Debenhams Sees over Fifties Create the Latest Fashion Trend -- the Grankini

Debenhams has reported that sales of swimsuit styles which are traditionally associated with the under 30s are soaring thanks to role model glamour-grannies like Helen Mirren and Goldie Hawn taking the plunge.

So strong is the trend that swimwear?(http://www.debenhams.com/women/swimwear-beachwear) buyers have dubbed the skimpy beachwear the 'grankini'.

Sales of bikinis?(http://www.debenhams.com/women/swimwear-beachwear/bikinis) at fashion retailer Debenhams have risen by 118% driven by women who were ironically born around the time of the two-piece's invention in 1946.

When Debenhams customers between the ages of 50 and 65 were asked what style of swimwear they take on holiday, 71% admitted to trading in their one-piece for a more revealing two-piece.

Sasha Nagalingham, swimwear buyer at Debenhams, said, "There are no rules to say when a woman should retire her bikini.

"Women over 50 are as interested in looking glamorous as their younger counterparts; and the beach is no exception.

"Over 74% of the customers who now wear a bikini also said that they had been inspired by images of older celebrity women stepping out in a two-piece with Helen Mirren's red bikini the most commonly mentioned instance."

In 2008 Helen Mirren was photographed wearing fashion coats a show-stopping red bikini on a beach in Italy, just days before her 63rd birthday - an image that is still driving the 'grankini' craze two years later.

Sasha continued, "Like it or not, a full costume on an older lady instantly says 'granny'; but wearing a supportive, well proportioned bikini is less aging and accentuates rather than hides natural shape."

"This is not about an older woman throwing on a string bikini and hoping for the best - advances in swimwear technology mean that we can now create bikinis that flatter a mature shape."

Wider straps, gauge wires and built-in mesh support hoist and shape breasts in the same way that lingerie does, while bikini bottoms with higher waist lines offer coverage for any wobbly bits or stretch marks.

Celebrities driving the Grankini trend include Helen Mirren (65), Jerry Hall (54), Ivana Trump (61), Sharon Stone (52), Goldie Hawn (65), Madonna (52) and Kim Cattrall (52).

About Debenhams:
Debenhams is a leading department stores group, and has a strong presence in key product categories including children's wear, women's fashion, with day dresses, shoes, bikinis, jeans, men's clothing, home ware, make-up, health and beauty, accessories, perfume and lingerie with dd+ bras?(http://www.debenhams.com/lingerie/dd-bras ) and matching bra and underwear sets?(http://www.debenhams.com/lingerie/matching-bras-knickers ).

For more information, interviews or images please contact:
Carie Barkhuizen
Debenhams PR Manager
33 Wigmore Street
London
W1U 1QX
020 7408 3298
http://www.debenhams.com

To download free high res images visit prshots.com/debenhams

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Onlineshoes.com Kicks Off Season of Giving With Shoe Donations

In September, Seattle-based Onlineshoes.com made its most recent donation of 1,374 new and nearly new pairs of shoes to three non-profit organizations—Northwest Center, Dress for Success and The Hana Community Center—with a total value of $112,000.

Other exciting developments are also afoot at Onlineshoes.com, a company that continues to prosper despite an uncertain economy. In anticipation of near-term growth, Onlineshoes.com took out an additional lease at the site of Corporate Headquarters, expanding to the entire second floor of the Metropolitan Park East Tower (1730 Minor Ave.). The company has nearly doubled its square footage and now occupies nearly 37,000 square feet of prime real estate in downtown Seattle.

Since 1965, Seattle-based Northwest Center has been dedicated to promoting the development and independence of people with disabilities through education, rehabilitation and work opportunities. Onlineshoes.com donated 615 pairs of men's and women's shoes, plus handbags, to Northwest Center.

Founded in 1997, Dress for Success is a worldwide non-profit organization dedicated to helping women find and retain employment; affiliate Working Wardrobe assists women who have been hired but can't always afford appropriate work apparel. Locally under the management of the YWCA since 2002, Dress for Success and Working Wardrobe outfitted approximately 2,400 women in King and Snohomish counties in 2009. Onlineshoes.com delivered 558 pairs of women's shoes to Dress for Success/Working Wardrobe.

"Women in need are referred to us from 160 different agencies, and we work to outfit them not only for job interviews, but to go back to women's coats work primarily in retail, restaurant and hospitality positions. We see a lot of suits donated, but it's not as common to receive donations of shoes, which literally give women a means to walk into their interviews and to their jobs in comfort and confidence. That's why partnerships like what we have with Onlineshoes.com are such an important part of what we do," says Dress for Success program manager Kiantha Duncan-Woods.

Dress for Success and Working Wardrobe are always looking for donations of current, timeless, professional and casual attire for women, as well as shoes that range from athletic and comfort styles to dress shoes with modest heels. They are in particular need of larger-sized clothing and shoes size 9 and above.

Near and dear to the heart of Onlineshoes.com founder Daniel Gerler, The Hana Community Center (Hana, Maui, Hawaii) received 201 pairs of shoes for men, women and children. Says Gerler, "I've visited Hana many times, and the warmth and welcome of the residents in this remote Hawaiian location is nothing short of remarkable. Whether we're donating to a small, tight-knit community such as Hana or helping out wider-reaching urban organizations like Northwest Center and Dress for Success, it's gratifying for both me and my extended Onlineshoes.com family to know we're making a difference."

Charitable giving is particularly important in challenging economic times. Those who are interested in helping out in any way, particularly as the holiday season approaches, are urged to contact these or other organizations to learn more about making donations that could help change lives for the better.

About Onlineshoes.com: Established in 1996, Onlineshoes.com is the nation's first online shoe retailer. With a history that began decades ago in a family-owned corner shoe store, the company is committed to delivering exceptional value and service. Onlineshoes.com offers the latest high-quality footwear for men, women and kids with more than 240,000 shoe and clothing choices from more than 250 name brands, as well as a wide selection of bags and accessories. Customers are entitled to a 110-percent price guarantee, a 365-day return policy, and free shipping and exchanges on most orders. For more information, visit http://www.onlineshoes.com.

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High-End Consignment Store Opens a Second Location in Fair Haven, NJ

In the midst of an economy that has possibly seen more business' going "out" than "in", Ann Marie Elia, the owner of AllThingsConsignment.com located at The Farmhouse on Broadway in West Long Branch, NJ, saw a need for opening a second location in Fair Haven, NJ.

AllThingsConsignment.com is a high-end designer consignment shop for women and is located at 606 River Rd, Fair Haven, NJ (next to Shutters). AllThingsConsignment.com is a consignment store, specializing in Women's designer clothing, bags, shoes and accessories. Women can bring their couture quality clothing, bags and accessories in to the store and earn cash for them through sales in the store and online.

"We realize that many women have donated good, quality clothing in the past to charitable organizations, but in today's economic climate, more and more people are turning towards consignment as a cash earning alternative when cleaning out their closets", states Ann Marie. For example, one of our consignors owned a beautiful $3000 Chloe bag that she only used for 9 months and decided it didn't fit her lifestyle any longer. She consigned it with AllThingsConsignment.com and it sold within two days for $950.00. This happens all the time, especially with our Louis Vuitton & Chanel bags which we can't keep on the shelves.

"We also keep a "Wish List" file on our customers who are searching for that special item. When that item arrives in the store, they are the first ones we call before it goes on the sales floor. But what people don't realize is that we also carry a large amount of merchandise that is brand new. Being in the business for more than 20 years, surrounding retail stores consign their merchandise that they can't sell in their own store and consign with AllThingsConsignment.com. We have a confidential commitment to not indicate where the merchandise comes from."

Elia said "W women's coats e work on a 50/50 split and our consignment length is for 60 days". The Fair Haven location only carries authentic, designer merchandise but our West Long Branch location carries all brands like Ann Taylor, J. Crew, Banana Republic and so on. If you would like to learn more about consigning with us please visit our on-line store at AllThingsConsignment.com or stop by and visit us Monday - Saturday 10am to 5pm, Sunday 11am to 4pm at either location. If you need more information, you may contact us at Fair Haven 732-741-8111 or West Long Branch 732-263-1124

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16 Charitable Ways to Celebrate Valentine's Day

There is more to Valentine's Day than flowers or conversation hearts that say "Hot Stuff" or "Be Mine." Philanthropy consultant and writer Elaine Gast Fawcett of http://www.FourWindsWriting.com has published a list of 16 Charitable Ways to Celebrate Valentine's Day at http://www.PhilanthropyWriting.com, offering alternative ways to spread the love--and generosity--on February 14th.

"Valentine's Day is most often associated with romance and having a special someone. It can be an amazing time to celebrate intimate partnership, and yet, for some people, it can bring up mixed feelings, overrated expectations, and even loneliness," said Fawcett.

"What I'm offering is a new take on the holiday. Rather than get caught up in all the commercialism surrounding Valentine's Day, here are 16 ways to feel connected to others--whether you are in a romantic relationship or not."

Among her suggestions, Fawcett offers simple ideas such as volunteering at a local soup kitchen, sending love letters to organizations doing good work in the world, adopting a pet for day, being a Fair Trade Valentine, and more. See below for the full list.

Fawcett published the blog on http://www.PhilanthropyWriting.com -- a blog she created to "Get to the heart of giving," and within 24 hours, the blog went from a readership of five to 5,000. She expects to 20,000 readers by Monday.

"These ideas have spread like wildfire. It shows that people are craving simple but meaningful ways they can make a difference. Doing something that matters--whether it is a small or large act--is a way we can wake up from the grind of daily living, and feel more compassionate and loving toward ourselves and others," said Fawcett.

In her article, she writes: "Behind all our roles and personalities and professionalism, each of us, at essence, is a living, loving being. Sure, on the other 364 days of the year we might try to fake it, but on this one day, the world agrees: Love is where it's at. Call it spirit, call it sweetness — whatever you want to call it, we've all got it. It's just a matter of what we do with it.

There are plenty of ways to do good and feel good this Valentine's Day. Here are Fawcett's favorites.

1. Will You Be My…Volunteer? There's no shortage of ways you can help. Volunteer at a local soup kitchen, animal shelter, or favorite nonprofit, or offer to tutor a child in reading or math. You can find loads of opportunities on http://www.VolunteerMatch.org, or check out http://www.DoSomething.org, which helps younger folks rock the causes they care about.

