Italian Designer Jewelry

By Ivan Liu

MARNI designer jewelry beads and enamel pin at Italys Outlet

Creating masterpieces on jewelry is child’s play for the Italian designers who spend their valuable time in sketching the designs and then applying them on the metals. Gold is said to be the frequently used metal on which their creativity speaks the language of royalty. Right from the trendy jewelries to the traditional ones, it is an Italian designer who can best mold the metals. For the women of today jewelry indeed is a concept of something funky and fashionable with the least intrusion of the bells and charms that were used as the decorative. Gold, which was once regarded as the jewelry for the D-day occasions has now turned to be a regular wear. Fashion changes color with time and the tastes of women also roll along with it. With the attempt to feed the needs of this change in fashion, designers are also storming their brains. Fashion jewelry for this matter always has an edge over the traditional and the so-called outdated ones. Italian designers have already earned the praise for their creativity right from the beginning of history and now they are just trying to modify it by producing something unique for the multi-tasking women of today.

The height of experimentation with the metals and the jewelries is carrying the designers to such an extent that they are trying to produce something exquisite by molding steel and ceramic also. They have delivered almost a mentionable change in the function and usages of the unique material that hardly had any implication in jewelry making. Coral is also often used in making designer jewelry. In fact the marriages between the coral and ceramic jewelry created by the Italian designers can look awesome and trendy on any woman irrespective of her skin color. You can get to see the sample of such an interesting piece of work with Vivace jewelry which on purchase can be shipped to the address given free of cost. These modern designers can custom make the jewelry for your make over.

They also present some of the excellent collection on the rings and bracelets that can even look attractive on the men. Fashionable jewelry that the teenagers and the office goers love to put on is mostly light and cheaper. The risk that they try to avoid while in precious jewelry items can easily be avoided when they are wearing cheap fashionable jewelry designed by the Italian designers. These designers are trying their best to show their craftsmanship through the magic effects that they can produce with the help of ceramic, coral along with other imitation metals. Color is a primary factor when ceramic jewelry is concerned. These jewelries have to be painted according to the need of the stylish women of today. Pearl can also be an excellent element to be used up as pendant. The creative brain of the designer decides the style in which it has to be inserted. The designers can use ceramic to create excellent pieces of necklace, bracelets and earrings. There is a lot of scope to experiment with the earrings as they are small and can be shaped in any way you feel like.

The best part of the Italian jewelry is that the designers posses the capacity to make any dull metal graceful, with their touch. This group of Midas is innovative in whatever metal or material they work on. Sterling silver can add a new meaning so that it can tell the untold story. Silver existed long back but moving with time is a wise decision and jewelry is just a part of such movement. Colored ornamental earrings are effective when they are hand glazed. The working women of today love to put on only that particular type of jewelry that can glorify them and make them look awesome. The Italian jewelries are also unparallel when it comes to designing of costume jewelry and vintage jewelry. It is only a sketch that produces the ultimate magic shining on the curves of women’s body. Wedding ceremonies are absolutely incomplete without the junk fusion collections with the glittering stones of increasing denominations studded on them in ascending order. Amethyst glass crystal beads are heavy and produce an elegant look when they are put on with orange or saffron apparels. They present a sense of holiness, which gets reflected on the face of the woman wearing it. The Italian Designers are also expert in creating designs on brooches.

These were used long before but with the change in style their uses have diminished and hence, the designers are trying to recreate them by giving some different forms, shapes and sizes to them. Gold items in 14 to 22 carats are light. They are simply just capable of attracting any women. They look ethnic and have the fragrance of elegance. The Italian designers have also experienced art while playing with the white gold, which is precious and unique in itself with the touch of elegance. Crystals are auspicious for they reflect the light that falls on them and also makes you glow. It is the Italian jewelry designers who can make fruitful use of the crystals.

They can use it simply by hanging beautiful crystals with the prominent edges from a chocker or can gather various colors of it to create a multi-colored crystal necklace. Leather is modified with cutter convenience to make the bracelets for the teenage boys and girls. In fact, bracelets more like the bangles can produce an exclusiveness that is desired by everyone. Body piercing jewelry can also have a major outlet in the form of the nose rings, naval rings and eyebrow rings. Though they are not of much artistic value yet to make them unique some amount of design definitely has to be inserted. Fashionable jewelries that are used in matching with the apparels are mostly made up of cheap metals, which the working women prefer the most. So, most of the Italian designer jewelries for regular use are being created on these types of imitation or easily available materials.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/

Where to Get Inexpensive Women's Clothing

By Gabriel J. Adams

RACHEL PALLY clothing full tie dress designer knitwear MORE COLORS at DesignerLA

If you've ever gone out to purchase many items of clothing or even a whole wardrobe at once, you've probably seen how expensive women's clothing can be. Ladies' clothing is a booming industry, with millions of dollars each year being spent on designer labels, and even more being spent on casual clothing. Not everyone can afford to purchase a lot of clothing at once, however, so if you change sizes quickly or need to buy a different type of wardrobe (career versus casual, for example) you may be facing a large bill.

One way to cut down on your women's clothing bill is to have a clothing swap. Get together a group of your friends (preferably a group who wear similar sizes) and have everyone bring some gently used, in good condition, clothing. Separate the clothing by type (pants, shirts, etc) and size and let everyone choose among the clothing items. In this way, you can get a few new outfits (well, at least new to you!) without having to spend any additional money.

Another way to find inexpensive women's clothing is to shop on line retailers. Many Internet stores are able to offer ladies' clothing at reduced rates, because they can save on the costs of running a physical store. They also tend to offer many different styles by different clothing makers, so that comparison shopping can be easier than in a mall or store. If you don't mind wearing items that may be previously worn, sites such as Ebay offer even bigger bargains, with regular women posting unwanted items (sometimes even designer) at low prices.

