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Linen, the summer classic.
Linen’s looser weave allows air flow and circulation. Absorbent and conductive, linen wicks moisture back into the air and naturally feels cooler. The wrinkled, rumpled look of linen is a side effect of the flax fiber’s inherent structure, considered by some to be a sign of comfortable elegance. Linen’s long-lasting quality costs a bit more,…
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Avoidable summer stains.
Sweat happens. Temperature, humidity, stress or activity can trigger perspiration, it’s natural. But stains aren’t. Moisture combined with deodorant can create hard-to-remove yellowing or white residue. Too much product is often the culprit – apply one thin layer and allow it to completely dry. A little is enough to do the job. Old-fashioned dress shields…
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Flattering the bride, part 3.
In “Choose the Perfect Wedding Dress for Every Body Type,” Real Simple offers advice for brides of every shape, from pears and apples to busty and plus-size. Talls should wear a simple silhouette, petites look for trumpet, sheath and high waisted A-line. Using the design of your gown to accentuate your figure is made really…
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Flattering the bride, part 2.
An apple-shaped figure will look best in a dress that cinches in at the smallest point of the waistline, then flares out in a gradual A shape. Choose a bodice with lots of texture — ruche or lace detailing — that will camouflage and fit snugly, creating a corset effect. The most slenderizing neckline, a…
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Flattering the bride, part 1.
Choosing the right gown for a pear-shaped figure starts with a skirt that gradually flares out from the natural waist to the floor, highlighting the narrowness of the midsection and floating away from the hips and thighs. Real Simple advises sturdier fabrics that won’t cling like duchesse satin or taffeta. Showcase a thinner upper body with…
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Flag etiquette.
Displaying our national symbol is actually covered by an official Flag Code. For instance, the flag should not be flown in the dark or inclement weather. It should not be used as decoration – that’s a job for bunting, streamers and decorative materials. Always display the blue part on top. When the flag is lowered,…
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Blacker blacks.
Every cycle through the laundry removes more black dye and roughs up the surface, creating a fuzzy fade effect. Consumer Reports says, when you absolutely must wash, turn black garments inside out to protect the surface, sort items by color and weight, and wash in cold water in the shortest cycle possible. Avoid detergent with…
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White whites.
According to the experts at Consumer Reports, greying white clothes are picking up soil from other garments in a crowded washer without enough detergent. Wash white separately, don’t pack the washer and measure the detergent. If more whitening is needed, try a detergent with bleaching components, an oxidizer like OxiClean or hang clothing in the…
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Bridal planning 101.
Book early – caterers, venues, florists and popular bands and DJs are first-come, first-booked. Visit a bridal fair for ideas, connections and free advice from wedding professionals. Is this a good time to mention we are very, very experienced with wedding gowns, alterations, formal wear and the inevitable last-minute emergency. You can count on us…
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Hanging out.
If you’re lucky enough to enjoy an outdoor clothesline, there are a few tricks to drying laundry outdoors. Shake damp laundry to smooth out wrinkles before hanging. Dry shirts on hangers for crease-free results, ready for touchup ironing. Hang pants by the bottom hem. That’s the way to hang t-shirts and polos, too. Hang “departments”…