2. Put the "Fun" in Fundraising. If you're taking that special someone out for a pricey dinner, why not have your bill go to a good cause? Check your newspaper or online city pages for Valentine-themed fundraisers that support local nonprofits. Or better yet, throw your own happy hour or party, and donate the proceeds to charity.

3. Give a Little Bit. Sometimes a little helps a lot. Looking to put your money where your mouth is? Donate a dollar a day to a cause that calls to you through http://www.Philanthroper.org. Or support students and classrooms in need in your hometown through http://www.DonorsChoose.org.

4. Send Love Letters. Not just to your sweetheart, but to people and organizations that are doing good things for the world. Tell them why you respect and appreciate their work, and that they really do make a difference. If you're feeling extra romantic, include a donation.

5. Reach Out to Those in Need. Deliver homemade Valentine's cards or heart-shaped cookies to the sick, the elderly, the homeless — and their caregivers. Call a local childrens' hospital, nursing home, domestic violence or homeless shelter and ask how you can donate an hour or two of your time.

5. Give Gifts That Give. There are dozens of charitable shopping sites and online nonprofit stores selling gifts for a good cause. Look for red Motorola phones, Gap T-shirts and iPods from Apple to support the (Red) Campaign, or find cause-specific gifts to alleviate hunger, breast cancer, deforestation and more at http://www.GreaterGood.org. Can't find the perfect gift for your special someone? Give a Good Card through http://www.NetworkforGood.org.

6. Remember Those Who Serve You. Think of all those people who make your life easier and more convenient — every single day. Give a thank-you card to the bus driver or the barista who serves you your latte. Personally thank the janitor who keeps your office or campus clean, or the people who pick up your trash. Leave your waiter an extra tip, and smile–big–at the gas station attendant.

7. Clean Your Closets. Get a head start on spring-cleaning and donate clothes, toys, furniture, household items, and old computers to nonprofits accepting them. Check your local Big Brothers Big Sisters, Salvation Army, or Goodwill Industries.

8. Love Your Mother (Earth). Take the trash challenge: For one day, see if you can generate zero trash. Zip, nada, nothing. No cardboard boxes, no disposable containers, no bottled water. Think of what you can reduce and re-use, and call your county or city waste management to find out about local compost programs.

9. Get Your Heart Pumping. Charity walks and runs raise money for a good cause and get you moving in the great outdoors. Bring the family or your co-workers along to make it a team event. To find an event, check your local American Heart Association or a local runners' club, such as Road Runners Club.

10. Adopt a Pet for a Day. Offer to take care of a pet for an ill or homebound neighbor. Volunteer at your local animal shelter to take the dogs for a walk. Or adopt an endangered species through the World Wildlife Fund, and you'll get a lovable stuffed pet and adoption certificate.

11. Be a Fair-Trade Valentine. Buy certified fair-trade chocolate from companies that ensure that small-scale farmers receive higher and more stable prices for their cocoa. Try Theo, Equal Exchange, or Alter-Ego Fair Trade.

12. Say it With Organic Flowers. Buy fresh organic blooms from your local farmer's market, or send a bunch from Organic Bouquet, which donates 10 percent to charities like CARE, the Global Fund for Women, and the American Red Cross.

13. Be Kind While You Dine. Taking your sweetie for a steak dinner this V-Day? Choose a restaurant that sources its meat from sustainable, humanely treated and harvested animals & farms. Visit Sustainable Table's http://www.EatWellGuide.org to find vendors that offer farms and stores that sell sustainably raised meat. For seafood lovers, download the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch app for your smart phone.

14.Continue to Support Disaster Relief. We don't hear much about Haiti or the Gulf Coast on the news these days, bu women's jackets t these disasters are in need of much support. Here are a few ideas: Adopt a Brown Pelican through the International Bird Rescue Research Center, which picks up oiled birds, cleans and rehabilitates them. Or provide direct support to those facing financial devastation due to the Gulf Coast spill by donating at Protect Your Coastline. For Haiti and other world disasters, consider supporting an organization like Doctors Without Borders, which sends medical and non-medical aid workers to countries whose survival is threatened by violence, neglect, or catastrophe.

15. Say "I Do" to Charitable Weddings. Tying the knot this year? Consider creating a charitable gift registry through the http://www.IDoFoundation.org and its many retail and nonprofit partners.

16. Celebrate with Small Acts of Kindness. Valentine's Day isn't the only holiday this week: February 14-20th is Random Acts of Kindness Week. What can you do? Pay for a coffee, lunch, or a toll for the person behind you in line. Tape the exact change for a soda to a vending machine. Send cards with joyful messages to strangers. Collect canned goods for a food bank. Shovel a neighbor's driveway, or babysit a friend's child, for free. Visit http://www.ActsofKindness.org for hundreds of other ideas.

**

Elaine Gast Fawcett is a writer and consultant. She runs http://www.FourWindsWriting.com, a national consulting firm providing top-notch strategic communications for foundations, charitable organizations, nonprofits and socially conscious companies.

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We support our young soldiers now, but will be willing to support them after they come home?

In his book, A Walk in Hell: The other side of war, Helle lays bare the truth about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), something he?抯 battled since returning home in 1970. ?揟he fighting in Vietnam stopped years go,??says Helle, ?揵ut for most of us who were there, the war never ends. On good days and with the best counseling and medications, we succeed only in keeping it at bay.??

A Walk In Hell is not a ?搘ar story??but one about the mental bombs that can detonate years, even decades, after the sounds of the last battlefield explosions have been silenced. PTSD can also be caused by natural disasters, terrorist attacks, rape, automobile accidents, and many more events in many lives. Survivors of such events and those who love them will find understanding in this book.

?揥ith increasing public sentiment against our going to war in Iraq,??says Helle. ?揑 see another ?慥ietnam??in the making, where our returning veterans may once more languish without the love and support that will make them whole again. It is a matter of the highest moral responsibility for our nation to stand by our soldie Tips: Find Street Fashion Online(may be you can find what you want on the oasap.com) rs and to provide them with all of the help they will need to reintegrate successfully with our society.??

            ?揥ith utmost courage, Greg has been able to transcend many adversities of life. As I read his journal, [which was] hauntingly honest.., I became overwhelmed by his writings. This history--his history--is elegantly written, extremely painfully revealing. However, he will pass on to others what he has learned from his recovery process??All readers, men and women, will learn of horror and hope. The hero has returned home.??

Roger J. Girard, M.Ed., CTS, CAP

?揋reg Helle is such a brave man?匞reg has done the world a service. He speaks for those who cannot speak of it. And he speaks to those of us who have never had to experience it. ??For the psychologist, psychiatrist, social worker and clergy, this is a must reading. For the student of these professions, this should be required in the curriculum. It?抯 important to see and understand the soul of the person who suffers from Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.??

Jan Dale, Ph.D. ??Licensed Psychologist

?揂n Iowan writes about how Vietnam yanked him from a tranquil farm life into a nightmare that resurfaced in his mind just five years ago?匒t a therapist?抯 urging, he began to write his emotions down. The words were too painful to arrange in full sentences, so short bursts of prose poetry explored the battlefield.??/p>

Des Moines Register, 2/10/03

?揑 do not hold the government responsible for what happened to me.??says Greg, ?????揑?抦 a patriot. I?抎 be over in Afghanistan or Iraq, but I?抦 too damn old.??/p>

Florida Today 1/19/03

??About the Author

A life-long Iowa resident, Gregory A. Helle now lives in Ankeny, Iowa. He has been married to his high-school sweetheart, Alice, for 32 years, and has two grown children, a daughter who is a police officer and a son in law school. Mr. Helle is a CPA and worked as the hospital administrator of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at Iowa State University but is currently on medical leave for PTSD. Greg is currently a member of the National Society of CPA?抯, Iowa Society of CPA?? Vietnam Veterans of America, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, and MaleSurvivor: National Organization against Male Sexual Victimization. ??Greg has given several interviews, gives talks to various organizations (at cost), and has been invited to present at the 10th International MaleSurvivor Conference.

A Walk in Hell

By Gregory A. Helle

Publication Date: November 7, 2002

Trade Paperback; $22.99; 364 pages; 1-4010-7518-5

Cloth Hardback; $32.99; 364 pages; 1-4010-7519-3

15% discounts are available from the publisher and the author.

??

Contact the author for interviews, to provide review copies, press materials, or to provide any additional information.

The author is also available to talk with groups about the effects of war and personal trauma. The author does not charge a fee but does ask that expenses be covered.

??

Please read the author?抯 open letter at: http://www.awalkinhell.com/Open_Letter.htm. Excerpts from the book can be read at http://www.awalkinhell.com/forward.htm. Reviews of the book, press clippings, comments by readers, and a listing of speaking engagements can also be found at http://www.awalkinhell.com.

??

Greg Helle?抯 website has won the Golden Web Award and the Service to Vets Award, making the world a better place award.

??A Walk In Hell can be purchased, inscribed and signed by the author, through the web page http://www.awalkinhell.com. Immediate shipping and a discount off retail prices is available from the author.

The book can also be purchased through the Xlibris Web site at: http://www1.xlibris.com/bookstore/bookdisplay.asp?bookid=15195 or by calling 1-888-795-4274. The book is also available for sale through the major online booksellers ??http://www.amazon.com, http://www.BN.com and http://www.borders.com.

Dame Helen Mirren is Liv'n Out Loud

On Thursday, April 3, 2007 at exactly 4:26pm, Dame Helen Mirren, the Best Actress Academy Award Winner for her role in 'The Queen', called Liv'n Out Loud! Clothing Company headquarters in Hampstead, NH from her home in England after she received one of their Lifestyle Tees in the Celebrity Gift Bag at the Academy Awards. The call, which lasted 10 minutes, would change this nearly 2 year old company forever.

"Hello, this is Helen Mirren, and I received one of your lovely T-shirts in my gift bag at the Oscars", she said. "I love the quality of your clothing; the cotton is so soft yet so strong. I would like to order 6 more of these Tees please".

