tie affair would be an occasion to visit your hairdresser to have your hair done for the evening. Use jewelry to accent your ensemble.
 
Black Tie Invited - generally seen referring to social gatherings, and some fine dining
      For men this means your host would like for you to wear a tuxedo if at all possible, but you will not be turned away without one. However, the option you have is for a dark (black) suit and tie. Nothing that is less formal will be appropriate.
      For women, black tie invited is the same as black tie. Women have more variety in what is available to wear in these situations but should stick with the long gown or nice cocktail-length dress. As with black tie, a trip to the hairdresser is appropriate.
 
Black Tie Optional - generally seen referring to social gatherings, and some fine dining
      For men this means that if you would like to wear a tuxedo, you should feel welcome to do so, but your host has no preference and would be happy as long as you wear a dark (black or navy) suit and tie.
      For women, black tie optional is the same as black tie. Women have more variety in what is available to wear in these situations but should stick with the long gown or nice cocktail-length dress. As with black tie, a trip to the hairdresser is appropriate.
 
Business Casual - typically a business clothing term, but also used by some restaurants
      For men, business casual means that wearing a suit and tie to the office is overdressing. Khakis, slacks, button down collars, and maybe a sport coat if you feel you must have one, but wearing a tie is inappropriate. Jeans are not business casual.
      For women, business casual means skirts, pants, blouses and dresses in simple fabrics and comfortable, more conservative styles - something appropriate to the office environment. Jeans are not business casual.
 

California Casual - referring to business attire
      For men and women, California casual means the same thing - anything goes. Jeans are the norm, as are t-shirts and polo-style pullovers. In summer months, shorts and sandals are even acceptable. California casual environments are rare outside of the American west coast, but have gained popularity, especially among companies specializing in software design and other areas of the Information Technology industry. However, even in a California casual environment, you should allow good taste to dictate your choices. Important client meetings and presentations would still call for long pants (even if only jeans) and a shirt with some buttons (even if only a pullover).
 
Casual - seen referring to social gatherings, business and dining
      This environment is very informal. For both men and women, casual attire refers to clothing that is comfortable and appropriate to the setting and the occasion. For a beach party or backyard barbecue jeans, shorts and t-shirts are fine, but for an afternoon wedding you would still be better served with a pair of slacks and button-down shirt, or summer dress.
 
Cocktail Attire - generally seen referring to social gatherings, and some fine dining
      For men, cocktail attire means suit and tie, or coat and tie. Colors and fabrics may vary with the season or with the location of the event. (A cocktail party at a friend's place would be a little less dressy than one held in a nice hotel.)
      For women, cocktail attire is the cocktail-length dress. Hair and make-up should be appropriate to the time of day (typically early evening) and the color and fabric of the clothing will likely vary with the season and location of the event.
 
Creative Black Tie - generally seen referring to social gatherings, and some fine dining
      This is as formal of an occasion as the other black tie variations, but offers men the option to wear some of the trendier styles of tuxedo. Perhaps he might choose a black tuxedo shirt with a collar stud instead of a bow tie, or a brightly patterned vest or cumberbund.
      For women, there is generally no difference in the creative black tie and other black tie variants, though it does allow for more daring and exotic styles of dresses.
 
Dress Casual - generally seen referring to social gatherings, and some fine dining
      Think of dress casual as being the social variant of business casual. For men and women, the main rule of thumb is no jeans, and something slightly more conservative and 'dressier' than your standard business casual attire. For example, men should choose slacks and button up shirts over khakis and pullovers, while women should choose a nice pantsuit over separates.
 
Formal Attire - generally seen referring to social gatherings, and some fine dining
      Formal attire follows the same rule as black tie for both men and women, although by not specifying black tie the option is available to be a little more creative if the setting is appropriate. (For example, wearing the tuxedo without a tie, or a woman wearing dressy separates as opposed to a dress.)
 
