August 2009 Archives

Seven Hours. That's how much sleep your body needs to be in tip top shape for a full day. Sound like a waste of time? Consider the consequences...
 
Learning and Memory: Remember when they told you to eat a good breakfast and sleep well the night before a big test? Well, they weren't kidding. Sleep allows your brain to undergo a process called memory consolidation, during which your brain commits new info to memory and basically gets a break from all the info your five senses take in during the day.
 
Weight gain: Yep.  It's true. When you're tired, sometimes you won't be able to discern between hunger, thirst and exhaustion. Chronic sleep deprivation affects the way our bodies process carbs, which alters the hormone levels that affect appetite. So gosh darnit, get your rest!
 
Safety Stupid: So, you're driving down the road and super yawn attacks. BAM! Accident waiting to happen.  As silly as it sounds, studies show sluggishness leads to higher rates of tripping and making silly mistakes that could lead to barbarous bruises and unsightly scars. Who wants to explain how she fell asleep on the toilet and bonked her head on the wall?
 
Mood: You know how tired babies wail until their faces turn red? Well, we never grow out of that, but learn to put other things first, like work, school, and social life.  Lack of sleep causes irritability (like a baby), impatience (like a baby) and inability to concentrate. Like a baby, you'll be cranky if you don't sleep. Easy as milk in a bottle.
 
Disease: During sleep, your body repairs itself, replenishes all your worn out parts--including your immune system. When you don't sleep enough, your body can't take the time to fully recuperate. So, bad germs get in, your body's defenses are down. Makes for one sick chick.  

It's bedtime, girls. Nighty night!  

Quick fashion vocab quiz: what common accents are also called spangles, pailletes and diamantes in different parts of the world? Answer: that tiny shimmering dot that tends to stick in clumps of its own kind--the sequin.
 
Sequins have been a part of fashion history since the 13th century. Talk about timeless. A staple in the industry, sometimes seen as gaudy or retro, sequins have evolved with changing tastes of the times. One thing's for sure: the sequin will never die. So what's the next step for the ever-evolving sequin?
 
This season, the sequin will take a new role, a new shape, all in cutting edge arrangements. Expect to see solid color dresses accented with patterns of sequins--like funky blobs and polka dots across the chest or down the ribcage.
 
Don't expect any 90's shiny dotted floral bouquets where the corsage goes. Designers are utilizing the sequin, integrating the cheap little gems into ultra mod, vividly eccentric splashes of personal touch.
 
You'll see heavily sequined dresses that trail the eye down the body in distinct patterns--from neckline to hemline. Also, designers are using sequins in several shades of the same color family to create dreamy visual mirages.
 
Also, expect to see sequins popping out during the day. Not just on accessories. So for those who appreciate glitz and glam, go ahead and migrate towards the shiny things.
 
Shop on!

Giant bags under your eyes? No amount of concealer can cover up your lack of sleep. Now that you know all about the detrimental effects of getting enough shuteye (thanks to the last blog entry Don't Skip Sleep), learn a few new ways to lull yourself into a night full of sweet dreams and a sweeter morning.
 
Don't do anything strenuous within an hour of going to bed. This gives your body time to cool down for the day. Do something calm, like painting, or journaling. Surf the net, chat with a friend on the phone.
 
If you stress about work when trying to sleep, leave paperwork and your computer out of sight. Tell yourself that at a certain time, you will put everything away and say goodnight to the day.
 
Make a hot non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic drink. Add a tad bit of television. Chocolate milk and an I Love Lucy episode could put you out in a snap.
 
Did you wash your face and brush your teeth? We know you're all grown up, but establishing a nightly ritual helps your body move into rest mode.
 
Change locations. Perhaps the couch is calling your name tonight. Maybe your room is too light. Try hanging darker drapes over windows and turning off all lights.  Environment is vital. Think back to a time when you slept really well. Was there a fan in the room? Did you smell a certain scent, like a vanilla candle? Now, recreate that setting.
 
Wash your sheets and pillowcases. Fresh linens are soothing to the skin and senses.
 
Don't fight it. Actually try to keep your eyes open. Read a book until it falls out of your hand.
 
