VIVIVINTAGE.COM Launches Vintage Virtual Personal Stylist Feature on Vintage Fashion Website

VIVIVINTAGE.COM is proud to announce that its website now offers a free virtual Virtual Personal Stylist feature where lovers of vintage fashion can get styled in the most chic vintage outfits.

Dara Stevens, President of VIVIVINTAGE.COM has announced the launch of the highly-anticipated Virtual Personal Stylist feature; an innovative new approach to meeting the increased demand of clients requesting vintage wardrobe consultation as interest in vintage fashion continues to skyrocket amid a sluggish economy. The Virtual Personal Stylist feature is a free feature where website visitors can get help putting together a fantastic and chic vintage outfit. With the Virtual Personal Stylist, women enter the occasion they need an outfit for (ie, evening glamorous or daytime casual, etc.), enter their sizes, and viola; the stylist pulls outfits together for women to choose from.

"We are thrilled about the launch of VIVI VINTAGE's Virtual Personal Stylist feature as a way to showcase our fabulous vintage pieces," says Stevens. She adds, "Finally, vintage lovers and those new to vintage have a chance to get styled in vintage. By entering some information about the need for the outfit and one's size, visitors can work the stylist feature to spice up their wardrobe in a way previously not done with other vintage websites."

There are four categories in the Virtual Personal Stylist which visitors can choose from: Daytime-Casual, Daytime-Glamorous, Evening-Casual, and Evening-Glamorous. By selecting a category, the Virtual Personal Stylist will take the visitor's size and allow the opportunity to match a dress, shoes, bag, and accessory. Clicking on Evening-Glamorous could offer you a lust-worthy vintage Chanel dress paired with sky-high sexy vintage platforms.

VIVI VINTAGE began as a mobile vintage clothing boutique found at the trendy uber-flea market in Hells Kitchen, New York City. Several years after selling directly to New Yorkers, designers, fashion re-creators, tourists, and supplying the vintage clothing dealers of New York's Lower East Side, Stevens launched into the world wide web to expand her offerings to a universal clientele. While Stevens says her site offers all types of vintage clothing and accessories, her dresses and shoes remain her showcase items.

VIVIVINTAGE.COM is your one-stop shop for beautiful vintage pieces. Whether you browse or utilize the free virtual personal stylist, you are sure to find something you will adore. women's coats President, Dara Stevens is available by phone or email to lend her expertise and consultation.

For more information on VIVI VINTAGE, please visit: http://www.vivivintage.com/

To shop with the VIVI VINTAGE VIRTUAL PERSONAL STYLIST, visit: http://www.vivivintage.com/stylist.php

Contact person at VIVIVINTAGE.COM:

Dara Stevens    
President
Telephone: +973.303.5103
E-mail: dara(at)vivivintage(dot)com

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KUHL Outdoor Clothing Edging Out Competition

K?HL Outdoor Clothing Company is establishing its dominance within the outdoor clothing market. Its versatile designs and innovative fabrics are uniquely satisfying the desires of a demanding outdoor lifestyle.

Coming off a successful summer, K?HL president Kevin Boyle says, "If you look around the industry, the other manufacturers are playing catch-up. We see many companies beginning to implement the design features we first introduced to outdoor retailers over nine years ago," Boyle said. "They can try to copy us but women's jackets K?HL will continue to innovate and lead the outdoor clothing industry as we have for the last decade." Boyle said with confidence, "Our fit, out style, and our fabrics are unmatched."

The newest addition to the K?HL brand is the SK?HL Jacket designed for skiers and alpinists. The SK?HL's features include 2-way pit zips; a 3-way adjustable, helmet compatible hood; a micro fleece chin guard; 2 front pockets engineered to work with backpacks; and iPod accessible storage from both the inside and the outside of the jacket. The SK?HL jacket's features, construction and eVent waterproof/ breathable fabric make it an essential addition to any outdoor clothing wardrobe.

As a leading manufacturer of technical garments and versatile outdoor clothes, K?HL offers new editions to the Mountain Life men's pants collection with the SLAKR and the REBEL. These men's pants defy labeling by being designed for the outdoor lifestyle but being wearable to the office. Both pants offer K?HL's signature features of articulated knees and gusseted crotch to allow for unlimited freedom of movement. K?HL also manufactures women's pants that accommodate the demands of an outdoor lifestyle as well as cater to feminine style.

K?HL clothing company also announced that it has opened a European headquarters and distribution center of outdoor clothes. The U.K. facility will better facilitate international sales and distribution of K?HL outdoor clothing.

"Sales are incredibly strong, our numbers look good," said Nate Fay, General Manager of K?HL, "And we are excited to be able to better expedite our growing orders from Europe."

K?HL Clothing Company (Alfwear, Inc.) is an outdoor lifestyle clothing brand headquartered in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah. BORN IN THE MOUNTAINS, MOUNTAIN CULTURE, and K?HL are registered trademarks of Alfwear (http://www.kuhl.com).

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Online Women’s Clothing and Ankle Boot Retailer, MakeMeChic.com, Announces Christmas Sweepstakes Giveaway

Online women's clothing, accessories, and ankle boot retailer, MakeMeChic.com invites customers to take part in a special Christmas Sweepstakes. Participating new and previous customers will be eligible to enter a Christmas Sweepstakes for a chance to win a $50 MakeMeChic gift card. All entrants have to do is subscribe to MakeMeChic.com's blog and post a blog comment with a link of what MakeMeChic item they would like to receive as a gift. To be eligible, customer blog sign-ups and comments must be submitted by December 31, 2010. Once a comment is posted, participating customers will automatically be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a $50 MakeMeChic.com gift card. Winner will be announced January 5, 2010.

MakeMeChic.com. is an online women's retailer that offers a wide selection of women's clothing, shoes, and accessories. MakeMeChic offers a wide selection of stylish boots and shoes for various occasions at affordable prices. Boots styles include ankle boots, available in various designs and colors. MakeMeChic.com also offers dresses, skirts, swimsuits, and lingerie for those special dates and outings. To complement a woman's style, MakeMeChic offers a variety of handbags, severely, and other fine accessories.

An international sizing chart is made available to ease the online customer shopping experience. In addition, MakeMeChic.com is a proud wholesale supplier for retailers that wish to carry the latest in women's fashion. To view MakeMeChic's new arriv women's coats als and the entire online catalogue of the latest in women's clothing, accessories, and shoes, please visit MakeMeChic.com. For the latest news, updates, promotions, and special events, please sign up for the mailing list, become a fan on Facebook, or follow MakeMeChic on Twitter.

About MakeMeChic.com
Based in City of Industry, CA, MakeMeChic.com is an online manufacturer of ankle boots, women's apparel, women's shoes, lingerie, accessories, swimsuit as well as costumes.