Women's clothing is not only about fashion or brand names – it's also about practicality and frugality. If you're facing buying many articles of clothing in the near future, using tips such as a clothing trade or hunting for bargains on the Internet can be a great way to save money.

Get quality Ladies clothing and Womens Clothes on our site.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

Purchasing Techniques to Apply to Lower Wholesale Necklace Prices

By Ramir Sarmiento

DESIGNER JEWELRY Silver and Gold Plated Antique Finish Hart Necklace at DesignersLA

I discussed earlier how to check for real wholesale necklace suppliers by searching the Internet for wholesale manufacturers. Also, visiting wholesale necklace tradeshows can help you determine who is the real wholesale necklace supplier or the one directly buying from wholesale manufacturers.

Now, for the important part, you need to know how you can directly purchase to avoid higher wholesale prices.

Here are some techniques you need to analyze and research to get the lowest and probably the real wholesale necklace price possible:

1. Know the source. You should search the original source for the necklace products you about to buy. The original wholesale necklace manufacturer is what you need to meet you business goal to a higher profit.

You need to carefully examine your choices of wholesale necklace suppliers. Most of them are another group of wholesalers who set higher prices. These are not the ones you need.

2. Know who makes the necklaces. Lots of wholesale necklace suppliers online will tell you that they make the necklace products they are showcasing on their websites. Do not buy quickly from these wholesale necklace suppliers.

Always check their credibility and think ten times before you buy. You do not want to buy a wholesale necklace just because the supplier is good. You are after the original price as much as possible to gain more profit.

You should know where these wholesale necklaces coming from, what are the real contents of the necklace jewelries you plan to buy. Where do they import these necklace products? Know where the origin of the necklace products before buying wholesale necklace.

3. Always check the necklace quality. This is one of the most important parts in wholesale necklace buying at real wholesale necklace price.

Let us say that you have found a real wholesale necklace manufacturer offering lowest prices on wholesale necklace products.

Do you need to buy wholesale necklace instantly? The answer is NO. Even if the wholesale necklace supplier you have chosen offered a very attractive price, the quality of the necklace product might not be that good enough.

Remember, there are legitimate, honest, and reliable wholesale necklace manufacturers you can find. And they are the ones you will need to support your wholesale necklace business, and to be your long-term wholesale necklace business partner.

4. Consider larger wholesale necklace providers. You can consider those large wholesale necklace providers or distributors as they directly buy from wholesale necklace suppliers in greater wholesale necklace quantity.

The price of wholesale necklaces set by large wholesale necklace distributors is only slightly higher than the original wholesale manufacturer. Thus, this will be acceptable if you have small amount of time to spend on searching wholesale necklace for the unique wholesale manufacturer.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

Melie Bianco Fringed Hobo Handbag | Funky Designer Inspired Purse Featured in People Magazine

BagBunch

Melie Bianco's Handbags
Collection - eFashionHouse.com

Style bible People Magazine recently named Melie Bianco's fringe hobo one of the coolest bags to carry this fall. And it’s easy to see why. It looks so much like the cute Thomas Wylde Nomad purse Heidi Klum has been toting this season, but it doesn't have that four-figure price tag!

Just like the Nomad, this adorable hobo features ultra soft fringing,
giving the purse a fun, playful look. The supple fabric gives this handbag its trademark hobo slouch, making it a great way to complete your carefree boho-chic look.

The chic twisted handle adds interest but that’s not all. It’s also designed to sit comfortably on your shoulder or in the palm of your hand, allowing you to easily carry this beautiful bag every day.


The Melie Bianco fringe hobo retails for a mere $80, a fraction of its high-end designer muse. Just think what you could do with that extra spending money!

More Features of This Melie Bianco Fringed Purse
• A single shoulder strap with a 10 inch drop
• Measures 16 x 11 x 3 inches

Source:http://www.zimbio.com

Wholesale Handbags - Your Search For The Right Supplier

By Scott Nichols

AANETA designer purses messenger bag beige leather designer handbag 632 SAMPLE SALE ITEM at DesignersLA

Buying wholesale handbags, while not necessarily a breeze, should prove not to be too difficult. There are many wholesalers out there who are capable of providing retailers with adequate supplies of quality handbags at moderate prices. Convenience and reliability in the process of delivery is your other consideration, besides quality and price, when choosing the right vendor or merchant to purchase wholesale handbags. Additionally, the supplier you choose should be capable of meeting the requirements of discriminating clients.

Wholesaler Track Records

Before purchasing wholesale handbags from a particular supplier, check on the history of the wholesaler. How long have they been in the business of selling wholesale handbags? Is the enterprise financially stable? Do they care about the quality and workmanship of the wholesale handbags that they selling? If you yourself are not yet very experienced in purchasing wholesale handbags, choose a supplier with a track record of no less than 10 years. That should at least assure you that their products are of proven quality.

Be discriminating yourself in your choice of supplier for wholesale handbags. Remember that you are choosing from a pool of thousands of prospective sellers in the market. One route you can take is via the Internet. There are online enterprises, such as wholesalemart.net, that specialize in supplier dealings. Created by Wholesale Buyers, wholesalemart.net counts some of the biggest U.S. companies in its roster of manufacturers, so being part of the list is justifiable cause for a supplier to be pleased with themselves.

Ensuring the Quality of the Wholesale Handbags

Your choice of supplier of wholesale handbags can’t be independent of your choice of handbags to buy and retail. The quality of the bags should be evident. At the very least they should good enough to be displayed as merchandise with pride. The design of the bags themselves and their functionality are also prime considerations.

Wholesale handbags can range from the very cheap to the exorbitant designer handbags that sport such signature names as Gucci or Coach. The handbags can be found in a variety of places, including discount outlets, department stores, wholesale warehouse clubs and specialty stores. The Internet is one other place to check out wholesale handbags. The World Wide Web is abuzz with a gamut of sites operated by vendors out to sell their wares. Wholesale handbags happens to be one of them.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

Wholesale, Manufacturers and Exports of Handbags

By William Brister

AANETA DESIGNER HANDBAGS large leather motor cycle designer purses- MORE COLORS at eFashionHouse

There exists an amazing world of handbags, both designer and retail, made of different materials, all uniquely designed in a range of shapes and sizes to complement you with perfect class and style. Needless to say, the designer handbag industry is extremely lucrative by virtue of them being a huge fashion statement and one of the most sought after items by women.

