The success of Pure Digital’s original Flip Video has launched a slew of copycat products, and Pure Digital CEO Jonathan Kaplan embraces it.

“It makes me even more proud of the team,” he said in an interview this week. “Imitation is an absolutely fine form of flattery. I’m happy every time a competitor launches a new product.”

Kaplan’s sunny outlook on the competition likely stems from the relative lack of success they have had. Electronics makers much larger and longer-established than the San Francisco-based maker of tiny flash-based digital camcorders–like Sony and Kodak–have attempted to cut themselves a slice of the market. But none has tapped into the almost inexplicable appeal of the slightly boxy, plasticky handheld video camera with the pop-out USB arm, which gets a refresh on Thursday. Plus, now that Cisco Systems has agreed to purchase Pure Digital, the company will have an even bigger platform to stand on.

“We haven’t seen significant erosion (of market share) from some of the bigger names that have entered, such as Sony, Kodak or RCA,” said Ross Rubin, director of industry analysis for The NPD Group. Besides jumping into the market later, Sony’s WebbieHD and Kodak’s Zi6 are rendered less convenient and sometimes more expensive by either not including a USB connector or additional memory cards, according to Rubin.

As of February, Pure Digital’s Flip cameras were the top selling of similar devices that cost $200 or less in its category, followed by Aiptek, which makes the A-HD camera, Taiwan’s DXG Technology, RCA, and Sakar, according to NPD. Though NPD doesn’t give out retail data on individual companies, Kaplan claims Pure Digital sells “under 10 million” Flip cameras worldwide per year. That’s actually good enough to be the No. 2 seller of digital video camcorders in the U.S., regardless of price, putting them right behind Sony.

Now the device that basically invented the $200 flash memory-based digital camcorder category is getting some tweaks in an attempt to keep competitors at bay. The Ultra model, first introduced in 2007, is branching off into two devices: the Ultra II and the Ultra HD. The biggest change is the addition of high-def recording capabilities to the UltraHD. Video is shot in 30 frames per second (fps) and encoded at 720p, the same resolution as high-definition sports broadcasts. The 8GB of internal flash memory allow up to two hours of recording. It also gets a slightly larger, 2-inch LCD screen, and a soft touch coating, and now has the option of charging via the pop-out USB arm or by removable rechargeable batteries. It will be available at Amazon.com, Best Buy, and Wal-Mart on Thursday for $200. See CNET’s full reviews of both new Ultra devices here.

The Ultra II is essentially the same, except it’s not HD, and has just 4GB flash memory and therefore a cheaper price tag at $150.

All the changes made to the Ultra line are things Kaplan says he’s been nagged by customers to change. Many parents are using it as a kind of “brag book,” and want to playback video directly on the device and a 1.5-inch screen wasn’t cutting it, he said. And adding HD was a must: “People are all upgrading their TV sets and want high quality” for video playback at home.

But while he’s OK with competitors copying his device, Kaplan says he’s less inclined to reciprocate. The main feature Pure Digital’s products do not have that others, like Toshiba’s Camileo, do: 1080p high definition recording. And there are no current plans to add that any time soon.

“We don’t think 1080p provides a tremendous value to the consumer. It wouldn’t be better than 720p,” he said, likening it to the difference between a 10-megapixel camera and a 12-megapixel camera. In other words, the average consumer wouldn’t be able to tell the difference nor necessarily need it for at least another two years, he said.

“That’s not to say you don’t display 1080 on your TV, but you don’t display at 1080 on YouTube,” which is the main destination for most videos filmed on Flip cameras, he said.

The next big thing on the agenda for Kaplan and company is integrating into new parent company Cisco. The deal is expected to close later this year. Once that happens, Kaplan says there are definitely “networked” Flip video cameras in store, as well as new ways of moving that video through various consumer devices around the home in a way that will demystify the process that can be intimidating for many consumers.

“The consumer has traditionally been afraid of video,” Kaplan said. He thinks being hooked up with Cisco will bring a fundamental change to the industry, causing him to make a rather bold promise: “The way Apple has revolutionized music, we will revolutionize video.”