Informal - generally seen referring to social gatherings, and some fine dining
      This environment is the same as casual. Just as with casual attire, informal refers to clothing that is comfortable, but still appropriate to the setting and the occasion.
 

Jacket Preferred - used by restaurants
      Jacket preferred means that the restaurant wants to encourage gentleman patrons to wear jackets when dining in the establishment, although exceptions may be made depending on the situation and time of day. The restaurant may offer loaner jackets or you may be seated in an out of the way area to maintain the atmosphere they desire.
      For women, dresses are always a good choice in this environment.
 
Jacket Required - used by restaurants
      Jacket required means just what it says. Without a jacket, you risk being turned away by the host or hostess. Many restaurants that require a jacket for dining have a stock of loaner jackets for male patrons who are inappropriately attired. However, they will not allow you in without a jacket, so if there is a question of fit, you could have a problem.
      For women, dresses are always a good choice in this environment.
 
Jacket and Tie Required - used by restaurants
      As with the jacket required environment, these establishments require their male patrons to wear both a coat and a tie to dine in. Many will have loaner coats and ties for the ill-prepared, but there is always the issue of fit.
      Again, women are well-served to wear a dress.
 
Semi-Formal Attire - generally seen referring to social gatherings, and some fine dining
      Semi-Formal is the toughest of the codes to break. It isn't formal, but a dark suit (in black, navy or dark gray) is needed, and in some cases the invitation or code may call for "dinner jackets" though they are slowly fading from use.
      For women, semi-formal means a nice cocktail-length or long dress and something more elegant for the hairstyle.
 
White Tie - generally seen referring to social gatherings, and some fine dining
      White tie is the pinnacle of formal dress. For men it is unwaveringly specific: a tailcoat, white vest, white shirt and white bow tie. Please note: Outside of participating in a wedding party where the choice of tails has been made, the White Tie event is the ONLY acceptable setting to wear a tailcoat, and a tailcoat should only ever be worn with a white tie, shirt and vest. Some men choose to wear tailcoats as part of a "tuxedo" in order to be more "dressy", but the two terms are not interchangeable and neither are the two outfits.
      For women, a white tie affair is the time to pull out all the stops and be as glamorous and sparkling as you can be. Beaded gowns and intricately coiffed hairstyles with your very best jewelry are all called for. It is definitely an occasion to visit the hairdresser and get manicures, facials and pedicures.
 
Ultra-Formal Attire - generally seen referring to social gatherings, and some fine dining
      Ultra-Formal is simply another term for "white tie" and indicates that both men and women dress with the utmost care to be as formal and fashionable as possible.
 
      Now that you know what the codes mean, you should be more than ready to do yourself proud at your next function. And perhaps knowing the different modes of dress will inspire you to use them yourself. Are you planning a holiday party and want to make it a more memorable affair? Try letting your guests know you expect formal dress.
      The wonderful thing about dress codes is that by asking your guests to dress in a specific way, it not only creates a visual atmosphere, but when we dress up we feel differently and therefore act differently. And if you do have a dressy party, consider having someone take pictures, or give disposable cameras as party favors so that your guests can create memories of the evening when everyone looked so nice.
 

Tips on How to Wear Blouses & Shirts

Plain blouses, ruffled blouses, plaid blouses, purple and red blouses and even ; see through blouses. There are so many, we cannot even touch on all of them. Then, we have baseball shirts, sweat shirts, t-shirts, tank tops, stringed spaghetti strap shirts, long beach shirts and through all these waves of cover ups, there is something we know without any shred of doubt. We absolutely must wear them. In fact, we've probably been wearing blouses and shirts ever since most of us can remember. The blouses and shirts have ever been with us, and ever been on us. It's just part of our garb that we don't think anything about, but look in your closet or drawer and we become immediately smitten and drawn to our favorite old faded shirt we sort of slum around the house with and some of us will wear this old shirt until it is in rags; because we just cannot handle the prospect of giving our old friend up for good. Even when we gain a little bit of weight, there are those of us who fold up our friend and put it away in storage until that faithful day comes when we've lost that poundage and we become united once again with our old comfortable hero. Unfortunately, for most of us, our hero stays in storage or eventually gets passed on to someone else to enjoy. Amid all the tears we finally give up the ghost, and reach for a potato chip; which is what got us into this mess in the first place. Some of us, then go on a shopping trip to find something that will take the place of our late friend. If we are a people person, we go with our girlfriends and go from rack to rack picking up the various colored larger blouses and holding them against us to see how it would look on us, then, asking for their honest opinion. As you well know, they are more than glad to give it, whether it be good or bad. Keep smiling, we can be thankful for friends like that, can't we.
 