With a rapidly growing fashion conscious population, one is never satisfied with possessing only a few designer handbags. There is always another exquisite luxury designer handbag that is out there, clamouring for your attention.

This need to own multiple designer handbags that change with every season has created a huge industry in both, the designer handbags manufacturing as well as cheap and discounted handbags made available at wholesale prices.

Top designer handbag manufacturers only supply their products to large retailers, small boutiques or sometimes to select websites through an exclusive contract. Some of the top designer brands are prohibitively expensive and unaffordable to the common man.

So where do all the handbags that you see for sale online actually come from? Most of these designer or assorted handbags come from intentional or unintentional overstocking by medium size boutiques. They will sell off their surpluses, as the season trends change, to distributors who in turn will sell them to the wholesalers.

You need to find these designer bag wholesalers or manufacturers of handbags directly to get your designer handbags at wholesale prices or cheap discounts.

Besides the original designer handbag industry, there exists a rapidly growing market for designer knock offs. Wholesale manufacturers of replica designer handbags offer the same quality at discounted and wholesale prices.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

California Love

Alice in wonderland didn’t have the advantage. She, poor thing to carry away all the tempting treats that were within arm’s reach had only a pair of apron pockets after the nasty spill.

If only she knew Efashionhouse and Internet. Moreover the Designers of LA whose bags come in various colors, styles and finishes that is perfectly suited for urban adventures.

The DesignerLA features designers of LA who have their unique styles that would give you choices of handbags from work to party. They offer Hobos to shoulder bags for everyday hauling for the moms. Glamorous handbags are definitive styles that make style statements for the wearer, be it a clutch or small handbags.

Alexander Zar brings for us designer purse in white leather with mosaic mirrors shoulder hobo. 3D mossaic mirrors and details to the front of this bag make it a real knock out. Made of the softest thick Napa Italian leathers available. Alexander Zar puts his designs to work for us

AANETA DESIGNER HANDBAGS are large leather motor cycle designer purses. They are made of soft Italian leather and are available in a variety of colors. There are lots of pockets and zippers. Double handles are woven at the edges. Fringed leather strings hang from the bag. Inside is fully lined. Extra zip pockets are inside and out. Detachable shoulder strap. If only Alice had a motor bike.

BCBG designer sling handbag with soft chocolate leather that would have done well for Alice in any glamour event. Extremely soft chocolate leather with a flap over weighted ring and a magnetic snap top closure. The bag has fully lined interior with one zippered pocket and multiple open pockets.

Alice would have loved this treat from BELLS & WHISTLES. The designer zoe clutch bag with metallic floral print on suede has silver leather edge trim and purple lining. The top has a flexible metal frame closure.

Look and touch, Alice: the textures, trims and feel of suede, string leather and buttery soft leather that is cut to perfection. This is just the beginning. Wander into Efashionhouse the designer handbag wonderland and find treats and treasures by designers you would love to own.

She would be hatter mad not to get one.

Person Alexander Zar

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How To Find A Cheap Designer Handbag Today

By: Tori A Hewitt

DesignersLA.com: Authentic Handbags & Accessories – eFashionHouse.com

Every woman wants a designer handbag. Designer hand bags are stylish and beautiful as well as durable and prestigious. However, most women just cannot afford the price tag that accompanies these designer handbags. For those of you who cannot afford to spend a mortgage payment on a designer handbag, there are inexpensive alternatives to the expensive designer handbags that we all covet.

One of the best ways to get a real, but cheap designer handbag is to shop the seasonal sales. To stay in the design game, each designer must release a new collection of designer handbags at least twice a year. This means that the old designer handbag collections are cleared out at reduced prices. A wise shopper keeps a keen eye on the sales and shops accordingly.

In conjunction with the clearing out of the old, there is the introduction of the new. Many designers and the stores that are contracted to sell their products will sell the styles from the new collections at reduced introductory prices. This is a great way to pick up a trendy, new but cheap designer handbag.

Shopping around can yield some great deals. Many designers sell the excess from their old collections to clearance houses who then sell them to the consumer at a fantastic price. This means that you, the consumer, can snatch a real but cheap designer handbag for hundreds off the original price.

The internet is another place to hunt for cheap designer handbags. Clearance sites and online auctions are always offering quality but cheap designer handbags, both new and used. Thrifty shoppers pick up authentic but cheap designer handbags at dime store prices.

The online auction site eBay has one of the most extensive selections of new and used designer handbags available on the web. You now have access to an entire world full of cheap designer handbags with the click of a mouse. Designer handbag collectors look for great bargains on this international marketplace and usually find great deals.

Although the internet is a great place to find cheap designer handbags, it is a largely unregulated marketplace. Auction sites and small online boutiques are not always as honest as they seem. You may purchase one thing and receive another from a dishonest seller. Because of the rampant dishonesty of online merchants, reputable dealers often provide a certificate of authenticity with the product. Online auctions allow you to communicate with the seller to ask as many questions as you can that will provide you with the information and assurances you need to make a good purchase. Sellers often provide an array of pictures for bidders to look at, but if you are still unsure, ask the seller for more pictures or pictures of a particular feature.

Source Taken: articlesbase.com

Fashion Trends For Women Accessories: Handbags

By kirsty semple

Trendy Designer handbags from designers of Los Angeles

Bags are seeing the same fashion trend as boots: a classic shape with an extravagant twist. Animal print, especially crocodile skin is finding its way onto simple shapes, bold colours are adorning the classic cut and otherwise unassuming bags are finding themselves in the limelight having had a glam makeover.

