Sunday, January 31, 2010

Men's Hairpieces - Choosing the Right Base Style For You

When looking buying men's hair pieces online, one of the most important choices to consider is the type of base needed. The "base" of the hair piece is what the hair follicles are sewn into. Common base materials include polyurethane, lace and nylon. Different base materials serve different purposes and each has its own positive and negative attributes.

Lace bases are very comfortable, as lace is usually the best material for air flow. A lace hairpiece will also offer a very natural appearance at the front hairline as the lace front is very fine and virtually invisible. On the flip side, lace hair pieces tend to break down faster than other materials because the lace is very delicate. Attachment may also be more completed, especially if you plan to use hair piece tape. The tape can sometimes be more difficult to remove and tearing may occur.
Nylon bases are somewhat similar to lace. Nylon men's hair pieces can come in a variety of styles including fine mono and welded mono. A nylon base will also have superior ventilation compared with polyurethane bases and thus offer more comfort to the hair wearer. Nylon is also typically stronger than lace; making nylon hair pieces a more durable option. Some may argue that nylon does not offer as natural an appearance as lace when used in base construction; however the quality of nylon produced these days has helped nylon to rival lace in natural appearance. The durability of nylon also helps hair piece wearers with easy removal, as they do not have to worry about tearing quite as much as they would with a lace hair piece.

Polyurethane hair pieces are sometimes referred to as PU or thin skin. It is designed to almost mimic the appearance of actual skin. Men's hair pieces made of polyurethane have become a very popular choice in the hair replacement industry. PU offers a very natural appearance is easy to care for. It is also a material very commonly used for disposable hair pieces. One of the main downsides to using a polyurethane base construction is the material tends to be less breathable than lace or nylon. This can make the hair wearer hot and uncomfortable, especially if they live in a warm climate or have a very active lifestyle.

Often, base materials are combined to create hybrid base styles. For example, many of the most popular men's hair pieces use bases that are constructed mainly of lace or nylon, but feature a polyurethane perimeter for easy attachment. Sometimes, all three materials may be combined to provide the best features of each of the materials. You may see a base composed of welded mono, with a PU perimeter for attachment and a fine lace front to offer the most natural appearance.

Choosing the right base style for your hair piece is relatively easy. It's just a matter of deciding what your priorities are. If you value a natural appearance over anything else, you may want to choose lace. If you don't want to spend a lot of time maintaining your hair piece, you may prefer a polyurethane unit. Many men often find that a variety of different base styles suit them well, and don't mind using a selection of different base materials.

Brown Hair

Brunettes are in this season and for all those teens that want to try out a brown hair style, there are many options available. One very attractive style for brown hair is the traditional Bob. In the past few years, this style has come back full swing as a popular choice for girls with brown hair. A Bob style does not mean a lot of hair will need to be cut – many times it just means altering the shape of a cut. Layering is an important factor in achieving the sleekest bob style. Variations of layering allow for many different styling options including the straight and sophisticated look or the naturally messy, tousled look for some added playfulness. Most Bob cuts require you to blow dry the ends under. However, by simply reversing this and blowdrying the ends up, a completely new look is achieved. Brown hair styles such as these can be locked in place with pomade, gel or hairspray.

A Bob is the best cut for showing off bold color contrasts as it incorporates many different lengths of layers. Teens can have fun with color choices, utilizing drastic shades to increase depth and volume. For example, contrasting a deep brown shade in your hair, along with bright red highlights on underneath layers will create a breathtaking and sharp look.

One more fun way to spice up a brown Bob haircut is to add different angles throughout the cut. Having both sides cut at an extreme angle or having one side cut shorter than the other are just a few options. The key is to be creative! Brown hair is in and teens can achieve fun and striking looks with simple variations of style and color.

Mens Watch: Divers Must Have - Tissot Sea Touch

If you are in love with scuba diving, then you should not miss the chance to look out for any accessories that are style and yet serve you well with this sport activities too.




Well, Tissot Sea-Touch watch fill in so well. A released from the very famous T-touch line. It is designed for diving activities and divers like me! :) Combined patented techonology and stylish design, the sea-touch is a must-have timepieces for diving and also for daily use.



I was indulged in The Tissot Sea-Touch watch when I first came across this from the magazine. Without further introduction but look at some of the features. SEA-Touch by Tissot watches uses patented technology to ensure that this watch for divers maintains its high performance at all levels – above and below sea level. Yes, is right down to a depth of 200 meters, so divers, you are literally have the sophisticated functionality of this high-tech diving watch at their fingertips.