Can you honestly be wearing a blouse that looks wrong on you? Can you be wearing the blouse wrong? Indeed, yes you certainly can and many do, thinking they look oh so sexy, but in reality; they look oh so sloppy and in truth, cheap. By now, you must admit this is a most interesting subject. And, how many women, really pay attention to how they are wearing their blouses these days?
 
Ashley Scott looks quite smart with her blonde hair bobbed short and wearing a black collarless blouse that shows off her lovely neck. Ashley isn't showing too much skin, but covering enough to keep a certain amount of mystery from her onlookers. Her blonde color looks striking with her large hoop earrings and, next to her simple black blouse.
 
When you are a light blonde, chances are; you should be able to wear just about any color successfully, with the exception of yellows. Any color you decide to put under your face, should bring out the best in you. Your selection of earrings should also bring a sparkle in your eyes and go well with your hair, like Ashley's hoops and short bob does. And, the color you have on your hair should go well with the color of the blouse you put on. For example, there has been a trend for quite sometime now, to put pink blouses on redheads. They can get away with it, because it has been globally accepted for many years. In truth, there are better colors than pink that flatter a redhead, such as greens, blues, purples and beiges. White can also flatter a redhead when the style is right.
 

Cheryl Cole is wearing the type of top that is distasteful and offers too much to be seen by others. When you are tempted to reveal all like Cheryl, you have to ask yourself, how do you want someone to remember you? How would someone describe you, if they couldn't remember your name? "She was the lady with the pleasant personality?" I don't think so. Just because you can buy tight blouses that reveal everything you have, doesn't mean, you should do so and it doesn't mean that they look good either. Dare to be different and be a trend setter, not a trend getter. I have heard so many tales of woe, of women telling me; when talking to a man, how they will not look at them in the eyes, instead, their eyes are fixed on the front of their blouses. This can be very annoying, but if you are wearing something that reveals everything you have, you cannot expect anything less. Ask yourself, what kind of attention you would like to have?
 
Tight blouses do absolutely nothing for a woman, even if she has what some would consider a perfect figure. There is nothing left to the imagination, as everyone already knows your body. Think for a moment, how some wives feel when a woman comes strutting across the room revealing her bra and what is spilling out all over the place. Her husband is a man, plain and simple and it is easy to see, when a woman decides to flaunt everything she has, there is very little respect for anyone in the room, especially wives.
 
The movie industry is famous for their revealing clothes. Everyone is always trying to outdo each other in shocking ways, so they can gain attention through the media and have their name repeated through the airwaves. We expect this in Hollywood, but it doesn't mean it looks good on them, or that we should make them a model for our standard of living.
 
As for Cheryl, I would put her in a tropical island look. She would wear something like a black sarong with large red hibiscus flowers and green leaves all over it. Her hair would be brushed back on each side and secured with combs. This type of look would be very attractive on her tanned skin tones. Everything would be covered up, yet she would have bare shoulders and look like an islander, with a yellow hibiscus in her hair by one of the combs and wear a large shell necklace and earrings.
 
  Ms. Emmanuelle Chriqui is wearing sporty jeans and looks the part with her hair in a ponytail. Her white blouse is a simple cut that is tucked into her jeans and we find the arms are rolled up for whatever the task ahead of her. The collar is turned up, to beef up the sporty informal look. Be sure to use some starch on the collar when you are ironing your blouse and this will help keep it up. This look is informal and cute. All she needs is to wear a thin necklace to fill into the bare area.
 