Day bags. This season sees the quirky twist of the oversize bag. If you can carry this off (excuse the pun) then go for it, if the bulky bag is too much for you then the oversize clutch bag can give daywear a glamorous lift. Faux fur is also an alternative to the bulky bag whilst giving you that must have luxurious style. Bags are no exception to the other trends of the season, metallics, vivid colours especially purples and animal print are all represented on the catwalks.

The contrast of simple and extravagant does not bypass bags either, where casual styles are accented with luxurious detail. Chain is a big look this season, chain handles or just as decoration on the bag itself, glitzy cabochon beads are adorning the corners of neutral coloured bags, distressed leather is being given new life with studs and fabrics are mixing different textures together for a new kind of love. For the retro look bead bags with trailing fringes. If going for the bold colour look then stick to the block of colour with a bag matching the outfit.

Evening bags. There is a renewed trend for the clutch bag, again in metallics, colours and animal print. The minaudiere, or tiny bag is also a trend and can be matched perfectly with metallic ballerina shoes.

If the clutch bag is not for you then shoulder bags with chain strap can be carried leaving your two hands free. Or for carrying overnight things there are some great barrel bags available in this seasons colour trends.

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

The 3 Most Commonly Used Fabrics in Designer Clothing

Designer apparel has become extremely popular over the past decade or so. It was always popular but recently we have seen an overwhelming rise in popularity from this industry. To get the best of the best in designer clothing, choose pieces that incorporate these 3 fabrics into your choices:

Silk
Silk has always been associated with luxury and wealth. There’s something about silk that makes you feel important and when you wear an authentic silk piece, your confidence level goes up a couple of levels immediately. There’s just something about the way the silk hugs your body that flatters every curve, regardless of your shape.

Silk is used for a variety of fashion related pieces. It can be used for skirts, dresses, blouses, scarves, pajamas and lingerie. There are a number of manufacturers who have taken full advantage of the benefits of silk. Some of the designers who have been recognized for creating unbelievable silk designs include Prada, Chanel and Roberto Cavalli. These world renowned designers offer only the best of the best when it comes to their designer clothing and their customers are always happy with their purchases.

Purchasing authentic silk items will benefit you in a number of ways. Not only will it look better because the quality is higher than other materials (or materials that are only 50% silk and 50% other materials) but it will also last longer. A true piece of silk is likely to last twice as long as the “knock-off’ materials. In addition, silk is said to be one of the most comfortable clothing fabrics on the market right now. The sleek, luxurious feel of silk on your body will outweigh the cost in a second. Now you can justify paying twice as much.

Satin
Satin, although usually classified in the same category as silk has a few very distinctive features. Silk is made from insect larvae and is made of small, fine threads. Satin is shinier than silk and usually incorporates some kind of silk fabric into it but has a dull back. Silk is shiny on both sides so you feel the silk against your skin. Satin is perfect for those who don’t like the glossy finish against their body and prefer something a little softer. Generally, satin is slightly shinier, but for the most part, the two are hard to tell apart just from looking.

Like silk and cashmere, there are many designers who have decided to incorporate satin into their magnificent designs. Some of the most luxurious satin gowns have come from prestigious designers like Versace and Valentino. Unlike silk and cashmere, satin has become a very popular material in shoe design. World renowned footwear designers like Nine West have decided to use silk.

Cashmere
Cashmere is known for its long lasting comfort and unbelievably soft appearance. It’s one of those materials that when you see someone wearing it, you just want to touch them because the material looks and feels so incredibly soft. Cashmere is one of the most popular materials in designer clothing because it provides so many benefits. Like silk and satin, cashmere is also long-lasting, comfortable and pleasing to the eye.

There are many designers who have taken full advantage of the popularity of cashmere. Some of the prestigious designers creating cashmere pieces include Kenneth Cole, Michael Kors and Christian Dior. These luxurious designers are definitely the ones to look for if you’re shopping for high quality, stylish designer clothing.

The world of fashion can be a little undermining. Designers have clued into which materials are popular among consumers but realize that they can’t sell their items for low cost if they’re made from this authentic material. So here’s a secret to help you out: Some designers advertise their items as cashmere when in fact they are only partially made of the material. This way, you think you’re getting a deal because you can’t believe you just bought a cashmere sweater for $29.99. Well let me tell you something – nothing good comes for free. Look at the tags on these items and I guarantee you the product isn’t 100 percent cashmere.

Article source: articleworld.net

Glamour girl lifts head-turning looks from fashion mags

By Lisa Hinojosa

CORPUS CHRISTI — I wouldn't be caught dead wearing... a fake designer bag. I feel if I can't afford it, I shouldn't pretend I can. I believe having a sense of style doesn't reflect on how much you can spend it's whether you know how to put it together or not.

Three accessories women definitely need are... a pair of natural-toned heels with a matching purse (because it's easier to match something that's close to your skin tone than it is to find the perfect colored shoe to match every dress) and a pearl necklace with matching earrings -- they just define classy.

Fashion advice I'd give my best friend Keep it simple and you don't have to be revealing to be sexy. My favorite shopping haunts definitely Forever 21. I used to drive to San Antonio just to shop there, so when they brought one here, I was like, "Finally." They have the best prices and a huge selection of styles.

I spice up my wardrobe with bright colors and beautiful dresses that I can dress up or down. Three words to describe my wardrobe bright, simple and a little sexy. I have a tough time shopping for jeans, so when I find what I like, I usually try to buy them in all shades. I have a fashion addiction for shoes and purses... and of course the jewelry to match. The best way to organize your closet is Color coordinate and then organize from casual to evening wear.

The only thing I dislike about shopping is you either don't have enough time or you think, "Will it be here when I get back if I leave it behind?" A fashionable find from an unusual place my little bamboo purse. My former employer bought it for me when she went to Thailand. She knew my taste so well. I have had it for about seven years. I truly love this purse and I always get compliments on it.

