The Spring Festival falls on the 1st day of the 1st lunar month, often one month later than the Gregorian calendar. It originated in the Shang Dynasty (c. 1600 BC-c. 1100 BC) from the people’s sacrifice to gods and ancestors at the end of an old year and the beginning of a new one.

Strictly speaking, the Spring Festival starts every year in the early days of the 12th lunar month and will last till the mid 1st lunar month of the next year. Of them, the most important days are Spring Festival Eve and the first three days. The Chinese government now stipulates people have seven days off for the Chinese Lunar New Year.

Many customs accompany the Spring Festival. Some are still followed today, but others have weakened.

On the 8th day of the 12th lunar month, many families make laba porridge, a delicious kind of porridge made with glutinous rice, millet, seeds of Job’s tears, jujube berries, lotus seeds, beans, longan and gingko.

The 23rd day of the 12th lunar month is called Preliminary Eve. At this time, people offer sacrifice to the kitchen god. Now however, most families make delicious food to enjoy themselves.

After the Preliminary Eve, people begin preparing for the coming New Year. This is called “Seeing the New Year in”.

Store owners are busy then as everybody goes out to purchase necessities for the New Year. Materials not only include edible oil, rice, flour, chicken, duck, fish and meat, but also fruit, candies and kinds of nuts. What’s more, various decorations, new clothes and shoes for the children as well as gifts for the elderly, friends and relatives, are all on the list of purchasing.

Before the New Year comes, the people completely clean the indoors and outdoors of their homes as well as their clothes, bedclothes and all their utensils.

Then people begin decorating their clean rooms featuring an atmosphere of rejoicing and festivity. All the door panels will be pasted with Spring Festival couplets, highlighting Chinese calligraphy with black characters on red paper. The content varies from house owners’ wishes for a bright future to good luck for the New Year. Also, pictures of the god of doors and wealth will be posted on front doors to ward off evil spirits and welcome peace and abundance.

The Chinese character “fu” (meaning blessing or happiness) is a must. The character put on paper can be pasted normally or upside down, for in Chinese the “reversed fu” is homophonic with “fu comes”, both being pronounced as “fudaole.” What’s more, two big red lanterns can be raised on both sides of the front door. Red paper-cuttings can be seen on window glass and brightly colored New Year paintings with auspicious meanings may be put on the wall.

People attach great importance to Spring Festival Eve. At that time, all family members eat dinner together. The meal is more luxurious than usual. Dishes such as chicken, fish and bean curd cannot be excluded, for in Chinese, their pronunciations, respectively “ji”, “yu” and “doufu,” mean auspiciousness, abundance and richness. After the dinner, the whole family will sit together, chatting and watching TV. In recent years, the Spring Festival party broadcast on China Central Television Station (CCTV) is essential entertainment for the Chinese both at home and abroad. According to custom, each family will stay up to see the New Year in.

Waking up on New Year, everybody dresses up. First they extend greetings to their parents. Then each child will get money as a New Year gift, wrapped up in red paper. People in northern China will eat jiaozi, or dumplings, for breakfast, as they think “jiaozi” in sound means “bidding farewell to the old and ushering in the new”. Also, the shape of the dumpling is like gold ingot from ancient China. So people eat them and wish for money and treasure.

Southern Chinese eat niangao (New Year cake made of glutinous rice flour) on this occasion, because as a homophone, niangao means “higher and higher, one year after another.” The first five days after the Spring Festival are a good time for relatives, friends, and classmates as well as colleagues to exchange greetings, gifts and chat leisurely.

Burning fireworks was once the most typical custom on the Spring Festival. People thought the spluttering sound could help drive away evil spirits. However, such an activity was completely or partially forbidden in big cities once the government took security, noise and pollution factors into consideration. As a replacement, some buy tapes with firecracker sounds to listen to, some break little balloons to get the sound too, while others buy firecracker handicrafts to hang in the living room.

The lively atmosphere not only fills every household, but permeates to streets and lanes. A series of activities such as lion dancing, dragon lantern dancing, lantern festivals and temple fairs will be held for days. The Spring Festival then comes to an end when the Lantern Festival is finished.

China has 56 ethnic groups. Although minorities have different customs, they celebrate their Spring Festival almost the same day as the Han people.

Tags: Misc.

