Pashmina / Cashmere Shawls

Let us talk about what is a Pashmina or a Cashmere shawl? Or for that matter what does the word 'shawl' mean?

The word 'shawl' has different similar sounding terms in different languages e.g. in French, it is 'chale', in German, it is called 'schall' and in Italian, it is termed 'scialle' - all essentially meaning a square or a rectangular wrap, big enough to be draped around the shoulder, what is also commonly known as the 'shoulder-mantle'.

When we say Pashmina or a Cashmere shawls, we are referring to the shawls spun out of the fine yarns made with fibers sourced from the discarded undercoats of Tibetan or Changthangi goats. They are also commonly known as 'changra' goats, which are found in the high altitude mountain ranges of these regions. The other known breeds, used to source pashmina/cashmere fibers are of Orenburg goats and Mongolian goats.Two main determinants of the quality in pashmina/cashmere are the fiber diameter and the staple length. For good quality, the manufacturers purchase material between 13 - 20 microns. To let you make a comparison, a human hair has a diameter of around 70 microns. When these fine fibers are spun into thread, a multitude of microscopic air-pockets are formed; it is these that give the material its extraordinary warmth and softness.It would be interesting to note that until well into the 19th century, when the ladies shawl became a high fashion item in the west, there had been similar products in use. According to pashmina shawl historian Moorcroft, there existed 'do-shala'... long shoulder-mantles woven in pairs. These were used by noblemen of the times.

The do-shala shawl, often woven so cleverly that it is difficult to say that it has been joined/stitched together seam to seam!

Then there were 'qasaba' or 'rumal', large squares for women's wear.

Also, there were 'shamla' or 'cummerbunds', girdles for the waist, worn by Asiatics.

The modern term 'jamawar' popularly used in shawls today, originated from a particular type of all over design, which were tailored into 'jama', or various over-garments, worn by men e.g. - 'choga', 'angarkha', 'atamsukh'.

So the art of weaving a pashmina/cashmere shawl or a more popular stole or scarf, dates back to many centuries. In old times, it had various avatars e.g.'rumal', 'jama', 'doshala','cummerbund'. But the art of weaving a shawl/stole is still preserved in its original form when it is hand spun and hand woven. Though now-a-days, it is woven on power looms also. The art of adornment in the form of hand embroidery is still as painstakingly done, as in yore. The special embroidery technique of 'kani' is also being recognised today for its beauty and precision... though its design /talim is being computerised now... the actual work is still being done by hand.

This news article is brought to you by WOMEN'S SELF DEFENSE TIPS - where latest news are our top priority.

Beauty Tips for the Radiant Bride

When it comes to looking stunning on your wedding day, wearing one of the most stunning bespoke bridal gowns is only a fraction of the equation. On that important day of your life, all eyes are on you. This means aside from ensuring all the fine details of your wedding are taken care of, you also need to pay attention to your beauty regimen several weeks leading up to your special day.

Here are some essential pointers on how you can look every bit the radiant bride and look absolutely gorgeous in one of those bespoke bridal gowns on your wedding day:

• Let's start with a few basics. In order to effortlessly exude beauty, it is important that you feel good about yourself. Use your time wisely in incorporating a regular fitness and beauty regimen between the time of your engagement and wedding. Adhere to an effective yet simple beauty schedule, take time to exercise, pay attention to what you eat and generally adapt a healthy lifestyle.

• Avoid experimenting. The several days leading up to the big day are definitely not a good time to make any drastic changes or experiment. Do not give in to the temptation of trying out a new hair colour or cut. Any serious changes should be done months in advance so you still have ample time to undo anything, if there is a need to do so. Keep in mind that your wedding day is definitely not the ideal time for you to reinvent your look. If you want to wow and surprise everyone, keep your look safe and focus on investing on one of those bespoke bridal gowns that can add that oomph factor.

• Conduct several consultations with your hairdresser. Take time to discuss with your hairdresser what would be the most ideal and flattering hairstyle for you, taking into account not only your face shape but also the type of wedding veil and the cut of the gown. Schedule that appointment at the beauty salon and work on the different hairdo options. If you are planning to remove your headpiece during the reception or you want flowers weaved into your hair, communicate that plan to your hairdresser so you both can agree on the best hairstyle that can incorporate these ideas.

• Invest in perfect looking skin. While it is true that is not a good idea for any facial or deep facial massages days before the big day, you should not overlook the importance of taking care of your skin months before the wedding. It is generally best to plan out a string of facials starting about six months before your wedding up until a couple of weeks before you finally say "I Do."