I love shopping with my girlfriends, because we know it's just us and we know we really trust each other to be honest about what we're trying on and whether or not it really looks good. My biggest fashion pet peeve is seeing someone wear a cute dress with big strappy shoes that do not match. It really drives me crazy.

Eco-fashion: Transforming trash into treasures

Fashion designers are giving new life to worthless candy wrappers, newspapers and plastic bags; turning trash into trendy tote bags, purses and jewelry. From "post-consumer and industrial waste" comes durable, funky accessories reportedly worn by celebrities such as Lindsay Lohan, Cameron Diaz and Petra Nemcova.

One self-described eco-fashion label, Ecoist, has partnered with Coca-Cola, Luna Bar and Aveda to create handbags made from misprinted and discontinued packaging. "We tap into that source of waste because it is reliable, and unfortunately, it's abundant," Ecoist co-founder Jonathan Marcoschamer said. "We believe that for the next few years, there's going to be a significant amount." How about 7.6 billion tons of waste? That's how much American companies toss each year, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

During the past four years, Ecoist said, it has sold more than 100,000 accessories created by its designers in Peru and Miami, Florida. The bags -- some of them one-of-a-kind -- are priced from about $30 for smaller versions to about $180 for larger ones. "For now, we're an immediate solution for many of these companies to utilize waste for something that's creative and promotes environmental awareness," Marcoschamer said.

Ecoist isn't alone. Katherine Rasmussen, owner of the label Reiter8, creates totes from recycled boat sails. Nicola Freegard and Robin Janson, the design team behind Vy&Elle, have recycled 100 tons of vinyl billboard ads to create wallets, bags and a variety of other products. Another designer, Anna Built, has opted to create jewelry from recycled tin cans.

But it's not always easy being green. Timbuk2, a company famous for its messenger bags, has encountered resistance in its attempt to produce totes made from discarded plastic bags. The idea seemed feasible when Timbuk2 formed a partnership with RootPhi, which developed a machine capable of bonding plastic bags together. The machine, called the Lamitron, allowed them to produce a new fabric while maintaining the visual details of the original plastic bag. See photos of the eco-friendly accessories »

The timing seemed appropriate; San Francisco had banned the use of plastic bags, and other cities worldwide were considering similar initiatives. Despite a following of 3,000 potential customers on the Timbuk2 Web site, the bags are unlikely to be sold any time soon, if at all. The companies have encountered legal and technical hiccups in their efforts to mass produce the bags.

"Everyone is afraid to be the large-scale manufacturer, to stick their toe in the water. It's a risk and a cost issue," says Doug Patt, co-founder of RootPhi. Tinbuk2 also found that, although trash may no longer have an owner, logos on trash still do. Target sent Timbuk2 a cease and desist letter in September when it discovered that some Lamitron bags showed the company's bull's-eye design. RootPhi and Timbuk2 scrambled to identify and remove the offending bags from its limited collection of prototypes.

"We encourage and promote recycling efforts, including ones that use our recycled bags," Target said in a written statement to CNN. "However, in this particular case we believed that the prominent use of our bull's-eye design mark implied a sponsorship or affiliation with Timbuk2 that did not exist at that time." Target said Timbuk2 has cooperated. Perry Klebahn, Timbuk2's CEO, acknowledges that Target wasn't technically wrong. "The onus was on us to talk to Target and get them to say OK, in this particular case, to grant us a license. If we really are going to make use of this, we should be responsible as the manufacturer."

However, the initial draw for Timbuk2 was the possibility that it could simultaneously clean up neighborhoods and satisfy a market demand for highly localized and personalized eco-products. "What's great here is that no two bags are the same. ... What if you could roll into a town and make artifacts that have a local flavor?" Klebahn asked. His vision was that one day, anyone could drop off their used shopping bags at Timbuk2 and receive a customized tote bag a few weeks later. For now, the masses will have to wait.

Eco-fashion has certainly proved that it has enough caché in the fashion world. Last year, British designer Anya Hindmarch created an instant eco-fad with her $15 limited edition "I Am Not A Plastic Bag" bag. The cotton bags quickly sold out in London and New York, with hundreds of people lining up for them. The bags fetched $400 on eBay and spawned a dizzying number of knock-offs.

Atlanta, Georgia, boutique owner Joyce Justicz said she doesn't think consumers buy eco-fashion exclusively for environmental reasons. "They buy them because they're cute, and it's an added bonus," she said. Will the trend last? Yair Marcoschamer, another Ecoist co-founder, is optimistic. "Businesses and individuals have realized that if something isn't done [about the environment], this is going to have a profound effect on each of our lives," he said. "Consuming products that are fair-trade, that are environmentally responsible, is our responsibility as consumers."

Carrie's purses are towering triumphs in 'Sex'

By Olivia Barker, USA TODAY

On TV's Sex and the City, Carrie Bradshaw inspired women to think outside the boxy bag and instead pick up purses shaped like horse heads and telephones. In Sex and the City the movie, she's getting them to grab something monumental: the Eiffel Tower.

Since a publicity shot of Carrie embracing Mr. Big and clutching a purse shaped like the Parisian icon was released in the fall, Beverly Hills designer Timmy Woods has sold about 150 of the bags showered with Swarovski crystals at $3,000 a pop and another 1,000 purses without stones for $450 each.

CELEB STYLE: Get that fresh 'Sex and the City' look

The movie may be stuffed with more blatant status bags from the likes of Fendi, Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Prada, but the Eiffel Tower's triumph is evidence that four years after the show wrapped, Sex can still sell fashion that's quirky and in contrast to the other characters, consummately Carrie. (Remember nameplate necklaces and saucer-sized flower pins?)

And, like so much of Sex style, it serves a narrative purpose.

"It's a great wink and homage to Carrie's experience in Paris" at the end of the series, says W accessories and jewelry director Brooke Magnaghi. She envisions "die-hard Carrie fans are buying this. It's kind of a fun memento."