As well as being able to tell the time in two time zones and indicate the depth of the current dive, this timepiece integrates a digital chronograph, thermometer, alarm, perpetual calendar date, compass and divers’ logbook, all activated by touch on the glass. Other features like luminosity, shock resistance, anti-magnetism, band solidity and the integration of a time control device.



More review from YouTube.





So I don't see there is any good reason to reject such a perfect piece, with such reasonable price.

Saturday, January 30, 2010

Man Fashion: Williamson For Men

Contributed by Charlie Johnson



Charlie


Matthew Williamson has broaden his horizons and created his first men’s line set to be launched in time for Spring/Summer 2010; his individual use of bright colours and extravagant patterns has been continued within his opening male collection.



For those who is not familiar with Matthew Williamson, is an English fashion designer. His collections are shown twice a year during New York Fashion Week, and they often have an Indian influence, perhaps related to the time Williamson spent working in India for the clothing store Monsoon. He counts celebrities such as Björk, Cat Deeley, Sienna Miller, Kelis, Jade Jagger and Plum Sykes amongst his friends.





After the success of his Matthew Williamson for H&M collection it’s easy to predict how popular his first male designs will be; the items which will only available be in London, New York and Dubai (in his stores and Harrod’s) customers will literally fly to get the first piece Williamson for men.





The capsule collection which includes silk scarves, cashmere sweaters and a range of brightly coloured t-shirts isn’t designed for the faint hearted male; but why should women only enjoy his clothes, take a road trip to your nearest store and bring Williamson into your wardrobe.



His first capsule collection which includes silk scarves, cashmere sweaters and a range of brightly coloured t-shirts; is set to sell quicker than his high street range and with it only being available in New York, London and Dubai people are set to literally fly to get it.

Hairstyles For the Bride

It seems old clichés are hard to shake. The more-is-more approach to beauty can make you look like a complete stranger to your mate on your wedding day.

When it comes to your big day, make a vow to keep your look natural. If you are wearing your hair up or down, keep it simple.

Forget the wind-tunnel tight up-do and let your hair flow. If fifties hair and make-up is in all the magazines, don't be tempted. Go for classic looks.

In essence, the key is restraint. Elegance springs from simplicity. Arrive as an approved version of yourself, with a look that is you. The most beautiful women keep it simple. Tousled locks are ideal for a summer wedding.

Abandon ornate tiaras for ribbons or fresh flower hairpieces made with local seasonal flowers. Long hair worn loose can look very pretty. If you usually wear your hair loose, keep it down but add a sexy wave. Add a soft hairpiece, or a few clip in extensions. Sweep your hair into a casual chignon, and tie it with a ribbon. Keep the look soft. Relaxed beauty is the style today.
Before your big day, put your whole look together.

Make an appointment with your hairdresser and try a few different looks. Take your hair piece. If you are using add on hair pieces try them out before the wedding. Be sure they are held securely in place. Take pictures of styles you like to your hairdresser. Consider the neckline of your dress. Try out some of your ides with your dress and hairpiece. Have your hair colored the week before your big day. Touch up your roots and freshen your highlights. Don't go in for a drastic change at this time. This visit should be to restore and freshen your look. Don't forget your eyebrows, have them colored and shaped. If you are getting married out of town it is a good idea to try the stylist before the wedding. Make sure you know where the salon is located. Do a dry run.

If you are having your make-up done by a make-up artist try them out before the wedding. See yourself in pictures. Do you like the way your hair and make-up look?

Being prepared will save last minute surprises. You will have one less thing to worry about. Your big day will be beautiful.

Friday, January 29, 2010

Milan Fashion Week: Dolce & Gabbana Fall 2010 Collection





Looking back to Milan Fashion Week, Dolce & Gabbana led the way with one of its strongest presentations in seasons, using Giuseppe Tornatore’s new film, “Baarìa,” as the starting point for a Sicilian-inspired collection highlighting Italian tailoring and distressed work wear.



















If only Michael Corleone had these threads on hand when he was hiding out in the motherland. They're everything a macho, sexy, tough Sicilano could want, from long johns tucked into worker boots and henleys to Sunday-best suits looked especially sharp when contrasted with worn-out tank tops.







Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana are celebrating their 20th anniversary this year, and their attention is clearly in the right place.





Sleek Pulled Back 'Do



A sleek pulled back bun updo, as worn by Nia Long.
Courtesy of our friends at Essence.com. Read about Nia Long talking about the Chris Rock movie "Good Hair."

Thursday, January 28, 2010

Paris Fashion Week: Hermes Fall/Winter 2010 Collection

Hermes stepped back from the fashion fray on Saturday by delivering a collection of timeless pieces that willfully snubbed trendiness.