Flip Mino HD, $229.99 and Flip Mino, $179.99

Flip UltraHD, $199.99 and Flip Ultra, $149.99

See the Specs

Where to Buy

Purchase your own custom KBE Flip MinoHD or Flip Mino here at our shop!

[Source: The Flip and CNet News]

Suggested Event

Event Me subscribers can win free tickets! Subscribe by clicking the button above.
Bid your Reward Me points here (Deadline: August 6)

BEER FESTIVAL!

Great World Beer Festival is back for its 7th Year!

Come down and taste 100s of Beers from over 50 Brewers

Live Music and Great Food!

4 sessions over 3 days!

Enjoy a staycation this Labor Day Weekend!

Friday Sept. 4th
6 PM to 10 PM
Saturday Sept. 5th
12 PM to 4 PM & 5 PM to 9 PM
Sunday Sept. 6th
12 PM – 4 PM

Park Avenue Armory
New York City (map)

price: $65

Buy tickets online or at these location:
Hop Devil Grill at 129 St. Marks Place in the East Village
The Half Pint at 76 West 3rd Street in the West Village
Stout NYC at 133 West 3r3d Street in midtown
David Copperfield’s at 1394 York Avenue on the Upper East Side.

contact: info@brewtopiafest.com or call 800-935-8537

Video: History Being Brewed

Bid your Reward Me points to win free tickets

After hearing the raves of Spanx Carline decided to purchase the pantyhose for her wedding day and tried on one of the Hide & Sleek Hi-Rise Body Smoother. To everyone’s surprise this is a fab product and a must have. It’s not one of those shape wear products that rolls down from the rib cage down. Last year Carline weighed 168 pounds (5 feet big), big women with voluptuous curves find it difficult to find the right shape wear that is comfortable. This product is a God-send. Spanx is a product well-known and spoken about with many celebrities including Oprah.

What makes Spanx unique?
All of SPANX products are made by a woman for women. Sara Blakely came up with the concept and, having to wear pantyhose every day for work, became obsessed with comfort. SPANX products bring function to fashion with comfort being first on the list. SPANX products also make you look slimmer, avoid panty lines and let you wear any style shoe. Our patented designs are totally unique to the industry and our company’s mission is to invent and enhance products that all women want and need.

Why buy Spanx?
Look slimmer, avoid panty lines and wear any style shoe with comfort and total confidence that you will look and feel your best!

What makes Spanx footless pantyhose different from other brands?
We are the original, we patented (Patent Number: US 6,276,176) the concept and we are women designing products for women. We found that in all of these years, men have been designing pantyhose for women and they don’t wear them (at least they don’t admit to it). Sara started as a frustrated consumer and quickly turned into a pantyhose guru.

Does Spanx feel like other pantyhose?
No way! Sara had to wear regular pantyhose every day for work and couldn’t wait to get to her car to rip them off. She knows the pains we suffer. It was her mission to develop the most comfortable pantyhose she could imagine. She spent two years making it happen and it certainly worked!

Do Spanx products run easily?
SPANX products were designed to be strong using the highest quality nylon and Lycra®, but all hosiery material should be treated with TLC to avoid any snags or runs.

How can I wear Spanx products in the winter?
SPANX can be worn during any season. In the fall and winter, wear SPANX footless pantyhose or Footless Tight-End tights with boots and comfortable socks.

Is the legband comfortable on the footless version?
Sara made sure that this particular part of the garment was extremely comfortable. She knew that bands on your leg such as knee highs can leave an unattractive mark that can be uncomfortable for a long time. She made sure that the SPANX leg band was soft, stayed in place and was adjustable. It’s knitted directly into the garment for the most comfort.

Do you have to wear underwear with products?
No, we use the highest quality cotton gusset (crotch) so that you don’t have to wear underwear. Plus you can avoid panty lines.

Is it okay that the nude colors don’t match my skin tone?
Yes, almost all Spanx products are hidden underneath your clothes so the color is never even seen.

What makes the Spanx waistband so comfortable?
Sara’s patented design. There is no binding rubber cord. For years, hosiery manufacturers have been dropping in a rubber cord to hold the product up on your body. This, we found, was not necessary and we took it out, we added an incredibly soft yarn and sewed the waistband right into the panty for added comfort.

