Halloween Costumes 2009

It’s that time of the year again. When we humans are permitted to give into our subconscious “want to be” desires and can dress up as, and pretend to be whoever or whatever we’d like. So what will the most popular Halloween costumes be this October? Here’s what we at Apparel Search think some of the top picks might be.

1. Michael Jackson With his recent death, fans are finding new ways to pay tribute to the King of Pop. Expect to see plenty of Michael's moonwalking the streets this October. The loss of another pop icon, Farrah Fawcett, will also inspire a resurgence in Charlie's Angels costumes.

2. Edward Cullen and Bella Swan The Twilight saga is so hot right now, there are sure to be plenty of charming vampires and “dying” to be vamps looking to suck your blood.

3. Barack Obama Sales of our presidents masks are tremendous and with all the antics in Washington these days, there seems to be renewed interest in political costumes.

4. Hannah Montana / Miley Cyrus The Disney Pop Princess is still going strong with the continued popularity of her 3rd season of Hannah Montana and Miley Cyrus is quickly eclipsing her fictional self as she moves further into the spotlight

5. Harry Potter and Hermione Granger The characters from the Harry Potter films that have been popular for years will continue to be with some additional figures like Voldemort, Dementor and the new characters like Half Blood Prince Slytherin, Professor Horace Slughorn and the Quidditch Players.

6. Star Trek Costumes Star Trek is back with its newest movie out this past year and the characters are easy to recreate with a few simple Star Fleet uniforms.

7. G.I. Joe Ninja Yet another current movie related costume. There are sure to be a lot of ninjas out doing their finest daylight impressions of Storm

Women’s Laptop Bag

With more and more women zooming up the corporate ladder and traveling too, the women’s laptop bag has become a necessity. But these bags need not be the boring old black and tan laptop bags. In fact, with a whole new range of colors and materials that are available, women can make a fashion statement with their laptop bags during the presentation in any meeting.

The women’s laptop bag is designed to fit in not only the laptop but all other essential elements such as loose change, a change of clothes, zipper and pen pockets and compartments for lipsticks etc. They also come with a back pocket that can easily accommodate all the files that the working women need. The women’s laptop bags usually come with inner and outer water repellant finish so that your laptop is well-protected against water. Some of the laptop bags are even quilted and have embedded sequins to make a great fashion statement. You need to determine the size of your laptop before you go out to a mall to buy the women’s laptop bag.

Another variation for the women’s laptop bag is the laptop tote. This is designed just like the tote bag and has separate shoulder straps too. It has a full zipper compartment and can accommodate your laptop, files and other miscellaneous things easily. They also have comfort padded handles and drawstrings. They look just like tote bags that many women like to carry.

Leather women’s laptop bag is of course used by most women who go to work. They are sturdy and they come in a number of finishes and colors and these can also be used by men. Given the vibrant color preferences that women have, these laptop bags are found in a wide variety of options including tartan and quilted finishes.

Those who do not like to carry their laptops on their back or shoulders can also use the rolling women’s laptop bag. Essentially they come with wheels and handles to pull along as they make their way from one destination to another. They are very convenient and are a great though for those aching and sore shoulder and back muscles. They are more expensive than the regular laptop bags and the price usually starts at $200. They have a huge amount of space and have enough pockets for carrying stuff for the daytrip.

Finally, there are women’s laptop bags that are airport security friendly. These laptop bags have been tested and approved for TSA guidelines for onboard luggage. They have a number of pockets to keep all the files, PDA, cell phones, knick knacks and are usually made of durable polyester. This makes them less susceptible to wear and tear.

When To Skimp Or Spend

Two style and fashion experts help money strapped fashionistas over 40 decide on where to spend or save during the recession.
Keywords: fashion, over 40, recession, accessories, jeans, shoes, jewelry, The Glam Gals, shopping, clothing accessories, shopping clothing, casual fashion, Deborah Boland, JoJami Tyler
We used to live in a world of spend, spend, spend but ever since the recession we're holding onto our fashion dollars just a little bit tighter. Faced with limited cash, you may be looking more closely at what you really want, and more importantly, need to buy in order to look fashionable and hip.
Which items deserve a good portion of your budget and which ones should be inexpensive add-ons? Check out our Skimp or Spend Checklist below to find out.
1. Skimp on Accessories
One sure way to waste money is to buy expensive accessories to complete a look of the moment. Accessories are very important to finish a look, but be careful. It's fine to pay top dollar for a belt you wear all the time but don't waste your money on an expensive belt with a short style life.
2. Spend on the Important Basics
Spending a decent amount on a great classic shirt, a beautiful cashmere sweater and one great white stretch t-shirt is important, even it means paying a higher price. These, along with other wardrobe basics, are investment pieces. The foundation of your wardrobe should be quality staples that will get daily wear; they tend to cost a little more but will certainly be worth it for the amount of wear they will get.
3. Skimp on Casual Shoes
Unless you're buying shoes for work (which need to be the best quality you can find) shoes do not need to be expensive. Go often to your favorite discount shoe stores to get the best offerings. If you are just running around on the weekends, you don't need to wear expensive shoes. Save your money for buying shoes when it really matters, like great work shoes or sneakers to exercise in.
4. Spend on Jeans
The most important thing about jeans is to find a pair that fit you perfectly, regardless of price. Get over the label obsession and keep shopping until you find the perfect pair for your body. Remember, no one will notice the brand of jeans if they're looking at your fabulous figure in perfectly fitting jeans.
5. Spend on a Good Bra
Think of your outfit as a building. Without a good foundation, the whole thing will crumble. Keep this in mind when you go bra shopping, and make sure you get professionally fitted for a bra that will lift and separate. A good bra will make you look taller and thinner by picking the girls up off your tummy and getting them back on your chest where they belong!
6. Skimp on Expensive Jewelry
It's nice to have some high end jewelry, but pearl necklaces and diamond studs can only get you so far. It's more stylish and fun to add costume jewelry to your wardrobe. Big chunky necklaces, flashy cocktail rings, and long dangly earrings add personality to your outfits. You can find great costume jewelry at just about any clothing store. It's the easiest way to add color and excitement to an ensemble.