The True American Model

Crystal Ruland is a model going places, but where she is headed just might come as a surprise to everyone who sets eyes upon her.

Ruland is a recently turned 21-year-old beauty from Chiefland, Florida. In high school, she was a star second baseman and catcher for two-time state champion Clay High. She had scholarship offers to continue playing in college, but instead of turning heads and double plays at a university, her dream was to join the military of all things.

Instead of following that desire straight out of high school, Ruland decided to become a licensed insurance agent for her godmother's company in Orlando. Upon her arrival, and at her godmother's urging, she decided to give modeling a shot in her free time, so she began developing a portfolio by working with local photographers that she met through the website One Model Place.

Soon thereafter, Ruland was signing a two-year exclusive contract with BMG Models, an agency out of Orlando. It was a decision that Ruland would grow to regret. Shortly after signing, BMG began pressing Ruland to go International and accept a two-month assignment in Japan. Weighing her options, she decided against the move.

"I never went because I was too chicken," she recalls. "It was a difficult decision for me, simply because you never know what might have happened."

Story by Rich King
American Superstar Mag, February 2006

How to Choose a Custom T-shirt Printing Company

With the abundance of screen printing companies throughout the U.S. that offer custom t-shirt printing, it can be difficult to choose one that will fit your needs. Some custom t-shirt printing companies perform well in certain areas of the business and not as well in others.

With the abundance of screen printing companies throughout the U.S. that offer custom t-shirt printing, it can be difficult to choose one that will fit your needs. Some custom t-shirt printing companies perform well in certain areas of the business and not as well in others. Thus, it’s important to consider all aspects of a screen printing company when hiring one for any amount of custom t-shirt printing. The quality of materials, order and delivery time, price, and whether or not they perform the service needed should all be carefully considered.

Screen printing companies usually have a central focus on their specialty Some specialize in posters or signs, some on pens and mugs, while others focus on custom t-shirt printing and other apparel. Therefore, it’s important to hire a company that is focused on the product you need.

A good custom t-shirt printing company will have quality materials and brands of apparel to choose from. It’s important to make sure that the company has the brands and types of t-shirts you desire.

Ease of order and delivery time is also a very important factor when choosing a custom t-shirt printing company. Good printing companies will have sections on their Websites to help the user design a t-shirt, give ideas for custom t-shirt printing, and guide the user through the order process. Look for a company that is organized and efficient when it comes to these matters.

Price is obviously an important factor when it comes to purchasing any kind of custom t-shirt printing. Look for deals on bulk rates and other great deals or specials. The Shirt Printer offers free shipping for their custom t-shirt printing
Author: Kevin Uzelac

Technorati Profile

Fashion Trends - A Must For The Fashion Conscious

Whether at Page 3 parties or at blog spots, everyone wants to be up to date in what they wear or say or like or how they behave. Keeping abreast of fashion trends ensures that one does not make a social gaffe in interacting with ones peers.

What is in fashion keeps on changing. The pace of change is very fast now. Haute couture changes every spring and fall and perhaps even in between. The Top of the Pops is never top of the pops for long. Hence it is very easy to make a mistake – to go to a social event wearing bold orange when the colour of the season is pastel yellow. Decades ago fashion trends use to filter down by word of mouth. People would talk about what trend setters were wearing and start emulating them. However this process of information was very slow. And by the time the public at large began to adapt, the trends went out of fashion.

Today the situation is different. Fashion trends are set not by the social elite but by the purveyors of fashion. Fashion houses preview their fall collection in the middle of summer so that everyone knows what will be in fashion in fall. Marketing campaigns decide which perfume women will soon be wearing. And because fashion is big business fashion trends are not guarded secretively as they once were. The more people that become aware of what is in fashion, the greater will be the sales of fashion goods. Therefore it is in the interest of producers of fashion goods and services that they announce their plans loud and clear.

Word of mouth trickle down is no longer in vogue. There are scores of magazines on every aspect of fashion that are doing rip-roaring business. There are web sites by the dozens that are updated regularly informing the surfer of what is in and what is out. Hence if you are fashion conscious with a little effort you can stay abreast of the fashion trends

By Andy Morrison

Plus Size Bra Fashions Bras To Fit Any Shape

The beginning of any stylish outfit is what you wear under your clothes. The first thing you put on your body is your underclothes and then you put on what the rest of the world sees. Your bra is the base of your outfit. It is important to dress in a bra that fits your body and also feels good. It helps to have someone measure you for a bra to be sure it fits properly.

