The Like and Dislike Stamp

like-stamp

Late last summer, a digital design studio out of the UK called Nation, came up with an idea to take advantage of the popular “like” feature on Facebook. They thought it would be funny to have a way to take the online “like” feature and apply it offline to their co-workers paperwork. What started out as a joke, turned into a full-fledged idea which became the “like” and “dislike” rubber stamp. It turned out to be a big hit as the founder of Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg, bought some of these stamps for himself.

The problem many Americans found was the high costs of ordering these stamps from overseas. However, several U.S. based companies have found a way to bring the costs down and sell them domestically. I searched on the web doing some comparison shopping and stumbled upon Stamp-Connection, which offered a superior like and dislike stamp set at the best price on the web. For only $9.95, you could get a high quality 2 stamp set (pre-inked and self inking), shipped out the same day as your order was placed. They actually have a pretty creative selection of other specialty stamps I discovered while on their site. I think that the prices were so low because they are a manufacturer and retailer, so there were no high import costs or middle man involved.

What I love is that you get not only the like stamp of approval, but also a much needed “dislike” stamp of disapproval. I’ve always felt that Facebook needed a “dislike” too, because there are plenty of comments that I am not a fan of or even neutral about and I really want to express that with a dislike button. Now I can quickly mark my opinion on all sorts of things.

Current Contemporary Trends

modern-style

If you are like me and like to stay current in decorating trends you will be happy to know it is easier then you think! When people think of contemporary they usually think of cold and minimal style but today’s contemporary trends are warm and comforting with out the clutter.

There are some basic rules to follow if you want to achieve a contemporary look. First of all simplicity and clean lines is what you are after when it comes to the over all look and feel. Your interior should focus on showing space instead of focusing on the actual items that take up the space. If you maintain your thoughts to color, space and shapes you will have a sleek and fresh look every time!

The next thing to keep in mind is color. In contemporary trends main colors are neutrals, black and white. With all of your main back drops using these colors you want to use bold accessories that will stand out in every angle. If you happen to have bright walls then the opposite rule applies you accessories should be neutral colors. Follow these color rules and you will be on your way to contemporary style in no time.

The last thing to remember is lines and spaces make or break your contemporary style. Clean lines is a must and with interior design less is more, the space between your accessories is just as important as the accessory it self. So never be afraid of bare space and learn how to embrace it with every accessory added.

Follow these tips and before you know it you will have current contemporary styles all around you.

2011 Style Trends

What does 2011 hold for style trends and are you on top of them? Below are the some of the new trends to look out for this Spring and Summer.

1. I know it is 2011 but apparently the 70’s glamour is back in a whole new light. Be on the look out for elegant blouses and shimmering wardrobes as the 70’s comes back like never before.

2. We all know how popular the military trend was well in 2011 we are going from military to a little bit edgier the biker look.

3. Punk fashion is back and you don’t want to get this look wrong.

4. Not long behind the 70’s the 60’s are also back with hip-hugging sheath dresses and full circle skirts.

5. Skinny jeans are old news and so the new news is bell bottoms and flared to keep it funky.

6. Wide leg pants are back and better then ever.

7. Capri pants have never not been in season and this stays true to 2011.

8. You have seen it time and time again - dresses that are shorter in the front and longer in the back.

9. Jump suits are here with a whole new twist.

10. Be ready to show off those abs because the crop tops are back and hotter then ever!

Winter Weather Styles 2009

blackjacketWhen the weather gets cold - you have to keep dressing warmer. What are the winter weather styles for 2009?

Lets start with the most important layer - a good coat. Depending on your budget a nice coat can be anywhere from $100 - $1,000. I know it is a big price range, but remember you are going to get what you pay for. When looking at winter jackets there are a few things to keep in mind. First of all, you want it to be warm - the whole point of a jacket is to keep you warm and toasty. The second thing to consider is versatility. The more versatile the jacket the better - think of it like this, a black jacket vs. a bright colored plaid jacket - which one are you going to get the most use out of? Last but not least you have to remember a flattering fit. You do not want to look like a marshmallow! Choose a style that is flattering to your figure and your pocket book.

Once you have found the perfect winter jacket the next step is to find the perfect boots. During the wintertime a good warm pair of boots can provide good insulation all winter long. Whether you go with ankle boots or knee high boots make sure they are the right fit for you. This winter boots are hotter then ever - be sure to check out all the latest styles such as tie up boots, lace up boots and even cut out shoes!

So you have the shoes and the jacket it is now time to think about the perfect winter hat. I myself am a visor bean fan. They are warm, cute and very stylish. They are also very affordable. Not only do they come in a variety of colors and styles but they are very versatile and can be worn with just about anything!

I hope these styles give you a jump-start for your winter wardrobe!

My latest trip to the mall

It had been a while since I had been shopping at the mall. I finally went a few weeks ago with a close friend of mine. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by all of the cute styles that are in the stores. I had a great time trying on many different styles of shirts, sweaters and jackets and even found 3 shirts that were a good match for me. It turns out that I look really good in the over sized trendy sweaters I thought would never look good on me. I was surprised to see that these sweaters are super flattering and comfortable! Which sometimes is a hard combination to find. Not only were they super cute but also reasonably priced.

I have always been curious about these styles of sweaters and now I am happy to say that I now know the answer to my question.  If you have ever been unsure how a style will look on you I urge you to always try a new style on before deciding against it, it could end up to be one of your favorite styles.  Next time you are at the mall don’t be afraid to try new things, I promise you won’t be sorry!

Summer Wear for the 20 Somethings

Well it is summer time now and I have been doing a lot of spring/summer cleaning. One place I always like to start is my closet. My closet and I have been through a lot of clothes, over 20 years worth! I always have to bring out all of my summer clothing and hang them in the front of my closet. This is very handy because it prevents me from digging through my dresser drawers and making big messes when looking for what to wear.

The problem is I am running low on hangers because all of my summer clothes are usually folded in the back of my dresser! I am not used to having the majority of my clothing hung up. Also my summer clothes come in all shapes and sizes. That’s when I knew I needed to stock up on garment hangers! My summer clothes rang from sundresses to halter-tops but they are a great collection for staying cool in the summer time.

This summer I am seeing a lot of tube tops, tank tops and halter-tops. I am also seeing short shorts and skirts. I notice the fad being the more skin the better! Now this is not true for everyone…but if you can pull it off I say go for it! When you are in your 20’s you can usually pull anything off! :)