Long hair styles are fun to do. Try this Grecian Up-do like the one pictured here. This style requires tons of curls, so if your hair isn’t naturally super curly, then you need to get to work curling it. Once you have curled, don’t let a brush touch your hair. Finger comb gently until you have a mop of curls. If you want to add a shine serum, now is the time. Next, section off a circle of hair at the rear crown to act as your base for the style. Tease, or back-brush, this section. Part it in the center and tease the inner parts, near the scalp. Bring the parts together and smooth the outer part of the base. Now twist this base in French twist fashion and secure with bobby pins. Use larger pins near the scalp to secure the base. Bring the rest of the hair up and pin it in place while you add the lacings (ribbon, silk cord, leather cord, etc). Start at the base of the twist and half knot, then criss cross with a half knot each time all the way around and up the twist. Then just fluff the curls around the lacing. You can pull a few tendrils around the face and on the nape of the neck for a little touch of romance. This is a soft, feminine look. Add some personal flair with a pretty hair stick or decorative hair clips.

A little pomade or gel can go a long way with medium to short hair. Slick it all back for a sleek, sophisticated look, or slick back sections for a little variety. For longer hair, use a clip to hold the hair up and back. Slick back one side or section of hair and fluff the hair in the loose section. Use a little get or mousse and finger curl the loose section, creating a dramatic style that will go all evening. You can add crystal hair clips to give the style a little kick or pull through a little funky color like red or blue. The most important thing is to have fun.

Tousled hair is definitely always a hit. It is also probably the easiest to do. Apply mousse or gel to clean, damp hair (you may also want to apply a root lifter if your hair lacks body) and, while it is damp, take small sections, twist them and lay them on your head. Use a diffuser on your dryer and dry the twists, leaving them twisted. You may lift at the roots a little to you’re your style some body. When the hair is dry, gently loosen the twists with your fingers and finger comb into the style you want, shaking and fluffing as you go.

The possibilities are endless! Just remember to check your do both coming and going. I come from the ’80s big hair era and I remember the girls who teased and styled their hair in the front, but completely forgot that their head had a back side, which was usually left totally flat. Check your style from all angles and don’t be afraid to try something new. Hair accessories like combs, hair sticks and decorative hair pins are great additions to your hair wardrobe and can add so much to your look. So go ahead! Play!

Tags: Hair Styling

It is likely that your old winter wear is out of date and getting old, so why not treat yourself this winter season with something new, fashionable, and exiting like fur hats. A new fur hat is a great way to complement, add style, and make an otherwise dreary winter season seem so much better. You could get several different fur hats and change up it daily, to match your mood or your outfit.

Fur hats come in many different styles and colors. Look stylish in blue, purple, white, pink, or even leopard print. These fur hats could also be the perfect Christmas gift for the picky person or that stylin’ diva in your family or group of friends. Your winter outdoor wear does not have to be the traditional greys or blacks, spice up your wardrobe with some great, colorful, and very fashionable fur hats.

Not only will look great, but you will feel great as well. Keep your ears and head warm this winter season with fur hats. If the fur hats are a Christmas gift for a loved one, consider making it a full set with a pair of matching gloves and a scarf. Fur hats are great for a night on the town in the cold winter air, going to work, school, or even on that fun weekend ski trip. Keep warm, look great, and feel great this winter with your choice of colorful fur hats.

Tags: Get the Look

Stylish and unique are two words I would use to describe these gloves for many reasons. You can purchase several and have a pair of colored leather gloves to match your outfit. You could have a pair for that fun red coat you wear during the day and change it up with a more subtle color of off white or even a mixture of browns and pinks for a night on the town.

You can find colored leather gloves in almost any color you could imagine. Such as pink with a dark red cuff, olive with an off-white cuff, brown, lime green, yellow, black, and any other color you might be able to dream up. These gloves can also be found in a mixture of colors, which is great if you want to liven things up a little bit.

These gloves are both classy and stylish, many have faux fur lining the cuffs, which might be of the same color or different colors to add some flair to your winter wear. Colored leather gloves do have their advantages; one is the ability to protect your hands during the harsh winter cold, snow, and ice. Nothing is worse than cold hands and trying to keep them warm.

To many people winter wear is not a welcoming wardrobe addition. Usually, winter wear is big, bulky, and very unappealing. However, it does not have to be that way, with these colored leather gloves; you do not have to worry about looking or feeling drab. You will delight in the fact that you are still stylish and looking fabulous. All the while, your hands will be nice and warm, protected from all the elements.

Tags: Get the Look

You might also be on a tight budget and have an enormous amount of stress when it comes to shopping for gifts, which is something millions of people in the world have to deal with. This Christmas while you are thinking about a fabulous gift, why not consider a great pair or two of leather gloves or mittens.