A plus size bra is made for a fuller figured woman with a larger chest and curves. Generally plus size bras are made for woman size 16 and up, but for some companies it is size 14 and up. This will vary by manufacturer. The actual bras themselves are the same as a regular sized bra. Often a manufacturer will offer the same style in regular size and in plus size. There can be some added features that make a plus size bra more comfortable for the fuller figured woman. There can be more support, particularly in the straps. The straps might also be wider. Many contain under wires to assist in supporting a large breast. These bras can be found almost everywhere regular sized bras are found. There are also large selections on the internet. Online sites offer tips for determining your correct size, which is something most women need help with.

Most women do not know how to choose a properly fitting bra. It is also not something that you can usually go and ask a cashier about. It is actually rather complicated, not to mention personal. There are numerous measurements to take into account. To address this issue, many stores are holding clinics that teach women how to determine their correct bra size. This can make a world of difference. A bra that fits correctly can improve a woman's posture. Back pain might be relieved. Shoulder pain can also be relieved with the proper fit. Clothes definitely look better when a bra fits well. A blouse that looked terrible before can look like the perfect fit once the bra is not creating an issue.

There are a wide variety of bras on the market today. There are cups with seams and without seams. Some bras are made for sports activity and have increased support and materials that allow the skin to breath. These are often seamless as well. Special occasions might call for a strapless bra, or perhaps a bra with convertible straps. Maybe you just want a sexy bra that has that extra touch of lace for no reason. The great news is that all of these options are available for the average sized as well as the plus sized woman. Most department stores carry a full array of styles for women of every size. Every woman needs some everyday wear bras that are comfortable and supportive. After that, choose some bras for fun. The options are endless.

by Andrea Dilea

Diaper Bags - Convenience and Fashion

Carrying a diaper bag is a necessity if you are a parent on the go. The baby diaper takes up very little space, however it is the bottles, wipes, toys, change of clothing etc. that can be a big hassle to lug around all day. We all have to use diapers bags if we travel with our babies, but they don't have to be overwhelming and ugly. We don't have to carry those heavy plastic bags around anymore if we don't want to. We have fashionable options that make using them a great deal easier.

You can get the convenience of a diaper bag and make a fashion statement at the same time. Designer diaper bags are becoming the biggest fashion statement for new parents to make. It's not only celebrities and rich people who use these anymore because designer diaper bags have gotten to be much more cost effective. You can find these designer diaper bags in many different styles, colors, fabrics and designs. My favorite right now is the sling bag, which looks like a modern sling back pack.

I know that when you are caring for a baby or two, that it is hard to find the time and the motivation to always look smart. You spend so much time on the children with the constant attention they need for feeding, changing and amusing, that you take a second place to it all. However, it is important to give yourself some time to in your busy day to be able to care for your self. While a designer diaper bag may seem like a luxury, it is one small way that you can pamper yourself so that when you are out you can feel smarter with a designer accessory.

I personally love the new back pack diaper bags because it provides me with more freedom for my arms. I am finding that fewer parents are struggling to hold the baby; push the stroller, carry the diaper bag, and heaven forbid the cell phone starts ringing. These new back pack diaper bags make it far easier for parents to multi task, and it is causing less stress for the traveling parent. They work wonders if you are traveling by bus. They allow parents to take many more calming breaths, which we all need; especially since it seems that whenever you are trying to multi task with your baby in your hands, this is the moment when your baby starts to cry. The back pack diaper bag was a life saver to me, and can be one for you too.

by: Mike Jennings

Spice Up Your Look With Fashion Jewelry

Looking for an affordable way to add jewelry to your collection? Well, fashion jewelry is certainly the way to go. Fashion jewelry is affordable, beautiful, and surprisingly will last a long time for the little amount of money that it cost.

So, what is fashion jewelry? Fashion jewelry is also known as costume jewelry. It was also, at one point in time, known as “paste”. Fashion jewelry is jewelry made using inexpensive materials. There are fashion necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings, and even belly button rings. Some fashion jewelry cost as little as $.99 or less and is therefore affordable to anyone on any budget.

Why is fashion jewelry so affordable? Well, it’s made with inexpensive materials like cubic zirconium, simulated gemstones, and lab created gemstones. By using these inexpensive materials to make fashion jewelry the cost for the customers is extremely low.

If you have fashion jewelry already you might want to know some easy tips on how to take care of it. Fashion jewelry, although inexpensive, needs to be cared for in special ways. First of all, try to keep fashion jewelry from getting wet. This will make it last much longer. If fashion jewelry is gotten wet it’s likely to rust and turn colors. Also, make sure to take fashion jewelry off when not using it. Leaving fashion jewelry on too long can cause it to turn colors too due to the acids in the body.