If your mind tends to race at night, keep a notepad and pen by your bed. Jot down all those last minute tasks and ideas to empty out your brain. They'll be there in the morning for you to tackle when super reenergized.
 
Feel those yawns coming on? Just think--when you wake up refreshed, you'll have tons of energy to dress shop! 

When shopping for a new cologne or perfume, start with department stores. They offer the widest array of scents. But don't automatically buy because you like it. Purely browse.
 
When you find a scent you like, ask for a sample. These work best on a slip of paper--which the counter will usually provide. Carry plastic baggies in your purse to isolate the scent for later sniffing.
 
Remember to take samples home with you. When in a department store, scents bombard you nose from every direction. There's no way to get a whiff of the real thing without some fresh air and time to let your nose rest.
 
Also, your best friend's perfume will not smell the same on you. Just like not every dress looks good on every body, not every perfume will work for every girl. Everyone's body chemistry is different, which means every scent will react and smell differently on every person. So, don't just go buy a perfume because you like how it smells on someone else or in the bottle. Try it on your own skin.
 
Take into account the season. Citrus scents may not be your best bet for fall and winter. Instead, this autumn, go for a warm and frisky scent filled with spicy aromas like vanilla. Woodsy nature smells like amber and fresh rain are in, too. Oriental hints hit the mark. Also try aromas like vetiver--a common Indian spice--and hints of patchouli. Warm washed linens and sugary bakery scents work well in cooler months, as well.
 
Take these tips from Tiza and follow your nose!
 
Shop on! 

So many scents and so little time. When your nose can't handle any more aromatic attacks, consider paring down your signature scent choice by fragrance type. But what's the difference between perfume and cologne? And what's right for you? Read on...
 
The main difference between perfume and cologne is how much essential oil--the smelly good stuff-- and alcohol there is in both. Perfume contains 30 percent essential oils, while cologne tends to average between five and eight percent. An eau de perfume lies somewhere between on the oil scale. Eau de toilette and cologne are about equal in concentration.
 
Why the price difference? Basically, it boils down to how much bang your buying with a buck. Perfume is much more concentrated and contains more essential oils than cologne, so it costs more. Cologne is designed to be sprayed or splashed onto your skin. So, an eight ounce bottle of cologne won't last as long as a one ounce bottle of perfume, which takes only drops.
 
We tend to apply more cologne than perfume. Obviously, a tiny bit of perfume will last just as long as several spritzes of cologne. A few drops of perfume on a pulse point lasts about six to eight hours. Cologne needs to be reapplied every two hours or so.
 
In order to know which fragrance oil to buy, get to know your skin. Dry skin does well with perfume--less alcohol. Oily skin can handle cologne, because natural oils will help the scent endure the day. For controlled, lingering fragrance, dab perfume--don't spray, to avoid wasting precious liquid. Apply on the insides of your wrists, on your neck, on your chest and maybe a spritz in the hair.
 
Remember, always put your cologne or perfume on BEFORE slipping into your dress to avoid stains.
 
Alright, girls. Consider yourself in the know on cologne. Shop on while smelling great! 

Back to school and time to start studying--fall dresses, of course! Homecoming, Prom, Semi-Formal: so much to plan for and so little time. We've sharpened out #2 pencils and written this fall's study guide to formal wear. Take our practice test and see what fashion grade you deserve.

Question #1: What are this season's hottest colors?

(You'll see a palette of creams and nudes, light pinks and metallic shades this season. Beige, brown and deep turquoise will also dominate the racks.)

Question #2: What lengths are appropriate for fall 2009?

(This fall will be like no other. Forget about wearing long dresses on chilly days. Ultra modern mini dressed and classy knee-lengths will last through the changing seasons. )

Question #3: What textures and fabrics will pack the runway?

(Expect serious texture for a seriously suave season in fashion. Look for layered lace and leather accents. It's all or nothing with slinky silk designs that drape your figure and sturdier fabrics that hold their shape.)

Question #4: When is the best time to start looking for a dress?

(Not too early, not too late. Okay, we know that's vague. You might miss the latest wave of trends if you buy months in advance. But, if you've done your research and know what you're looking for, it's best to buy for peace of mind. Don't wait until the week before unless you want to have a heart attack.)