Woods, the woman also behind the horse and telephone bags, created the Eiffel Tower purse made from acacia wood four years ago as a valentine to her adopted city. (She has an apartment overlooking the tower.)

"I really wanted it to be very surreal," a la Salvador Dali. "I wanted it to look like it was emerging out of the clouds. Then I decided it should glitter." (The version studded with 6,300 Swarovski stones takes nearly two months to make.)

Last summer, Sex costume designer Patricia Field walked into Woods' showroom and asked for the tower tote. Woods had no idea how it would be featured until a friend saw the publicity still on the Internet. Available on her website and on Field's, as well as at Macy's New York Herald Square location, the model is among Woods' top five all-time best sellers. She's been making wood purses for a dozen years, and her current catalog boasts about 100 styles.

"(Carrie) can get away with carrying a funky little bag like that," says Samantha Durbin, editor of FabSugar.com. "It's cinematic. Everyone dreams of Paris. It kind of has that romantic feel to it."

Gloria Shulman bought her Eiffel Tower purse, the sparkly "major one," a month or two ago after spying the photo of Sarah Jessica Parker holding the original one.

"It was so darling, and she is such a trendsetter," says Shulman, 60, who owns a Beverly Hills mortgage brokerage — and three dozen other Woods totes, including the horse head. "I don't want to say I copied her — I'm little old for copying — but I enjoy seeing what the latest trends are."

When Pam Price carried her Eiffel Tower to a recent luncheon in La Jolla, Calif., someone thought she had stolen it from Parker, asking, "Where did you get that?"

"I bought it," Price replied; along with a horse head model, the tower sits among her two dozen-strong Timmy Woods collection.

"A lot of people think it doesn't open," says Price, 65, a writer and editor in Palm Springs. She manages to squeeze in the essentials: a credit card, $10 bill, tube of lipstick, business card and set of keys.

"You're not carrying your office with you," Price concedes.

But, then, how much time did Carrie spend in an office?

From LA to NYC Graduating Fashionistas Speak Out!

No matter which continent or sea coast, fashionistas speak out. Designer fashion is a must for the new graduate. Blog comments show your little girl is grown up. She wants an authentic designer purse. Shopping online is your best choice for a new designer handbag. Whether she's into Yoga or an obvious Fashionista, decide the award your girly grad deserves and say "congrats" with an authentic designer handbag for the Class of 2008. You know she really wants a designer purse this year! And, she's all grown up and wants something special. Shopping Online SAVES YOU MONEY! No travel time or gas to buy! Shop from the comfort of home 24/7! All the girls are carrying a new purse to their new job. Your little graduate dreams about a new designer handbag. There are many styles and designs to select in price ranges from under $100 to more than $500. It's up to you. Whatever you pick will be a hit. Some of our favorites are Tano bags, Melie Bianco handbags, Elaine Turner handbags, Pietro Alessandro handbags, Gucci Bags, Prada bags, Fendi bags and many more. And, they are all on Sale! See the coupon codes below and start saving on your graduation gifts for that special gal in your life.

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Graduation is here! She wants a REAL Designer Handbag! Have fun shopping! Here's a series of Graduation Tid-Bits we found amusing and thought you might, too!

Bad Graduation Gift Ideas
by Andy

A Briefcase: Oh, thanks Uncle Frank. You getting me this briefcase ensures that I’m supposed to work the same 9-5 office job that you've worked for that last 25 years while complaining about it and cheating on my wife with my secretary. (Sorry Aunt Jane)

“Planet Earth” on DVD: Am I that hard to shop for? How long did it take you to pick this out at Wal-Mart? Do you think that all I do is get high and watch the Discovery Channel? Well guess what, I DO!

“Planet Earth” on VHS: What? There’s like 20 tapes. Get out of my sight Grandma.

Money: What am I supposed to do with this? It's only four dollars.

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All Sorts of Graduation Ideas
from My Expression

Graduation Party Ideas
The Traditions of Graduation Party -Traditions are the lifeblood of every college. Traditions connect the students to the past of the college while at the same time preparing them for the future. From the historic to the contemporary, traditions can express a spirit of unity and create a sense of community while providing for loads of fun.

Graduation Planning Checklist - Its Graduation time! You’re planning on hosting a graduation party and you want it to be unique and exciting. Planning any party can be overwhelming and many things can go wrong. So, to be on the safer side, you need to come up with a graduation planning checklist to keep things from bouncing out of control.

The Do’s and Don’ts in the Graduation Party - So, you’re graduating from high school or college and what better excuse to throw a party! Spring is that time of the year for graduation invitations, announcements and gifts. Etiquettes and manners form a very important part of our being social animals.

What To Wear on Your Graduation Day - For 12 (in some cases more) seemingly never-ending years, you obediently went through the schoolyard quarrels, your first boy-girl party, your first date, the Prom, and now finally what you’ve always been waiting for – your Graduation day! This time you’re going to be wearing an outfit that your parents will finally approve of – a gown and a cap ...

Decorating your Graduation Party - So, its graduation day and you’re all set to host a special theme party. Yes, theme parties are fun and a whole lot easier to decorate! Half the fun of hosting a graduation party is decorating the party. You can decorate your room, your lawn, you table, and even your guests! You can turn graduation caps upside down and fill them with balloons or flowers ...

Graduation Speeches Etiquette - The graduation ceremony confirms each student’s quest for knowledge. Traditionally, the ceremony will include a graduation speech that seeks to put each and every students hard work (in some cases, not so hard work) into the perspective of their future. Yes, most of us have heard one or more graduation speeches either as spectators or as graduates ourselves ...

Graduation Gift Ideas - The date is fixed, and the invitations and announcements have already been given out. So, the day has finally come for you students to cry and to cheer and to leave your school or college halls forever. Yes, graduation day is indeed one of the biggest days in everyone’s life. After years and years of hard work, your efforts have finally paid off. You’re happy but ...