Jennifer Anniston is wearing the deep v-line trend that most people are wearing today, but does not necessarily look that good when not worn with a silver or gold necklace. Jenn's hair is everywhere, while falling in layers. Maybe the wind was blowing a little too much that day. This isn't the best look for our girl. Her hair would look good, worn up or back into a chignon with a black scarf around it. She would look entirely different and a little bit more self assured.
 
Here's a secret for you. We can wear our hair and our clothes, in such a way; that will make us look like we have all the assurance and confidence in the world; even when we do not feel that way. People will feel comfortable around you, and just might want to copy your new look.
 
All decked out with her short blonde hairdo and wearing a nice crisp white blouse underneath her black and white plaid jacket is Sharon Stone. Her black sunglasses are a fine match to go along with her small pearl earrings. Sharon looks sporty and yet classy and when you look that way, you are going to act like it. No negligence for this girl. Put a briefcase in her hands and I bet she would make an excellent public defender.
 
Tamara Taylor is a good example of someone who is wearing their hair up to bring a finesse to her brown suede suit and her v-shaped blouse underneath with a turned up collar. Ms. Taylor looks feminine and neat and she has a thin necklace on to break all the exposure of flesh from the neck on down. This is a tasteful regard of what careful shopping can do for you.
 
Wearing a dark gray spring jacket over her deep v-shaped white blouse is Kendra Wilkinson. She is wearing a lovely necklace to help fill in the areas between the face and the front. I would button up at least two buttons for Kendra to look a little bit more appealing. In fact, I can picture her in a lime green vest that would bring out the blue in her eyes and look absolutely stunning on her.
 
We look over and who do we see wearing a black leather jacket and a white simple blouse? Brittany Murphy! Her turned up collar, v-shaped no button look is broken by wearing a black knotted scarf that matches her jacket. The scarf is a good informal choice when you want to break up exposure of so much flesh. Her hair isn't too long, but looks well kept in long layers. I see her haircut about an inch below her ears for her best affect in this picture. Look closely at the shorter strand just below her ear and place your finger on the lower hair and you will see it for yourself.

How to Use Corrective Make-up for Your Eyes

      I'm often approached by women who want to know how to make the best of their eyes, for good reason. We have placed a great deal of importance on the eyes and what they say about us. An old adage is that "The eyes are the window to the soul", meaning that you can judge a person's character by looking into his or her eyes. We have popular songs written about "Sad Eyes", "Lying Eyes" and even "Bette Davis Eyes", so as a whole we must think the eyes are a major facet of a person's appearance.
       So, in an attempt to help those who want to troubleshoot some of the more common "problem areas" when it comes to the eyes, here are a few tips and tricks to make the most of what you've got:
 
       The most common problems when it comes to the eyes are the impression that the eyes are "too narrow", "too round", "too wide" or "too close together" to be appealing. The fact is that there are some cases where the shape or positioning of the eyes throws off the balance of the face, but most people see any flaws they may have as magnified. Try to remember that it only looks prominent to you because you see it every day. For most people, their wide, narrow, round or close eyes are only minimally so.
       The trick to enhancing these features to look their best is to use your eye make-up to create contours and highlights to bring certain areas forward and make them look larger, while making other sections look smaller and move to the background. The particular areas and techniques depend on the specific situation.
 
Wide-Set Eyes:
 
       With widely-spaced eyes, many women feel that their faces are too broad, and that overall effect is that their face appears too wide or heavier than it actually is. In order to create the illusion that the eyes are closer together, you need to minimize the appearance of the area between the eyes.
       This is accomplished by using a darker shade of eye make-up to create a contour on the inside of the eye. The contour should be sized approximately the width of the iris of the eye or at most one-half of the entire width of the eye from corner to corner. By darkening the area to the inside of the eyes, you make the eyes appear closer by making the space between the eyes appear lesser.
       Use a medium shade of eye color on the lids of the eyes and a light shade to create a highlight on the upper outside of the brow. The lighter shade here will make the area appear larger and seem to "move" the eyes inward to the center. Blend the colors softly to create a gentle, subtle effect.
 