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WholesomeBamboo.com Unveils Blog to Promote Remarkable Benefits of Bamboo Textiles

Web entrepreneurs Michal and Allison McGowan are pleased to voice the formal debut of their brand-new business blog, http://www.WholesomeBambooBlog.com. Formulated as an interactive parallel to their online store, the blog showcases the integral product details of their complete collection of bamboo bed and bath linens as well as bamboo apparel. Such key characteristics of bamboo textiles include hypoallergenic, odor resistant, thermal regulating and moisture wicking properties while maintaining softness comparable to cashmere. Bamboo's rapidly renewable nature and many other features make this Viscose from Bamboo material a greener fabric choice than conventionally grown and harvested cotton.

"Our appreciation for bamboo textile women's jackets s began during our search for organic linens for our daughter, Abigail, who requires all-natural foods and fabrics due to health complications. Since switching to bamboo fabrics, we have all enjoyed its silky, supple nature and the many health benefits it provides," Michael said.

At http://www.WholesomeBamboo.com shoppers are invited to discover a premium selection of bamboo textiles. Choose from a luxurious assortment of bamboo bedding that includes sheet sets and blankets to accommodate all mattress sizes (twin through California king) as well as baby crib bedding sets. The same ultra-soft experience is also available in bath linens; choose from bath towels, hand towels and washcloths.

"Our bamboo linens are as soft as cashmere and provide incomparable benefits for people with problematic skin conditions like eczema. The fabric fibers are ultra absorbent, which make bamboo towels superior to cotton towels; it also allows bamboo sheets to regulate your body temperature while you sleep," Allison said.

The website also distributes a vast assortment of bamboo apparel for men and women as well as babies. Choose from pants, tops, socks and robes for lounging around the house as well as skirts, dresses and fashion tops that can be dressed up or down. Such wardrobe essentials provide optimal comfort and quality along with the ability to mix and match for any occasion. Shoppers may also choose from bamboo baby clothes such as onesies, T-shirts, pants, socks, hats and accessories like bibs, hooded towels, washcloths and more.

"We are happy to customize a selection of our apparel to tailor the build of any customer who may fall in between sizes. Also available is adding a custom graphic or logo. Simply e-mail us your sizing specifications or .jpg the image and we'll give you a price point with available allow colors and styles," Allison said.

WholesomeBamboo.com - Experience the sensual satisfaction of bamboo today!

About the Company:
WholesomeBamboo.com - a division of A&M Marketing LLC - is owned and operated by web entrepreneurs, Michael and Allison McGowan.

Michael and Allison McGowan
http://www.WholesomeBamboo.com
(908) 415-1330

iePlexus, Inc.
http://www.iePlexus.com

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Like the First Time: A Moving Story about a Good Sister, a Good Lover and a Good Wife!

"Ms. Ray?抯 talent is such that she, like Alice Walker and Toni Morrison, should see her works reach far beyond her loyal black audience. Her stories transcend race in their flawless grasp of the havoc wrought by the peculiarities of human nature...[She] excels at weaving several threads of narrative into a cohesive whole, making her subsidiary characters as compelling as the major players.??--The Dallas Morning News

National best-selling author and book club favorite Francis Ray delivers another captivating, passionate, and heart-warming novel. Like the First Time (St. Martin?抯 Press/Griffin Trade Original; ISBN 0-312-32429-4; $13.95 paperback) tells the inspiring story of a good sister, a good lover and a good wife whose strong friendship helps them overcome life?抯 difficult obstacles and find their dreams.

When shy, sensitive Claire Bennett looses her job for the second time in as many years due to downsizing, she doesn?抰 know how she?抣l survive. Brooke Dunlap, Claire?抯 beautiful and fashionable co-worker, is also laid off, but isn?抰 quite as worried?梥he expects her glamorous, extravagant boyfriend to propose any day. That is, until he dumps her and leaves her with as many credit card bills to pay as designer clothes in her wardrobe. Claire?抯 friend Lorraine Averhart, though happily married and very wealthy, lately feels lonely and restless, with her children grown and her husband often away on business.

The lives of these three women take a surprising turn when Lorraine tries Claire?抯 homemade body lotion and distributes samples to her book club. The resounding reviews they give confirm Lorraine?抯 idea that this product is something special?梐nd marketable. After a little persuasion, she convinces Claire and Brooke to go into business together selling their remarkable beauty products. They?抳e got nothing to lose and everything to gain.

But Lorraine?抯 marriage comes under terrible strain as the business akes off and a new temptation appears on the horizon; Claire becomes involved with one of the most powerful men in town; and Brooke is forced to reevaluate what matters most: a fat bank account, or love and belonging somewhere she can call home?

A story filled with love, forgiveness, healing and triumph, Like the First Time undoubtedly demonstrates why Francis Ray?抯 books are read, loved and read again by so many fans across the country.

About the author:

Francis Ray is a native Texan who lives in Dallas with her husband and daughter. She is the Essence, Blackboard, and Dallas Morning News

bestselling author of sixteen novels and five novellas. Her website is http://www.francisray.com

We would appreciate receiving two tearsheets of any reviews or mentions.

Publication Date: April 26, 2004

Contact: Amanda Maxwell

Trade Publicity

Tips: Find Street Fashion Online(may be you can find what you want on the oasap.com)

St. Martin's Press

212-674-5151 x525

amanda.maxwell@stmartins.com

Three Non-Profit Organizations Unite to Accomplish the Unthinkable

Small children learn early on to keep their distance from the intensely hot open hardwood fires that many rural Ugandans use for their daily cooking. At the tender age of 11, sweet, shy Susan Nabukenya had a close encounter with her mother's cooking fire that changed her life in one horrific instant. Earlier that day Susan had splashed kerosene onto her dress while helping fill the lanterns that Ddegeya Village homes utilize for light. Her mother was far too busy to stop and wash her dress. There were g-nuts and plantains to harvest, water to retrieve from the village well, a baby to nurse, as well as goats and chickens to feed. So Susan went about her duties helping her father at his place of business and the kerosene stain was quickly forgotten.

Later that day, as her mother cooked beans and rice for the evening meal, Susan came too close to the fire and her dress ignited instantly, covering her body with burns from her chest to her toes. After some time, a skin graft was performed to save her leg, and the rest of her burns were left to heal on their own with no medical oversight. The gr Tips: Find Street Fashion Online(may be you can find what you want on the oasap.com) aft never healed correctly and Susan, now 14, has had to endure an open wound on her leg for four years. She can't run and play like her friends, has missed much of her schooling and is in constant pain. She had to quit school because her ability to walk was so severely impaired. Susan's mother died shortly after the accident, and now she lives with her grandfather, who is paralyzed and is of little help physically or financially.