Cleary having spent some time reviewing the Liv'n Out Loud! website, Ms. Mirren knew precisely which Tees she and her Oscar-Winning Director husband, Taylor Hackford wanted:

Helen Mirren's Sele Tips: Find Street Fashion Online(may be you can find what you want on the oasap.com) ctions:    
Never Settle                
Yagottawanna    

Taylor Hackford Selections:            
Empowered
I'd rather be disliked for who I am, than loved for who I'm not
Defy Mediocrity
Bring it On

Because Liv'n Out Loud! was invited to participate in the Celebrity Gifting Program at the Academy Awards, they enclosed a wildly popular Lifestyle Tee, along with a Gift Certificate, in an effort to increase the chances of further communication with each star. "We put the Gift Certificate in each bag as a strategic move", said Alyson Bruu, Co-founder of Liv'n Out Loud! Clothing Company. "As much as we hoped, we never truly expected anyone to give us a call and redeem that Gift Certificate".

"It's funny", said Kristine Fichera, Co-founder of the company. "Every time the Liv'n Out Loud! phone rings, Alyson yells out from her office across the hall, 'Hello Oprah!' because we just know in our heart and soul that one of these days Oprah will be calling us. It's our way of stimulating the 'Laws of Attraction'. So when I saw on the Caller ID that it was an "Unknown" number I just had this strange feeling that it was going to be a very meaningful phone call. Then I heard that distinctive, unmistakable English voice of Helen Mirren and my heart skipped a beat! I took a deep breath, collected myself, and proceeded with welcoming her to the Liv'n Out Loud! family. I answered her questions, took her 6-Tee order and thanked her for the call".

After the cool, calm and collected phone call, Kristine and Alyson started screaming, high-fiving and popped open a bottle of Moet and Chandon Champagne, toasting to the extremely rarified opportunities that continue to present themselves to this young and rapidly growing inspirational and empowering clothing company.

To date, Liv'n Out Loud! Clothing has been invited to participate in the Celebrity Gifting Programs at the Sundance Film Festival, The Academy Awards, The Cannes Film Festival - and just last week they were invited to participate in the MTV Music Awards.

So why is Liv'n Out Loud! being honored on so many profound levels? Why are these exceptional once in a lifetime opportunities landing on their doorstep? When Liv'n Out Loud! asked the Gifting Companies why they sought out Liv'n Out Loud! to participate in their Celebrity Gifting Programs, the answers had the same central theme: "Because with all the negativity in this world today, your brand is uplifting, inspirational and empowering. We need more of this messaging, and if we can help get the word out so that folks around the world can live more positive, evolved lives through Liv'n Out Loud! clothing, we are happy to do so".

About Liv'n Out Loud!

Liv'n Out Loud! Clothing Company, based in Hampstead, NH, makes Clothes for the Soul; clothing that embodies the human spirit. 100% cotton "comfort-stuffs" in over 30 sun-washed tones that convey a full range of evocative quotes, inspirational sayings, encouraging messages, and motivating thoughts. A vital new brand designed to uplift, inspire and empower.

The Logo and Lifestyle Series include Relaxed and Slim Fit Short and Long Sleeve Tees,    V-neck Short Sleeve Tees, Cap-Sleeve Tees, Tank Tops, Ringer Tees, Hoodie, Boxy and Full Zip Sweatshirts, Baseball Hats, Tote Bags, Tire Covers, Mugs and more. http://www.livnoutloud.com/livnoutloud_tees_dept_lifestyle.php

The latest Tee, designed and launched in early January, speaks to women who are battling and surviving cancer. It says, "Hey Cancer…You Picked the Wrong Broad" and is available in a variety of styles and colors. This Tee has quickly become the biggest and fastest selling item in the history of the company. It will be available in several Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Race Boutiques around the country, Cancer Gift Centers and is available in several Boston Hospitals.

Liv'n Out Loud! was born following a near-death experience by Alyson Bruu, Co-Founder of the company. To read the inspirational back-story and more interesting information about Liv'n Out Loud! visit this page and click the "To learn more about LOL" button at the bottom of the page. http://www.livnoutloud.com/livn_out_loud_about.html

Customers can purchase the company's merchandise online at http://www.livnoutloud.com or by phone at 603-329-9599.

Liv'n Out Loud! products are also available in select retail stores in the United States.

Liv'n Out Loud! believes in giving back. As such, a percentage of quarterly sales are donated to the ASPCA, the American Cancer Society or The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure - depending upon the items sold.

Liv'n Out Loud! Clothes for the Soul…

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Littlewoods Europe Launches New Size Guides

Littlewoods Europe, part of the Shop Direct group, recently announced the launch of a market-leading new range of sizing guides on their website to enable customers to choose their correct size when buying clothing.

Separate size guides have been created for women, men and children and provide detailed comparisons between UK and European sizes as well as advice on different fits of clothing. Each of the guides include helpful images and video content.

Helpful size guides have also been added to individual product pages for easy reference when shopping online. These include a diagram with the most common measurements and a conversion scale between standard clothing sizes, metric and imperial.

In addition, Littlewoods Europe's comprehensive and easy-to use guide to finding the right bra size includes a step by step bra fitting video. An estimated 80% of women in the UK are wearing the wrong size bra which, in addition to being uncomfortable, can cause back pain and headaches. The bra fitting video gives women all the information they need to choose the correct size and alleviate these risks.

Littlewoods Europe and the Shop Direct group firmly believe in the importance of accurate sizing and have been part of two major studies of sizing in recent years, Shape GB and Size UK. The new range of si Tips: Find Street Fashion Online(may be you can find what you want on the oasap.com) zing guides aim to address the concerns raised by these studies and help shoppers choose clothes that feel comfortable and look great.

A spokesperson for Littlewoods Europe said, "We believe our new size guides will assist customers in choosing the right size clothing, Clothes look and feel much better when we are wearing the correct size and can make you look instantly slimmer."

As well as the size guides, Littlewoods Europe's product pages now also feature user reviews that allow customers to share useful advice and information to help others chose the right size and fit of clothes when buying online.

About Littlewoods Europe:
Littlewoods Europe is part of Shop Direct Group who is the UK's largest online and home shopping retailer with sales of circa ?1.7 billion. It is aimed at women who want the convenience of home delivery from one of their favourite British on-line retailers. The delivery cost is €5 regardless of size of order. Delivery is within 7 working days, with 28 days home approval guarantee.

The Littlewoods Europe site features over 14000 product lines, from core categories of clothing, including leading brands of underwear such as Wonderbra and Sloggi underwear, dresses and evening dresses and Levi jeans.

Brands within the Shop Direct Group portfolio include Very.co.uk, Woolworths.co.uk, Littlewoods Ireland, Littlewoods Europe, Additions, Great Universal, Choice, Kays, Empire Stores and Marshall Ward.

PR Contact:
Michelle Miller
Consumer PR team
Shop Direct Group
Skyways House
Speke Road
Speke
L70 1AB
0844 292 2570
http://www.littlewoodseurope.com/

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Highly Anticipated Beauty Web Series “Speaking of Beauty with Holly Fulger” Debuts Today

Actress, Writer and Beauty Spokesperson Holly Fulger ("Ellen" / "thirtysomething" / "Anything But Love") is on a personal mission with her newest ground-breaking digital series, "Speaking of Beauty with Holly Fulger," to open a dialog among women to address their concerns and insecurities about aging and ultimately help women discover their inner-beauty, enhance their self-image and feel more beautiful at every age. The web series launches today, August 21, on http://www.speakingofbeauty.tv, and on "Speaking of Beauty with Holly Fulger" YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/SpeakingofBeautyTV

Created and Executive Produced by Holly Fulger, and directed and produced by Melinda Augustina ("16 to Life" / "Fun with War Crimes" / "Three-Fifty"), the new beauty web series showcases Holly's interviews with her favorite role models and "everyday heroes" of all races, ages and backgrounds. These dynamic individuals discuss their personal vision of beauty, the negative effects of media's "ideal woman," and how these perceptions influence their lives.

Interviews include: Writer/Performer, Dari Mackenzie, who launched Twiggy's clothing line and worked with Fellini in the 60's, sharing her perspective on aging gracefully; Twelve-year-old Student and Aspiring Writer, Grace Williams, who shares her "wise-beyond-years" thoughts on the imperfections of beauty; Jewelry Designer, Rachel Abroms, sharing how family and Society's negative focus on weight led her to self-mutilate before finding peace; and Professional & Personal Development Coach of Missing Peace, Cynthia Ordebuga, sharing beauty wisdom passed down from her grandmother and from her own experiences growing up as an African-American in a segregated society.

Fans who subscribe to "Speaking of Beauty with Holly Fulger" on YouTube channel will be the first to receive additional access to beauty related health data, provided by "Speaking of Beauty's" medical partner, the Cleveland Clinic's national women's health education program, http://www.SpeakingofWomensHealth.com. (@SPKWomensHealth) In addition, today only from 10am to 4pm PT, "Speaking of Beauty with Holly Fulger" will exclusively offer viewers the ability to submit questions, or comments, to be personally answered by Holly and her guests.

In September 2012, the Cleveland Clinic Speaking of Women's Health partnership will be formally announced in conjunction with additional episodes rolling out weekly to all fans on the official web site: http://www.speakingofbeauty.tv, along with the official release of the corresponding "Speaking of Beauty Inner Beauty" journal book by Holly Fulger.

Taking a profound look at both the positive and negative aspects of beauty, Holly's new web series presents a platform for resolving the paradox of being "beautiful" and the power of being yourself.

An accomplished actress, "Speaking of Beauty" Host, Holly Fulger was a television series regular on such shows as "Ellen," "thirtysomething," "Anything But Love" with Jamie Lee Curtis. Additional appearances and feature films include the Disney trilogy "Zenon, Girl of the 21st Century," and over fifteen Tips: Find Street Fashion Online(may be you can find what you want on the oasap.com) television movies. Holly is married to character actor, Ron Bottitta, and lives with their two children and all their rescue animals, in Hancock Park, California.

