What Is Fairtrade And What Makes Food/clothing Qualify?

Not that long ago, a small handful of products carried a sign which marked them out as Fairtrade. There weren?t many of them, they were hard to find, and even if you did manage to find them it was more than likely wouldn?t know what Fairtrade meant.

How things have changed in a short space of time. Word has spread about the Fairtrade mark and now an estimated 4,500 items in the UK carry it – but what is the history of the Fairtrade mark, and what effect has its spread had?

Established in 1992 by organisations including CAFOD, Oxfam and Traidcraft, the Fairtrade Foundation is a labelling initiative which approves products to carry a special mark, allowing them to be classed as ethically-sourced goods.

Any company that wants to attach a Fairtrade label to one of its products must meet a set of internationally recognised standards, decided on by a group made up of the four international fair trade networks.

The idea behind fair trade is a simple one – to guarantee a fair deal for everyone involved in the supply chain, right down to the lowest paid worker and their community. Fair trade is about being honest and ethical and not taking advantage of people, especially those in third world countries who are the most open to exploitation.

But the idea behind fair trade does not just mean better wages for normally disadvantaged workers in developing countries, it is about improving people?s lives through ethical trade. The Fairtrade Foundation aims to build trading relationships based on trust and transparency, justice and fairness.

Fair trade is about improving working conditions, banishing exploitation and reducing the effect the production of certain goods has on the environment.

Major UK-based brands now have products which adhere to Fairtrade standards, such as Nestle?s Fairtrade KitKats, a company which for a long time has faced international criticism over its business practices. As demand for ethical goods increases, along with pressure from consumers, the shelves will continue to fill. As the word spreads about fair trade clothing, so the range available will increase.…

Spring/summer 2009 Fashion Trend: Depression Chic

Do you know that fashion trends this season highlight ?depression chic?? How to describe it exactly? As far as I concerned, it is the fashion world?s straight stab at bringing back the glamorous dresses. Yes, in Spring/Summer 2009, great depression has suddenly become one of the hottest topic in fashion industry. Then, how to create such a depression chic? Finishing a broken in replica handbag, ripped jeans or wrinkled suits?

In fact, the recent economic downturn equaled an unexpected turn for the better for fashion design this season. The economy has had obvious negative effects on the fashion industry, but an unpredicted positive result comes in the form of one of the most popular trends, cleverly referred to as ?depression chic.? Here fashion is devided into two group, the one is practical wear, the other is the comparatively high-sounding vintage style. I cannot compare much more toward them since both of them are determined by special sense of worth. While, from the point of fashion?s encouragement, we need wear more beautiful and gorgeous in the econimic downturn period.

See the practical wear first. Of course, in the special period, we have to keep more cash in hand, thus we control our shopping desire towards luxury designer items, and begin to select the approachable warm texture, like textile, cotton, stretch-fabrics even the hard-wearing jean. You could consider it as a common civilian fashion, just taste fashion in affordable prices. Then take a good look at the super realism group. It gives high praise to a brand new idea ? the more depressive, the more stylish. Seems a little bolshy. I guess that people should shift their disappointment from the great economic downturn, therefore they mustn?t stop going for fashion. Maybe that will help us to forget annoyance for the moment.

Nevertheless, no matter what the fashion changes, you should remember one big fashion, that?s you need always keep the style of yourselves.…

All You Should Know About Formal Dresses For Women

The women nowadays can look beautiful in a variety of different ways. The use of formal dressing is one of these ways to look admirable. Formal dresses for women are most of the times designed by the known and famous dress designers which consequently are very much costly as compared to the other normal items in the market. These pieces comes in a very high range of costs and have the variety in terms of color schemes, themes, styles, cuts and designs. Going to choose the formal designer’s robe is a good idea especially when we talk about the aspect of uniqueness and of course to look different. Besides, it also enables you to design the dress according to your desire so that it best fits your needs.

The length of a costume that is to be designed is the prime factor of consideration. A variety of lengths are available for the formal dresses for women in common, but when it specifically comes to a designer’s formals, this variety limits to only two lengths that are either the tea length or that of floor one. Earlier the tea lengths were not considered normal to wear with formals, but in the current scenario it has become a common phenomenon to be used this way. Therefore one can easily use these cloths with the lengths that are either long or short, sometimes with the combination of both at the same time. When you observe that your robe is a bit shorter than the tae length, don’t use it formally rather save it for some other day time party or function, in which it is to be carried as informal clothing.

Besides, the cuts and the flows of the formal dresses for women are equally important when these costumes are concerned. For example, you may probably have a lengthy and loose stuff of an evening dress, or let’s suppose it might be the other way around, no matter what in both cases the costumes can be considered as formal because of the cuts and falls that are efficiently done in the robe you wear.