When Team Engeye met Susan, who had visited the Engeye Health Clinic in Uganda as a patient seeking help, they knew they had a major choice. They could explain to her that they did not have the capacity to care for her at their clinic with their limited resources, and try to forget her sad story. Or they could do something. The team knew Susan's care wouldn't be easy, and that only the plastic surgeons and pro-bono work offered in the U.S. could heal her scarred body. So much effort, time and energy ... and for only one person. Yet they realized this one soul was just as precious as their own child. Just as deserving of a vibrant and healthy life. So, in the midst of the rigors of medical school, when most students don't dream of more than the annals of medicine, the team took action.

In mid-2007 Susan was preliminarily accepted to the Boston Shriners Burn Unit. Months of reviewing her applications and medical records passed, and finally Susan was accepted for plastic surgery to repair her leg with all medical expenses covered! Susan and John will fly in on May 18, 2008, staying in Boston for two months. Susan will then return to her home in Uganda to begin her new life unimpeded by her injuries.

Choose A Need, partnered with Engeye on this exciting event and is donating the entire amount needed for airfare for Susan and John Kalule, the co-founder and manager of the Engeye Health Clinic in Uganda. John will serve as Susan's translator during her stay in the United States.

Just Cause, Theresa Weinman, and Jackie Lamont are ensuring Susan's stay will be a success. From housing to food, from clothing to emotional support, they are pulling on all their connections to ensure John and Susan are loved and nourished at all levels during their first ever visit to the U.S.

After Susan returns to Uganda, this dedicated team of women is determined to send Susan to a proper boarding school so she can regain the education and life she tragically lost as a young child.

About the Grassroots Non-Profit Organizations:

Choose A Need:
Brian and Mary Dawson, the founders of Choose A Need (CAN), believe that those of us who have been given so much should be held accountable for what we do with our resources and should feel a sense of obligation, if not desire, to help others who are not as fortunate. CAN chooses needs and publicizes them, then solicits donations and funds the selected project. Brian is currently pursuing a career as an Emergency Medicine physician. ChooseAneed believes that we CAN make a difference, and that more of us would create change if only we knew of the need. For more information, visit: http://www.ChooseAneed.org

Just Cause:
Just Cause, founded and run by the vibrant Lorrie King, is dedicated to addressing disparities within the realms of HIV/AIDS, refugee/immigrant empowerment, genocide survivorship and human rights. To that end, they partner with grassroots organizations in Rwanda, Kenya, Sudan and Uganda, to facilitate local programming in HIV/AIDS, land and education rights for orphans, women and vulnerable children, and community building after conflict. At home in the metropolitan area of Atlanta, Georgia, they focus their efforts on providing stop-gap services to address the on-going needs of newly arrived refugees, who have reached the end of their initial resettlement benefits. For more information visit: http://www.jcause.org

Engeye Health Clinic:
The Engeye Health Clinic was established in 2006 by three medical students, Stephanie Van Dyke, Misty Richards and Brooke Richards, in collaboration with two key Ugandans, John Kalule and Laurence Makana Sitati. Despite the rigors of medical school, the team is in daily contact across the globe, bringing sustainable healthcare to Ddegeya Village in southern Uganda for the first time ever. For more information, visit: http://www.Engeye.com

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Northern Virginia’s Best Recycled Fashion Comes to Logan Circle

The newest addition of contemporary wear, Current Boutique -- a women's designer clothing, shoes and accessories consignment shop will be nestled in the District's artsy Logan Circle neighborhood. Opening in May, Current Boutique handpicks quality consignment pieces in tune with today's style, cut and color.

Current Boutique is an upscale, modern boutique that features name brand clothing and accessories sold on consignment as well as new clothing and accessories hand picked from New York and Los Angeles. At Current Boutique, shoppers will find designer wear, jeans, great basics and irresistible one-of-a-kind pieces.

Current Boutique, a rapidly expanding brand in the DC area, opened its first location in the young and vibrant Clarendon neighborhood only four years ago. Current Boutique expanded to its second location in the bustling shopping district of Old Town Tips: Find Street Fashion Online(may be you can find what you want on the oasap.com) Alexandria in the Fall of 2009. Now, Current Boutique looks to build on its success in the District's Logan Circle neighborhood.

Current Boutique's consigning process is simple and easy: no appointment is necessary. Clothes are reviewed and selected on the spot and consigners receive half of the selling price. The careful selection process of consigned clothes carries out the stores' uniqueness. Additionally, Current Boutique benefits the local community by donating all items that do not sell to the Salvation Army.

Current Boutique isn't like any other consignment shop, thrift store or yard sale. An inviting and trendy atmosphere welcomes customers to shop and consign. Current Boutique is carefully organized by styles, sizes and categories.

Current Boutique will be located in the trendy neighborhood of Logan Circle at 1809 14th Street, NW. For more information about the newest fashion addition to the district please visit Current Boutique's website at http://www.currentboutique.com or contact Victoria Michael at Victoria(at)vmpublicrelaions(dot)com.

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Hello UK, Goodbye N.Y.: ShopRDR.com Shifts Focus To London Fashion Week

Earlier this summer, Rodeo Drive Resale, premier reseller of 100% authentic Chanel bags, St. John Knits, and Marc Jacobs purses, offered fashion fans a glimpse of the high-profile fashion houses associated with the 2012 Olympic Games in London. Now the popular online store is once again eyeing the fashion happenings going on across the pond, as London Fashion Week showcased some of the best and brightest in upcoming luxury style.

While Prada served as the official sponsor of the Italian National sailing team, Hermes designed France's Olympic equestrian uniforms, and Italian luxury brand Salvatore Ferragamo has designed the uniform for the Republic of San Marino, high style has returned to the UK as London Fashion Week set the stage for designers young and old to put their latest creations on display.

"London is a melting pot of design talent and 2012 feels like a very exciting time to be showing in the city," said Ruth Chapman, co-founder of Matches, an upscale British fashion retailer in a Tips: Find Street Fashion Online(may be you can find what you want on the oasap.com) n article posted by ABC News.

Earlier this month, New York Fashion Week had its fair share of highlights, namely the stylistic tastings of actress Katie Holmes, who saw her women's clothing line, Holmes & Yang, soar in the weeks following her well-publicized split from Tom Cruise, according to a story by MTV UK. Even Holmes, who started the clothing line in 2008 alongside stylist and longtime friend Jeanne Yang, appears to have taken a renewed interest in the brand:

Typically seen in her t-shirt and jean pairing, Holmes donned her brand's navy collared placket dress during a recent appearance on Project Runway.
The hype surrounding Holmes, the divorce and her clothing line culminated in the world's fashion capitol. All eyes were on the Holmes & Yang brand during NYFW and Katie did not disappoint: Her fashion showcase was met by mostly positive reviews from show attendees and critics alike.