What is the difference between Medium Control and Super Control?
Medium Control SPANX hosiery products have a great overall moderate control, while Super Control hosiery items have more overall control with an added tummy panel.

Are Spanx products hot in the summer?
Spanx products are lightweight and designed to be worn with open toed shoes and capris, skirts, etc. The Hide & Sleek collection and most of our socks have moisture-wicking properties to keep you extra cool and dry on warm days.

What is the best way to care for my Spanx?
Always hand wash and line dry for the best results and the longest life. If hand washing isn’t an option, put your Spanx in a lingerie bag and wash on the delicate cycle.

Are Spanx products considered Support Hose?
No, our products were designed to be light weight and to be comfortable and don’t have the proper amount of compression to be medically considered support hosiery.

Do all of the Spanx products fit and feel the same?
No, they are all a little bit unique to their name and each collection offers a different amount of compression:

• Hide & Sleek collection – least compression
• Hosiery Shapewear – more compression
• Slim Cognito collection – most compression

How did you come up with the Spanx name?
Sara Blakely recognized the value of the “k” sound. Kodak and Coca-Cola are two of the most recognized brand names in the world and in comedy. It is a trade secret that “k” words make people laugh and feel good. So Sara felt that the “k” was good luck and had to be in her product’s name. SPANKS hit her one day like a lightning bolt and eventually became SPANX with an “X” because she also knew that made up names were more successful than real names. We feel the name is edgy, fun, extremely catchy and for a moment it makes your mind wander (admit it). Plus, it’s all about making women’s butts look better, so why not?

Who designs your products?
Sara Blakely and our product development team. Picture a bunch of women walking around our office doing test fits on different product prototypes while we work. Each product has to pass our own extensive comfort and wearability testing in order to be perfect for our customers.

Where are your products manufactured?
Most products are made in the United States. However, please refer to the specific Product Detail Page to find out where a product is manufactured.

Where can I find your products?
You can buy SPANX online, at one of the top retail stores such as Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, Lane Bryant, or at one of thousands of boutiques nationwide. Visit our retailer’s page to learn more.

[Source: Spanx]

We’re proud to recognize Lance Bigelow for supporting the fight against blood cancers by participating in last spring’s Give & Get campaign benefiting The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). Lance and his family participated in the spring campaign because they know first-hand the importance of supporting blood cancer research — Lance is a leukemia survivor himself.

Help kids like Lance by participating in the Gap’s summer Give & Get campaign, and save money on great back-to-school clothes at the same time!

For four days, from Thursday, July 30th through Sunday, August 2nd, your Give & Get coupon will allow you to receive a 30% discount on in-store purchases at any Gap, Inc store with 5% of your purchase proceeds going to LLS!

Help us fight blood cancers, the leading cancer among children and look good while you do it!

Where:
All Gap stores in the U.S and Canada, including Gap, Gap Outlet, Banana Republic, Banana Republic Factory Stores, and Old Navy

When:
Thursday, July 30th – Sunday, August 2nd

Why:
Using this coupon helps support The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

How:
Download this coupon to receive your 30% discount.

Share this email with your friends, family and co-workers or copy click the icon to promote from your social networking sites.

This coupon is valid at all Gap, Inc stores, including Gap, Gap Outlet, Banana Republic, Banana Republic Factory Stores and Old Navy in both the U.S. and in Canada.

Save money and save lives — print your coupon today.

Please note, Gap’s Give & Get coupon is only good for in-store sales during the dates noted above, There’s no restriction on the number of coupons you use so print as many as you need and get a jump start on school shopping!

Share this with your social networking sites

TouchBack by Colormark

How it Works

Real Hair Color… Bonds To The Hair

TouchBack actually bonds to the hair, blending beautifully with permanent hair color for a totally natural look. (Unlike hair mascaras, crayons, gels and powders, which dull the hair and flake off when brushed.)

TouchBack’s formula uses certified hair colors, but without harsh chemicals — no ammonia or peroxide — so, it’s gentle on your hair.