Pigskin Leather Suede Gloves

Pigskin Suede Leather Mittens w/ Two-tone Fur Cuff

Leather gloves or mittens can make a great Christmas gift for many reasons. Not only are they thoughtful, but they are also useful, stylish, and easy on the wallet. You can find gloves or mittens perfect for any person from the young to the old, the diva to the stud, and the rich to the poor. Everyone needs gloves during the winter, so why not make it a fabulous Christmas gift.

Pigskin Suede Leather Gloves w/ Love Knot

Lambskin Leather Mittens w/ Rabbit Fur Cuff

Consider a set, maybe a hat, scarf, and a matching pair of leather gloves or mittens. For that special someone, you could buy a pair of leather gloves or mittens, and combine it with a special ski trip. Ski trips are a little expensive, but get creative. You might think that a simple pair of gloves will not make a great Christmas gift but it really can be if you put some thought into it.

Leopard Pattern Fur Hat

Gradient Bohemian Style Long Fringed Mesh Shawl

Place a great pair of gloves in a box with a handmade certificate for a snowball fight or building a snowman. For lovers, place a pair of gloves in a box, with two wine glasses, a bottle of wine, and a handmade certificate for a romantic evening in front of the fireplace. There is no limit to what you can do. Even if you do not want to combine the gift with something else, leather gloves or mitten make a great Christmas gift because they are useful and thoughtful during the harsh winter season.

Tags: Misc.

This stunning Tibetan hand beaded necklace features seed beads, acrylic beads and china beads. The pendant has a china center and beaded tassels extending from the bottom. It is a colorful accent for any outfit and a fun piece to wear.

This unusual piece features yak bone and hemp. The colorful beads are made from yak bone and the hemp is woven through them. It is completely hand made.

The natural stone beads in the colorful Tibetan style three strand necklace will wake up any outfit. It is dressy enough to wear with a dress, but casual enough to wear with jeans. It is a go anywhere piece.

This gorgeous piece is made of Tibetan silver and coral simulated stone. The silver drops are elegant lilies and the colored stones set it off with just enough color to keep it interesting and fun. Wear it anywhere, even for evening.

A unique take on an old classic, this Tibetan style bracelet strongly resembles the old style charm bracelet. Made from Tibetan silver and turquoise simulated natural stone beads, this bracelet features drops interspersed through the beads with silver and turquoise stone drops.

This is a unique, handmade turquoise colored yak bone necklace. It is a strong, bold piece that is a confident statement for your wardrobe.

Whatever style you choose, Tibetan jewelry is truly unique and fun to wear. Find some pieces that you like and experiment. You will be hooked.

Tags: Ethnic Tribal Jewelry

Try brass drop heart earrings that feature little brass butterflies dangling in the center. Each butterfly is adorned with tiny orange glass beads and a green crystal. The hearts hang from an orange glass heart which in hanging from brass ear wires. These Indian inspired earring are very complimentary to just about any style you can imagine.

Tibetan silver, turquoise chips and leather come together to create this unique choker that could actually be two bracelets. Tibetan silver accents the rugged beauty of this leather bracelet. It is almost primal in its construction, but its rustic beauty is unmatched. It is paired with the Tibetan silver and turquoise chip bracelet which brings some refinement to the piece. Wear them together as a choker or individually for beautiful bracelets, this could be striking every day wear.

This simpler style of ethnic jewelry may be less ornate but that does not detract from its beauty. Polished green stones dangle from antique gold chain in the necklace and the matching earrings feature antique gold rings and the polished green stones. This is a simple, ethnic treasure.

Try ethnic jewelry for yourself. If you are shy, start simple before you go all out. Try a pair of earrings or a more simple style of necklace then graduate up. You might be surprised at how drawn you are to the style. There is a certain feeling of freedom and creativity when you venture into the more natural, rustic styles of handmade jewelry that celebrates customs and people and regions.

Tags: Ethnic Tribal Jewelry

Traditionally, tiaras were only associated with brides and beauty pageant winners, but that is changing. Stars are dusting off their tiaras and wearing them on the red carpet. Fashion conscious “common folk” are wearing them to dinner and out on the town. You don’t have to be royalty to enjoy wearing a tiara and you don’t have to be a celebrity. You just have to have a sense of style that is fun, sophisticated and unique.

Mini tiaras are also a huge smash. Use this unique and classy hair jewelry to accent an updo. Taking a top knot from ho hum to how do you do? This is the ultimate hair accessory. It can go with evening styles, jeans, even suits and dresses. Pair a pretty tiara with some pearls and a little black dress. Think Audrey Hepburn and you have a classic look that is truly timeless.

