It is that time of year again, when a little notice comes in the mail to remind me that my car needs a checkup. So I book an appointment for early in the morning, in hopes that my car will be returned to me by noon. I jump out of bed at 6:50am throw on some clothing, hop into the car and get it to the garage. Fortunately, the garage is only a 10 minute walk from my home, so instead of taking a taxi back, I opt for walking home.
The time is now 7:15 am and I am strolling through the streets of Raanana and enjoying the relative quiet on the roads. I begin to rub my arms and feel a burning feeling. Wondering what it could be, I look down and see nothing - not a bee, mosquito nor any bug in site. It is hard to believe but it is true, the burning feeling I am having at 7:15 in the morning is coming directly from the sun. Yes, while many of you have not even begun your day, I am already being fried. The sun is so hot and strong that I feel no amount of SPF will block the shining rays.
So it made me wonder:
How should we dress to protect ourselves from the sun and yet not feel too hot?
- Wear loose-fitting clothes that will allow perspiration (a whole other topic) to evaporate freely- muumuu like
- Cover as much of your body as possible
- Colors: the light colors reflect heat away from the body and keep you cool, but darker colors protect you better from UV rays: find a balance
- Wear a hat, one that provides shade to your face (preferably with a 2-3 inch brim)
- Make sure your sunglasses have UV protection
- Always wear sun cream
Yes, you may need to compromise a little on fashion for the next few weeks, but do not worry. With many companies starting fashion friendly /sun smart lines of clothes, it won’t be long before you will be looking SUNsational.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Legs, Legs and More Legs
With all the uncertainty on Wall Street these days, here is one thing you can be sure is on its way up:HEMLINES. They seem to be getting shorter and shorter these days, don't they? Maybe this is because short skirts have less material and therefore cost less (we wish), or maybe the explanation is even more straightforward: Short skirts make us feel good, even happy, and they are a reminder of our youth, when life was simple and carefree.
Yet as many of us hover around the age of forty, we can not help but wonder: Are we too old to wear a mini-skirt? Should we steer away from those shorter hemlines because we don't want to look like we are trying too hard to look young?
Basically, it comes down to this: How old is too old to wear a mini-skirt?
The answer is simple:
Unless you are religiously observant, and refrain from wearing short skirts for reasons of modesty, then you are not too old to wear a mini-skirt, as long as you follow these basic rules: (click on the link)
www.helium.com/items/1119378-mini-skirts-age-women-mature-fashion-style -
If you do decide to reach for that higher hemline, just be sure not to forget to shave, wax or laser and then apply plenty of moisturizer. And then have fun showing off those legs.
Yet as many of us hover around the age of forty, we can not help but wonder: Are we too old to wear a mini-skirt? Should we steer away from those shorter hemlines because we don't want to look like we are trying too hard to look young?
Basically, it comes down to this: How old is too old to wear a mini-skirt?
The answer is simple:
Unless you are religiously observant, and refrain from wearing short skirts for reasons of modesty, then you are not too old to wear a mini-skirt, as long as you follow these basic rules: (click on the link)
www.helium.com/items/1119378-mini-skirts-age-women-mature-fashion-style -
If you do decide to reach for that higher hemline, just be sure not to forget to shave, wax or laser and then apply plenty of moisturizer. And then have fun showing off those legs.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Swim Wear That Flatters
It was a great beach day, so I took my boys out of school (they are not missing much anyway), packed up the car and drove to the coast in Herzliya. We carried our stuff and settled down on several lounge chairs underneath umbrellas (I try to stay out of the sun to avoid wrinkles, aging and skin cancer). The beach was perfect, the sky was clear, the sand was white and the water, aside from the many jellyfish, was simply delightful.
After a quick dip in the Mediterranean, I sat myself down to enjoy the view, but I could not help but be distracted by the many - and I mean many - women strutting about in the worst possible choices of swimwear. I am not talking so much about design as about fit and style. When you need to put Vaseline on your limbs to squeeze in to something, or when you are in a bikini and much of your body is flowing over, I find myself gazing at these strangers and thinking: “you have made the wrong choice.”
Then I am always left with a Shakespearean dilemma: to stare or not to stare. Clearly, I should not stare - it is rude, not nice and if the woman sees me staring it will only make her feel great, as she will assume that she looks good, so by staring I am just reinforcing bad behavior.
I am all for great body image and for women feeling good about themselves no matter what size they are. But we all need to be realistic and make choices that are flattering and appropriate.
For tips on how to choose a bathing suit that will flatter, check out www.shine.yahoo.com/event/the-thread/swimsuits-that-flatter-every-body-type-471364/
After a quick dip in the Mediterranean, I sat myself down to enjoy the view, but I could not help but be distracted by the many - and I mean many - women strutting about in the worst possible choices of swimwear. I am not talking so much about design as about fit and style. When you need to put Vaseline on your limbs to squeeze in to something, or when you are in a bikini and much of your body is flowing over, I find myself gazing at these strangers and thinking: “you have made the wrong choice.”