At LFW, the Fyodor Golan collection showcase, held in the lounge of the Waldorf Hilton, mixed class with intrigue, as its designs were inspired by the designs of Mayan and Aztec cultures.

"We wanted to show lightness and spirituality and at the same time to have that sexuality there. So it's that contrast but it's not in your face, it's still strong and gives you power, but it's very emotional, something that will engage you," Designer Fyodor Podgorny told Reuters after the show, according to a September 14 article.
All across the board designers, citizens and city officials enjoyed the fashion frenzy London has experienced over the past several months.

"This summer has shown London in its best light, highlighting the city's creativity and unique DNA," said Caroline Rush, chief executive of the British Fashion Council. "September is set to be an extremely exciting season in what has been an amazing year for the U.K."
Rodeo Drive Resale (shopRDR.com) has built a reputation of providing amazing deals on handbags, clothing and accessories from the top designers of upscale fashion. The company offers a 100% guarantee of authenticity on each item sold, and works daily with a network of clients looking to buy, sell, or for consignment of their luxury goods.

ShopRDR.com loves high-end fashion, and believes finding a high quality, classic piece should be an easy, enjoyable -- and most importantly -- hassle-free shopping experience. For the finest in Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Prada, Gucci, St. John Knits, Christian Louboutin, Tiffany & Co. and more, visit RDR online at http://www.shopRDR.com or call 1-888-697-3725. Also find shopRDR.com's blog at http://blog.shopRDR.com.

Also find shopRDR at:
Blog: blog.shopRDR.com
Facebook: facebook.com/shopRDR
Twitter: twitter.com/shopRDR
YouTube: youtube.com/ shopRDR
Pinterest: pinterest.com/shopRDR

Rodeo Drive Resale (shopRDR.com)
1-888-697-3725
service(at)shopRDR.com

"Soulful Stitching: Patchwork Quilts of Africans (Siddis) in India," on View in Harlem at New York Public Library's Schomburg Center, thru June 30

In a wide-ranging, in-depth exploration of the rarely known but centuries-old African presence in the Indian Ocean world, The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture of The New York Public Library, is presenting the major exhibition Soulful Stitching: Patchwork Quilts of Africans (Siddis) in India; public forums led by internationally known scholars; films illustrating the African Diaspora's reach into India; and a concert performance of live Bhangra music. In addition, The Schomburg's new website, The African Diaspora in the Indian Ocean World, is scheduled to launch next month.

"The voluntary and forced migrations of East Africans through the Indian Ocean are little known by the general public," says Dr. Sylviane Diouf, historian and Schomburg's Curator of Digital Collections. "They are quite different from those that took place across the Atlantic. The upcoming website will show how, in India, for example, some Africans became founders of dynasties, prime ministers, military commanders, builders of cities and monuments. With unique images, essays and videos, it will shed much needed light on the African Diaspora from Arabia to Iraq and Iran, and from Turkey to Pakistan and Sri Lanka."

Curated by Dr. Henry J. Drewal, Evjue-Bascom Professor of African and African Diaspora Arts at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Soulful Stitching: Patchwork Quilts by Africans (Siddis) in India features 15 striking patchwork quilts of Siddi women, heirs to the culture and values of Africans brought to Goa on India's west coast beginning in the 16th century. "While the Siddis, who number about 18,000 in the state of Karnataka, have adopted, adapted, and integrated many aspects of Indian cultures, they have also retained and transformed certain African traditions and, in the visual arts, the tradition that stands out are the beautiful patchwork quilt known as kawandi."

"Mixing together a vibrant array of well-worn clothing fabrics," says Dr. Drewal, who has spent several years researching, observing and documenting the Siddi women's work, "the quilts are highly individualistic, yet quilters share many clear and precise opinions about quality, beauty."

In addition to the quilts, the exhibition also presents the photography of Dr. Drewal which captures Siddi families and the quilters in their majesty carrying on the tradition of their ancestors, shaping scraps of memory into great functional heirlooms.

Saturday, April 23, 4pm:
Film Screening- From Africa to India: Sidi Music in the Indian Ocean Diaspora (U.S., 2003, 74 minutes/Producers/Ethnomusicologists: Amy Catlin-Jairazbhoy and Nazir Ali Jairazbhoy.) According to Fritz Umbach, John Jay College, City University of New York: "The film conveys the region's complex heritage by braiding together contemporary music and dance performances in African-descended Sidi communities from Gujarat to Karnataka with a narrative of both Sidi history and their current status in present-day India."

Saturday, May 14, 1pm:
Carnegie Hall Neighborhood Concert Series Presentation - Red Baraat, the first and only dhol 'n' brass band in North America. RSVP required at 212.491.2040. Led by dhol player Sunny Jain, Red Baraat melds North Indian rhythm Bhangra with a host of sounds, including funk, go-go, Latin and Jazz. (The dhol is a double-sided, barrel-shaped North Indian drum slung over one shoulder.)

Saturday, May 28, 4pm:
Film Screenings:
We're Indian and African: Voices of the Sidis (22 minutes, 2005, filmmaker Beheroze Shroff). This documentary explores the lives of the Afro-Indian of Bava Gor village in Gujarat. Men and women talk about the challenges of their work as caretakers of the shrine of their ancestral saint Bava Gor. They also discuss their sacred Goma-Dhammal dance as it is performed for devotees and for spectators.

Voices of the Sidis: The Tradition of the Fakirs (28 minutes, 2005, filmmaker Beheroze Shroff). African descendants in Gujarat discuss their tradition of the fakir or itinerant holy man who goes through neighborhoods chanting, singing and blessing those who give alms. Older fakirs express anxieties about passing on this tradition, especially the playing of the malunga, a sacred musical instrument.

Seats must be reserved for ALL screenings by email at schomburgrsvp(at)nypl(dot)org or call 212.491-2229. RSVP (212-491-2040) is required for the May 14 Red Baraat concert.

The Schomburg Center location: 515 Malcolm X. Blvd. in Harlem. Subways: #2, #3 to 135th Street. Exhibition Hours: Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed Sunday. For exhibition information, call (212) 491-2200. No admission fee; contributions and memberships are welcome.

Note to Editors: Soulful Stitching: Patchwork Quilts by Africans (Siddis) in India is on exhibition at the Schomburg Center concurrently with Harlem Views/Diasporan Visions: The New Harlem Renaissance Photographers, through June 30, 2010.