For more information, please review: http://www.speakingofbeauty.tv or contact: Publicist, Joy A. Kennelly ph: 310 714-2077 email: joykennelly(at)speakingofbeauty(dot)tv

Shape Up This Summer With Spanx Slimming Shapewear Essentials

After kick-starting a shapewear revolution in 2000, Spanx now makes more than 200 figure-fixing products – from back-fat busting bras to bum-boosting bodysuits. Spanx's meteoric rise to undergarment fame culminated when Oprah declared she'd "given up panties" and only wore Spanx. Though the history of shapewear spans centuries, no other brand has ever achieved household name status like Spanx. With the range of products encompassing everything from control shorts to full coverage shaping bodysuits Spanx shapewear offers everything women need for an instant slimming effect. The style experts at Classic Shapewear, a leading online retailer offering the best brands of shapewear, have rounded up a few Spanx shaping essentials that will help women everywhere step into summer confidently.

Every woman must own a great fitting bra that is super comfy and compliments her figure. The Spanx Bra-llelujah! The All-H women's jackets osiery Comfort Bra ($36) (metal-free) reduces VBL (Visible Bra Lines), gives a smooth, sexy back and provides extraordinary comfort. The soft, wide straps distribute weight evenly and stay where they belong. Complete the sleek look with the Spanx Slim Cognito Seamless Shaping Bodysuit ($62). This great body shaper will comfortably shape problem areas, accentuate the waistline, minimize the tummy, lift the rear and makes inches seem to disappear.

In addition to shaping innovations such as the Bra-llejujah! and Slim Cognito body shaper, the Spanx Power Panty ($30) is the first performance underwear that combines the comfort of regular underwear, the feel of hosiery and the power of a shaper. Eliminating the legband creates body-shaping control that's both comfortable and flattering.

A favorite on the red carpet, the Spanx Hide & Sleek Hi-Rise Body Smoother ($68) creates a longer, smoother, tighter tummy and bottom. With cool, soft seamless fabric and no legband design, this shaper is the perfect compliment under a sheer or clingy garment.

The search for the perfect undershirt is over! The Hide & Sleek Cami ($42) offers coverage for sheer fabrics and tummy slimming in one! The cool, slick fabric won't cling to clothes, has a light compression that starts just below the bra line and a bottom hem that tucks into pants and skirts. Get that sleek look without bulges at the waistline.

Spanx has proven that women can have it all! The incredible Spanx All The Way Up! Full Length Pantyhose ($28) is an ultra-sheer, high-waisted, body-shaping pantyhose that extends up to the bra line and whittles the entire middle, from front to back. Get the combination of the same comfortable, soft waistband and slimming features as Higher Power paired with the slick yarns and the targeted tummy control. For the woman who wants options, there is the Spanx Tight-End Tights Convertible Leggings ($28). Worn at the ankle or under the heel, these stylish opaque leggings feature luxurious legs and unique body-shaping control that slims the tummy, hips, thighs and rear! Designed with matte yarns (available in solids, patterns or reversible colors) to flatter the leg and add a fashionable look to any outfit. A superbly soft, non-binding waistband alleviates a pinched look at the waist. Plus, a medium control panel flattens the tummy while the extended control top smoothes and shapes the rear, hips and thighs.

The popular Spanx Maternity Power Panty ($32) is made especially for mamas-to-be! Soft Lycra and nylon yarns stretch with a growing belly and provides lower back support to give mama and baby a break! This little miracle shapes the rear and thighs as they expand along with a growing tummy.

Celebs such as Gwyneth Paltrow, Eva Longoria, Beyonce, Victoria Beckham and Sienna Miller rely on Spanx shapewear to hold everything in place and smooth out the bumps and bulges for a streamlined silhouette. With so many great Spanx shapewear solutions, it has never been easier to create a trimmer, slimmer figure. Need to know, 'where to buy Spanx?' Visit: http://www.classicshapewear.com for all of your Spanx shapewear essentials.

About Classic Shapewear:
Classic Shapewear is the industry's leading online shapewear retailer offering the highest quality, latest trends, and best named brands to fit and shape women of every size. Specializing in shapewear, the buyer's at Classic Shapewear are selective about which brands they carry. From the material, to design and the importance of a seamless garment, Classic Shapewear knows how shapewear should be made. For more information, please visit: http://www.ClassicShapewear.com

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OneStopPlus Dives into Summer with Largest Online Selection of Women’s Plus-Size Swimsuits

Full-figured women tired of the lack of selection in their quest for the perfect swimsuit have hit the jackpot! OneStopPlus, a division of Redcats USA and premier retailer for plus-size women, announces the launch of 400 styles of swimsuits designed to flatter a curvy and fuller figure. OneStopPlus knows that purchasing a swimsuit is extremely difficult for a woman and a true pain point, making the unbelievab women's jackets le selection found at OneStopPlus.com? even more significant.

Customers can visit OneStopPlus.com? any time 24/7 to preview an expanded assortment of plus-size swimsuits. Brands offered include - Woman Within?, Roaman's?, Avenue?, Carol Wior?, Coco Reef?, Delta Burke?, Miraclesuit?, Swim 365? – just to name a few!

From one piece suits to swimdresses to tankinis, OneStopPlus offers plus-size swimsuits with added bust support, as well as tummy control and slimming features, all designed to make a woman feel and look her best when lounging by the pool or walking on the beach. What's more, OneStopPlus.com? hosts customer reviews for each swimsuit, capturing feedback from others providing their first-hand knowledge of a particular style's fit, color and quality to positively impact customers' buying choices.

"With our collective plus-size expertise, the OneStopPlus team understands the diversity of women's bodies and the challenge of finding a swimsuit that is designed to fit a woman's curves," said Jim Lofgren, Vice President/Brand Manager for OneStopPlus.com?. "No other retailer can even come close to offering the number of styles and sizes we offer, and even more, we have created a webmall that makes shopping fun and easy!"    

Launched in 2007, OneStopPlus.com? has rapidly expanded with fashion-forward collections including today's leading plus-size brands: Woman Within? (womanwithin.com), Roaman's? (roamans.com), Jessica London? (jessicalondon.com), AVENUE? (Avenue.com), KingSize? (kingsizedirect.com) and American and European partner brands Ellos, Taillissime, Ulla Popken, Torrid, Kiyonna, Lafayette 148 New York and Igigi by Yuliya Raquel. Currently, the OneStopPlus.com? marketplace features 200 brands and 20,000 styles with plans to further expand its brand offerings both domestically and internationally.

For additional information, please visit: http://www.onestopplus.com, our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter @onestopplus.

About OneStopPlus.com?
OneStopPlus.com? is the world's first and only web-mall for plus-size women and big & tall men. The OneStopPlus.com? philosophy for plus-size women is reflected in every aspect of its website. The look and feel is upscale and the collections are not considered simply as clothing, but fashion. Plus-size women now have the same fashion choices as their size 8 counterparts, with access to everything from the classics to what's right on the mark in terms of the latest trends. Featured on this website include leading designs in American and European plus size fashion from Woman Within?, Roaman's?, Jessica London?, AVENUE?, Taillissime, Ellos, Shoebuy.com, Ulla Popken, Torrid, Kiyonna, Lafayette 148 New York and Igigi by Yuliya Raquel. OneStopPlus.com? is a Redcats USA brand.

About Redcats USA
Redcats USA is a dynamic, multi-channel, web-driven home-shopping leader, with numerous successful brands in its portfolio: AVENUE?, Woman Within?, Jessica London?, Roaman's?, KingSize?, and BrylaneHome? sold on OneStopPlus.com?, The Sportsman's Guide? and TGW.com - The Golf Warehouse?. Redcats USA offers a wide range of value and quality driven merchandise categories, including men's and women's plus-size apparel, home and lifestyle products, and sporting goods/outdoor gear. Redcats USA is a Redcats company.

Media Contact:
Karen Davis
Corporate PR & Communications
Redcats USA
Karen(dot)davis(at)redcatsusa(dot)com
212-502-9315

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Discover Your New Favorite Kut from the Kloth ® Jeans at Territory Ahead

KUT from the Kloth's line of women's jeans has gained a reputation among women as their "favorite fit" jeans. They're made for the real woman – the one whose style is classic, yet up to date. The jeans are designed to slim down and elongate the thighs, creating a look and feel that's universally flattering.

Multichannel clothing retailer, Territory Ahead now offers a collection of KUT women's jeans, including skinny, bootcut, boyfriend and jegging styles. Each hand-sanded and premium-detailed style is constructed of a cotton-spandex blend that flatters without sacrificing comfort. The assortment of stylishly unique jeans is now available – with free shipping on exchanges – at territoryahead.com and through Territory Ahead's catalogs.

Territory Ahead and KUT from the Kloth share a customer who values distinctive character and lasting quality, so adding KUT jeans to their offering of unique, comfortable casual clothing is an obvious choice for Territory Ahead. KUT's brand recognition, relevant fashions, and affordable price points for premium jeans will strengthen Territory Ahead's jean offerings.

About Kut from the Kloth
KUT is fashionable, comfortable and feminine. With a fabulously flattering silhouette that takes you from day to night – from home to office, and beyond. Launched in 2010, KUT from the Kloth's new sportswear collection features beautiful and functional tops, dresses, skirts, jackets and coats, all designed with simplicity and style. KUT from the Kloth clothing is designed to make women look and feel great with comfort and ease.

Ab women's coats out Territory Ahead
Territory Ahead began its journey in 1988 as a new kind of clothing company – offering personality through special fabrics; fine details; and easy, wearable designs.

Territory Ahead designs and develops their men's clothing and women's clothing in-house, focusing on lifestyle rather than fashion trends. Through their direct mail catalogs, retail stores and website, they promote fun and adventure by blending compelling outdoor imagery, clever editorial and their own eclectic brand of clothing.

Wear to next? Territory Ahead recently released its new, delightfully different, fall collection of rich fabrics featuring original details and a relaxed attitude.

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Rhea Lana’s Children’s Consignment, Inc. Expands to the North and South

Rhea Lana's Children's Consignment, Inc. is "The Nation's Premiere Children's Consignment Event Venue" and has experienced incredible growth since the company began selling franchises in 2008. Currently, the company holds 47 semi-annual consignment events in 16 states, and continues to grow as more families are discovering the value of this amazing business opportunity.

The Minnetonka franchise is owned by June Sonsalla and Denise Engebretson, and they are excited to be bringing this consignment event to the Twin Cities area. "Rhea Lana's of Minnetonka is a seasonal upscale children's consignment event that helps local mom's stretch their family budget by providing a place for them to sell their gently-used children's items!" says June Sonsalla. "The consignment events take aim at p women's jackets roviding value to area mothers in today's challenging economic climate."