The Easiest Touch-Up… Ever!

TouchBack’s marker delivers the perfect amount of color… continuously. The Fiber Flow™ applicator applies real temporary hair color to gray roots… precisely.

TouchBack is the fastest touch-up for gray roots. Dries in a minute. Won’t flake or rub off — even after brushing.

How To Apply

The TouchBack marker should be applied to dry hair. For resistant gray hair, hold the marker on the hair for a few seconds to deposit additional color. Mousse, gels and other styling products may be used prior to applying TouchBack, and hair spray can be used over it.

TouchBack includes a special comb for use at temples and hairline. The comb acts as a skin shield for those areas. Slide the comb under the hair, as close to the scalp as possible, then apply TouchBack.

To remove TouchBack, simply shampoo out.

Touch Back Colors, $29.95 each

• Pure Black
• Dark Brown
• Medium Brown
• Light Brown
• Ash Blonde
• Golden Blonde
• Light Auburn
• Dark Auburn

Color Tip: If you are between colors, choose the lighter one.

If you have purchased this product please leave us a comment/feedback.

[Source: Touchback]

Maryjane Vargas has invited you to save 30% during Give & Get, our Friends & Family event. For every purchase you make, we give 5% of the amount you spend to Feeding America, a non-profit selected by Maryjane Vargas.

Yes! Count me In! -*- No, maybe next time.

In-Store Bar Code for multiple uses

When we all hear the word getting hitched or eloping we think about the typical Elvis wedding. There are many ins and outs to destination weddings but here are are some reasons to do the destination weddings.

1. Cost efficient – Some destination weddings can be costly but if you stick to a budget and remind yourself that you will get to spend more on the honeymoon it is well worth it.
2. Small & Intimate wedding – Everyone has there customs and in reality we will always have a major list. The plus about destination weddings is that your guest list can be as big as you want it to be. Only about 20%-25% of your guest list will attend. Don’t expect monetary gifts from guest that do attend because them attending your wedding is there gift. However, your chances of receiving gifts from non-attendees will increase. In the end you will have the closes people you want to attend.
3. Honeymoon plus – Spend more on your honeymoon. There are many honeymoon packages available at many destination hot spots.

Here was Carline’s Vegas Wedding!

Date: October 12, 2008

Location: Las Vegas, NV (The Strip – Welcome to Vegas Sign)

Theme: Vegas

Honeymoon: US Cross Country Road Trip

Wedding Checklist

DIY Ideas

Stationary

Newsletter Invitation

Cover pages has how we met, important dates, and a formal invite. Page 2 has “about the bride & groom”. Page 3 has our wedding website, wedding registry, and the recipe of our love: our son. Page 4 has travel arrangements: flight and hotel with a location map. Page 5 has the wedding itinerary, honeymoon plans when and where to RSVP, and our contact information. Finally on page 6 has our pictures, closing statement, and countdown.

Download Adobe Flash Player.

FlippingBook WordPress Gallery

Attire

Bride

The wedding gown was a Maria Cross inspired chiffon dress designed by Faviana. Maria Cross wore a goddess gown at the 2006 Golden Globes. It features a deep V-neck and rouched bodice gets stunningly embellished with a lavish gem ornament on both sides of the straps. A bottom flares offers dramatic detail! If the bride has large breast you can add an applique. The blue dress is the original that was tried on for size and it was ordered in ivory. The v-shaped applique was stitched to the dress. This gave it a custom look to the dress, $350 with alterations and applique.

The hair was picked up half up with two pieces of hair in the front coming down and the veil was placed in the pony tail done by the bride. The veil is a Isaac Mizrahi mid-length veil in igloo, $20 at Target. The make-up was done a Sephora for FREE. The earrings and bracelet set was “something borrowed” from Mom. The wedding ring was “something old” from Mom, and the “something blue” was my garter purchased, $5.99 at Walmart. The two tone gold heels were 3″ high, $29.99 at Marshalls. After the ceremony, pictures, and several hours walking around the flats were put on. These flats are very Greek looking and matched perfectly with the dress. It was a white base with gold and silver detailing around the shoe, $10 at Loehmann’s.