So, if you are looking to purchase beautiful jewelry at an inexpensive price then fashion jewelry is the way to go. Fashion jewelry can also be purchased at many online stores and is therefore accessible to everyone.

By Jessica Bell

Casual Fashions In Plus Size Jeans For You

Plus size jeans are an important element of the full-figured woman's casual wardrobe. Jeans come in a variety of styles, sizes and even colors. Just as women who are smaller than plus size have lots of choices in jeans, so do full-figured ladies. To use examples, there are plus size women with long legs, short legs, and medium sized women whose bodies are well proportioned. The good news is that no matter what plus size you are, there is a pair of jeans that are sized right for you.

Before you go shopping for a pair of jeans, accept your shape and size and do not lament the fact that you are not a size 6 or 8. These types of thoughts are self-defeating and serve to do nothing but make you feel bad about yourself. Focus on your good points and be happy that you are a healthy woman. Then go out and find a pair of jeans that are totally you!

It depends upon the manufacturer, of course, but larger size jeans usually come in sizes 14 to 28. Size 14 in a plus size garment generally corresponds to a 16 regular. Larger size dungarees are offered with "Misses" measurements and with "Junior" measurements. The former term means that the legs are looser, the hip section is wider, and the waistband sits higher than it does in the Juniors.

The so-called "Junior" design is tighter, clings more closely to the legs, and lies below the waistline. It is also not as wide in the hip area. Full-bodied females really ought to put on the two different cuts to determine which fits properly, feels more comfortable, and looks more attractive. It is particularly important to check yourself carefully in a long mirror, preferably one with several views. You want to be certain these are really the most flattering jeans for you before you purchase them.

When you are plus-sized a pear shaped, the most flattering cut of jeans seems to be the boot cut. If you don't know whether you have a pear shaped body or not, look at your midsection - the area from your abdomen to your thighs. If it is bigger than your legs or chest area, then you are pear shaped. It's also a good idea to wear platform shoes or heels with your boot cut jeans to maximize the shapeliness of these jeans. Stay away from tapered jeans if you are plus sized, as these types of jeans will not flatter most plus-sized figures. Tapered looks are best left to women who are extremely thin.

by Andrea Dilea

Wedding Day Fashion for Men

A wedding is the chance for men to dress up and get groomed. This time of year is generally regarded as the busiest period for formal hire and booking suits for weddings so a little advanced planning never hurt. What can you do to guarantee you make a great impression during the wedding season or on a special day?

Certainly, the first thing to remember is to decide well in advance what you will be required to wear, thus making sure you have plenty of time to shop around and find the best deal. Tradition dictates that the groom, best man, ushers, father of the bride and groom's father should all look similar -- a general rule of thumb is that if the groom is wearing morning dress, other men in the party should too -- and the bride will often have preferences about what she wants the men to wear. Whether you are in the wedding party or a guest, you want to make sure you have the right kit. A simple morning or dinner suit will always offer style and sophistication; while a plain, formal shirt and well-chosen tie will compliment any well-fitting suit nicely.

Different wedding hire companies and retail outlets have different rates, selection and styles so don't just settle on the first deal you find. Some factors to consider include the formality of the wedding, the time of day of the wedding and the bride's colour scheme. It's also worth thinking about how much added wear you're likely to get out of the purchase. If you're sure you won't wear the suit again, it's makes sense for most people to hire a suit or tux rather than buying it. Otherwise, buying a suit for weddings and special occasions could be well worth it if you have a busy summer of weddings ahead.

If you are part of the wedding party, you'll want to stand out from the other guests. The bride and groom will have ideas on colours and styles and normally, when it comes to men's fashion, this involves accessories. Cufflinks, ties, button holes, cummerbunds and waistcoats are all simple ways of distinguishing the wedding party, and are offered as part of many formal or formal hire packages. You may also find some menswear stores offer special deals on suits for weddings at this time of year; deals include discounts or offers such as free shirt and tie packs when you buy a suit. Although this should not be the number one deciding factor in your decision, it is a welcome addition to any purchase.