The Minnetonka event will be held on September 29-October 1, at 11525 Excelsior Blvd in Minnetonka.

The Mannatee (Florida) franchise is owned by Jill Clulow. This is first Rhea Lana Event to the Manatee County area and will conclude with the donation of baby and maternity items to Solve Maternity Home and children's clothing, toys and supplies to the Manatee One-Stop Clothing Closet. These local non-profit organizations help families in need of children's items. "The recent economic downturn has increased demand for consigned family merchandise. It has also put a strain on local nonprofits," says Jill Clulow. "The Manatee Fall Rhea Lana's Event offers Manatee and Sarasota area residents the opportunity to sell children's clothing, toys, or furniture. It also provides a setting for families to purchase unused or gently used, high quality family goods at deep discounts."

The Mannatee event will be held on October 5-8, at the Cortez Village Square Plaza, 6690 Cortez Road West in Bradenton, FL.

During the month of October, there will be Rhea Lana's events taking place across the country, including Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, Florida, and Indiana. For more information on the Minnetonka and Manatee events, or to find a sale near you, please visit http://www.rhealana.com.

About Rhea Lana's Children's Consignment Events
With Arkansas roots, Rhea Lana's Children's Consignment Inc. is rapidly growing with 47 locations in 16 states. Founded by Rhea Lana Riner in her living room 14 years ago and headquartered in Conway, Arkansas, Rhea Lana's Children's Consignment hosts semi-annual sales. The company is the first consignment sale in the country to offer on-line management and real time tracking of merchandise through a computerized inventory system and a convenient mobile application.

Riner has been featured in numerous publications including The High Profile Section, Arkansas Democrat Gazette and Women's Inc Magazine. She has recently won a prestigious national award by Enterprising Women, a national publication and foundation that honors entrepreneurial women with rapidly growing companies who seek to mentor other women in business. In the 2010 report from Franchise Business Review on Child Service Related Franchises, Rhea Lana's Children's Consignment, Inc. ranked in the Top 10 nationally. Also, Rhea Lana's Children's Consignment, Inc. was ranked number two out of only ten Arkansas companies to be added to Inc. Magazine's 5000 list of fastest growing privately held companies.

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Mon Amie and Robbins Brothers Give Away Wedding Dresses for White Christmas Holiday Sweepstakes

Robbins Brothers, The Engagement Ring Store and Mon Amie Bridal Salon announced their joint holiday sweepstakes, 12 Wedding Dresses for Christmas, which gives future brides a chance to win the wedding gown of their dreams. The companies have also teamed up to create a White Friday for consumers which celebrates the romance associated with the busiest shopping day of the year.

Enter for your chance to win a $1500 gift certificate for your wedding dress by visiting any Robbins Brothers store in Southern California, Dallas/Fort-Worth or Houston from November 1 through December 15. Contestants will be asked to complete a quick electronic form with a description of their dream wedding dress in 300 characters or less, and twelve winners, one per store, will be randomly selected and announced by Christmas Eve. Contest details and a copy of the official rules can be viewed at 12 Wedding Dresses for Christmas.

Robbins Brothers and Mon Amie will also introduce White Friday for women's jackets the first time in the companies' history. While many consumers will set their alarm clocks for 3 am the day after Thanksgiving to catch Black Friday sales at clothing and electronic stores, thousands of women who expect a marriage proposal and engagement ring this year or are ready to begin wedding planning are invited to visit Mon Amie in Costa Mesa to check out the wide selection of exquisite bridal gowns for everyone's budget.

"We know the ultimate Christmas gift for many future brides is to receive their dream wedding dress," said Shawna Stanger, director of merchandising and buying for Mon Amie Bridal Salon. "We're so excited to partner with our friends at Robbins Brothers to help create a White Christmas for them." "Many couples get engaged over the holidays and once it happens the bride immediately begins to think about her wedding dress," added Diane Ferraro, director of advertising for Robbins Brothers. "We've established such a valuable relationship with Mon Amie and honored to help them award 12 lucky brides with their dream wedding gown. It reinforces the holiday spirit of giving."

About Robbins Brothers
An engagement and wedding ring retail company with freestanding stores located in Southern California, Houston, and Dallas/Ft. Worth, Texas, Robbins Brothers serves as the destination for couples in love. While the company specializes in engagement ring settings and loose diamonds, it carries an extensive selection of wedding bands, promise rings, anniversary bands, three-stone rings, earrings, pendants and bracelets. The company features designers including UTwo, Scott Kay, Simon G., Tacori, Verragio, Coast Diamond and Jeff Cooper. Onsite jewelers are available to set diamonds, design custom-settings and perform service and maintenance checks. Each location is furnished with a refreshment lounge and relaxation area, television and children's play area. For more information visit http://www.robbinsbrothers.com.

About Mon Amie
A third-generation family business with 35 years experience in the bridal gown industry, Mon Amie Bridal Salon is well-respected and trusted by brides to help them make the important emotional choice of choosing the perfect wedding dress. Behind the large 20,000 square foot fa?ade, Mon Amie is dedicated to providing the highest level of quality, service & selection and presents one of the largest and most exquisite international designer collections on the West Coast. Over 50 designers are featured ranging from couture to more moderately priced gowns. In addition to bridal gowns, Mon Amie presents ensembles for the Mothers, Grandmothers, & flower girls dresses. Individual departments cater to the special needs of the wedding party and also provide a vast selection of shoes, lingerie, jewelry, headpieces, veils and other wedding day accessories. For more information visit http://www.monamie.com.

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ShalinIndia Launches Snake Charmers’s Music Instrument Pungi on Global Online Marketplaces

India shopping store ShalinIndia has launched the pungi's music instrument on the online marketplaces. Pungi is a traditional folk music instrument used by the snake charmers of India to make snakes dance to their tunes. This flute like music instrument has intrigued westerners. They have often wondered how snake charmers make the deadly cobras sw fashion coats ay to the tune of their pungi music. Actually the cobra is deaf to the snake charmer's pipe, but follows the visual cue of the moving pipe and it can sense the ground vibrations from the snake charmer's tapping.

As a seller of Indian culture products, we are happy to do a commercial launch of the pungi, on the global online marketplaces. Two months ago we began to test market this Indian music instrument. When we found that a good number of people were not only attracted, they had also begun to buy these pungis, we decided to launch them on a commercial scale.

"Besides having clear business goals, we are trying to sell Pungis to achieve certain social objectives too. Snake charmers are no longer allowed to catch snakes. So this community is now looking for alternative sources of income. Selling their music instruments is one of them. Most of the snake charmers make their own Pungis using dried and hollow gourd. If we
succeed in achieving scale economies, we would be able to buy pungis from large number of snake charmers", said Shalini Verma.

We have launched two varieties of Pungis, one made from gourd, and the other made from coconut shell. Snake charmers generally use pungis made from gourd. However, this is very delicate and risks breaking at the joints with the flute like pipe. Pungis made from gourd often produce better quality sound than the one made with coconut shell. Pungis made from coconut shell are stronger and last longer. However, they produce inferior quality sound and are used only by the hobbyists.

ShalinIndia, one of the premier online India shopping stores, specializes in selling handmade gifts, silver and gemstone jewelry, clothing accessories like men scarfs and scarves for women to customers around the world. Through an arrangement with Amazon, ShalinIndia keeps its inventory in five countries US, UK, France, Germany, and Japan. This enables ShalinIndia to reduce not only delivery time but also shipping costs for its customers. ShalinIndia has maintained consistently high feedback ratings from its online customers.

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Kathy Hilton Talks about Her New Clothing Line, Paris Hilton, and More with Haute Living Los Angeles

Kathy Hilton, of the hotelier family, boasts a vibrant and accomplished career in retail, fashion, as a public persona, actress, and a mother. Her most recent venture is a ready-to-wear dress collection—stocked by luxury department stores and high-end boutiques including Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus. The line hits stores next month and Haute Living concurrently published an exclusive feature highlighting the process of bringing her collection to life.

"My mother and I used to make doll clothes," Hilton said. "I'm a doll collector and still have my collection. [Creating a dress line] is a dream. So when I was approached it was like 'this is the most exciting thing in the world,'" said Hilton of the beginning stages of her dress collection.

"I've been blessed and able to travel the world, to see and wear many different designer dresses," Hilton said. "But then I started to think that especially with the economy, people are just not in the mood and you don't have to go out and spend thousands of dollars [to] look nice. I really felt that there was a real niche for beautiful cocktail dresses that wouldn't break the bank," said Hilton in her exclusive interview with Haute Living. As such, the collection's cocktail dresses retail from $350-$495, with gowns ringing in below $1000.

Perhaps most interestingly, Hilton explained to Haute Living that the dresses are tailored more towards individuals with timeless, classic, and feminine style than to a certain age or demographic.

"I wanted to make something beautiful that women all over the world can wear," Hilton said. "Starting with my nieces—I have dresses in the line that reflect my nieces and their friends, dresses for my daughters, and for women my age and older."

Aside from the broad appeal of the collection women's coats , Hilton also highlights the value and practicality of her line. "The thing about the collection really is that now is the time to buy something timeless, and you can wear these dresses even after season," Hilton said.

As the matriarch of a world-famous family, Haute Living also discussed Hilton's experiences as a mother and wife with her. Hilton opened up about keeping her family together and keeping her children grounded amidst such incredible success.

Haute Living Magazine is a national luxury lifestyle magazine published in four markets—New York, Miami, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. Haute Living Magazine features the top entrepreneurs, businesspeople, and notables in each market. Haute Living Magazine also highlights the best in luxury consumer goods, culinary hot spots and events. Haute Living recently redesigned its website and re-launched its Haute Time (http://www.hautetime.com) and Haute 100 (http://www.haute100.com) websites for state-of-the-art user experiences.

For more information, please visit: http://www.hauteliving.com.

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The New Emma W. Lab Coat by Medelita Receives Glowing Reviews

The author, artist, critic, and biographer, Quentin Bell, once stated, "Our clothes are too much a part of us for most of us ever to be entirely indifferent to their condition: it is as though the fabric were indeed a natural extension of the body, or even of the soul." Medelita?, a fashion-forward pioneer of medical apparel, reflects this sentiment in their commitment to providing high-quality, gender-specific performance lab coats and scrubs to medical professionals.