Groom

Anthony decided to buy a suit instead of renting a tuxedo. The wedding wasn’t black tie or formal but semi-formal/casual. Anthony’s suit is a three piece pin-striped dark gray suit. He spiced it up with a deep fall red tie and white button down shirt. The cuff links also gave it a “GQ” look with the letters ‘C’ and ‘A’ in gold over onyx, set on gold with clear rhinestones. The shoes were a gift. They are soft black leather with a strap over buckle. This whole ensemble was $250 with alterations and accessories at JC Penny.

Our Son

Our son, Anthony, also had a three piece we mix and matched from Children’s Place. The suit coat and slack are black suede, $24.99 for the blazer and $19.99 for the slack. Two years old aren’t really keen on staying dressed and feeling comfortable so instead of a button down shirt and tie a long-sleeved turtle neck cream onesie was substituted, $5. It was accented with a fall diamond pattern sweater vest, $14.99. The shoes are black leather with a Velcro strap, $19.99.

Floral

All floral arrangements were purchased at Michael’s Arts & Crafts. For the Bride’s bouquet we purchased three bunches of silk flowers from , $6.99 a bunch. The stem was wrapped in the material cut from the wedding dressed and the base of the stem was wrapped with 3″ white sheer ribbon, $2.99 for the roll. From the bottom up we cris-crossed .5″ white satin ribbon to the base of the stem and tied two bows, $1.99 for three yards. This lovely arrangement was created by Maryjane, Carline, and there Mom. The Groom had a two bud silk rose arrangement, $3.99. Our son had one bud silk rose arrangement, $2.99.

Favors

For our guest we purchased one box of Best Occasions’ bottle favors kit, $24.99 at Walmart. It came with the bottle, pre-cut ribbons, and sticker labels. We purchased two bags of ‘Thank You’ charms to slide onto the ribbon before tying the knot, $2.99 each at Michael’s. Carline created the labels on the computer, printed them and stuck them on the bottles. We filled the bottles with sweet ‘n salty mix, $5.99 for a box at The Christmas Tree Shops.

Media

The party bus company recommended we go to the Bellagio Hotel to take pictures because they had a Fall/Halloween theme setup in the lobby. It was beautiful. Visit our wedding/roadtrip website for more photos. We took pictures after the ceremony.

Ceremony

After viewing chapel after chapel we decided to be different and get married in front of the sign at midnight. We had a great officiant, Rev. Ron Perry Sr., him and his wife are both sweethearts. $200 fee for after 10pm ceremonies on the Vegas Strip – worth every penny. We had a traditional Catholic ceremony and had the opportunity to say our own vows as well.

Carline did her vows about a month before the wedding and left them written in her mother’s house so her mother sent them to her. If it wasn’t that she wrote them we wouldn’t remember what we said and the video was to windy to understand. On the other hand, Anthony said his vows from the heart. It was beautiful but in the moment and excitement we all forgot what he said.

Reception

We wanted to enjoy what the Las Vegas strip had to offer as we partied after the ceremony, $466 with Celebrity Coaches. There was a confusion at home office and we got the wrong bus do to homecoming but they still sent us a bigger bus and at a cheaper price. It didn’t bother me that Zappos Shoes was printed all over the bus. They even asked if we’d like to have them had the shoes to the back of the bus instead of can. We had the bus for four hours, we went from tip to tip on the strip and stopped in the Bellagio to take photos. We had our first dance enjoying the views of Las Vegas’ nightlife.

Our cake was spectacular from Freed’s Bakery. Our son’s God-father went with the Groom to pick up the cake and said, “They have the best cannolis I have ever eaten!”. He talked about it all weekend. We ordered the With A Little Bit of Luck Wedding Cake, $269 for the cake and $19.95 for the cake topper. Contact them for your quote. Our first layer was velvet cake and cream cheese. The second layers was chocolate cake with Freed’s Signature Bavarian Cream filling, raspberry puree. Um delicious.