For an elegant look, pull up hair into an upsweep. Leave lots of loose tendrils to cascade around your face. You may even want to add some hair extensions in the back to give the look an even more romantic feel.

Tiara styles can range from a look resembling a crown to a small, simple band of silver and crystals. Some tiaras feature pearl, sapphires and other gems in addition to the crystals. It is just a matter of taste and your own personal style. Some tiaras can be very simple while other can be quite intricate with tiny etchings, crystal flowers and complex designs.

Tags: Hair Jewelry Expo

Boxwood. This small tree bears a wood that has a fine even texture which is perfect for carving. Its natural finish is a warm yellow-brown. The texture of the wood is very smooth and fine thus lending a silky sheen when polished or worked.

Peachwood. The peach is very symbolic in many cultures. It represents luck, abundance, protection and a long life. The wood is slightly coarse, but easily polished to a lustrous sheen. The rich colors of peachwood may vary from green to brown to amber and the grain is very easily seen.

Lignum-Vitae. This ultra dense, easily carved wood comes in colors ranging from black greens to velvety browns. Known as the “tree of life,” its fine grain turns out beautiful carvings. It is easily manipulated and the rich grain polishes to a radiant gloss.

Hand carved wood hair sticks or hair accessories are elegant compliments to a wardrobe. The add class, color, uniqueness and an air of sophistication that conventional hair jewelry simply can not touch. To hold these hair sticks in your hand, to feel the smoothness of the finely polished surface and to be able to see the intricate detail in the carvings is truly an experience. There is something about handmade jewelry that makes it personal and special and hair jewelry is no different. When you pair natural wood with intricate hand carvings you do indeed get something personal and very special.

Tags: Hair Jewelry Expo

Tags: Misc.

Try breezy tunics over pants, lettings or flowing skirts, add a funky belt and some fun jewelry and you have the look! Think gypsy, think hippie, think free. Vintage jewelry works well into the Bohemian ensemble. Organic, earthy, ethnic and vintage are all part of the Bohemian fashion style. This is a sharp, artistic look that shows off your creative flair and individuality. Although Bohemia is no longer, the style that originated from its artistic, creative people lives on. Now you can have the creative and fun look with some gauzy cotton tops and skirts and ethnic jewelry.

Many celebrities have adopted the Bohemian look as their personal style. As long as you keep it neat and wear clothes that fit (loose and breezy is fine, frumpy and huge are not) you can not go wrong. Start small with, perhaps a pretty necklace and earrings. Next try a long, flowing cotton skirt and then move to the full look from top to bottom. Sandals and fun, “off-the-wall” shoes really compliment the look. Hair is loose and natural or pulled loosely up while makeup is barely there. Once you try the fresh, fun look of Bohemian fashion, you won’t want to go back. It a “on-style” that has a style all its own.

Tags: Ethnic Tribal Jewelry

Mini Tiara From CrystalMood.com

Pull long hair into a pony tail and secure the mini tiara at the base of the pony tail.  This is a fun, new way to pull our hair back.  The tiara accents the style with a little glitz and glam, but all they really see is you.  This is perfect for daytime wear.

Mini Tiara From CrystalMood.com

Accent a chignon or up do with a mini tiara.  Wrap the tiara around a twist or chignon to help secure it as well as accent it.  This is an elegant style for evening wear, dinner and balls.  It is fast, easy and oh so sophisticated!

Mini Tiara From CrystalMood.com

Short hair can get in on the action by securing the tiara off to the side of the head, usually near the rear crown.  If you are afraid that the combs will not hold it, use pins to secure the tiara in place.  Tousel your short hair around the tiara a little and you have an elegant look for evening, but it works for day wear as well.

Mini Tiara From CrystalMood.com

Try the mini tiara and discover the princess in yourself.  Choose a ultra glittery, rhinestone laden one or a simpler, more sedated version.  Whatever style you decide to wear you will be very pleased with the effect.  You will indeed look like a princess.  These mini tiaras are a great way to look like royalty without having to worry about having a castle to clean or a country to run.

Tags: Hair Jewelry Expo

2. Pull up the end of the ponytail and flip it into the passway.

3. Pull the ponytail down and then add some clips/clamps/claws as you like.

4. You can even develop it further by flip the end of the ponytail back to the passway again. Since the length of the hair is getting short, you need to apply some hair styling gel to hold the position. Finally,put a big comb in the middle to secure the style.

Tags: Hair Styling

2. Make a single knot. If your hair is too smooth to make a knot, you can put some hair styling gel on.

3. Put both ends of the hair back into the knot. Some hair may come out from the knot but this is normal and cna add some style to you knot.