About the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture
The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, a research unit of The New York Public Library and recognized as one of the leading institutions of its kind in the world, is currently celebrating its 85th year. A cultural center as well as a repository of some 10 million items related to the African American and African Diaspora experiences, this Harlem-based modern research library also sponsors a wide array of interpretive programs, including exhibitions, scholarly and public forums, and cultural performances. The Schomburg Center collects, preserves and provides access to materials documenting black life, and promoting the study and interpretation of black history and culture.

Press Information: Bernice Elizabeth Green, schomburgpr(at)nypl(dot)org, 212- women's jackets 491-2209

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The Harvey Nichols Sale Daylight Robbery

Customers can save 50 to 70% off fashion* in store. Harvey Nichols account card holders receive an extra 10% off on all reduced items* for the first four days of the sale**.

At luxury department store HARVEYNICHOLS.COM customers can save up to 50% on fashion and selecte fashion jackets online d beauty products. Everyone can shop online in confidence with the Harvey Nichols free returns service using Royal Mail.

With luxury brands online ranging from Stella McCartney, Lanvin, Alexander McQueen, DKNY, Halston Heritage, Vivienne Westwood Red Label, Paul Smith, Missoni, Ralph Lauren, Viktor & Rolf, plus many more this sale really is daylight robbery!

The Harvey Nichols sale includes not only womens luxury fashion products but also mens fashion accessories and clothes.

Harvey Nichols Store Opening Times

KNIGHTSBRIDGE
Wed 15 - Sat 18 June 10am - 9pm;
Sun 19 June 11:30am - 6pm (11:30am – 12noon browse time)
http://www.harveynichols.com/stores/london

BRISTOL
Wed 15 - Fri 17 June 10am - 8pm;
Sat 18 June 10am- 7pm;
Sun 19 June 11am - 5pm

MANCHESTER
Wed 15 June 9am - 9pm;
Thurs 16 – Sat 18 June 9am – 8pm;
Sun 19 June 10:30am - 5pm (10:30am - 11am browse time)

EDINBURGH
Wed 15 June 9am - 8pm;
Thurs 16 June 10am – 9pm;
Fri 17 – Sat 18 June 10am – 7 pm;
Sun 19 June 11am - 6pm

BIRMINGHAM
Wed 15 June 10am – 8pm;
Thurs 16 – Sat 18 June 10am - 7pm;
Sun 19 June 11am - 5pm

LEEDS
Wed 15 - Thurs 16 June 9am - 8pm;
Fri 17 – Sat 18 June 9am – 7pm;
Sun 19 June 10:30am - 5pm (10:30am - 11am browse time)

DUBLIN
Wed 15 - Fri 17 June 10am - 9pm;
Sat 18 – Sun 19 June 11am – 7pm

The Creative Concept – Daylight Robbery

In this campaign there are gorgeous and stylish Harvey Nichols shoppers dressed in their newly "stolen" designer wardrobe. Their faces disguised as they have just committed daylight robbery at the Harvey Nichols sale.

There are three different images, featuring a male and female model.

The man wears a clown mask and the woman wears a stocking and a balaclava in two different executions. The clothes featured are from this season's designer SS11 collections: a Stella McCartney dress with Alexander McQueen clutch (Balaclava), Lanvin skirt and top with Givenchy bag (Stocking) and a Paul Smith suit with Jil Sander shirt (Clown). The background varies in each layout.

•     Exclusions apply. See in store for details

**    Representative 18.9% APR variable. Credit, subject to age and status, is provided by Santander Cards UK Limited. Registered office: 2 Triton Square, Regent's Place, London, NW1 3AN. Registered in England and Wales. Registered number: 1456283. Harvey Nichols, acts as a credit intermediary and only offers credit products for Santander Cards UK Limited. Retailer is Harvey Nichols and Group Limited. Registered Office: 109-125 Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7RJ. Registered in England no: 72539. http://www.harveynicholscard.com/cards/en/

For more information or high res images, please contact Ceilidh Tucker in the Harvey Nichols Press Office on 0207 201 8650 or ceilidh(dot)tucker(at)harveynichols(dot)com

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KeysCaribbean Offers Florida Keys Super Fall Vacation Deals With Up to 50% Off & Free Night Stay Vacation Packages

This September, KeysCaribbean Luxury Resort Villas & Marinas is offering three appealing reasons to enjoy the perfect vacation and save while in the Florida Keys: "The Longer You Stay in Paradise, The More You Save" special discount offers a lower nightly rate for each additional day booked; guests can receive a generous up to 50 percent off rates or free night stays at all KeysCaribbean luxury resorts all season; and a 100 percent cancellation guarantee.

The Florida Keys showcase many unique and exciting events in September, including Key West's annual Womenfest, a challenging bonefish tournament in Islamorada, and the Keys' longest running fishing tournament in Marathon.

From Sept. 6-11, Key West will host Womenfest, which offers a wide range of activities guaranteed to appeal to a broad range of interests including golfing with palm trees and iguanas, clothing-optional pool parties, a sizzling dance club scene, women-only water excursions that range from jet skis to dolphin watching, film, live music, and special comedy shows. Attendees can enjoy first-rate Key West accommodations at Coral Hammock Resort and King's Pointe Oceanside Condominiums, where a free night with a four night minimum stay or up to a 50 percent discount is offered.

In Islamorada, the 35th Annual Islamorada Invitational Fall Fly Bonefish Tournament Sept. 13-16 is a test of skill and stealth that challenges even the most seasoned of anglers as they take to the flats for the elusive bonefish. The "Fall Fly," as it's called in elite circles, is a test of skill and stealth and has attracted seasoned anglers like Flip Pallot, Billy Pate, brothers Sandy Moret and Randy Moret as well as acclaimed "Striptease" author and celebrity c women's jackets olumnist Carl Hiaasen, a seven-time tournament grand champion. Nearby, Mariner's Resort Villas & Marina offers luxury Key Largo accommodations, free Wi-Fi Internet, free unlimited local and long distance calls, the up to 50 percent off special discount and every fourth night free with a minimum three night stay.

The International Bonefish Tournament will take place Sept. 22-25 in Marathon. Believed to be the longest-running fishing tournament in the Keys, this three day event draws anglers to its fun, community camaraderie and affordability. It is one of the few tournaments where anglers are allowed to fish without a professional guide. This challenge awards more than 20 trophies and prizes to participants. Nearby, Coral Lagoon Resort Villas & Marina and Indigo Reef Resort Villas & Marina in Marathon, and Village at Hawks Cay Villas & Marina in Duck Key offer luxury Florida Keys accommodations with free Wi-Fi Internet and free unlimited local and long distance calls. Both resorts also offer the up to 50 percent special discount or a free night with a minimum stay of three nights at Village at Hawks Cay or five nights at Indigo Reef.