Aside from your face, you also need to pay attention to your hands. It goes without saying that those chipped nails and ragged cuticles can look very unappealing and can easily run the look, even if you are wearing one of the most expensive bespoke bridal gowns.

• Prevent those puffy eyes. With the string of events leading to the big day such as the rehearsal dinner and bridal showers, one of the most common problems among brides is puffy eyes. Take necessary measures to reduce any puffiness by splashing your face with ice-cold water for at least 25 minutes before you put on an eye mask.

To achieve inner radiance on your wedding day, focus on staying calm. If you need to deal with frazzled nerves, get a relaxing massage. Allow your inner glow to shine through by making sure you don't get lost in the preparation and miss out on the significance of the actual event.

This news article is brought to you by BEING SINGLE AND AGING - where latest news are our top priority.

Work Life Balance Tips for Working Mothers

A working mother cannot be dubbed for anything less than Wonder Woman herself. So, imagine how a couple of work life balance tips would empower the whole brigade of working mothers.

Working moms have a herculean task at their hand of handling work and family life simultaneously. These super moms often need some work life balance tips to manage overwhelming situations.

Here are some work life balance tips for working mothers:

• Hold Yourself Together- The pressure of meeting deadlines and working on presentations will always remain the same. Don't go crazy thinking how you'll manage the work at home and at the office side-by-side. Relax and think about some ways you can vent out this stress. After a rough night of finishing pending files and washing the dishes all by yourself, treat yourself to some nice morning coffee and spend some time sitting in the balcony or maybe pick up that book which you always wanted for some time now.


• Be Organized- Keep a record of the official things that you wish to finish off by the weekend and sort them out on a priority basis. In this manner, the most important things will be done well within time. Handle the family needs in the same manner. To make things clear, write down the things-to-do for the week on the family whiteboard.


• Feel Free to Ask for Help- There's no pride in being seen as a super mom if you're suffering because you have too much on your plate. There are times when things can go haywire and you could really use another pair of hands. Don't shy away from asking for your husband's help with dinner or watching the children when you come exhausted from work.


• Know Your Options- These days many companies who allow their employees to work from home. Working mothers should make full use of such options. This way you can spend more time with your family and work within the comforts of your home. It's a win-win situation if you're able to prioritize what to do and when to do. However, you can face trouble concentrating on the job if your children are running around.


• Make Time- If you really wish to spend more time with your family, you'll have to make time. So, instead of yapping away about your boss's new personal assistant with your colleagues, have your lunch at your desk. This way you'll get more work done and leave early for home.


• Learn to live with the Guilt- There will be those days when you have to miss your daughter's ballet show or reach late for the family dinner. But these are some of these things that you'll have to learn to let go. There are some things you have to sacrifice to provide a better lifestyle for your family and you.

Hope these work life balance tips help working moms to reduce stress and spend more time with their family.

This news article is brought to you by WOMEN'S BLOG - where latest news are our top priority.

Colour and Dressing Hints for Professional Photos

Oh no! It is time to have some professional photos taken. These words can bring dread to your heart especially if your last lot of photos did not live up to your expectations.

I have had my share of good and bad professional family and business photos. The good ones hang happily on the wall or are on the web. The bad ones are hidden away or deleted. Unfortunately I have seen other people's family and business photos that also need to be hidden away but are not.

The better professional photographers give pre-photo advice on your setting and your poses so that you feel comfortable and relaxed. It is rare to get dressing advice for a photo shoot.

Clothes can make or break a photo. A great photo has three elements - setting, pose and clothes.

Here are my tips to help you get the dressing element of professional photos right for you.

Family Photos

The best and most interesting family photos have harmony and contrast. Let me explain.

Harmony and contrast are created through colour and style.

When you clothing is in harmony it draws people's attention to the faces and personality of the subjects. Have a discussion with your partner or family to choose a colour. White is popular but it does not suit everyone. Blue is second favourite as most family members have a shade of blue in their wardrobe. Ignore the skin-tone colours of beige, apricot or brown as you can appear naked in the photo as happened to a very upset acquaintance of mine. Co-ordinate colours below your waist especially if full-length photos are to be taken. Blue jeans fit the bill perfectly.

Next look at clothing styles. Everyone in a centre-buttoned shirt or V or round necked tee shirts or tops will create family harmony. Patterns may be different but make sure they blend not clash with each other.