Then I am always left with a Shakespearean dilemma: to stare or not to stare. Clearly, I should not stare - it is rude, not nice and if the woman sees me staring it will only make her feel great, as she will assume that she looks good, so by staring I am just reinforcing bad behavior.
I am all for great body image and for women feeling good about themselves no matter what size they are. But we all need to be realistic and make choices that are flattering and appropriate.
For tips on how to choose a bathing suit that will flatter, check out www.shine.yahoo.com/event/the-thread/swimsuits-that-flatter-every-body-type-471364/
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Underwear, a Private Matter
When my Russian-born grandmother once told me to always make sure to be wearing clean underwear, I assumed she was referring to the possibility of being involved in a potential accident or some other kind of terrible event which would require an emergency responder to see my undergarments.
But after an entirely different kind of incident the other day, all I can say is: wow! - my grandmother really saw the future, and it is a future where I can not help but ask myself: why?
There I was, sitting with a friend and enjoying a cup of coffee at a cafe, when I saw this:
But after an entirely different kind of incident the other day, all I can say is: wow! - my grandmother really saw the future, and it is a future where I can not help but ask myself: why?
There I was, sitting with a friend and enjoying a cup of coffee at a cafe, when I saw this:
Now, as its name implies, underwear is meant to be worn under. In case that isn't clear, allow me to explain it even more bluntly: the rest of us should not see it. Not in public and especially not while at a cafe sipping a latte.
Even though underwear is a private matter, I still do have a couple of opinions, for you men out there, about it:
1. If you prefer briefs, the tidy whites are the ONLY way to go
2. If you are a boxer kind of man, then go for it: crazy colors, patterns and designs are always fun
But whatever your preference, please do us all a favor and keep them undercover.
And for those handymen and plumbers among you, here is a simple, yet important tip: get yourself some work overalls - that is what they are for!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Mercaz Shuster, Ramat Aviv Gimmel
Most people, shoppers and eaters alike, have heard of the Ramat Aviv Mall, but only a few of you may be familiar with the nearby Shuster Shopping Center. It is located just north of the mall next to the local country club. It has been around forever and is well-known among Israelis, both for its wonderful boutiques and places to eat. Although the center is run-down a bit, it is nonetheless quite charming in a too much sun, humidity and seawater sort of way.
That said, here are several of my favorite shops at the Shuster Center:
1. Emanuel: although this is a chain, this location has the full collection
2. Tootsie: Fine leather goods
3. InStyle: Great T-shirts
4. Ada 2:
5. Fit In:
6. Liat: funky and edgy
7. Fanoman:
8. Emanuel:
Many of the stores shout "kitsch", but if you take your time you will find many great pieces, including T-shirts, dresses, tunics, bathing suits and exercise clothes.
While you are at it, you can also enjoy some of the Center's nice cafés, all of which have indoor and outdoor seating. In addition, there is a branch of my favorite pizzeria in Israel: Pizzafino (the other location is on Ben Yehuda street in Tel Aviv). And in the center of it all is a nice, large water fountain (though it could definitely use a good renovation).
So next time you are in the area, I suggest that you stop by the Shuster Shopping Center. While some of the stores may be pricey, it is always fun to look, even if you do not buy. And best of all, you can grab a slice, sit under an umbrella and gaze at the fountain, before returning to reality.
That said, here are several of my favorite shops at the Shuster Center:
1. Emanuel: although this is a chain, this location has the full collection
2. Tootsie: Fine leather goods
3. InStyle: Great T-shirts
4. Ada 2:
5. Fit In:
6. Liat: funky and edgy
7. Fanoman:
8. Emanuel:
Many of the stores shout "kitsch", but if you take your time you will find many great pieces, including T-shirts, dresses, tunics, bathing suits and exercise clothes.
While you are at it, you can also enjoy some of the Center's nice cafés, all of which have indoor and outdoor seating. In addition, there is a branch of my favorite pizzeria in Israel: Pizzafino (the other location is on Ben Yehuda street in Tel Aviv). And in the center of it all is a nice, large water fountain (though it could definitely use a good renovation).
So next time you are in the area, I suggest that you stop by the Shuster Shopping Center. While some of the stores may be pricey, it is always fun to look, even if you do not buy. And best of all, you can grab a slice, sit under an umbrella and gaze at the fountain, before returning to reality.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
"Betty Blue. By Divina"
The next time you are heading to or from the beach in Herzliya, you may want to make a stop at Betty Blue, by Divina, 9-11 Hamenofim St., in the Herzliya Pituach Industrial Zone.
The boutique is located in the open-air mall across the street from the Max Brenner coffee shop. It store is charming and all the clothing, shoes and accessories are imported. Although the racks are not organized by category, because of the store's size a quick look through will not take you a lot of time.
I found perfect and light-weight tops and summer dresses. All the dresses were sleeveless but if you are someone who will not bare your arms either because of religion, age or simply that you are always cold, the store had a variety of extremely light weight cardigans perfect for shul, or for dinner in the AC.