4. Use the hair stick set to secure the hair style

Tags: Hair Styling

The plum flower hair stick has two porcelain plum flowers gracing a refractory china stick. The stick is crafted to appear as though it is a branch gently cradling the flowers. You can see every detail, every nuance. In another style the china branch embraces two charming pink peonies or cherry blossoms. Yet another style offers a pair of roses still on the stem – minus the thorns, of course. These hair accessories are so simple yet so very elegant. They simply cry to be worn.

Plum

Peony

Cheery Blossom / Sakura

Refractory China Hair Sticks from CrystalMood.com

Other styles feature the plum flowers, still on the branch with buds cascading down on the end of delicate tassels. These tassels give the illusion that the buds are free floating in your hair. It is a gorgeous effect. You can wear these hair sticks with any outfit. They will take your rattiest jeans from grunge to glam and wake up that little black dress. You can show off your own unique style and taste and know that you are wearing something that is rare and exclusive because they are hand made. Try these exceptional china hair sticks and make the style your own.

Plum w/ Tassels

Rose

Tags: Hair Jewelry Expo

]]> http://blog.crystalmood.com/24/beauty-in-detail-tempt-your-tresses-with-the-unique-and-beautiful/feed/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/19/oriental-taste-2-the-color/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/19/oriental-taste-2-the-color/#comments Sat, 22 Jul 2006 23:37:00 +0000 Big Bunny Get the Look http://blog.crystalmood.com/2006/07/22/oriental-taste-2-the-color/

Tags: Get the Look

]]> http://blog.crystalmood.com/19/oriental-taste-2-the-color/feed/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/15/hair-styling-diy-3/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/15/hair-styling-diy-3/#comments Sat, 22 Jul 2006 22:41:37 +0000 Big Bunny Hair Styling http://blog.crystalmood.com/2006/07/22/hair-styling-diy-3/ 1. Start by gathering all the hair into a ponytail and give it a few twists.

2. As you twist, lift the ponytail up over your head. Continue twisting the entire time, until the length of hair is completely twisted.

3. Hold the end of the ponytail with your right hand; hold the middle of the ponytail with your left hand. Make a loop and tuck the length under the twist with your right hand.

4. Use a large comb to secure the loop at the side. Use a smaller hairpin to secure the two sides of the loop together at the top of the French Twist.

 

Tags: Hair Styling

]]> http://blog.crystalmood.com/15/hair-styling-diy-3/feed/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/14/hair-styling-diy-2/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/14/hair-styling-diy-2/#comments Wed, 19 Jul 2006 22:16:46 +0000 Big Bunny Hair Styling http://blog.crystalmood.com/2006/07/19/hair-styling-diy-2/ 1. Gather hair into a pony tail as high as possible. Pull it through a elastic band and braid your hair.

2. Hold the tail of the braid and then twist the braid in anticlockwise direction. Let the loosen hair to come out naturally.

3. Let the braid tail high up and fix it with hair clip or clamp.

4. Or, you can have a different look by using the clamp to hold the braid knot in the front.

 

Tags: Hair Styling

]]> http://blog.crystalmood.com/14/hair-styling-diy-2/feed/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/23/the-look-of-fall-styles-for-the-fall-2006-season/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/23/the-look-of-fall-styles-for-the-fall-2006-season/#comments Wed, 19 Jul 2006 22:15:55 +0000 CrystalMood Get the Look http://blog.crystalmood.com/2006/07/19/the-look-of-fall-styles-for-the-fall-2006-season/ Fall is quickly approaching and with the changing of the seasons, a changing of the wardrobe is usually in order. Classic pieces are always safe to include in your fall ensembles, but you should personalize and update your look by adding pieces that are trendy and currently on the runways. Watching designer’s such as Calvin Klein, Marc Jacobs, Vera Wang and Luca Luca have set the tone for fashion and style for the world. By observing the New York runways you can get a feel for what the next season will bring. You can fit into the fashion world, it is just a tweed jacket away.

Calvin Klein is showing his softer side with filmy dresses and softer jackets and pants. We are seeing lots of skirts on the runway, but he is keeping the look pretty monochromatic and dark. Burgundy, black and brown seem to be his colors of choice. But the ties look very cool! Marc Jacobs goes a little funkier with some prints and a somewhat brighter colors like golds and reds. He is using knits and pairing them with contrasting colors to make a sharp, fun look while Vera Wang opts for class and glamour. Her sophisticated, elegant looks for fall incorporate softer textures and diffused color. Her dresses are flowing, styles chic and hip and the accessories like gloves and hats are just to die for! Luca Luca brings light to fall with ensembles that shine. Winter white, taupe and beige is accented with black, burgundy and brown. Classic, “real woman” styles include pencil skirts, coat dresses and trousers with, are you ready? Suspenders!