Questions #5: Name three advantages of shopping online.

(Easy--beat the August heat and shop in your jammies; browse through hundreds of gowns with the click of a mouse; and peruse through fashion blogs to get the latest info while shopping.) Bonus* Where can you find the best dress selection? (From yours at Tiza.com.)

Celebrities make walking in heels look like cheesecake (not that they touch the stuff). But behind every step lies neatly disguised hours of painful practice. Seriously, high heel walking should be an Olympic sport. We understand that. So, Tiza's here to help with tips on how to walk in heels, look hot mid strut, and save the sprains for the soccer field.

Practice, practice, practice. Oh, did we mention practice? Get comfy in your shoes BEFORE the big event. Avoid the stiff-kneed robotic walk by spending time in your heels at home. For the seriously uncoordinated, tie pillows around your torso and wear a helmet.

Kidding. Kind of.

When buying shoes, consider height. What are you used to? If you've worn nothing but sneakers for years, go with a lower heel with a sturdy strap--something that stays bound to your foot when you lift it off the ground. If you're a high heel expert, exercise your right to a few extra inches, by all means. But use caution. The most super of models still fall down.

Consider terrain. Where will you be trekking? Through potentially hazardous parking lots or slick tile floor? Make sure your shoes have adequate traction. Perhaps a bit of rubber sole. Practice walking down your driveway or spin around in the kitchen. Again--pillows if necessary.

Practice walking up and down stairs. Very vital.

Alright. You're prepped. Tune in next time for fine-tuned stiletto techniques for the big event.

Previously, we covered the pre-event preparation you should consider before stepping out of the limo in your fabulous stilettos. Now that you know how to stand pretty, it's time to walk the walk. Remember the following:

Now that you know your shoes well, wear cushion where needed for extra comfort.

Stretch out your ankles before the big event and throughout the evening. Head to the ladies' room and take off your heels to relieve your toesies for a few. You'll be back on the floor fully charged in no time.

When actually walking from point A to B, take small, slow steps. There's no rush and this ain't the walking you learned as a toddler. It's a whole new ballgame.

Remember heel to toe. Place your heel on the ground first, followed by your toe. It looks like a natural step. Don't plop your feet down flat footed. You'll look like you're trying to stomp on a bug. Not cool. When your weight is completely on the ball of your foot, shift your weight forward and lift the opposite foot for the next step.

Your line of balance is strongest on the inside of your feet. So, don't hold your weight on the outside of your feet, but rather use those ankle muscles and keep your heels close together. This not only perfects posture, but prevents rolled ankles.

Watch for spillage. Look out for spilled drinks and floor debris. Unlikely you'll slip on a banana peel, but a fancy little napkin daintily dropped on the floor can cause serious damage.

Phew. We've learned a lot. Time to hop in this hot hot heels and get moving!

Just when you thought pink was so 5th grade, it's painting the runways in every delicious hue. Back on the shelves in light of Barbie's 50th anniversary, top stylists worldwide declared the classic girly color a fall 2009 fashion necessity. Tiza's on top of it. Check out our hottest of hot pink selection.

It takes a lot of stitches and time to create the dress you're eyeing on the prom dress page.
Get to know your dress a bit better with a brief history of our finest fabrics. You may be surprised at the places ventured and the lengths made by history's fashionistas to make sure you look fabulous.

Silk came about around 2,600 B.C. Believed to been discovered by a Chinese princess, this sexy smooth fabric we all adore actually houses a bug in its natural state--the silkworm's cocoon. Supposedly, China's emperor's wife jumpstarted silk production around 1725 B.C. She kept her fashion secrets within the royal circles. Not until a Chinese princess married an Indian prince some centuries later did silk spread westward. Remember the Silk Road from history class? There's a reason for the name. Silk is still used today and is considered a high quality fabric.

Need a little poof? Organza is your fabric. Made from tightly twisted silk filaments, organza is known for its lightweight stiffness--giving just the right bouffant to billions of wedding gowns. Organza can be traced back to the Middle Ages. The word entered French and Italian languages in the Middle Ages as "organsin" and "organzano" after the town of Urgang in Turkestan, which had a famous silk market. Today, find top notch organza manufacturers in France, Italy and China.