The storied label's menswear offerings for fall-winter 2010-2011 made nearly no concessions to the fads that have swept other Paris catwalks, including proposing slouchy longjohns as a stand-in for pants and relieving blazers of their sleeves. Hermes' menswear designer, Veronique Nichanian, served up to-die-for suits with straight-leg pants remarkable only for their perfect cut and sweaters that retired French soccer international Lilian Thuram — a front row guest — said he was already coveting.







 The rest of the pieces — which included slim overcoats worn with leather belts, velvet jackets in slate and mauve and cashmere V-neck sweaters — were timeless in a manner befitting a house that has been forging a reputation for handmade excellence since its start as a saddle maker in 1837.









Hair and Beauty

Dry, damaged, greasy, or frazzled looking locks are never in fashion. Your hair should look shiny and healthy with a lot of natural bounce. It will ensure you look and feel good, while giving you a finished, sophisticated, and professional appearance. Here is how to get those luscious locks which are so desirable.

It may sound odd, but the first is to make sure that all your dietary needs have been addressed. Your hair depends upon the iron in your blood and without this you will not have strong, or healthy year. In fact, an extreme iron deficiency can be the cause of hair loss. Eating grains, pulses, fresh fruits and vegetables, will help your hair with that natural strength and shine.

We all love to play with our hair but by dying, bleaching, and applying other chemicals to our hair we damage both the existing hair and the scalp, risking damaging the hair beneath. If you do wish to dye your hair have a perm, or have your hair chemically straightened, then you should always go to a specialist. They will use the best products for your hair and can offer treatments which will keep your hair strengthened.

A hair dresser will always test to ensure that you are not allergic to the chemicals being used, if you suffer from itchiness, redness, or inflammation, they will continue to treat you. It is important that you also do this test if you are dying, or chemically straightening it for yourself.

With the developments of hair technology today, we all have access to equipment which can drastically change our hair Straighteners and hair dryers directly apply heat to your hair damaging it by burning it into the style you wish. You should never use either piece of equipment without using a suitable spray beneath this to keep your hair moist while the heat dries it.

Remember, that your hair is as important a part of your beauty regime as any other part of your body. As you would manicure your fingernails or use a face mask, you should do the same for your hair Hair masks have added vitamins and minerals which are applied to your hair to help it look healthy and shiny. Find a good company which you like, and treat your hair well.

Real Bride: Patricia







This is a lovely long hairstyle worn with a veil.

Courtesy of Jen Huang Photography
Patricia & Charles
Harlem, NY

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Man Fashion: Were You Dress To Impress?

This is the question that I always want to ask myself and to the readers out there.



My favorite wear is this cargo pants or  button fly jeans with T-shirts, and the most with V-neck sweater or scoop neck sweater. Pack with a pair of white Converse sneaker. Of course, I do received comments from my girlfriend like "Is that what you're going to wear?" which is more like accusation than question to me!



On the other hand, I do put up designer dress suit, shirt and fashion dress shoes, and my favorite blue retro skinny tie when I attend some formal parties with my girlfriend. Oh yes, I do have maroon red as well. :)



The bottom line is I wear clothes I feel comfortable in. For me that's what dressing and fashion is all about. But for most ladies that isn't the case. I am sure you have heard that this question, "Is that what you're going to wear?" countless times. And for all you women out there, unless you're going to physically undress us and then redress us to your specifications, the answer is, "Yes, this is precisely what I'm wearing."



Not because we're (or just myself?) stubborn or provocative but because we either don't know bother or we just feel comfortable with.



End of the day, my fashion philosophy is about comfort and be my own style, as well as fit into the surrounding rather to impress. So how about you? Do share your view here.... :)

Taraji's Updo



This is a chic updo worn by Taraji Henson.

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

A Guide to Hair Salon Equipment

Hair salons require many different types of equipment to ensure the business is run efficiently. Because many different items are required, it is not necessary that each piece of salon equipment be new. It is possible to find good quality, used hair salon equipment that will serve the purpose of new equipment.

Basic hair salon equipment consists of styling chairs, shampoo chairs, washbasins, hair dryers, mirrors, and trolley carts. These pieces of equipment are available in a large variety of styles. Many salons opt to purchase basic, inexpensive, equipment that is simply functional. Other salons choose to purchase equipment that works toward creating a certain feel or ambiance in their salon. There are many retailers that specialize solely in “high end” designer hair salon equipment. For an additional cost, these pieces can be customized to match a salon’s décor and color scheme.