Fall accessories are stronger, heavier, but colors can go from muted neutrals to bright primaries. Pearls never go out of style and are appropriate for any season. Natural, organic materials like wood, are striking as accessories with hot fall looks. Try gloves or a funky hat. Both are showing up on the runway this year. Boots in every shape and color are making a huge splash as well. It is looking as if boots are the one fashion accessory that you can not do without. Try them with trousers or skirts. The guidelines are simple: create your own personal style. Try a hot looking, bejeweled hair stick in your up-do, or accent a bone colored turtleneck with some chunky wood beads. Be colorful, be classy, but, most of all, be you.

Tags: Get the Look

]]> http://blog.crystalmood.com/23/the-look-of-fall-styles-for-the-fall-2006-season/feed/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/22/hair-styling-diy-1/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/22/hair-styling-diy-1/#comments Wed, 19 Jul 2006 06:05:21 +0000 Big Bunny Hair Styling http://blog.crystalmood.com/2006/07/19/hair-styling-diy-1/ 1.Set a high up ponytail and hold it with a elastic band

2. Make a spiral disk with the ponytail. Simply twist the hair and guide it to form a disk. Tip: twist hardly.

3. Put the tip of the ponytail into the spiral disk. Then use a Stick to tick out some hair from the outerlayer of the spiral disk from the bottom. Then pull the stick up and insert it into the spiral disk.
Note: make sure your hair stick will first get into the disk, then press down to go through the hair under the disk (you should be able to feel the stick is very close to the scalp), then again lift it up a little bit to come out from the other end of  the disk.

You may add one more stick to secure to disk.

Tags: Hair Styling

]]> http://blog.crystalmood.com/22/hair-styling-diy-1/feed/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/18/oriental-taste-1-traditional/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/18/oriental-taste-1-traditional/#comments Sun, 16 Jul 2006 12:05:55 +0000 Big Bunny Get the Look http://blog.crystalmood.com/2006/07/16/oriental-taste-1-traditional/

Tags: Get the Look

]]> http://blog.crystalmood.com/18/oriental-taste-1-traditional/feed/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/21/tribal-look-bride/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/21/tribal-look-bride/#comments Sat, 15 Jul 2006 04:15:28 +0000 CrystalMood Perfect Bride http://blog.crystalmood.com/2006/07/14/tribal-look-bride/ Instead of traditional western or oriental style wedding dress, this lady chooses one with strong Tibetan flavor along with Tibetan hair accessories and jewelry for her wedding photos.

 

Tags: Perfect Bride

]]> http://blog.crystalmood.com/21/tribal-look-bride/feed/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/13/your-many-moods-a-simple-change-in-your-hair-can-transform-your-entire-look/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/13/your-many-moods-a-simple-change-in-your-hair-can-transform-your-entire-look/#comments Sat, 15 Jul 2006 01:53:29 +0000 CrystalMood Hair Styling http://blog.crystalmood.com/2006/07/14/your-many-moods-a-simple-change-in-your-hair-can-transform-your-entire-look/ My daughter is 14 years old. When she wears he hair natural (it is slightly wavy) she looks about 14. But when she pulls it up, my husband gets real nervous! She looks about 18 years old! It is amazing how simple, subtle changes in your hair or accessories can transform your look. Funky, colorful hair pins accenting thick braids gives a fun look. Relaxed and fashionable, but not trying too hard. This is a jeans and t-shirt look, a fun, playful skirt and top look, a “just you” look.

A wide headband is a much cooler, and cuter, way to conceal a bad hair day. It is a very versatile and fun look, but gives just a hint of youthful sophistication. Choose a headband in a color that matches your outfit and a texture that is different and fun.

 

Ah, the double ponytail! How youthful, how fun! This whimsical style takes your look in a completely different direction. You are relaxed, approachable, girlish, but sexy. You can pull up sections of your hair to create the ponytails or you can use all your hair. Make one ponytail, two, the feel is fun. For a little softness, pull some strands from your bangs and let them hang on your forehead.

An upswept style is sophisticated, sexy and very glamorous. Use a glittery hair stick or comb to secure the style. Try French knots, braids, chignons. Any style that bears the nape of the neck is very sensual. Allowing a few tendrils to fringe the face and neck adds to the romance. You can go for understated elegance and use low-key hair accessories, or you can go all-out Hollywood and apply all the glitter and glitz. How far you take it is up to you.