Contrast creates a focal point. Put your only child in a textured top or a different style to everyone else. A mother or father wearing the theme colour plus another colour draws your attention to them. Everyone in white with mum wearing coloured or textured jewellery also creates a contrasting focus.

Business Photos

A business photo needs to show your personality and draw people to you.

Wear colours that focus attention on your face and eyes. That is easy if you have had your colours done and know what your complimentary, contrasting and signature colours are. You also need to be photographed against a plain or natural background colour that enhances you not merges or clashes with what you are wearing.

Your choice of clothing and accessories need to appeal to the type of clients that you and your business want to work with. Will you attract corporate clients, soft gentle clients, achieving go-getters or quirky artistic types? You clothing can show that as long you feel comfortable with that unspoken impression.

Be aware that photos will be cropped and shrunk for promotional material. I have had business photos that looked fantastic in full-screen but I faded away in the smaller version.

Special Occasion

For wedding photos you want to be your best but not overshadow the bride. Talk to all involved. This is a day for a perfectly fitted outfit. In the dressing room, stand far away from the mirror. Some colours may merge together or fade. Some can make you look naked. Some dress features can dominate the outfit. Choose a colour shade that suits you and a style that reflects your true personality. Your joy or your discomfort will be there for all to see.

For award dressing, it is your time to shine. Do the same dressing room mirror checks or have your photo taken in the clothes before the event so that you can make adjustments or changes. If dresses have a solid colour background with a contrasting colour design feature, make sure the feature lengthens not widens you.

Last Words

Your photographer will help you get your setting and pose right. There is more to dressing for professional photos but this article is a start towards creating your best professional photos so far.

This news article is brought to you by BLOGGING FOR MONEY - where latest news are our top priority.

Bringing Back Handmade - Are We Now Seeing the Appeal?

What has happened to our handmade culture? There have been many TV shows recently showcasing British talent, real handmade manufacturing done right here on our own soil, going back to something we appear to have left behind.

The biggest key change in our culture over recent years is wanting something for nothing. We are a nation willing to sacrifice quality for price. Our demand has increased, we want things "now" and at exceptionally low costs.

But are we also a changing culture? With the real love for Vintage fashions and accessorising, we have begun to recognise that in fact quality is worth a lot more and the days of real manufacturing should no longer be a thing of the past?

Recent TV personalities such as Mary Portas have certainly made a case for this. Mary's most recent TV show (The Bottom Line) aimed at kick starting the British manufacturing industry again, promoting home manufacturing rather than outsourcing and mass producing. She explains that this isn't about paying over the odds for goods, it is just anti the cheap products that compromises ethics, quality and values, "You know what the truth of this is: stop being so greedy. It's greed and gain that got us into the state this country's in today".

As a consumer we are seeing an increased awareness that perhaps cheaper mass produced products come at a cost. Consumers are now leaning towards quality goods, knowing that this is what we as a nation deserve and should strive for.

But how do we go about purchasing unique hand made products? It is true to say that finding little boutiques on the average high street is increasingly difficult. So how do we live out this ideal? It is a fact that online shopping is big news in the UK and gaining in popularity. With this shift in our purchasing habits we have been graced with some great websites where consumers are able to purchase such goods direct from the designers and hobby crafters (such as Etsy.com and Folksy.com).

A real trend has also seen the popularity of second hand shops particularly those that promote vintage style. This has really helped boost interest in an era of elegance and quality.

The popularity for vintage style has most certainly grown over recent years. More and more individuals are seeking an alternative way of defining their style and culture. Pushing the boundaries and taking their images back into "vintage decades" they think best reflect them.

The wedding stationery industry is also starting to realise this and where once there were very bland mass produced cards, there now seems to be a demand for something unique, something that reflects the couples style and individualism. Couples want to wow their guests announcing their wedding with style, making theirs stand out from the rest.

Again, the term "vintage" has been a great boost for this industry as more and more designers are beginning to realise that there is more to wedding stationery than just a printed piece of card.

Slowly we are beginning to see wedding stationery evolve into handmade products, where designers use elegant touches such as vintage styled jewelled embellishments, buttons, lace and pearls.

Our passion for an era gone-by has been a great boost to the design industry showcasing British talent and style, encouraging handmade luxury.

But will this passion be enough to take on the mass produced industry? Even if a new fad kicks in and the image of Vintage begins to fade for some, I would like to think that it has at least opened a gateway to peoples understanding of quality and beauty. The hope is that we encourage and promote the growth of handmade products. We should view such products as a way of growing our sense of individualism and reflecting our style in a way that mass produced goods just can't do.