Continuing a tradition of designing exceptional and innovative garments, Medelita has officially launched their newest lab coat designed and tailored for women - the Emma W. lab coat. Best described as elegant and refined, the Emma W. lab coat is unique in its design, with traditional side vents, flattering loose button-detail back belt, waist detailing, and a blazer-style, functional chest pocket. Slimming vertical princess seams and pleating below the bust complement all figures, but it is the rounded tuxedo style collar that truly sets the Emma W. lab coat apart as a stylish lab coat.

Prior to official launch, Medelita asked female customers to test the Emma W. lab coat. The reviews after several weeks of daily wear exceeded even the company's expectations in their honest and glowing assessments.

"When I wear my Emma W., my colleagues have commented that I look 'sharp,' 'svelte,' 'respectable,' and 'professional.' The fabric is of the highest quality and has a subtle texture that distinguishes Medelita jackets from all the others. Even with weekly washings, the fabric still looks fabulous. My busy schedule doesn't give me much time, so I wanted jackets that didn't require ironing. The Emma W. fits the bill. Even if I feel frumpy on an ER night shift, I'll never look frumpy again!" - Elizabeth N., MD

"This is my third Medelita lab coat and my new favorite! From the lovely nipped-in waist to the smart slit chest pocket detail, everything about this coat is a mix of elegance, comfort and professionalism. I really like that the coat women's coats flares out a tad from the waist--very flattering and slimming especially for anyone with a curvy shape. The lapel is quite modern and sleek- my husband actually asked if it was a suit jacket! The fabric is soft, flexible and dare I say, quite cozy. It's 180 degrees from the tissue- paper thin, scratchy, stuffy polyester rectangular lab coats we have all suffered through." - Charlotte L., MPAS, PA-C

Lightweight and comfortable, the 100% pre-shrunk peached cotton fabric of the Emma W. lab coat resists wrinkling and is distinctly more breathable than polyester blend fabrics. Certified performance fabric by DuPont repels fluid, soil and stains - including blood - for over 50 washings, maintaining a bright white finish that signifies a professional prestige. Retailing at $134, the Emma W. lab coat is available in sizes 0 through 16 - a beautiful and truly special new addition to the Medelita line of leading professional lab coats.

2012 Spring and Summer Fitness Fashions Revealed by StylishFitnessClothes

StylishFitnessClothes has announced a new selection of spring and summer yoga clothing for women, including tops, sports bras, skorts, shorts and fitness pants. An online activewear retailer, StylishFitnessClothes specializes in products by quality designers of fitness clothing for women, such as Alo Sport, Jala Clothing and Margarita Activewear. Comfort and good looks are hallmarks of both its activewear for women and mens workout clothes. Materials include pure cottons and breathable blends of fabrics including bamboo, cotton, Lycra, polyester, Spandex and Supplex.

New tops in the collection of fitness clothing for women feature fitted and flowing tank styles. Many have the racer back style. Colors range from brights and prints to simple blacks and whites. Sleek women's pants, which come in ankle and capris lengths, are also available in a broad range of colors. One particularly popular brand of yoga clothing for women, Margarita, livens up its solid colors with vivid floral and geometric elements. All pants and tops in the company's collection of activewear for women — including maternity workout clothes — are appropriate for exercise, lounging, socializing or running errands. StylishFitnessClothes maternity workout clothes include shorts, skorts, pants, tees, tank tops and soft, loose leisure pullovers. They are designed to avoid chaffing and to offer maximum coolness during summer exercise.

StylishFitness Clothing's broad range of men's workout clothes in women's jackets cludes short sleeve and sleeveless styles perfect for hot weather. Men's shorts include knee-length, mid-thigh and shorter styles in knits and woven fabrics. They include pure cotton, pure polyester and fabric blends such as an ecofriendly combination of bamboo and recycled polyester.

StylishFitnessClothes is a privately owned company located in Johnson City, TN. For more information, please visit StylishFitnessClothes at: http://www.stylishfitnessclothes.com/

Parker, Colorado-Based LadiesOnlySports.com Introduces a Patented Sports Bra, CW-X Xtempo, Engineered to Support Big Breasted Runners

Finding precisely the right sports bra is as scientific as identifying the right footwear. According to President Wendy Crist, "You wouldn't wear cleats to play squash or ballet shoes to compete in the Grand Prix."

The newest in sports bra engineering introduced by LadiesOnlySports.com in May 2012 is the CW-X Xtempo with the patented CW-X5-point Targeted Support Web built into each cup. As a sports compression bra, this one's specifically designed for larger cup sizes (D and DD) and is reinforced with side supports and extra web overlay. The high-impact support bra is fabricated of Coolmax/Lycra tricot fabric with front and back Lite-Stretch mesh pa women's jackets nels. The upgrades qualify this bra as an adjustable encapsulated compression bra. Large-breasted runners especially like the maximum support inherent in the individual cups that surround and support each breast separately.

The Enell is popular in the equestrian communities. The high performance fabric wicks moisture away from your body and dissipates body heat, conditions that go hand-in-hand with equestrian competition. The accepted attire in equestrian competition, particularly English riding and Hunter Jumper classes requires a formal dress shirt and fitted jacket. Add the "heat" of competition and things warm up, namely the body. Show seasons runs all summer long and horseback riding loyalists spend long, long days, dawn-to-dusk in competition under the grueling sun. The Enell offers superior support even after becoming wet with perspiration and the 90% nylon plus 10% Lycra ensures that a rider's shirt continues to move over the bra without hitching up. Hooking up the Enell is made easier because of the easy front hook and eye closure. The Enell has the endorsement of Oprah herself and has been demonstrated on "Oprah," "The TODAY Show" and "The Biggest Loser." It's been featured in articles in "US Weekly," "O," "SELF," "Shape" and "Prevention."

The Shock Absorber is wire-free featuring an internal cup. The crop-top style with shaped, padded and adjustable straps for extra support is ideal for running, particularly for a younger population. Named the #1 sports bra, it reduces breast bounce by 74%. The light support bra is preferable for teens and women with smaller breasts. The absence of wire makes this bra more flattering to trimmer figures and is less constricting than some sports bra designs. Medical experts caution that growing teens should definitely wear a sports bra while participating in any sport to ensure no permanent damage to the breast tissue.

The Anita is super comfortable because it provides a good range of motion and doesn't restrict a woman's movement while participating in stretching sports like yoga or Pilates. The moisture-absorbing terry cloth cup soaks up sweat that can be distracting when you're in downward dog for several minutes. The wire-free cups separate the breasts accentuating two breasts instead of a uni-boob appearance. Even the straps are comfortable due to their width and padding. Plus the breathable mesh back helps an athlete maintain her cool.
LadiesOnlySports.com has sold thousands of sports bras to women athletes, professional and recreational, in its 10 years of online sales. Crist recommends the following tips to ensure a sports bra is properly fitted:

    -- Raise your hands over your head when trying on a sports bra. The elastic band should fit tighter than a regular bra, but still allow you to take a deep breath. If the bra moves up on your rib cage, try on a smaller banded bra
    -- Check for chafing around the armholes, shoulder straps, seams, hooks or snaps
    -- Confirm that the straps don't dig into your shoulders
    -- Check for wrinkles or puckers in the cup…indicating the bra cup is too large
    -- Jump or run in place to check if the bra supports your breasts as you move.

Giving "the girls" plenty of options is one reason LadiesOnlySports.com is the single bra resource any woman ever needs.

Visit http://www.LadiesOnlySports.com to see a comprehensive collection of sports bras made for every sport and every-sized woman. Email http://www.ladiesonlysports.com/contacts.

Halifax research reports Men v Women - The economic and financial divide

Halifax has examined the behaviour and experiences of men and women in the labour market and in key areas of personal finance such as spending, savings, pensions and housing.

The key findings are:

•     Men continue to be paid more but the gap has narrowed over the past decade Women are less inclined than men to think that they are currently living comfortably with a bigger proportion of women also reporting that money is tight
•     Women are more likely to have an ISA but are less likely to have share related investments
•     Women have higher savings balances
•     Male pensioners are better off and men are making better provision for retirement Women are more likely to be homeowners and are less likely to be renting in the private sector
•     Men are more optimistic about house price prospects Women are more pessimistic about becoming homeowners

Martin Ellis, economist at Halifax, said:
"Whilst the economic and financial differences between men and women have narrowed in recent years, significant variations persist. Some of these, such as higher homeownership amongst women, can partly be explained by demographic factors such as the greater number of older women compared with men.

"Women are more cautious regarding equity-related investments and are making less
provision for retirement. They are also more pessimistic than men regarding both short-term
house price prospects and the likelihood of ever becoming homeowners."

PAY AND JOBS
Pay: Men continue to be paid more but the gap has narrowed over the past decade
Men in full-time employment continue to be paid significantly more than women in full-time employment. In 2011, average male earnings were ?36,511; 35% higher than average female earnings of ?27,006.

The gap, however, has narrowed over the past decade as women's earnings have risen faster than men's. Women's earnings have increased by 43%, on average, in the last ten years compared with a 36% rise for men, reducing the premium for male earnings from 42% in 2001 (?26,841 against ?18,847).

Employment trends: Substantial differences between men and women exist
There remain substantial differenc fashion coats es between men and women in terms of their participation in the labour market:

•     Women are less likely to be in employment than men - 54% against 64%.
•     Men are more likely to be in full-time employment than women - 57% against 33%. Women are three times more likely than men to be in part-time employment (21% v 7%).
•     Men are twice as likely to be self-employed than women (10% against 5%).

Both men and women have been badly affected during the current economic downturn, but unemployment has affected women particularly badly. The number of women claiming unemployment benefits has more than trebled over the past five years, rising by 212%, compared with a 163% increase in the number of men on the unemployment claimant count.

SPENDING BEHAVIOUR
Women, generally, are less inclined than men to think that are currently living comfortably (15% against 20%) with a bigger proportion of women also reporting that money is tight (44% compared with 38%).

Women (14%) are more inclined to say that they are spending a lot more than a year ago on household groceries than men (8%). More women report that they are spending a lot less than a year ago on going out and treating themselves – 26% against 20% - and a lot less on clothes (18% against 11%).