A well considered hairstyle can take an ordinary outfit to a wow fashion statement. A little black dress can be more casual with a wide headband (for some added pop, try a contrasting color like red or yellow) or it can go glamorous with an upsweep secured by a jeweled hair stick.

Girls with short hair should not miss out on the fun, though. Funky, colorful barrettes, wide headbands and even glittery combs can be used with very short hair. Use gel or pomade to slick back the hair and keep it down. Just play, have fun, experiment! Cut out photos of styles that you like and recreate them yourself. If you don’t feel like you can do it on your own, your hair stylist can be a powerful (and informative) ally. Adventure awaits!

Tags: Hair Styling

]]> http://blog.crystalmood.com/13/your-many-moods-a-simple-change-in-your-hair-can-transform-your-entire-look/feed/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/12/class-or-flash-dressing-up-the-little-black-dress/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/12/class-or-flash-dressing-up-the-little-black-dress/#comments Thu, 13 Jul 2006 09:45:05 +0000 CrystalMood Get the Look http://blog.crystalmood.com/2006/07/13/class-or-flash-dressing-up-the-little-black-dress/ The little black dress is a timeless classic. It can fit almost any occasion. Every girl should have one. True, your mother had a little black dress, so did her mother, and her mother probably did as well. It is not a crime to “dress like your mother,” but it should be a crime to neglect putting your own personal touches and flair to your little black dress. It can be as classic and understated or flashy as you wish. All it takes is a little fashion know-how and a few well selected accessories and you are good to go. Choose a dress that can not be “dated” if you want a piece that if truly versatile and classic. Plain black with a short or medium sleeve is optimum. However, if you plan to pair it with a jacket for the office or a wrap for more formal occasions, sleeveless is acceptable as well.

You can’t go wrong with pearls. A simple string of pearls can give your little black dress a smart touch of class. Whether you choose a single strand of pearls or several strands, the look is classic and enduring. Matching earrings complete the look. However, if you want a little taste of glam, glitter and glitz is the way to go. Crystals , rhinestones and shiny metals take the look up a notch. Long, dangling, crystal earrings and striking focals give your look glamorous and elegant. To take your look to a trendier level, opt for chunkier, colorful accessories. Wear a colorful hair stick in your hair or try some large earrings. A splash of color can give the little black dress a fresh new look.

Much more than just the dress, this look, like any other, incorporates shoes, hosiery, jewelry and hair accessories to make a total fashion statement. This can go in so many directions, one can become giddy with excitement over the possibilities. The monochromatic look, black dress, black hose and black shoes are “safe” and quite elegant. Accented with pearls it goes sophisticated, with crystals, glamorous. However, colored hose with the dress and shoes the same color and you have a trendy look. Another fun, fashionable look is to add flashy shoes like red or fuscia to the black dress and hose.

Every wardrobe should be equipped with this essential fashion item. With the versatility and timelessness of the little black dress, the possibilities are endless.

Tags: Get the Look

]]> http://blog.crystalmood.com/12/class-or-flash-dressing-up-the-little-black-dress/feed/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/11/handcrafted-hair-accessory-wood-facts/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/11/handcrafted-hair-accessory-wood-facts/#comments Tue, 11 Jul 2006 03:50:00 +0000 CrystalMood Organic Jewelry http://blog.crystalmood.com/2006/07/10/handcrafted-hair-accessory-wood-facts/ Boxwood
Boxwood is a small tree and shrub. Due to the limited size of the material, it is rarely used for full-sized pieces of furniture, but more often for small, carved objects or as decorative inlay. Boxwood is very durable and dense (.83-.93 g/cm3), and its fine even texture makes it especially suitable for carving.

Numerous varieties, which all produce material of similar characteristics, are widely distributed throughout China; noted timber varieties are also harvested in Hubei, Jiangxi, and Sichuan. The tree grows very slowly, with some varieties reaching only 10-15 cm diameter after 100 years; forests of Laoshan in Shandong produce boxwood trees with diameters reaching 30 cm.

