Urban Code Magazine

Archive for June, 2011

Sunglasses are a big fashion statement. In fact, they are the easiest way to go from sloth to sexy, from frumpy to fab. To make things easier for you, sunglasses come in a variety of size, shapes, colors and designs. And every face on the tube, whether it’s the friendly news reporters, glitzy superstars or cool fashionistas, is sporting sunglasses that look stunning. Of course, most of these folks are wearing designer sunglasses that would probably cost more than a month’s pay. And most of us would agree that spending THAT kind of money on sunglasses does not really make sense.

For those who cannot afford to buy costly designer sunglasses but STILL want to look like a million dollars, replica sunglasses are the answer. These look like the real thing and are quite a buy, considering that they cost substantially less while offering the same quality. Of course, you have to be careful when you buy replica sunglasses. Since they are cheaply prized, there are more than a few things that you have to check out.

Replica sunglasses may be of two types: illegal and legal. The illegal ones are what you call ‘fake sunglasses’ This, because they mimic branded sunglasses in design and looks and even carry the logos and markings of these original brands, without the permission of the brand. They are intended to fool people into believing that these are designer sunglasses. Fake sunglasses may look like designer sunglasses, but you have to be wary of their quality. They are made from cheap materials and usually have very limited lifespan. So, you have to be very careful buying theses.

On the other hand, legal replica sunglasses do not carry any markings or logo. They are registered and often, the wholesaler selling them also holds the permission or the trademark. One of the important things that you should do while purchasing replica sunglasses is to ensure that you are buying from a company that sells quality replica sunglasses.

The first thing you have to consider while buying replica sunglasses is carefully check that the replica sunglasses offer sufficient UV protection. Do not fall for the tints. These are not of much value. Check whether the glasses have the requisite UV coating. Next, concentrate on their moving parts. A product’s real test when it comes to quality of make is centered on the durability and flexibility of its moving parts. In case of replica sunglasses, check the temples or arms hinges. This is usually where the problem starts.

The trick is to test both the arms of the replica sunglasses before you buy them. You have to fold the arms down and up several times and choose the replica sunglasses whose arms are not too stiff when you close and open it.

Many people who buy designer sunglasses often live to tell sad tales of how they lost, misplaced or damaged their sunglasses. Replica sunglasses are a much better alternative if you are short on cash but want to look as good as the guy or gal on the poster!

Seemingly endless fame and fortune equate the biggest names in the fashion world. They are being looked up to and consulted for fashion tips by people whom even they look up to! Heard of prime ministers and country presidents without their own personal stylists? Hardly ever, for sure.

Fashion designers, particularly couturiers, have a way of seeing the best fitting outfits to almost anyone. They have the eye to determine what looks hot and what looks not. Experience teaches the better part of fashion designing, but admittedly “it’s innate; a gift,” a famed Hollywood designer once said.

While it takes more than gained knowledge, most of the world’s greatest fashion designers have attended some kind of school. Some designers are known to take fashion courses at fashion schools outside their countries which they believe can provide them the best training. Fashion hops globally, after all.

Probably the most well known fashion training centers worldwide is London. Most notable is its Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design, where its alumni include Alexander McQueen, John Galliano, Hussein Chalayan and Stella McCartney. Some others in London are London College of Fashion, The University of Westminster and The Royal College of Arts. Its famous alumni are Christopher Bailey, Stuart Vevers and Vivienne Westwood.

In America, Fashion Institute of Technology (F.I.T.) and Parsons, The New School for Design both in New York City are highly commended. Similarly, Drexel University and Moore College in Philadelphia and The Lasell College in Newton, Massachusetts are popular fashion design schools. In the Los Angeles area, The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising and A.I.U. in Los Angeles once had Uriel Saenz and Ashley Paige as students. A more specialized school, particularly in the posh French Haute Couture method, is the Academy of Couture Art in West Hollywood.

Recently, a U.S. News annual survey revealed that The School of the Art Institute of Chicago has shifted up as the top U.S. school for fashion art programs. After several changes since its inception, The Art Institute has transferred to an iconic location along Michigan Avenue, which maintains its spot as the biggest and most famous museum-school in the United States. Cynthia Rowley, Halston and Gemma Kahng used to study in these institutions to further their craft.

In the Indian subcontinent, the National Institute of Fashion Technology is known to be the best fashion design school, which offers fashion technology curricula, from which a three-year course in fashion design for apparel can be acquired. The Pearl Academy of Fashion, with a center in UAE tucked under its belt, is also noted for its approach toward fashion studies.

Fashion school insiders relate that professional instructors educate on the technical and artistic aspects of the fashion subjects. A few related courses even include one year of working for the fashion business, as immersion and exposure to the industry. Fashion houses are also visited abroad as part of the program.

Most of the time, people who want to become top designers will work with other designers and gain hands-on experience.

According to statistics, most fashion designers earn an average of $13,000 to $93,000, depending on how in-demand their products are. Apparel, notions and price goods industries employ the largest numbers of fashion designers.

So if you want to end up in the fashion business, bear in mind that it’s not just about luck, but about hard work and a whole lot of dedication.

When choosing the sunglasses that best fit you, three factors should be considered.  First and foremost, sunglasses are used to protect your eyes.  A pair of sunglasses that offer no protection can actually be more harm than good.  Secondly, your sunglasses should feel comfortable.  Finally, you want to look good in your shades, so pick a pair with some consideration of style.