Chance to Promote Your Business with Graduation Open House Invitations - Do you plan to host a graduation open house for yourself or one of your children? It may not seem like it could work, but you can actually promote your business when you have an open house. You can start the promotion with something as simple as mention that the open house is being hosted by your business. This will definitely ...

Graduation Announcement Tips, Wording, and Special Poems
Graduation Announcement Wording Tips - Graduation is an important time in life, and should be announced properly. Stationary with crayons and graduation caps on it is an appropriate means of announcing a child graduating from kindergarten. A photo announcement is a nice keepsake for loved ones who are being invited to the graduation ...

Graduation Announcements Wording Ideas - So, you’re graduating from high school or college and you’re busier than ever! Your last year of college is filled with thousands of events and activities that you have never even tried to attempt during your college years. From sending out resumes and applications to asking for letter of recommendation, you have loads ...

Do it yourself Graduation Announcements - A great substitute to printed graduation announcements are announcements that you print by yourself on your personal computer. Not only are these ‘Do-it-yourself’ graduation announcements a lot more economical, but they can also be equally colorful and creative. Start of by using plain white card stock or even plain white paper ...

Sending Graduation Announcements - So, its graduation day and its time to let everyone know that you are a proud graduate. Now that all those seemingly endless years of toil and hard work have finally paid off, it’s finally time to celebrate. First things first, start by sending out graduation invitations and announcements to all your near and dear ones. Most colleges and high schools ...

Graduation Invitations in General and the Etiquette
Graduation Party Invitations - Planning the Party - Everyone who has played a role in the life of the graduate should be sent an invitation to the graduation party. It is understood by most that tickets to commencement are limited, however an open house allows for everyone to congratulate the graduate. - Invitations - You can choose informal themes, such as a backyard ...

Graduation Invitations Etiquette - There is a very good reason why people call graduation ceremonies ‘commencement ceremonies’. This is because graduation does not mark the end; it marks the beginning. Graduation is the achievement of all goals, and rewarding the graduate for his or her hard work is a must. Graduation time is the time to invite friends and family together for an exclusive ...

Choosing Graduation Invitations Theme - Whether for you or a friend, Graduation day is one of the most joyous and welcomed occasions in any student’s life. It marks the end of your educational journey that can sometimes seem to be an endless and intolerable journey. Graduation is a once in a lifetime event, so give this event the honor and prestige that it truly deserves. The very first ...

The Traditions of Graduation Cap & Black Color in Your Invitations - When it comes to graduation invitations or stationary there are some traditions that are still observed by most people. In the majority of samples that you look at while shopping you will find that there are graduation caps in the majority of them. This is simply an obvious choice of décor since it is an invitation for a graduation ...

Graduation Invitations Theme
Casual Graduation Party Ideas - If you want to throw a wonderful party for that special high school or college graduate in your life, don’t assume you have to spend a fortune and put together some very elegant get together. After all, your graduate has already worked very hard to achieve this accomplishment and now just needs some time to relax and unwind. That’s why sometimes a more casual ...

Throwing a Cocktail Theme Graduation Party - Graduating from college is a major accomplishment and is definitely one of the best reasons to have a celebration. However, too many graduation parties are all the same. If you want to throw an amazing party, then you’ll want to take a creative approach with your graduation celebration. One idea is to celebrate with a cocktail theme ...

Throwing a Party for Valedictorians and Summa Cum Laude Graduates - Graduating from high school or college is a huge achievement, but if your student is graduating with honors then that achievement is even more deserving of a special celebration. No ordinary graduation is going to be sufficient. Background on Graduation Honors - If you’re not familiar with all of the “honors” terminology, then ...

Black, Red, and Green for Graduation Invitations - Graduations are one of those major milestones in life that deserve not only to be recognized but also to be celebrated. Whether the student in your life has just earned a high school diploma, a bachelor’s degree, or an even higher degree, you’ll want to find a way to show him or her just how proud you are of their hard work ...
Ideas for a Formal Graduation Party - When we think of graduation parties, sometimes we have the impression that all of them are just full of young people drinking too much and playing loud music. And sure some graduation parties would fit that description pretty well, but that isn’t your only option if you’re planning a celebration for a special student in your life ...

Feng Shui Graduation Party Ideas - Celebrating a graduation is a big deal. The family wants to show their pride at how well their student has succeeded. The student wants to know that he or she has done a good job by achieving this important life goal. When you’re planning something this special, then it only makes sense that you should take into consideration every possible way of ...

Creating Tassel as Embellishments For Your Invitations - If you want to create a graduation invitation that is sure to get the attention of those you invite you can do a lot of it yourself. It can be fun to add your own personal touch to it, even if you order the actual stationary and then create a tassel as an embellishment. Everyone associates a tassel with graduation, so this can be a fun addition! If you ...

Clip-Arts for Graduation Invitations - Do you want to add some fun and uniqueness to your graduation invitation but you aren’t sure what may or may not be appropriate? If so, you aren’t alone. The fact of the matter is that there are a lot of fun or original things that you can do; you simply need to infuse your own style into it and get creative. Anything that you can imagine can generally be created ...

Personalize Your Graduation Invitations with Special Inspirations - A graduation invitation can be just a graduation invite, but there are some great things that you can do to add your personal touch and make it interesting and even inspirational to those that you send them to. There is nothing better than sending out invites that have been infused with your own personal style, whatever that may be ...

Differentiating Masculine & Feminine Invitations Theme - Because both men and women graduate from high school as well as college there needs to be a way to differentiate between invitations that are more appropriate for men and those that are more appropriate for women. This is not to say that there aren’t invitations that are appropriate for both genders, but if you want something that ...

Seasonal Graduation Invitations
Show Your Patriotism with Patriotic Graduation Invitations Theme - Over the last couple years the patriotism in our country seems to have been renewed and this includes the young, the old, and everyone in between. If you are graduating from high school or college why not share your patriotism with others with a patriotic invitation theme? Why go drab when you can serve to inspire those that ...