Close-Set Eyes:
 
       For closely-spaced eyes, the goal is to create the illusion of more space between the eyes, and to minimize the space to the outside corners of the eyes.
       To do this, we apply a darker contouring shade to the outside of the eyes, using roughly the same proportions as we used on the inside of the eyes above. We couple this with a medium shade of eye color to tie the shading together, and finish it by adding a highlight to the inside corners of the brow.
       As before, be sure to blend the colors softly to create a subtle look.
 

How to lose weight without losing your man

If you are like the vast majority of folks, you are probably trying to lose weight and get fit.


Those are great goals, but be forewarned: they will either strengthen or completely do in your relationship. Let's say you are trying to lose weight. Let's take a look at how that goal can either help or help your relationship.


Scenario #1: It strengthens your relationship because your man is one of those really cool dudes who says things like, "Wow you look great. How much have you lost?" and "I know you are trying not to eat sugar, so I've decided not to keep my ice cream out of the house. If I want some, I'll go out for it."


Scenario #2: Your man is the type of person who tries to support you by making comments like, "Don't you think you've already eaten enough?" and "Thank God you've decided to lose weight. It's about time. I don't think your butt could be any bigger."


Gee, thanks. That was helpful.


Here's the thing: you can have scenario #1. It just takes a little communication. Tell him about your goal and then ask him for his help. Suggest he might help you by:


•    Exercising with you. Research shows that people who work out with a buddy tend to work out longer, harder and more consistently.


•    Not keeping tempting foods in the house.


•    Not asking you if you are "in the mood" for any tempting food you are trying not to eat.


•    Not commenting on your eating. Back seat dieting is just as annoying as back seat driving. And, just as back seat driving tends to create the type of anxiety that causes the driver to wrap a car around a tree, back seat dieting usually causes the dieter to stuff 6 cookies in her mouth at once.


•    Complimenting you on how you look—now—even though you have not lost a single pound. People who are more self-confident and have a positive body image tend to stick to diets better than people with a low self-image.


•    Doing more around the house, so you have more time available to exercise, cook healthy meals, and search for new recipes.

Most of our men do not sabotage us on purpose. They really mean well, and they really do want to support us. They just don't know how. If you give him a How to Support Me While I Lose Weight Instruction Manual, though, he'll be much more likely to turn into your biggest dieting fan.

How to keep the love alive

Q: I've been married for two years. We've lost that initial spark. Don't get me wrong. My husband is great, but I just don't feel in love with him anymore. Is there something wrong with me?! Can we keep the love alive?


-- Falling out of love


A: Dear Falling Out of Love,


Some of the initial spark in any relationship is bound to fade over time. Those palpations you get in your chest and the total body tinglies? They only last for a certain period of time. But you can keep the love alive, and even rekindle some of the love you've lost.

Here's how:


1.    Envision your perfect marriage. What does your husband do and not do? How do you feel? What types of things do you do together? Once you know what you want, communicate those desires to your husband. Chances are, he'll be amenable.


2.     Keep dating. Get dressed up and go out to dinner together. Go to movies together. Go on romantic vacations together.


3.    Write love letters. Once or twice a year, write down everything you love about your spouse. Ask him to do the same for you. Then exchange the letters.


4.    Hug at least once a day.


5.    Flirt with each other. Remind your husband that you adore his male attention. Ask him to undress you with his eyes, give your rear those little love taps, and generally do all of the things he used to do when you first met. Do the same for him.


6.    Be creative in the bedroom. Take turns coming up with new positions, techniques, and locations.

Keeping the love alive is really a matter of remembering to love each other everyday. Keep doing all of the things you did when you fell in love, and you'll be able to stay in love, too.