The sapwood and heartwood of boxwood are indistinguishable, and their freshly cut pale-yellow color turns to a warm brownish-yellow tone after exposure. Because of its extremely small vessel cells, the texture is exceptionally smooth and fine, and the surface polishes to a silky luster like ivory. More Boxwood Products

Boxwood Butterfly Hair Stick

Boxwood Pheonix Hair Stick

Boxwood Ribbon Hair Stick

Lignum-vitae Wood
“Wood of Life”. Lignum-vitae is an extremely dense wood which sinks in water. It is one of the heaviest densest wood in the world. Beautiful black green and brown grain. Turns like plastic in the lathe. The fine texture of the wood grain is especially suitable for intricate carving. It features slight sandalwood fragrance. Lignum-vitae has a yellowish green color when it’s freshly cut and turns to dark green gradually while under sunshine or light for 24 hours or more. It contains rish protein which causes white crystalized stuff on the surface sometimes. People often thinks it got moldy. But they won’t smell anything unpleasant. Actually the color changing and white crystal are two important facts that differ this kind of rare wood from faked ones. More Lignum-vitae Products

Lignum-vitae Bamboo Hair Stick

Lignum-vitae Plum Tree Hair Stick

Lignum-vitae Yulan Hair Stick

Peachwood
In China, it’s said the peach offers symbolic and magical value, an ancient symbol of fertility and a modern omen. The very name, “tao fu,” means omen and it means wood. A peach signifies luck, abundance and protection; in pictures, embroideries, and calendars, it speaks to living long. An elderly Buddha is often seen holding one and a peach-wood staff. The wood is an amulet, a peach pit worn around the neck to drive off demons. More Peachwood Products

Peachwood Plum Hair Stick

Peachwood Poeny Hair Stick

Peachwood Curved Hair Stick

First posted at CrystalMood.com

Tags: Organic Jewelry

]]> http://blog.crystalmood.com/11/handcrafted-hair-accessory-wood-facts/feed/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/5/jewelry-overkill-how-to-avoid-it-on-your-wedding-day/ http://blog.crystalmood.com/5/jewelry-overkill-how-to-avoid-it-on-your-wedding-day/#comments Sat, 08 Jul 2006 07:19:27 +0000 CrystalMood Perfect Bride http://blog.crystalmood.com/2006/07/08/jewelry-overkill-how-to-avoid-it-on-your-wedding-day/  

It is your wedding day and everything is perfect. You are a picture perfect bride, your groom is a total babe in his tux. The dress, the shoes, everything is just as it should be, except for one small detail. Just what kind of jewelry do you wear on your wedding day? What kind of jewelry is special enough for your special day, but doesn’t make you look as if you are going clubbing? How do you find jewelry that is appropriate for bridal wear but reflects your own personal style? And what if you are going down a non-traditional wedding road?

If you are still reading this then chances are good that you are not a “garden variety” bride - or you don’t want to be. You want to show your true colors, show your savvy sense of style when you walk down the aisle. So, let’s talk about this a bit. Of course, pearls are always safe.They are pretty, demure, conventional. OK, fine, we can keep the pearls, it is sort of a “bride-like” thing to do. But let’s throw in some Swarovski crystals. Better yet, how about some colored Swarovski crystals? Maybe add some silver or gold in the mix. Shop around and see what you like. Find several styles or design concepts that appeal to you and go visit a jewelry designer. It is not as expensive as you may think.

Vintage Bridal Necklace Earring Set
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Cleopatra’s Secret Swarovski Crystal Necklace Earring Set
Click on the Photo to Buy Directly from CrystalMood.com

When I married my husband we had a pretty non-traditional wedding. We grabbed my three teenagers, my mom, my best girlfriend and her daughter and we went to visit the justice of the peace. I wore a red oriental print “street” dress with a tan wrap. My shoes were an awesome red satin with crystal accents and a crystal studded silver chain around my ankle. I was momentarily at a loss as to what to wear for jewelry. I finally found a pair of red stone bead earrings that really completed the look. My friend wore the traditional wedding dress when she married. She wanted something “different”. After looking all over town we happened upon a very unique choker made from a brocade type ribbon. It had pearl and crystal studs accenting it and tiny black pearls draped randomly. It was beautiful. She balanced the strong look with a similar bracelet and more subtle, but matching earrings.

Indian Gold Plated Kundan Necklace Earring Set for an Ethnic Look
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The key to accessorizing your wedding attire, or any other outfit, is to not have too much going on. If you have a strong necklace, opt for less flashy earrings. By keeping the look balanced and having only one focal point, the eye is not confused by the chaos of having to look at all the busy focals at the same time. Choose one strong piece and build your other accessories around. Remember the purse or bag, the earrings, bracelets, necklace, let it all work together to create the finished, polished look that is totally you.

Multi-Colored Swarovski Crystal Rhinestone Bridal Bangle Bracelet
Click on the Photo to Buy Directly from CrystalMood.com

Tags: Perfect Bride

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