Whether you are a guest or an integral part of a wedding this year, choosing men's wedding clothing can be challenging. Make sure you make the right impression with your suit or tux by planning ahead. Shop around for a great deal at formal hire companies or scour your local high street retailer for the perfect suit Remember: Weddings last a long time, often with much dancing and celebrating. Make sure your clothes are not just clean, pressed and appropriate, but that your suit fits you well and is comfortable enough to party in.

by Matthew Pressman

Las Vegas Fashion Shows

Las Vegas, the city most famous for its casinos, has many other things to offer. Today it boasts of many fashion shows to meet the needs and requirements of those, interested in latest trends in the fashion market. It has established its reputation as one of the finest fashion markets.

The fashion shows in Las Vegas can be viewed in terms of the fashion events organized in this glamorous city, or the fashion malls consisting of the various outlets or retail shops to showcase, the clothes displayed in the fashion shows.

Las Vegas hosts many of the international fashion shows that go on for a week on a regular basis. These are attended by top international designers who define fashion and create new fashion trends.

The fashion shows provide a platform, both to the fashion makers and the fashion followers to come together. Their mutual discussion becomes the base for the creation of new designs. The gathering of a large number of people from the fashion industry, presents a unique opportunity to track the latest trends, find resources, and most importantly buy them at competitive prices. This also helps them in getting an unparallel overview of the fashion market.

The city is magnificent with fashion malls, which offer a unique shopping experience, and have become one of the greatest shopping attractions in U.S. They have great variety of fashion stores, provided with modern and bright ambiance, to make shopping a relaxing experience.

The fashion malls have retractable runways, which can be seen rising out of the shopping center floor. The malls have outlets of retailers, with single storey boutiques to those of the international chains. These incredible departmental stores display, the most modern apparel and fashion accessories under one roof.

Las Vegas apart from being the entertainment capital of the world is now catching up with other international fashion destinations, with its international fashion events and fashion shows.

By Jason Gluckman

Old Fashioned High Resolution Photo Camera

Tired of trying to keep updated with the highest mega pixel resolution digital camera? Well even if one has tried to do that, most certainly he will soon find out that his few months old digital camera is outdated in terms of mega pixel resolution. It’s an ever changing kind of product that has become very hard to keep updated, unless one is willing to spend more money by making purchases every six to twelve months.

If the main intention of purchasing a photo camera is enlarging the image, then mega pixel resolution indeed will become the main factor. In this case one might consider a different option, which will keep his product updated for years to come. I’m talking about a used 4x5" film photo camera, together with a high resolution flat bed film scanner. All of this for less than one thousand US dollars. With all of this, one will get over 100 mega pixels in fine detailed film resolution and fine scanned digital images that can be enlarged up to 30x40" in size with professional quality. These 4x5" film cameras have done a remarkable job in general personal and commercial photography such as wedding, portraiture, product, documentary, advertising and landscape for nearly a hundred years.

Where to find 4x5" used film cameras? Since some of these cameras were mostly used in the past, until the 1960’s, it should be no problem in finding them in American auction web sites. Anyway, a good used 4x5" camera with lens can be found for less than four hundred US dollars.

As for the flat bed film scanner, one can find brand new ones for less than five hundred US dollars. Just make sure the scanner is able to scan films.

Whenever purchasing a 4x5" film camera, one should look for the following features: folds into a compact box, flexible bellows, lenses that can be easily interchanged, accepts sheet film, ground glass focusing screen, easily handheld and optical viewfinder accessory.

As for the lenses, there are four main categories: 1 - general purposes; 2 - wide field (mostly used for close up work and landscape); 3 – extreme wide angles lenses; 4 – special effects lenses (telephoto). However, one might use a general purpose 127 or 152mm lens for most of his photograph sessions. In cases where it requires special lenses, such as architecture or macro photography, one will still find lots of them available in auction sites. Used lenses for 4x5” cameras made after World War II have excellent performances comparable to today’s modern lenses.

Whenever making a purchase of a 4x5" camera make sure that: 1 - the bellows have no light leaks, 2 – the lens shutter works accurate at all speeds; 3 – the lens elements have no fungus and scratches of any kind; 4 – the focus is working properly between the ground glass and the film.

The option of using a 4x5" film camera, together with a flat bed film scanner, for enlarging images with professional quality is viable and accessible. Cheaper than top digital cameras, the 4x5" film camera offers better image quality and will always be updated in the future, maintaining its original value.

For those who wishes the very most detailed image enlargement, one can always use the 8x10" film camera. Four times the physical film size of the 4x5", this option offers so much film resolution that it is considered by many as the ultimate step for photo image enlargement.

Sometimes analog products deliver better results that its digital counterparts. If you are doing the job of enlarging photo images, you should give it a try with a 4x5" camera. You might just surprise yourself.

by: Roberto Sedycias