FINANCIAL BEHAVIOUR
Current accounts: Parity for men and women

Men and women are now equally likely to have a current account with 90% of both sexes doing so. Ten years' ago, women were slightly less likely to have a current account than men (82% against 85%).

Savings and Investments: Women more likely to have an ISA but less likely to have share related investments

A slightly higher proportion of women (34%) have an ISA than men (31%). Women, however, are less likely to have share related investments: stocks and shares (11% against 14%), unit trusts (2% against 3%) and company share schemes (1% against 3%).

Women are also less likely than men to be participating in a pension scheme with 26% doing so compared with 30% of men. This difference is entirely attributable to fewer women having a personal pension (3% against 7%), with 23% of both men and women participating in an employer-sponsored pension. (FRS T8.1)

Deposit based savings: Women have higher savings balances
Nationally, women just edge men with slightly higher overall average savings balances – ?7,981 against ?7,657; a difference of 4%. Regionally, the biggest differentials where women have a higher average savings balance than men are in the South East (6%) and East Anglia (5%). The only regions where men save more than women are Scotland (14%) and the North (1%).
Men are also more likely to have no savings, with 37% of single men reporting to have none compared with 30% of single women.

Despite having a higher uptake of ISAs, those women with savings in an ISA have a slightly lower balance than men, on average: 3% lower at ?8,846 against ?9,126.

Pensions: Male pensioners are better off and men are making better provision for retirement
Male pensioners have higher incomes than female pensioners on average. Single male pensioners had an average net income after housing costs of ?240 per week in 2009-10 compared with ?208 for single female pensioners – a difference of 15%.

Men are currently making better provision for their retirement than women with 49% of men currently saving adequately compared with 42% of women.

Disabled Veterans National Foundation Pleased With Success of Event in Flint, MI

Last week, the Disabled Veterans National Foundation (http://www.dvnf.org) was fortunate enough to attend a health and wellness expo for homeless and low-income individuals in the Flint, MI region. The event, hosted by Community Outreach for Family & Youth ( women's coats COFY), offered health screenings, nutrition services, employment and fitness services to those in attendance.
Veterans who attended the event were greeted by DVNF and given a laundry bag filled with items such as clothing, toothbrushes, towels, combs, blankets, prescription discount cards and other essential items. DVNF staff also provided these veterans with resume and budgeting tips along with information on DVNF programs offered to veterans nationwide. On top of all this, DVNF provided these veterans and their families with a free lunch from Subway.
Raegan Rivers, Chief Administrative Officer of DVNF says that she was very satisfied with how the event went. "With all the veterans that came to the expo, we couldn't have been more pleased at the turnout," Rivers said. "However, it is still a sobering reminder that this is just a fraction of the homeless and low-income veterans in the country. The obvious goal is to get to a point where these events aren't necessary for veterans, but until then, DVNF will continue to serve those in need."
The event kicked off at 11am on Saturday, July 21 with a local drum line performance and continued with door prizes being raffled off throughout the afternoon. The mayor of Flint, Dwayne Walling, was also in attendance, as well as the sheriff and local media. The event concluded at 3pm. All of the excess food purchased by DVNF was given to the veterans at a local Catholic charity. 25 of the care kits and laundry bags were donated to Alternative Veterans Solutions, a new "one stop" facility for veterans in Flint that will open its doors in October.
COFY's CEO, Patrick Sanders, discussing the efforts to assist disabled veterans at this annual event said, "A really big part of our event is the disabled veterans to say to those who are no longer serving the country that we are here, we are with you in your struggle and this is just a little something to say thank you."
About Disabled Veterans National Foundation: The Disabled Veterans National Foundation exists to change the lives of men and women who came home wounded or sick after defending our safety and our freedom. A nonprofit 501c3, DVNF was founded in the fall of 2007 by six women veterans to expand their scope of work within the veteran's community. For more information, visit http://www.dvnf.org.

Halloween Fever - Sexy Costumes by Feeling USA

September and October are the busiest months at Feeling USA. Halloween sales has grown in recent years by at least 40%. Due to a big demand for sexy adult costumes, the new collection includes mostly sexy Halloween outfits for women. They offer costumes for for any size, ranging from XS up to 6X for fuller figured women. According to Franz Schlienger, the Vice President of Feeling USA, their main clientele shopping for Halloween are women, therefore they offer only a handful of men's costumes. The costumes are available in a variety of themes, witches, vampires, pirates, fairy tale characters, Wild West, Hippie, showgirls, uniforms: such as police officer, french maid, nurse, and sexy school girl outfits. Some of the costumes are extremely sexy and are only suitable to be worn in the bedroom or to attend a adult only fetish party.

Feeling USA has broadened their corset costume selection, since those were their best sellers last Halloween season. The costumes consist of basic beautiful high quality corsets a woman can wear on many other occasions, paired up with the necessary accessories re women's coats quired to dress up for Halloween. Angel wings, pitch forks, devil horns, police hat, badge, cat ears and tail transform you in seconds. Versatile corset costumes that allow various options to wear it, the variations are endless. One costume offers many options for those who are planning to attend more than just one Halloween party, these versatile corset costumes easily convert from one theme to another. An Angel Costume, for example may be converted into a sexy nurse outfit, or a white kitten by simply adding cat ears and a tail.

For those on a smaller budget, Feeling USA offers accessory kits to create Halloween costumes for very little money. There are many possibilities, with a pair of leggings, a T-shirt, and a little fantasy, any woman can create an inexpensive costume using these Halloween accessory kits. In addition all their last year Halloween styles are on sale and offer big savings to a customer.

Feeling USA is specifically proud to offer high end luxury costumes designed and manufactured in California by Hey Baby, which are customized according to a customers requirements upon request. Only the finest fabrics, superior sewing techniques, and hand-sewn rhinestone details are used to create these fabulous unique costumes.

Costumes that make a splash at any Halloween masquerade ball, and may even win 1st prize.
FeelingUSA.com is a large lingerie store on the web, and retails lingerie, corsets, sexy clothing, costumes, bikinis, stockings, bodysuits, and high heel shoes, also specializing in plus size lingerie, as well as leather, vinyl, and latex. The company was founded in 1996 and carries close to 6'000 items in the online lingerie store. FeelingUSA provides secure e-commerce, accepts all major credit cards, and also offers Google and Paypal checkout. Worldwide shipping, free within the US, great prices, lingerie on sale, discounts, free panty, and price guarantee. The team at FeelingUSA Lingerie loves to assist and can help choosing the correct size, shipping methods, and any other question about buying lingerie. FeelingUSA makes it easy to bring sexy back into every women's life.

WomenClothingToday.com Releases New Line of Designer Scarves

Online retailer WomenClothingToday.com announces the release of its newest line of handmade silk scarves. All of the scarves are designed, crafted and painted by hand, which means no two are exactly the same. Senior Manager Anton Zavyalov says thei women's jackets online r one-of-a-kind scarves are the perfect birthday gift ideas, anniversary gift ideas and Christmas gift ideas.

"What makes this line of scarves so special is the fact that each one is a unique work of art," Zavyalov says. "Our designers craft each scarf by hand, so even though the patterns and colors they use may be similar, each scarf is its own unique creation. Our scarves provide ultimate luxury in gift giving."

In addition to the new line of silk scarves, the online retailer also announces the addition of free gift wrap and personal card message. Buyers can choose from gold, burgundy, purple or pink and purple wrapping paper. WomenClothingToday.com also offers free shipping on all orders over $75.

About WomenClothingToday.com
WomenClothingToday.com is a family business based in British Columbia, Canada. They employ a talented team of artists and designers, who craft each silk garment they offer by hand. No two silk products from the site are identical, even though the patterns and colors are nearly the same. WomenClothingToday.com offers a 100 percent money-back guarantee on items returned within 30 days.

Contact:
Anton Zavyalov, Senior Manager
anton(at)womenclothingtoday(dot)com
1-800-275-3165
http://www.womenclothingtoday.com

New Xulon Title Uncovers the Real Reasons Why Pastors Fall

Within the pages of Pastor Jonathan Stephens Jr.'s new book, Prostitutes In The Pews ($10.99, paperback, 978-1-62230-667-1; $17.99, hardcover, 978-1-62230-668-8; $5.49, e-book, 978-1-62230-669-5) readers will discover an intimate, as well as candid, view of the pressures t women's coats online hat pastors face. The message that is delivered by Stephens is so relevant in today's society and the author clearly provides the "whys" to these widespread occurrences.

"What makes this book news worthy is that the interviews are done with pastors who are presently in their pulpits and not those who have quit or resigned," states the author. "My mission in writing this book is to inform the people of God what signs to look out for when they prepare to minister to the flock of God because many people are wolves walking in sheep's clothing as in Jude 1:4."

The author is a twice-ordained pastor, once with the Redeem House of God Inc. and the other with Church of God In Christ International. Stephens has been a Pastor for twenty-five years at the time of this writing; he holds a Bachelors degree in theology and a Masters degree in religious education both from International Seminary in Plymouth Florida. The author is seeking his Doctorate at this time.

Xulon Press, a division of Salem Communications, is the world's largest Christian self-publisher, with more than 8,000 titles published to date. Retailers may order Prostitutes In The Pews through Ingram Book Company and/or Spring Arbor Book Distributors. The book is available online through xulonpress.com/bookstore, amazon.com, and barnesandnoble.com.

Cardiff Leia Store Launch Bra Fitting Event

Leia Lingerie allow women to buy lingerie online and buy swimwear online, but at their retail store in Cardiff, they are also launching an event to promote the importance of a correctly-fitting bra.

Located at 47 The Hayes (right next door to the Cath Kidston store) the Leia store will host its unique bra fit event on Saturday 24th November.

Leia believe that perfectly fitting lingerie should be comfortable, supportive and give you the best shape under clothes. As well as visiting any one of three retail stores, women can buy lingerie and swimwear online at leialingerie.com; choosing from a wide selection of lingerie and swimwear in sizes from an A to a K cup. Leia stock a selection of popular lingerie brands, including Freya, Fantasie, Fauve, Elomi and Huit, with ranges available from a 28" to 48" back.

During the Bra Fit event, Leia will reveal a live window featuring models in a selection of new lingerie styles while they encourage guests to get fitted. Leia's team of p women's jackets rofessional bra fitters will be on-hand to offer fittings and to find out whether Cardiff customers are indeed wearing the right bra size.