Accommodations

Flights all ranged depending where people were coming from but it ranged from $250 – $500 round trip. Hotwire.com was a good site to work with and the cheapest deals available. Our hotel Circus Circus was the only family orientated hotel on the strip with the most reasonable prices. $56 a night (Book early).

Remember

Before going to Las Vegas we printed out the marriage license applications and had our cash ready. Check with the bureau to see what types of payments they received we had to go to the ATM because they did not take debit, $50 it is now $60. We went the day before but in the State of Nevada there is no blood work or waiting period before the ceremony. Get directions and save the site. After getting married we lost the paper we had to send in to get the certificate of proof and we got a lot of spam in the mail for us to pay $40 to get it. We called them and they said just send in your marriage information with date, etc. with a $10 check or money order. Always good to call before hand. Las Vegas also has a good system that you can check for your certificate number before hand too.

We did our register three months before our trip began, Travel’s Joy. We put items for our trip/honeymoon. This worked out very well since our honeymoon was a two week cross country road trip. After coming home we uploaded all of our pictures from our trip and wedding onto Shuttlerfly. Great idea to stay connected and fill in details. Friends and family could purchase items to send your or for themselves. There is no fee for the site or expiration date. Sign up for there mailing list to get coupons and discounts.

The Shoebox half price sale is going on now at all locations. This week take 50% off their entire collection of spring/summer 2009 shoes and handbags. Shop top designer shoe brands including Sergio Rossi, Guiseppe Zanotti, Cynthia Vincent, KORS, D&G, Casadei, Matt Bernson, Juicy, Kate Spade, and many more. Handbag collections are featuring Rebecca Minkoff, Lauren Merkin, Kooba, Botkier, and many more. This sale is a can’t miss. Their vast selection of shoes and handbags is simply incredible for their exclusive sale!

*Print out ad from the website for an extra $25 off any purchase of $150 or more.

Date: 7/27/2009 – 8/3/2009

Event times:Thu 11am-9pm, Fri 11am-8pm, Sat & Sun 11am-7pm

Locations:

Payment Types: CASH/MC/VISA/AMEX/CHECKS w/ID

[Source: TopButton.com]

Why Wear Them

Toe Off

The mid-density toe cap section provides a firmer area for toe push off and faster step speed, and a rest for your legs between steps.

Mid-Footbed

The FitFlop mid footbed is made a of soft, wide selection of EVA that creates a slightly unstable platform for the foot. The instability forces the muscles in the legs to switch ‘on’ for longer to ensure balance and deliver a workout while you work.

Heel Strike

The heel strike area of the FitFlop midsole is made of high density EVA to absorb maximum shock, and to speed the foot into the softer, less stable mid-footbed.

Benefits

FitFlop. Get a workout while you walkTM.

FitFlop sandals are biomechanically engineered to help tone and tighten your leg muscles while you walk in them. Studies at the Centre for Human Performance at LSBU show that normal walking in FitFlop sandals(1) can help:

- increase leg, calf and gluteal muscle activity,
- improve your posture,
- mimic the gait of barefoot walking but with more muscle load,
- improve muscle tone.

FitFlop sandals wearers have also reported relief from plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, chronic back pain, sciatica, osteoarthritis, RLS (restless leg syndrome), scoliosis and degenerative disc disease.

See below the amazing benefits that have been reported by FitFlop wearers and substantiated by independent research:

Improve Posture – by re-calibrating your balance and pitching your body correctly so you can stand up straight.

Minimize Back Stress – FitFlop patented Microwobbleboard technology can realign the ground reaction forced directly through the center of your pelvic girdle to minimize lower back stress.

Make it easier to stay in Shape – by loading the hamstring and calf muscles for longer during every single step, so you get a more time-effective workout while you walk!

Injury Recovery – on hard to reach small muscle groups surrounding the ankle. (FitFlops Sandals are often recommended by physiotherapist and osteopaths for injury recovery therapy)

Reduce Foot Pain – by reducing pressure ‘hot spots’ on the bottom of the foot, providing relief from all types of plantar discomfort, including pain from heel spurs and plantar fasciitis.

Firm and Tone – by activating your gluteal muscle more while you walk!