Sunglasses can be made of many different varieties of materials.  These materials also carry with them different levels of protection.  As you sift through the masses, remember that protection is the reason you are wearing sunglasses.  Find out about the level of UV ray protection they offer and avoid those that cannot provide 99-100% protection from UVA and UVB radiation.

Dark sunglasses do less for your eyes than you think.  A darker tint makes it more comfortable for you to see in the bright sun.  However, if those dark glasses fail in offering the protection you need from harmful rays, they may be causing more harm than good.  Dark shaded sunglasses make it easier for you to open your eyes, allowing UVA and UVB rays greater access to your eyes to cause more damage.  If forced to choose, you are better off with a pair of sunglasses with UVA protection and a light gray tint than in dark lenses with no UVA protection.

There are also additional measures you can take with your sunglasses to help protect your baby blues (Or your greens, browns and grays.  They’re all equally important!)  Many sunglasses have a wrap-around design that widens around the temples and appears to wrap around your head.  This design blocks the sun from the sides of your face, offering greater protection than smaller framed glasses.  If your precious eyesight is not enough to convince you to be choosey about your sunglasses, consider one more thing.  When you squint your eyes, you are causing your forehead and sides of your face to wrinkle.  No one wants crow’s feat before their time.

After protection, comfort is the next most important part of picking out your eyewear.  Consider the tint of the lens.  For very bright settings where the sun has surfaces to reflect off of, polarized lenses may be helpful.  Polarized sunglasses reduce the glare caused by the sun hitting the water, snow or other surface.  Even though you may be blocking out the harmful UVA and UVB rays, you’re not going to care much if you can’t see anything.

When you try on sunglasses, pay attention to how they feel on your face.  Does the nosepiece rest firmly on the bridge of your nose without sliding?  Is the frame a good fit for your face and rests gently over your ears?  This is a helpful checklist when sunglass shopping.    If the sunglasses are going to cause you discomfort, you’ll be more likely to take them off.  If that’s the case, why have them in the first place?

Although it should never be your number one consideration, fashion should be a factor in the selection of your sunglasses.  It is not absolutely necessary that you wear the designs you see celebrities sporting at all times.  Those shades may be easier to find than others, but they’re not the only ones out there.  Pick frames that flatter the shape of your face and complement your style.

A good rule of thumb is to choose a frame shape that is the opposite of your facial shape.  A round face goes well with a pair of oval or square sunglasses.  The worst shape for the round face is a pair of round frames.  Likewise, an thinner or longer face looks great with a pair of round frame sunglasses, but not so much with a square set of frames.  Oval shaped faces have their pick of shapes, they are the most versatile.  “Lucky!”

Just be smart when shopping for sunglasses.  Remember what you’re buying them for, and pick styles that complement you.  When you choose sunglasses based on these three factors your eyes will thank you.  They’ll be protected, stylish, happy, and you will be too.

DKNY (Donna Karen New York) is the leading international fashion brand that was launched in 1984 in New York by Donna Karen. Donna Karen is an eminent fashion designer who has tremendous talent, distinctive vision and in-depth knowledge of designing and clothing. Top notch designs are the essence of DKNY apparel and accessories. The popularity of the brand is due to its unique styling, high comfort level, and large variety. The artistic bent of the designer is visible from the beauty of her aesthetic designs. DKNY apparels are luxurious, sensual, highly wearable and visually appealing which make them even more highly desirable.

DKNY swimwear too has gained immense popularity all over the world. DKNY apparel and accessories are also featured in some of the most popular international magazines, such as Oggie, Elle UK, Bazaar UK, Lucky, Improper Bostonian, Grazia, Cosmo, Allure, Out, Men’s Vogue, Men’s Health, GQ, Details, and many more. DKNY apparel is available all around the world with over 70 DKNY distribution centers.

DKNY swimsuits are known for their simple look, classic style and unique elegance. Among swimwear, DKNY offers swim separates, swim cover ups, separate tops, separate bottoms and one-piece swim wear. DKNY swimwear collection includes DKNY Satin Charm, DKNY Aime Moi, Sensual Curves, Pretty Prestige, Sleek and Smooth, Dot Mesh, Belle Femme, Delicate Eyelet, Graphic Lace, Antiqued Cotton, Blissful, and Classic Ease.

DKNY swimsuits are the first choice of many celebs and fashionistas. Perfect detailing, flirtatious designs, high quality fabric and unparallel fitting makes DKNY swimwear exclusive and exotic. DNKY swimsuits are crafted keeping in mind all your swimming needs. They are designed for elite women who want to look glamorous and truly sexy.

DKNY swimwear is highly comfortable as they are made of soft stretch fabric that will beautifully wrap your body. Some swimsuits are also outfitted with removable pads to give you the desired support and enhance your body shape. DKNY swimwear is elegant and trendy and will make you look graceful and stunning. If you are looking for the latest collection of DKNY swimwear then www.swimsale.com is your ultimate destination. Here you can find an extensive range of many designer swimwear brands like Becca swimwear, Betsy Johnson designer swimwear, Calvin Klein designer swimwear, Birdie Jo swimwear, Carmen Marc Valvo swimwear, and many more.