Polyester Considered the most popular or widely known of man-made fibers, polyester was first introduced to the American public in 1951 as the fabric that needed no ironing. In the age of TV dinners and toaster ovens, anything fast and easy sold well. Made of a scientific mixture of alcohols and acids, this stretchy fabric was first patented in Britain, but sold like hotcakes in the States as polyester mills popped up behind gas stations, where alcohols could be extracted from gasoline. Comfy, right?

Chiffon makes your dress appear to float and is widely used as an overlay on dresses. Under a magnifying glass, chiffon looks like a delicate mesh net that gives it a slightly see-through quality. The word itself comes from the old French word for rag--but don't let that fool you. Chiffon is notoriously delicate, hard to handle, and frays easily. So, a designer puts many hours into any well-made chiffon gown. One cool side note: when you take a pin out of chiffon, the fabric will spring back into place!

Tiza sticks with tried and true fibers of the best quality--and equally interesting histories. Shop on!

Honestly, we didn't know so many shades of pink existed until we scoped out the hottest mani/pedi spots in town. From Saucy Salmon to Barbie Lipstick-how can a girl decide? It's time to ditch your five-year-old polishes and get hip to hot new nail styles. Tiza's here to help you choose the right nail style and color to flatter your gown.

From iridescent golds to bare and beautiful, this season's nail styles are jazzy, a bit futuristic, yet stylishly simple.

Metallic shades. As we slip in to fall, you'll see gold, silver and bronze line the racks and wrap the runways. Make it a match with magnetically magnificent polish. Metallics come in all hues--from light shimmer to deep and dark. Something for everyone!

Clear and Natural. Can't grow long nails? Tend to pick at polish? No worries. This season, trim your nails short and keep a clear top coat nicely layered on for a chic look. Goes with any dress, any style, any season. Remember, a great ring or bracelet can jazz up your hands.

The French Mani. Never goes out of style. Great with classic design in trustable colors. Also, if your dress is super vivacious with funky patterns and multiple colors, a simple French manicure might be a safe bet to balance out your look.

Jewel Tones. Tomato Red is so 2003. If you're wearing a nude, cream, or pastel color, try a jewel shade--like amethyst purple with a hint of mauve or a ruby red with a touch of violet. For a light pink dress, for example, go for a pink garnet polish.

Flashy Iridescence. Now you see the color, now you don't. Choose an iridescent polish shade that matches your dress when shimmering in light. Great if you're wearing minimal jewelry and if the dress is beaded.

We all come up with excuses not to exercise. Every girl wants to lounge lovely all day in the shade. But when your backside's turned from luscious to a little too lumpy, it's time to get moving (we can hear the whining now). Tiza's here to help you find the right exercise for you. What's your excuse?

I don't want to sweat. You don't have to sweat a bucketful to get a good workout. You can always shape up in the shade or a nice air conditioned gym. Keep a big water bottle and an ice-cold rag handy to dab on your neck. And darling, you can always take a shower.

I don't want to build bulky muscle. No worries. For gals with muscular build, try Pilates or another low impact full body workout that focuses on toning muscle, not building. Basically, steer clear of repetition, like pumping iron and Stairmasters.

I'll look stupid at the gym. First, anyone at the gym is either rocking out to his or her Ipod or fully engaged in the row of TV's hanging from the ceiling. If not, people are probably as self-conscious as you are. If you're feeling shy, put a confident act on. Chances are, once you get settled on a treadmill, you'll zone out, too. Also, don't wear something that will make you feel uncomfortable, like a skimpy sports bra. Stick with a T-shirt and gym shorts.

I get so bored. Mix it up! Too much of anything is a bad idea--including exercise. Explore another neighborhood if you run down the same street. Try something totally new like kickboxing or Tai Kwon Do. Ask a friend to workout with you. Plus, if you do the same exercises every day, you're neglecting other muscle groups that want to be worked.
For a serious case of laziness, join the Army. They'll bootcamp you back into shape in no time.