Reduce Shock – by cushioning the heel strike, FitFlop footwear helps reduce shock by up to 22%.

Where to Purchase Online

• Walkers Warehouse
• Tip Top Shoes
• Macy’s
• FootSmart
• Piperlime
• The Tannery
• Bath & Body Work
• Sole Provisions
• Island Trends
• Endless
• Bliss
• Brownes & Co.
• Victoria Secrets
• Amazon

[Via FitFlop]

The History of Pearls and Weddings

Since ancient times, the pearl has been a symbol of unblemished perfection. It is the oldest known gem, and for centuries it was considered the most valuable. Pearls have been considered ideal wedding gifts because they symbolize purity and innocence. In the Rigveda, an ancient Hindu book dating back to 1000 B.C. Krishna, the preserver, brought forth pearls from the depths of the sea to give to his daughter on her wedding day. Thus started the tradition of giving pearls to the bride.

The ancient Greeks also believed that pearls should be part of the wedding experience. They considered pearls to be the “wedding gem” because they believed that pearls would help ensure marital bliss and prevent newlywed brides from crying.

During the Crusades, gallant knights returning from the Holly Lands would bestow pearls to their “fair ladies” for their wedding days.

In the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries, pearls were at the height of wedding fashion with royal weddings in the French House of Burgundy taking place in a “sea of pearls”. Everyone from the bride to her male guests were adorned in glowing pearls.

From Queen Elizabeth I to our modern Queen Elizabeth II, the tradition of wearing pearls on the wedding day has continued. At the beginning of the 20th century, pearls were as much a nuptial gem in the United States as diamonds are today.

Today, the tradition of bestowing pearls upon the bride continues. Often the father of the bride or the groom gives the gift of pearls. Many brides give their bridesmaids pearl necklaces, bracelets or earrings too.

Wear pearls, pearls and more pearls

One of today’s hottest pearl styles is to wear multiple strands of pearls. To take your look from demure to dramatic, layer on the pearls! This sassy secret has worked wonders since the beginning of time. Imagine a cascade of pearl strands swinging over your simple black sheath or sweater set .

Mix different pearl sizes and lengths with reckless abandon (though keeping your pearls close in color produces the best effect). Multiple strands of pearls work for both day and evening. They look best with simple crew or V-necklines, although the adventurous may layer them flirtatiously in an unbuttoned neckline of a blouse or shirt.

Pink freshwater pearls

White isn’t the only Pearl color!

Pastel colors are in and pearls are available in natural colors that range from pink to peach to lavender. Multi strand pastel freshwater pearls in multiple colors with a large silver clasp are perfect summer evening wear. A single strand of pink or peach freshwater is fashion dynamite with a hot pink or peach bikini.

dangle black pearl earrings

Pearl Dangles are Hot!!! Long, swinging pearl earrings are the number one fashion choice. Sexy pearl chandelier styles are perfect for evening and long, geometric pearl earrings in white and yellow gold have become the look of choice for daytime. Sensuous, shoulder-sweeping pearl earrings create a feeling of glamour like nothing else!

Be A Polynesian Princess!

Clip on a strand of pearls, the only natural black pearl, and you’re an alluring tropical beauty fresh from a swim in a crystal clear lagoon. Pearls have base colors that range from black, gray, blue, green and brown with shimmering overtones of blue, pink, gold, silver, reddish purple (eggplant color) and peacock green. This richness of colors make them the diamonds of the pearl kingdom.

Pearl Bangles are Back

Arms are on the fashion fast track right now. Pearl bangles and pearl bracelets, big and small have taken center stage.

[Source: Pearl Oasis and Stella & Dot]

1. Go to www.StellaDot.com/Maryjane.
2. Towards the upper right of the screen, click on “Can’t make it to the party? Find your hostess.“.
3. When the “Lookup Your Host” screen appears, give the host name – First Name: Carline, Last Name: Vargas-Gonzalez.
4. When Carline Vargas-Gonzalez party appears, select my name and shop away! It’s that easy.

Spread the word! Invite your friends and family. So why not treat yourself for a Stella & Dot piece. Every girl deserves to feel special and glamorous.