"The Florida Keys are the site for so many great events during September, which is why we are pleased to offer a special discount of up to 50 percent off our normal rates, as well as our free night stay packages," said Sam Schorr, KeysCaribbean managing director.

Discounts are subject to availability. Some restrictions apply to the 100 Percent Cancellation Guarantee. Free night stays require minimum night stays, have limited availability and certain restrictions apply. Please see the KeysCaribbean website for more details. For reservations book direct at http://www.keyscaribbean.com or call 305.853.5000.

About KeysCaribbean
KeysCaribbean is a dynamic, boutique resort company specializing in operating Florida Keys resort villas and marinas from Key Largo to Key West. CEO Craig Hunt, the former vice chairman of Intercontinental Hotel Group and past president of Holiday Inn Worldwide, along with managing director Sam Schorr, possess more than 60 years of experience in operating and marketing unique and exclusive destination resorts and marinas.

KeysCaribbean is committed to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection Green Lodging Florida program. Mariner's Resort Villas & Marina is designated as a Green Lodging property by the Florida Green Lodging Program.

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Presenting Style with Glass Boutique’s New AW11 LookBook

Online retailers Glass Boutique won't women's coats just be selling high trend fashions this Autumn/Winter 2011/12 season; these style specialists will be giving you a peak on what to wear and how to wear it in men's designer fashion, with their brand new AW11 LookBook.

Glass Boutique are an independent purveyor of both men's and women's designer fashions and work with a number of high quality brands that lead the way in crafting fashion movements. Glass Boutique's extensive knowledge and keen eye for style ensures that they source the latest trends impacting the real world of functional fashion.

This coming season, men's clothing is already shaping up to show an exciting mix of trends and Glass Boutique are putting together some of the coolest ensembles for their new LookBook, which is influenced by their strong and diverse range of men's fashion from their hand-picked collection of progressive labels.

Shot at London's Limehouse Marina on the North bank of the River Thames; the contemporary nautical cool of the venue reflects the style photographed in the LookBook from this real world collection. Mariner chic meets rugged fisherman with a chunky knitwear collection of jumpers, hats and scarves fully embracing the season from the masters of street wear, Norse Projects. As American workwear-inspired Penfield meet practical needs with an effortless style stride on their Lakeville Jacket, which is made from a Hudson wax composition to keep off the rain. This classic trail anorak also comes with a large peaked hood and lights up the Thames in its Cobalt blue colouring.

While London-based label YMC combined their creative flair with the original style Maestros of the duffle coat, Gloverall, to breathe new life into the classic design. Combining function and fashion, this fitted wool coat comes with the renowned horn toggle and leather fastening invented by Gloverall, alongside large front pocket and buttoned cuff detailing. In addition, crossing the genre divide are Pointer's honed senses at producing street smart footwear fit for any occasion. Managing to comfortably reign in the realms of both casual and formal, Pointer get practical with their fur-lined Calum workboot with rich colour waxed leather and contrasting thick Vibram sole.

All the contemporary and classic styles presented in the LookBook are a perfect example of the quality brands available at the Glass Boutique online store and simply compliments their varied collection of designer labels in men's fashion that include Libertine-Libertine, Clae and SixPack France, alongside Won Hundred, Triwa and Universal Works.

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Made by Niki' launches ‘Atomic’ SS12 Lingerie Collection 3 Months Early to Meet Strong Demand for Luxury Lingerie and Bodywear

While other luxury lingerie brands will deliver in February 2012, the first phase of Made by Niki's SS12 bodywear collection is already available at the brand's website and in Selfridges (London).

It is a continuation of the world-famous 'String' series which has already graced the pages of POP, Garage, Elle, Instyle and Wonderland magazine, with a voracious celebrity following including Naomi Campbell, KT Tunstall, Rihanna, Victoria Beckham, Paloma Faith and Daisy Lowe.

The stunning 'Atomic' collection, which is inspired by the secrets of the universe, includes beautiful burlesque clothing, lingerie and form-fitting statement bodywear pieces in graduated two-tone colouring.

An all-over fringed play suit in an ombre black and bronze colourway called 'Nibiru' has fully adjustable straps to ensure a perfect fit, while the matching harness cup less bra, fringed open knickers and thong suspends miraculously over a woman's curves. These uniquely designed pieces are also available in a champagne ivory and biscuit colourway entitled 'Supernova', which swathes the body in a shimmering silvery illusion to enhance the body's contours.

There is also a group of all-black 'Infinity' garments which includes a flapper dress which swings suggestively as the wearer moves, as well as a half-skirt (which can also be worn as a head-piece) and a lace-up ladies waist coat, alongside a striking cutaway lace bodysuit, boyshort, thong, bandeau bra and plunge bra featuring cutout shapes reminiscent of a lunar eclipse.

Undoubtedly the show-stopper of the collection is a set made entirely from glittering gunmetal ballchain and grosgrain straps entitled 'Stellar'.

The collections are hand-made entirely by three talented seamstresses, at Niki's Leicestershire studio in the heart of the English countryside. The campaign was shot by Andrew G Hobbs with Katia Elizarova, the up-and-coming model who has recently been signed as the face of Max Studio. Other stylists and photographers who have been quick to shoot the collection include Tamara Rothstein, Ruan Van Der Sande, Jean Marc Bulles and Stefan Rappo.

Made by Niki recently won victory at the UK Lingerie Awards."We were thrilled and surprised to beat other more established companies " said Niki. "Although we are a small, young and independent company of five people, the judges decided that Made by Niki's products exhibited a greater style and design aesthetic than the competition [Spanx and Maidenform], and we are truly ecstatic to be recognised for our achievements".

Made by Niki has been stocked in Selfridges for three consecutive collections and is available at over 100 stockists across 19 countries.

About Made by Niki
Made by Niki is Britain's Luxury Lingerie & Bodywear Brand, bringing you the world's most covetable pieces, created by a team of underwear obsessives in the heart of the English countryside. Loved by real women, rock stars and supermodels the world over, Made by Niki creates impossibly gorgeous lingerie, helping you to unleash your inner beauty upon an unsuspecting world.