Then the fit and the bodice are also very important in formal dresses for women. As similar as mentioned above both in tight and loose fit, a robe can be formal. Because it depends upon the way the robe falls, and it is mandatory to observe the fall of your robe in this case because only then you will be able to make sure that the dress looks as formal as you desired.…

Ecommerce Software With ‘Related Products’ Feature

It’s a feature that’s been on the ecommerce scene for a while, but not many online shop owners are using it to its full potential. When we shop online and buy a product, more often that not we’ll be encouraged to look at similar products – usually from the same seller.
Amazon is a particularly good example of this. Next time you add a book or item of stationary to your shopping basket as a for instance, scroll down the page and you will find a row of ‘related product’ boxes. This feature has a dual function: it lets you know about goods that are likely to be of interest whilst subtly persuading you into the buy-it-now domain.
No matter what trade you’re in, anyone and everyone should be using the related products feature wherever possible to maximise their online sales. Check that your ecommerce software package has this function, and enable it or edit the settings in the control panel next time you log in. It gives your customers the chance to explore other complimentary items as well as operating as an essential up-sell technique.
Let’s say you’re in the sportswear industry selling swimwear and other accessories for use in swimming sessions. You would advertise products like goggles, hats, and water bottles (related products) alongside your swimsuits in order to drive more transactions through your online shop. It makes sense to offer your customers more scope for finding items of interest, after all, the idea is to gain as much custom as you can from you customer base.
Of course, there is more likelihood of this working that not generating any extra income from it at all. The main reason being that customers are in the ‘buying domain’ when the related products feature is activated. There’s always that chance that one of your clients will opt for an item that comes as a recommended purchase – especially if you set up special offers and promotions on your products.
There are ecommerce software platforms that are starting to incorporate this element to give your online shop added features and functionality. Make sure you get the most out of your online shop by choosing a system that supports related products. Don’t forget to ask about your ecommerce software provider for help if you have any difficulty using this feature with products from your online store, they should be more than happy to help.…

What You Need to Know About Buying Wholesale Clothes For Profit

We are all looking for a way to make a little extra cash in today’s difficult economy. One area of industry that rarely suffers from recession, is clothing. After all, we all need clothes; no matter how bad things become economically clothing will always be a necessity. However, if you want to make a profit from selling clothes, then you need to ensure that you have adequate margins. Buying clothes in bulk is the best way to ensure that you are able to put a margin on your clothing. However, there are a few things that you need to know, and we will discuss these below.

Buy Quality ItemsYou may be starting out, but you need to ensure that you buy the highest quality products that your margins can afford you. This may mean that you make less of a profit than you anticipate initially, but it also means that you are more likely to benefit from return custom.

Once a customer has bought products from you, and they realize that they are of a good quality, they will often return to buy more. In business, it is well known that it is far easier to retain customers, than it is to find new customers. Up to 90% of any business, revenue is derived from return custom, and so it is vital to make a good first do this by purchasing good quality and attractive clothing.

Buy Fashionable ItemsThe majority of your customers will be concerned with fashion. This is true regardless of the particular demographic to which you are tailoring: although, depending on the demographic, what is considered fashionable will vary. Therefore, it is important that you understand your audience and that you buy clothes tailored to the people whom you wish to attract. For example, if you want to attract a young, female, audience, make sure that you stock up on pretty ladies dresses wholesale. Be sure to read the fashion magazines so that you can choose clothes and dresses that are on trend. It is ok to go back a couple of seasons, because although high-end fashions change each season, high street fashions tend to stick around for a few years. For example, maxi dresses made a big comeback in summer 2012, and they are still popular in summer 2013.

Buying accessories that go with the clothes that you have in stock is also a good idea. This will add to your source of revenue, as people will often want to buy something that matches their clothing. For instance, if you buy in ladies dresses wholesale, it is worthy you also buying in necklaces, handbags, sandals, etc. anything that will go with the dresses you have in stock. For men’s clothing, it may be a little harder, but buying hats, satchels, wallets and scarves (depending on your stock – you do not want to buy a scarf to go with jogging bottoms) will usually do the trick.…

Finding The Perfect Bridal Set To Compliment An Engagement Ring

Finding The Perfect Bridal Set To Compliment An Engagement Ring

There are many different types of jewelry for every style. There is sure to be some type of jewelry that suits you. Read these tips to learn more about what kind of jewelry is right for you, and what fits best with your lifestyle, habits, and level of care you wish to take.

