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.

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.

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!

I am not thirty yet but I do spend my time with a lot of thirty something’s. Most of my friends that are in there thirties have kids. With kids your whole wardrobe changes! Instead of being so concerned about what you are wearing you are even more concerned about if what your wearing is comfortable and stylish. Trust me I have seen this first hand many times.

I personally love the longer sweaters that seem to be flattering on many shapes and sizes. They meet both qualities of being comfortable and fashionable at the same time.  I went shopping for sweaters and was surprised at how flattering the right sweater can really be. Another great way to combine comfort with style is layering. Not only is layering clothing flattering to any figure it also adds a sense of style to any outfit.

For ladies in there thirties dark colors are always flattering. Dark colors are great for slimming any size and also great against spots and stains caused by the kids. Believe me if you have kids you have spots you did not even know existed. Be smart in what you choose to wear and you will always look and feel your best.