AWARDS
2011 UK Lingerie Awards (Winner)
2009 East Midlands Business Award (Winner)
2009 UK Fashion Export Award (Shortlisted)

TESTIMONIALS
"Made by Niki somehow mana women's jackets ge to be both incredibly saucy and incredibly chic, which is a serious accomplishment." Polly Vernon, The Guardian
"A fantastic lingerie brand..." Glass Magazine
"A sexy girl meets a classy lady who meets a cheeky hippie chick with a lil bit of a Retro girl thrown in. Made by Niki will get you laid!" A Little Nouveau / Style Bistro
"Decadence doesn't get any better than this" Esquire Magazine
"Made by Niki has changed the concept of body-shaping underwear." Marie Claire Online

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Seraphine Launches New Web Platform to Celebrate 10 Years in Business

The maternity label Seraphine will be launching a new web platform in mid December 2011. Now in its tenth year, the fashionable brand has grown from strength to strength and has established itself as a leader of high quality and unique designs for pregnant women. Seraphine enjoys a huge celebrity following and has recently dressed pregnant Hollywood stars such as Jessica Alba, January Jones and Jennifer Garner as well as national fashion icons such as Dannii Minogue and Denise Van Outen in the UK.

Today Seraphine turns over ?3 million online and a website overhaul was needed to catch up with the latest technology and bring the ultimate shopping experience to its customers. Using the Magento women's jackets platform the website is expected to boost sales significantly due to enhanced product imagery and cross selling function as well as promotional abilities, overall improving the user experience.

The brand has a high awareness amongst its target group and has been trading online since 2004, having opened its first flagship store in 2001 in the heart of the Kensington district in London.

Cecile Reinaud, founder and head designer, recalls how after the successful opening of the first store gained national press coverage, many women living outside of London begged her to launch a website so that they could order online. Back then it was the early days for internet trading and the success of buying maternity clothes online was still in its infancy.

10 years on and Seraphine won the 2011 Drapers e-tail award for Best Specialist Online Retailer and is continually getting great press coverage for its stylish yet affordable designs for maternity and nursing products. The brand also wholesales it's collection in over 30 countries and has just launched their brand of sophisticated maternity wear in the America, hoping to seduce the yummy mummies over the Atlantic with its unique product range.

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Protecting Girls From Negative Media Influences, With Family Expert, Dr. Tim Kimmel

As reported by both MSNBC and The New York Daily News, Susanna Barrett -- whose daughter appeared on Toddlers & Tiaras -- is denouncing TMZ and other news outlets for featuring a video montage that she felt "sexualized" her five-year old. In the video, her daughter Isab women's coats ella is seen performing to LMFAO's song "Sexy And I Know It." While many parents surely understand Susanna's distress, many also find fault with an entire entertainment industry that exploits girls, and with networks like TLC that glamorize the childhood pageant world. Others simply wonder why mothers would expose their children to the pageant world in the first place.

Such outrage is also increasingly directed at clothing labels, which sell shirts for young girls that include slogans like "scratch and sniff" or "so many boys, so little time".

So how can parents protect their daughters from a culture that exploits them at such early ages? ?And how can they teach their daughters to stand up for themselves and resist such influences?

Dr.?Tim?Kimmel?-- author and Executive Director of?Family Matters?(familymatters.net) -- has answers.? Considered one of America's top advocates for the family,?Tim has written multiple best-selling books on parenting, including "Raising Kids for True Greatness".? He has strong views on why it's critical that parents work to protect their daughters:??"We need to draw up new battle plans." says Kimmel.? "We fought for their intellect. We fought for their paychecks. Maybe it's time we fight for their souls."
?
Ask?Tim:
?
-- Why the pageant and music industries often get away with exploiting young women
-- Why it's important to take a stand as a parent against degrading slogans on girls' clothing
-- How parents can approach these topics with their daughters
-- Why fighting for girls' dignity is just as important as is fighting for education and work?opportunities
?
Tim?Kimmel?has most recently been featured guest on such television and radio programs as?FOX News, "Midday News" KNX (CBS) Los Angeles, "A.M. Arizona" and "The MacMahon Group" on?AZTV?7, "Good Morning! Arizona" on?KTVK-TV, Moody Broadcasting's "Prime Time" and "Midday Connection", "FamilyLife Today", "The Art of Family Living", and several others.

To request an interview, please contact Will Bower at will(at)allenmediastrategies(dot)com or 202-365-2536.

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Backstage Bag Baby Baskets Gifted to New Celebrity Parents Robert Downey Jr, Ben Affleck, Jennifer Garner, Jessica Simpson and More

Backstage Bag (http://www.backstagebag.com), known by A list celebrities as the leader in high end celebrity gift bags and baby bags, wows again with an amazing baby basket given to new and soon to be celebrity parents. Backstage Bag produces three baby baskets a year for expectant celebrity parents. These baby baskets include luxurious and unique items carefully chosen with the specific celebrity parent. Products included range from travel stays, beauty products, clothing and accessories for mom and dad to baby strollers, bassinets, cribs, clothing, baby accessories and more for their new little ones. Past celebrities who have been have been gifted Victoria Beckham, Mario Lopez, Natalie Portman, Tori Spelling, Emily Proctor, Christina Applegate, Pink, Selma Blair and more.

Celebrities who received Backstage Bags March Baby Basket include Robert Downey Jr, Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner, Beyonce, Bruce Willis, Hillary Duff, Jessica Simpson, Jason Bateman, Bryce Dallas Howard, Curtis Stone and Lindsay Price, Rebecca Gayheart, Pierce Morgan and Rosalyn Sanchez. Products are also sent to select media. Pregnancy and Newborn will feature Backstage Bags March Baby Basket in their August 2012 issue.

Backstage Bags March Baby Basket is filled with the following products from sponsors lucky enough to get their products into celebrities hands:

phil & teds - The Promenade is phil&teds new premium urban stroller/buggy with reversible and convertible flat bed seat, inline adaptability and ultimate style
philandteds.com

MAXI-COSI - The Mico? Infant Car Seat makes it easy to move through your day, with a lightweight design making transferring from your car to either a Quinny? or Maxi-Cosi? stroller a breeze
maxi-cosi.com

Target - A collection of design women's jackets online er maternity wear and diaper bags by Liz Lange for Target
target.com

Hoppop - Easy to clean and fun to use, a bathtub with a safe and innovative design
hoppopbaby.com

Nailtiques - An innovator in nail care dedicated to the development and maintenance of healthy, natural nails
nailtiques.com

Little Froglet - Real clothes for real kids
littlefroglet.com

Sella - All natural skincare
sellaus.com

Nay et al/Baby Nay - Beautiful clothes for babies
nayetal.com

The Fresh Diet - Fresh, gourmet, delivered daily
thefreshdiet.com

g Diapers - Disposable, biodegradable, adorable eco-friendly diapers
gdiapers.com

Mamas and Papas - Great Britain's No.1 Baby Brand
mamasandpapas.com

the indiexhibit - A global group of independent artisans including:
Non-edible cupcakes gifts from KamNCo.com
Crocheted pixie hats from etsy.com/shop/babciasheart
Symbolic handcrafted jewelry from artfire.com/ext/shop/studio/parrotheadjewelry
Gift certificates for baby accessories from etsy.com/shop/girlybaby
theindiexhibit.org

My Baby Bling - Baby bling rhinestone baby and kids apparel
mybabybling.com

Dolphin Organics - Baby care products containing only the purest natural and certified organic ingredients
dolphinorganics.com

Murad - Transforming skincare
murad.com

Peekaboo beans - Playwear for kids on the grow
peekaboobeans.com

Leading Lady - Specializing in bras and lingerie for pregnant, breast-feeding, and post-mastectomy women
leadinglady.com

Coco Penny - Bows and accessories for little girls
cocopenny.com/the-shop

Sound Beginnings - A better, more comfortable way to play music & voice for your unborn baby-anytime, anywhere
sound-beginnings.com

To be considered for a future Backstage Bag Celebrity Baby Basket, please email amy(at)backstagebag(dot)com. Please also visit http://www.backstagebag.com.