This news article is brought to you by CREATIVITY - where latest news are our top priority.

Are You Pinning Yet?

Images are everywhere. How many times has an image grabbed your attention and you just can't wait to share it with others?

Now you have an easy way to share all these images and videos with just a click of the mouse. At Pinterest, you can share the things you love with your friends and family by creating virtual boards. Pinning is addictive, is fun, is something anyone can do, and should do.

Who is pinning? Everyone, creating virtual pinboards spark the imagination, spread the things you love, and supercharge your creativity.

Why should you pin? First, it engages people and they stick around you more. Second, it allows everyone one a peek into the personal side of a pinner. Third, people share your pins, which get you more exposure, if that's what you are looking for.

How do you get to pinning? At Pinterest, you must request an invite to join the "pinning society." If you have a friend who has already gained entrance, they can send you an invite from the inside. Getting an invite from the inside or out doesn't take long, about 24-48 hours. When you do get your invite, and you will, you will start pinning within minutes.

When you get your invite, what do you do? Setting up your account is a three-step process, which Pinterest walks you through. You'll choose your interests. Next, Pinterest will suggest people for you to follow. Finally, you will create a board, and start pinning.

What are these boards? Once you have created an account you will set up your first board. The board should have a narrow focus. Start with a board on food, clothes, jewelry, toys, color, or your hobby. The board should only focus on one type of item. You can make many boards so don't clutter up one with all the foods you love. Create a board on each type of food you love.

Where do I find images? Images are all around the web. Most images are OK to use without concern, but do be cautious about copyright. Many sites today are "Pin friendly" they will have a "pin it" button somewhere on the site. When you click the button it will bring up all the images from the site, you choose the image you want to pin, and then you go back to Pinterest to pin on a board of your choice.

One of the most important things about pinning on Pinterest is to "repin, like, and comment." When you do one of these things, you are providing social approval to the board and board maker. It feels great to get noticed, and if enough of your pins get repined, commented on or liked your board might show up in the popularity boards for the world to see.

This news article is brought to you by TECHNOLOGY NEWS - where latest news are our top priority.

Evening And Formal Wear Recommendations For Black-Tie Events

It's hard to dress yourself up during a formal event and secure that "wow" factor when you walk into the room. Unlike celebrities who have personal stylists and access to the latest and most expensive evening wear, you have to make do with what your resources allow you to have. Nevertheless, it is not impossible to exude a certain level of elegance during a ball or formal function, even with a tight budget. All you have to do is choose the right kind of dress for you and find a boutique that has an extensive collection of evening and formal wear.

What you want to do is secure a few long gown choices as black-tie events usually call for their use. It's up to you whether or not you'd like to keep things simple with an all-black or grey selection or add a little bit of color into the mix. If you are feeling slightly more adventurous, prints are widely popular this year along with tailored silhouettes. But try not to lean towards shocking as it may force you to stand out in an awkward way. Steer clear of clothes that are too revealing since that would be inappropriate for the said event. If you'd like to secure some sex appeal with what you are donning, you can do so with asymmetrical shoulder straps, a tube top or a little peek-a-boo cut out in less sensitive parts of your body, like your back. You could also show a little of cleavage. But try not to be so overt because it may be misconstrued for tacky or trashy.

When shopping for an evening or formal wear, think more of classic beauty. But don't go so far as getting voluminous outfits with lots of pouf or those with long trains because that will only make you uncomfortable during the party. If you'd like something Victorian inspired, go for floor-length Empire cut dresses with a sleeve sewn shawl or a diamond brooch for effect.

Now, some of you may feel more comfortable wearing cocktail dresses to a black-tie event as they permit better movement. But you have to be careful about what you choose to put on. Remember that they are not standard garments for such occasions. So, at the very least, they should be well accessorized. If you are attending something fancy, you might want to keep them below the knee to maintain a certain level of classiness. And always see to it that aesthetics of your dress matches the theme established.

Don't even mistake the notion of evening and formal wear with work clothes. Not only will you embarrass yourself but also your date. And try not to wear a pant suit during the event, even if it is designer clothing. The last thing you want to do is put a damper to your femininity with a masculine ensemble.

If you still are having a hard time narrowing down you options through these tips, you could consult dress shops for the latest trends and styling recommendations. Or you could flip through magazines for samples and then show them to shop receptionists.

This article is sponsored by medical case study.