So head out to the beach, before the jelly fish arrive!
Tell them Individual Style sent you!
The boutique is located in the open-air mall across the street from the Max Brenner coffee shop. It store is charming and all the clothing, shoes and accessories are imported. Although the racks are not organized by category, because of the store's size a quick look through will not take you a lot of time.
I found perfect and light-weight tops and summer dresses. All the dresses were sleeveless but if you are someone who will not bare your arms either because of religion, age or simply that you are always cold, the store had a variety of extremely light weight cardigans perfect for shul, or for dinner in the AC.
So head out to the beach, before the jelly fish arrive!
Tell them Individual Style sent you!
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Sunglasses
The sky is blue, the sun is bright and the weather is getting hotter by the minute.
It is time, if you have not already done so, to pull out your sunglasses and put them to good use.
Although I utilize my sunglasses all year long (and not because the papparazzi are after me, or at least not yet....), I wear them to protect my eyes and prevent me from squinting too much and developing unwanted early crows' feet.
The truth is that it is not easy to find sunglasses that suit your face. Over the years, I for one have been persuaded by many salespeople to make a quick purchase. After putting on dark lens frames (the darker the lens the better the protection from the sun) and looking in the mirror, I always think I look good. And then, just as I begin to second-guess myelf, I hear the salesperson (as if they know what I am thinking… ) say to me: “you look gorgeous” or “ no, they are not too big, that is the style now” or “trust me, they’re great”. After hearing so many compliments and truly beginning to feel like a rock star, I pull out my wallet and charge away. Unfortunately, it is not until I meet up with a real friend later on and she looks at me and begins to laugh that I know I have been once again taken for a ride, and that the only thing I truly gained from my purchase are a few more frequent flyer miles!
With sunglass trends changing so rapidly, and our habitual absent-mindedness often resulting in lost pairs, we frequently find ourselves at the counter facing the “do they suit me?” dilemma over and over again.
So here are a few helpful tips when you are buying sunglasses:
1. Be a smart shopper: Know what style frames work best for the shape of your face. Learn more at: http://www.ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Choose-the-Best-Sunglasses-Or-Glasses-to-Fit-the-Shape-of-Your-Face&id=2160090
2. Make sure that the frames sit well on your face. They should not be too tight, too heavy or slip down your nose
3. Choose the color that works with your hair and skin tones, not your clothes
4. Bring a friend, one that you know will be honest. Or, you can bring a camera and take a picture of yourself and then look at it - there is nothing more honest than that
5. If following the trend is important to you, and if even the modified versions are not looking right, THEN DON'T BUY IT!
6. When you find a pair of sunglasses that enhance your look, buy more than one. That way, if you misplace them, or they break, you will have a spare
Ultimately remember sunglasses were designed to protect our eyes from sun damage so whatever choices you make be sure not to compromise on UV protection.
It is time, if you have not already done so, to pull out your sunglasses and put them to good use.
Although I utilize my sunglasses all year long (and not because the papparazzi are after me, or at least not yet....), I wear them to protect my eyes and prevent me from squinting too much and developing unwanted early crows' feet.
The truth is that it is not easy to find sunglasses that suit your face. Over the years, I for one have been persuaded by many salespeople to make a quick purchase. After putting on dark lens frames (the darker the lens the better the protection from the sun) and looking in the mirror, I always think I look good. And then, just as I begin to second-guess myelf, I hear the salesperson (as if they know what I am thinking… ) say to me: “you look gorgeous” or “ no, they are not too big, that is the style now” or “trust me, they’re great”. After hearing so many compliments and truly beginning to feel like a rock star, I pull out my wallet and charge away. Unfortunately, it is not until I meet up with a real friend later on and she looks at me and begins to laugh that I know I have been once again taken for a ride, and that the only thing I truly gained from my purchase are a few more frequent flyer miles!
With sunglass trends changing so rapidly, and our habitual absent-mindedness often resulting in lost pairs, we frequently find ourselves at the counter facing the “do they suit me?” dilemma over and over again.
So here are a few helpful tips when you are buying sunglasses:
1. Be a smart shopper: Know what style frames work best for the shape of your face. Learn more at: http://www.ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Choose-the-Best-Sunglasses-Or-Glasses-to-Fit-the-Shape-of-Your-Face&id=2160090
2. Make sure that the frames sit well on your face. They should not be too tight, too heavy or slip down your nose
3. Choose the color that works with your hair and skin tones, not your clothes
4. Bring a friend, one that you know will be honest. Or, you can bring a camera and take a picture of yourself and then look at it - there is nothing more honest than that
5. If following the trend is important to you, and if even the modified versions are not looking right, THEN DON'T BUY IT!
6. When you find a pair of sunglasses that enhance your look, buy more than one. That way, if you misplace them, or they break, you will have a spare
Ultimately remember sunglasses were designed to protect our eyes from sun damage so whatever choices you make be sure not to compromise on UV protection.
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