OASAP Sponsored Chinse Nite of Rutgers University

The 17th annual China Nite was hosted by the Chinese Student Organization (CSO) successfully at Rutgers University last week. It is reported that China Nite is the biggest fashion show at Rugters as well as the longest running. According to Amy Bindra, one of the coordinators of this year, introduced, "The CSO was founded in 1976, one of the oldest student organizations here at Rutgers University.CSO has provided a community for the Chinese Americans at Rutgers to get together and share interests in the Chinese culture. And actually, the activity confirmed what I said, there were over 200 people involved at the actual show and more than 600 people attended the party at that night."

As the coordinators, Amy Bindra and Kimberly Quiambao, developed the sponsorship with OASAP Limited and promoted OASAP to make this sponsor. In order to get the models wea women's coats r these fashion apparel on time, OASAP allocated and transported hundreds of the hottest products emergently from two warehouses in the United States and in the United Kingdom.

In the active site, OASAP announced good news for the audience, that is, OASAP released a 15% coupon code for all the present members. Everyone who uses this code will continue to get 15% off from her/his second order, to follow after the 20% discount for the new registered users on oasap.com.

"OASAP is willing to make whatever contribution to the promotion of US-Sino cultural communication. We would like to see Chinese students can be better integrated into the local culture in the United States, at least they can begin know it from the clothing. OASAP is an online fashion women store; its products have interpreted so well for the street fashion in the United States, and are convenient for these Chinese students to understand the fashion elements of street culture in the United States." Maria Shron, the Marketing Director of OASAP, said, "OASAP expects to collaborate with CSO again in the next year".

Avoid the Sunscreen Smokescreen

With the recent delay in FDA sunscreen labeling requirements, the tanning bed debate heating up and a recent Mayo Clinic report indicating that skin cancer rates have increased eight times in young women and four times in young men in just the past forty years, the need for proper sunscreen coverage is more critical than ever. Sun protection clothing company, UV Skinz, is addressing sunscreen confusion in the market by helping consumers know the important standards to seek in a sunscreen.

On the heels of Skin Cancer and Melanoma Awareness Month, the FDA has announced that new sunscreen labeling regulations will not be enforced until December of 2012 rather than June 2012 as originally planned. The FDA claims this is in response to a concern of having enough sunscreen available for consumers this summer. Sunscreen manufacturers now have another six months before having to comply with full disclosure as to the actual sun protection their brands provide, or do not provide.

In the meantime, consumers should beware that sunscreen manufacturers may be making claims that are not true indicators of the level of protection their sunscreens provide. The new FDA requirements mandate that:

•     a sunscreen labeled 'broad spectrum' must be at least SPF 15 and must protect against UVA rays as well as sunburn-causing UVB rays.
•     a sunscreen that has an SPF 2-14 or is not broad spectrum must include a "skin cancer/skin aging alert" on the label showing that it has been shown only to help prevent sunburn and not skin cancer or early skin aging.
•     manufacturers will no longer be able to use 'sunblock,' 'sweat proof' or 'waterproof' in their marketing because no sunscreen provides this level of protection.
•     'water resistance' claims must be supported by testing to validate that a sunscreen is still effective after either 40 minutes or 80 minutes while the user is swimming or sweating.
•     any sunscreen with an SPF higher than 50 will have to be labeled SPF 50+.
•     manufacturers cannot claim 'instant protection' or protection for more than 2 hours without reapplication unless data is submitted and the FDA approves such claims.

But, until December 2012, these clarifications are not required which may leave many sunscreen users with a false sense of protection.

Even when these labeling changes go into effect, consumers still need to be conscious of sunscreen ingredients. Many studies and experts indicate that synthetic chemicals and other ingredients commonly found in most sun women's coats screens can actually introduce harmful carcinogenics into the body. At best, these chemicals are absorbed into the skin and bloodstream and could cause skin irritations or trigger allergies. At worst, chemicals such as dioxybenzone, also an active ingredient in many sunscreens, can react with sunlight to produce free radicals, which are carcinogenic, within the body. Oxybenzone is a paraben found in many personal care products, including sunscreens, which mimics estrogen, potentially interrupting normal hormone production, and, ultimately, possibly contributing to some cancers.

Dermatologists are recommending sun protective clothing to help take much of the guesswork out of making sure consumers are properly covered and to minimize the potential risks in relying on topical sunscreens. UPF 50+ protective sunwear, such as UV Skinz, helps to ensure maximum coverage over large parts of the body, requiring less topical sunscreen. UV Skinz, however, has taken it a step further in trying to keep the company's customers covered from head to toe by recently making available on their website many top rated sunscreens that have been evaluated by various sources as having broad spectrum coverage and fewer potentially harmful ingredients that could penetrate the skin. UV Skinz founder, Rhonda Sparks, says "We wanted to provide an extra measure of value to our customers by doing some of the homework on sunscreens for them. We carry sun protective clothing, sunscreen and a great selection of hats so that our customers can feel confident that they are getting the best sun protection available."

Sparks has built UV Skinz' foundation on creating products that allow consumers to enjoy the outdoor venues in which they live without being concerned about skin damage from UVA and UVB rays. "We are by no means saying that consumers should not use sunscreen. We would just like consumers to be more discerning in their choices to buy organic, natural and mineral based sun protection that doesn't contain ingredients that could potentially harm them."

About UV Skinz

UV Skinz is a leading provider of fun and affordable UV protective sunwear, swim shirts and accessories for the entire family. By providing the highest quality and most fashionable designs at competitive prices, UV Skinz aims to make sun protection effortless. For more information about UV Skinz, interviews, product samples and/or jpg photos, go to https://www.uvskinz.com, call 1 (877) 887-5469 or email kristine@uvskinz.com.