Kathryn Smith, Store Manager for Leia said, "We are really looking forward to hosting the bra fit event. Wearing a perfectly fitting bra makes so much difference to your figure, not only will it lift your bust, but it will also make you look slimmer and boost your confidence, so we really hope women come in to get professionally fitted."

In addition to an expert fitting, visitors to the store will receive 10% off all full priced merchandise and can enter into a competition to win ?150 to spend at Leia in their prize draw.

About Leia
Leia has over ninety years of lingerie design experience and allows women to buy lingerie online and buy swimwear online. With sizes from an A to a K cup. Leia principally retail through an online store, but they also have boutiques in York and Cardiff, as well as Kent's Bluewater shopping centre. To find out more about Leia, visit http://www.leialingerie.com

Here Are Some Interesting Facts About Horses

Depending on breed, management and environment, the domestic horse today has a life expectancy of 25 to 30 years. It is uncommon, but a few horses live into their 40s, and, occasionally, beyond. The oldest verifiable record was "Old Billy," a horse that lived in the 19th century to the age of 62. The size of horses varies by breed, but can also be influenced by nutrition. The general rule for cutoff in height between what is considered a horse and a pony at maturity is 14.2 hands(h or hh) (147 cm, 58 inches) as measured at the withers. An animal 14.2h or over is usually considered a horse and one less than 14.2h is a pony.

However, there are exceptions to the general rule. Some smaller horse breeds who typically produce individual horses both under and over 14.2h are considered "horses" regardless of height. Likewise, some pony breeds, such as the Pony of the Americas or the Welsh cob, share some features of horses and individual animals may occasionally mature at over 14.2h, but are still considered ponies. The difference between a horse and pony is not simply a height difference, but also a difference in phenotype or appearance. There are noticeable differences in conformation and temperament. Ponies often exhibit thicker manes, tails and overall coat. They also have proportionally shorter legs, wider barrels, heavy bone, thick necks, and short heads with broad foreheads.

Light horses such as Arabians, Morgans, Quarter Horses, Paints and Thoroughbreds usually range in height from 14.0 (142 cm) to 16.0 hands (163 cm) and can weigh from 386 kg (850 lbs) to about 680 kg (1500 lbs). Heavy or draft horses such as the Clydesdale, Belgian, Percheron, and Shire are usually at least 16.0 (163 cm) to 18.0 hands (183 cm) high and can weigh from about 682 kg (1500 lb) up to about 900 kg (2000 lb). Ponies are less than 14.2h, but can be much smaller, down to the Shetland pony at around 10 hands, and the Falabella which can be the size of a women's jackets medium-sized dog. The miniature horse is as small as or smaller than either of the aforementioned ponies but are classified as very small horses rather than ponies despite their size. The largest horse in history was a Shire horse named Sampson, later renamed Mammoth, foaled in 1846 in Bedfordshire, England. He stood 21.2 hands high (i.e. 7 ft 2 in or 2.20 m ), and his peak weight was estimated at over 3,300 lb (approx 1.5 tonnes). The current record holder for the world's smallest horse is Thumbelina, a fully mature miniature horse affected by dwarfism. She is 17 inches tall and weighs 60 pounds.

Horse breeding

Pregnancy lasts for approximately 335-340 days and usually results in one foal (male: colt, female: filly). Twins are rare. Colts are usually carried 2-7 days longer than fillies. Females 4 years and over are called mares and males are stallions. A castrated male is a gelding. Horses, particularly colts, may sometimes be physically capable of reproduction at approximately 18 months but in practice are rarely allowed to breed until a minimum age of 3 years, especially females. Horses four years old are considered mature, though the skeleton usually finishes developing at the age of six, and the precise time of completion of development also depends on the horse's size (therefore a connection to breed exists), gender, and the quality of care provided by its owner.

Also, if the horse is larger, its bones are larger; therefore, not only do the bones take longer to actually form bone tissue (bones are made of cartilage in earlier stages of bone formation), but the epiphyseal plates (plates that fuse a bone into one piece by connecting the bone shaft to the bone ends) are also larger and take longer to convert from cartilage to bone as well. These plates convert after the other parts of the bones do but are crucial to development.

Depending on maturity, breed and the tasks expected, young horses are usually put under saddle and trained to be ridden between the ages of two and four. Although Thoroughbred and American Quarter Horse race horses are put on the track at as young as two years old in some countries (notably the United States), horses specifically bred for sports such as show jumping and dressage are generally not entered into top-level competition until a minimum age of four years old, because their bones and muscles are not solidly developed, nor is their advanced training complete.

Horses are adapted to grazing, so their teeth continue to grow throughout life. There are 12 teeth (six upper and six lower), the incisors, adapted to biting off the grass or other vegetation, at the front of the mouth, and 24 teeth, the premolar and molars, adapted for chewing, at the back of the mouth. Stallions and geldings have four additional teeth just behind the incisors, a type of canine teeth that are called "tushes." Some horses, both male and female, will also develop one to four very small vestigial teeth in front of the molars, known as "wolf" teeth, which are generally removed because they can interfere with the bit. There is an empty interdental space between the incisors and the molars where the bit rests directly on the bars (gums) of the horse's mouth when the horse is bridled.

The incisors show a distinct wear and growth pattern as the horse ages, as well as change in the angle at which the chewing surfaces meet, and while the diet and veterinary care of the horse can affect the rate of tooth wear, a very rough estimate of the age of a horse can be made by looking at its teeth.

9 Secrets That Could Reduce Wedding Costs by over £6000 ($10,000)! Part 2

In Part 1 we said,
1 - Find out what you need to do
2 - What's your budget?

That wasn't too hard, was it? Now let's continue...

3 Build yourself a team.

What makes the whole wedding process so expensive is that you're paying for man-power even more than the products they supply. Labour is usually more expensive than products. So if you can build yourself a team, you would have saved yourself at least 25% of the total cost of the whole wedding planning from start to glorious finish.
I remember my husband's cousin who took up the burden of her wedding from start to finish. She even did the catering herself. What a mistake. After the wedding, she was too ill to enjoy the honeymoon. That's an extreme example. But some of us do too much by ourselves when planning our wedding till we're too stressed out to actually enjoy it.
So build a team of people who will help you achieve the wedding of your dreams.

Here is how:

- List out what needs to be done
Download a wedding planner checklist to find out what needs to be done.

- Name your team members
Now think about this carefully. Do you have any friends or family who will be willing to help you? Who are your bridesmaids and groomsmen/ushers going to be? By the very definition of their names, they're meant to serve you during the wedding. Most people don't utilise them to their full potential. In most cases, they're only used on the wedding day. That's a poor utilisation of the human resources available to you.

- Write down the names of the women and the names of the men in separate columns.
This is because women and men usually have different kinds of skills and contacts and you want to utilise people according to their strengths. Assign to each their responsibilities according to their strengths and availability.

The key is dependability. Don't rely on someone to do something that you can't depend on or, who isn't available. But don't assign responsibilities yet. That happens in Step 3.

- You could save yourself the service costs of waiters, waitresses, and coat-takers if you could recruit some of t women's coats he more responsible of your relatives to perform these roles on your wedding. This could save you up to ?10 per worker per hour. 6 of your young cousins could save you about ?300 for 5 hours.

SAVINGS - circa ?300 ($550)

4 Assign responsibilities

Call a bridesmaid and groomsmen/ushers meeting before you do this. Be gracious and grateful. Remember that they're doing you a favour. Most people only use their bridesmaids and groomsmen on the wedding day. That's a waste of labour. Let them know that you want them to help you with various aspects of the wedding apart from the actual day.

You need to have this meeting before assigning responsibilities. This is because you shouldn't assign a task to anyone whom you haven't first spoken to and found out if they're willing or able to do what you would want them to do. Also when you assign responsibilities, make sure that you give each person a date by which it should be completed.

- Tell each person what they need to do
Discuss with each person what that responsibility entails and what they should look out for. Make sure they shop around and discuss your budget with them.

- Set yourself reminders in your calendar for when you or your spouse-to-be should get updates from your team

5 Reduce the MOST expensive cost - Food and drinks!

The most expensive cost for weddings is the food and drinks. A typical estimate for a big wedding comes up to about ?5000 ($9000). Most caterers charge by head and most venues will not allow you to bring an outside caterer or your own drinks. If you could reduce the cost of food and drinks, you can potentially save yourself 100s or even 1000s of ????s.

So how do you achieve this?

- Pick the right venue.
Do you want your food and drinks supplied by the venue, or do you want to provide your own catering? Most venues would want to supply at least the drinks. But getting a venue that will let supply your own catering could save you a lot. Think about it. This is because they may typically charge you ?40 per guest not including alcoholic beverage. But you can get a good deal from the caterer at ?20 per head reducing your catering cost by ?2000 for a 100-strong guest list.

- The next thing to do is list all your guests including children. Since a typical wedding lunch may cost from ?20, you need to know how many people you're expecting. Will they have a separate menu for kids in order to reduce costs, or will you ask guests not to come with children?

If you can have the menu reduced by half for the kids, you would save about ?10.00 for each child. If you have 20 kids present, that's a saving of ?200. But, if you're venue insists on providing the catering, then you need to do some negotiating.

- Buy your own drinks
For a guest list of 100 people, each drink may cost ?2.50. They would each have at least 3 drinks. That's if you have nice and considerate guests. Welcome to the real world. Most of them would have as many drinks as they can contain because people somehow go crazy when it comes to free food and drink.

If they each had one glass of champagne at ?8 per head, that would add another ?800 to your bill. This could bring your bar tab up to ?2050. How much would it cost you to buy your own drinks from your local supermarket or an online drinks supplier? At your local supplier, 60 cartons of juice will probably cost a measly ?50, while a case of Bollinger champagne would cost less than ?300.

Even if you get 2 cases for ?100 guests, that's still about ?200 less than what the bar tab will cost you for venue's typical low-range house champagne. This could save you up to ?1400 if you choose to serve only juice and champagne.

However, if they do allow you to bring in your own drinks, they may charge you a corkage for every alcoholic bottle opened. In that case, find out what it is and negotiate the price with them.

TOTAL SAVINGS (if you can supply your own food and drinks) - over ?3150 ($5670)