Many salons are expanding the services they offer clients by adding in day spa services. Day spa services may include manicures, pedicures, tanning, facials, waxing, and massages. When these types of services are offered there is specific hair salon equipment that must be added to the salon’s equipment inventory. Many of the items are pieces of equipment that are quite costly. For example, a new pedicure station can cost a few thousand dollars, prompting some salon owners to purchase used hair salon equipment to save money. For this reason, used hair salon equipment is a rapidly expanding business.

When salons expand the services they offer they often choose to sell hair care, skin, and body products. To appropriately display the items they must purchase display racks. The type of display racks they choose will depend on the size of the inventory that will be displayed and how much square footage they have to dedicate to the display. Hair salon equipment retailers typically offer a large selection of display tables, racks, and shelving for sale.

There are a growing number of retailers that specialize in selling used hair salon equipment. Many of these retailers are easily found online through search engines. Much of the used equipment that is offered is in very good condition and is a good investment for a salon owner. Used hair salon equipment is a wise choice, particularly for a new salon owner who is just starting out.

Natural 'Do: Locs



Formal updo as worn by actress Aissa Maiga. Courtesy of our friends at Gorgeous Black Women.

Hair Color Ideas That Actually Work For You

As we have entered a new season many women are thinking about ways to update their looks, and the perfect answer is with hair color. For novices or experienced salon goers, here are some hair color ideas that will take you from breakfast to office to parties - without missing a beat!

Hair color isn't always about just "color". It's about shades, hues, and a good cut that will show off your new color. Perfect color doesn't come in a bottle. If you are hoping to get a color correction for past mistakes (caused either by you or another salon), it will take a real expert to add in the right toners to counter the faulty shades you are trying to get rid of.

A good color means natural. Look carefully at a fistful of hair in the mirror. See how each strand has a different tone? Perhaps even different colors on one strand? These are the natural striations that Mother Nature gives each head of hair to work with natural lighting. A good "color job" must duplicate these natural highlights to be effective.

Before having any kind of color applied to your hair, select a salon with a certified color professional. Not every hairdresser is an expert in color. Find a salon that specializes in color and ask about the qualifications of their staff. Usually a high end colorist will charge more, but it's worth it. Considering you are looking for something for the holidays, think of this as a gift to you.

When you use the services of a real professional, go to the appointment with an open mind. You may have your heart set of pale blond, but if the colorist can prove to you that a deep strawberry is really your best shade, listen to her. She is trained to match color with skin tone. She knows what will work, and what won't.

Once she studies your hair, its condition, its style, its cut, and your lifestyle (e. g., how much time you plan on spending on your hair each day), she will then make some recommendations for color and maybe even a more suitable style for you. Plan on being there for a few hours.

Once a basic color is determined, now comes the fun and creative part. She may suggest adding lighter highlights around your face and maybe even dispersed throughout your hair. Lighter color near your face can change your entire appearance without the permanent commitment of an all over change.

Once your new color is processed, you can now bring it a step further with temporary additions for one special occasion. Sparkles are a big hit this season and they can be applied by anyone who has ever put on mascara - the brushes are identical. They come in every shade from silver to diamond onyx and when caught in the light, the sparkle is fabulous! Just don't overdo it.

Sunday, January 24, 2010

Men Skincare: Shaving Tips

Taylor of Old Bond Street Eton College Shaving Cream JarI believe most of you think process of shaving is so simple, you hardly put any work or thought into it. Of course, all you need to do is put some/any shaving cream on your skin or just turn on your electric shaver and start shaving. Hang On!



Are you sure you got the right shaving products for your unique skin? People complain about getting cuts all the time and acne problems blaming their razors. Some of us don’t realize that right skin care regimen and products will make a huge positive change on our skin. Some men in particular just do not let go of the cheap shaving foam or even worse – soap and water. Along with applying good techniques, you should find out what skin type you have and use the right products for your skin. Choose your shaving products wisely. For instance, alcohol in a product is not good on sensitive skin. It dries it and causes irritation. Same for menthol. Yes, they feel good at first, but the result may not be as pleasant later. Avoid foam based products. Aerosol gels or foams are most popular products. It’s because they are easy to use and find. They give you a handful of lather at the press of a button. However, it’s quality not the quantity of the lather that is important.



Coochy-Original Rash-Free Shaving Cream, 16oz OriginalChemicals that are bad for your skin foam those products up. Quality shaving creams do not just help you remove hair. They prevent skin irritation, acne, and razor bumps. And they are not that expensive. Only for couple more bucks, you can get a good shaving cream that does all that and more. During these last years, skin care and shaving products have greatly developed.







There are many products on the market for any skin type, so you just need to spend a little bit of time to analyze and choose the right one for you.