With gold prices at an all-time high, it’s a great time to invest in gold jewelry. You may have been tempted to sell your old gold or even buy some new gold as an investment. Be smart when dealing with private jewelry sales. Investing money into a cheap gold testing kit is a wise decision to save yourself from getting duped into unintentionally buying gold plated jewelry that is essentially worthless.

Jewelry is a nice accessory to any outfit. Jeans and a t-shirt can look so ordinary, but paired with a cute chunky bracelet, or a fun pair of earrings, even the dullest outfit can look unique. A colorful choker necklace can brighten up any look, and a uniquely beaded ankle bracelet can accompany any old skirt. Mix and match traditional looks with nontraditional jewelry pieces to create one-of-a-kind looks you’ll love.

Clean your jewelry with warm water and mild soap, rinse it out, and then dry thoroughly. It also helps to polish the piece of jewelry with a soft cloth. Excess water remaining on jewelry in storage can tarnish precious metals, sometimes beyond repair. A soft cloth can also help to restore luster and shine to your jewelry while removing excess water from the piece.

Don’t worry about how much your jewelry costs. What is most important is that the pieces you choose reflect your individuality. It doesn’t matter whether you paid one dollar or a thousand, if you love the piece wear it with confidence. It is also perfectly acceptable to mix high and low cost jewelry.

Fashion Style

Do not underestimate the power of pearl jewelry. Pearls are often considered a throwback to the days of old. How untrue this is. Modern pearls come in so many varieties, you can cheaply acquire them and spice up any fashion style you are trying to pull off. They come in many colors and shapes.

Fashion Trends

Mix gold and silver for a bohemian effect. It used to be that you should not mix black and brown or silver and gold. Recent fashion trends have thrown both these rules out the window. This means you can now mix your favorite jewelry pieces regardless of the color of the ore. The result is a effortlessly chic look.

Latest Trends

Check out the latest trends in jewelry before you pick up a new piece. Getting a beautiful piece is fantastic; but it’s even better when it’s on sale!

As you can see, there are many different types of jewelry readily accessible to everybody. Use these tips to pick the right combination of materials, style, and price that are right for you. Jewelry is easier to care for than one might think- find the perfect piece, and wear it often.…

Try Out These Jewelry Tips On For Size

Try Out These Jewelry Tips On For Size

Jewelry is one of the most ancient forms of personal decoration, yet it continues to change and evolve in the present day. Selecting and caring for good jewelry is more than just a matter of taste; it requires a little knowledge of the specialized concerns that apply to the field. Here are some tips for getting the most out of jewelry:

Do they prefer to wear over-sized pieces or more delicate styles? Yellow gold or silver? Doing this will provide a good basis for where you should begin so that you can purchase a special piece for that special someone.

If you need help purchasing that special piece of jewelry for someone you care about, you should ask someone close to your special person. For instance, maybe a close friend or relative would be willing to help you pick out that special piece of jewelry. They are certainly very familiar with the individuals taste and preference and could help you select the perfect piece.

Buy brightly colored jewelry to pair with the same black clothing. The same little black dress can seem like a completely new and exciting outfit simply by adding different accessories. Brightly colored jewelry will stand out against a dark color as well as giving you a dynamic look.

To keep your jewelry looking great, take steps to prevent it from tarnish. Don’t take your jewelry into the water, regardless of whether you are showering or hitting the beach. This could cause your jewelery to rust or become more dull. Apply clear nail polish to your jewelery as an added protection.

To make sure no one can tell that you’re wearing costume jewelry, choose pieces that have a real metal setting. A gold or platinum setting can give an artificial gemstone a much more authentic look. This will make sure that you still look elegant even when you’re buying your jewelry on a budget.

Fashion Style

Do not underestimate the power of pearl jewelry. Pearls are often considered a throwback to the days of old. How untrue this is. Modern pearls come in so many varieties, you can cheaply acquire them and spice up any fashion style you are trying to pull off. They come in many colors and shapes.

Fashion Trends

Mix gold and silver for a bohemian effect. It used to be that you should not mix black and brown or silver and gold. Recent fashion trends have thrown both these rules out the window. This means you can now mix your favorite jewelry pieces regardless of the color of the ore. The result is a effortlessly chic look.

Latest Trends

Before you buy a new piece of jewelry, look at what the current trends are. The only thing better than picking up a gorgeous bauble is getting it on sale!

A piece of jewelry that is well-selected, well-maintained and well-purchased can last longer than a lifetime, and carry many pleasant memories along with it. Helpful advice on the subject, like that above, can help the prospective owner (or purchaser) get more out of the time and money they spend on jewelry.…