Graduation Photo Christmas Cards - Are you graduating early? Many students that graduate early, graduate in the winter months, which is a great opportunity to do something different with your graduation invitation. You can not only send an invite to all those that you would like to attend your graduation ceremonies; you can send a Christmas greeting at the same time by enclosing a Christmas card with a photo ...

After The Graduation
Sending Graduation Thank You Cards - So, your graduation day has come and gone, the ceremonies were amazing, the graduation party was brilliant, and above all, the graduation gifts were super cool! The graduate is happy, the graduate’s guests are happy, everyone is happy. But, after the ceremony, party and gifts comes the most daunting part – sending out ...

Graduation Photo and your Scrapbooking Project - Honoring the graduate is one of the most important parts of the graduation ceremony. If you’ve organized your photo albums over the years, then everything should be up to date. But, if you are like most of us, then you’re family photos are probably piled up in boxes in the attic. Since you are going to be graduating pretty soon, now ...

Career Guide After Graduation - Transitioning out of college can be both, an exciting as well as a scary experience. There are newer and tougher challenges to face, unwritten laws to be followed, unexplored opportunities for progress – and humiliation – in every nook and cranny. While recent graduates and most other college students are preparing themselves to become experts ...

Reunion Graduate Party Planning - Once you graduate, you only get to see you friends every ten years at each reunion! So you want to have a fun reunion party this time and not a boring formal one? Planning for your reunion would mean coming up with a special plan or an idea for the party. From the decorations to the food and particularly the entertainment, your graduate reunion party ...

A Juicy Story - The Great History of Juicy Couture

Juicy Couture Velour Shoulder Bag

By Roy Leadwell

Pamela Skaist-Levy and Gela Taylor (wife of John Taylor of Duran-Duran) founded Juicy Couture in 1994. The company started as a designer T-Shirt company. The look of the company changed drastically in 1999 with tho companies entrance into the denim and sportswear market. Next came the item the company is most famous for, "The Track Suit." The item came in velour, terry cloth, and cashmere. The elements that made these suits so famous was there low riding draw string pants and form fitting zip up hoodies in a variety of mouthwatering colors. Skaist-Levy and Taylor, according to most fashion magazines, have made there track suit as popular as the little black dress.

In 2003 Juicy Couture was purchased by Liz Claiborne, Inc. for an undisclosed multi-million dollar sum. Quite an accomplishment for a company that sold track suits, "Juicy loves Martha" T Shirts, and ruffled velvet tube dresses. All of Juicy Couture items are manufactured with the companies signature logo, too highland terriers holding a shield bearing three hearts and love P&G (Pat and Gela) Juicies creators. A crown lies overhead while a Juicy Couture banner flutters below the underline slogan, "Made in the Glamorous USA"

Juicy Couture's label has reached the heights of such labels as Gucci, Guess and DKNY. This was accomplished by a brilliant marketing ploy. They cultivated relationships with the Hollywood community and invited top celebrities such as JLO, Cameron Diaz and Madonna to shop for Free. Then they had these famous women have there pictures taken with these items and this concept raised the label to the status of, "Chic Couture."

Fast forward to today and under the Liz Claiborne aegis, Juicy Couture markets many items under many categories. They have both men and womens collections, children's collections as well as a mix of fashion accessories including jewelry, handbags and swim wear.

In the last 14 years we have seen many changes but one thing that hasn't is Skaist-Levy and Taylor are still at the head of this most prosperous organization as co-presidents.

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LA Designers Celebrate Memorial Day with American Fashion

Use coupon code MDS08 for an extra 20% off. Click Here!

Celebrate Memorial Day in style and take an extra 20% off all the American Designers at eFashionHouse.com. We owe a lot to the European influence when it comes to fashion. Yet, the American Designers produce an image we call, "Home." People like Ralph Lauren, Liz Claiborne, Calvin Klein, Donna Karan, Tommy Hilfiger, Marc Jacobs, Melie Bianco and Elaine Turner pave the way for upcoming American fashion influence.

Designers like Tano Bags, BCBG, Coach, Dooney & Bourke and Brighton bring a sense of American style and unique image to their collections. We honor all the American Designers this season and celebrate with them for Memorial Day 2008.

Whether you are looking for a new handbag, wallet, tote or leather shoulder bag, you can find a perfect American Designer Handbag for an unbeatable price. But don't lose sight of the true meaning of Memorial Day. We celebrate in honor of many people who have died in military service protecting our country. It's really about honoring our heros.

Yes, we are addicted to fashion, and we admire the creative design process. We are always seeking a bargain, and we shop online for the best deals we can find. So, get ready for Memorial Day with a celebration of American Designers at an additional 20% off, and remember our heros who lived their lives to make America our home.

MORE ABOUT Memorial Day
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Memorial Day is a United States federal holiday that is observed on the last Monday of May (observed in 2008 on May 26). It was formerly known as Decoration Day. This holiday commemorates U.S. men and women who have died in military service to their country. It began first to honor Union soldiers who died during the American Civil War. After World War I, it was expanded to include those who died in any war or military action. One of the longest standing traditions is the running of the Indianapolis 500, which has been held in conjunction with Memorial Day since 1911. It is also traditionally viewed as the beginning of summer by many, for many schools are dismissed around Memorial Day.

Many people observe this holiday by visiting cemeteries and memorials. A national moment of remembrance takes place at 3 p.m. US Eastern time. Another tradition is to fly the U.S. flag at half-staff from dawn until noon local time. Volunteers place a U.S. flag upon each gravesite located in a National Cemetery.

Many politicians and community leaders give speeches at community gatherings on Memorial Day.In addition to remembrance, Memorial Day is also a time for picnics, family gatherings, and sporting events. Some Americans also view Memorial Day as the unofficial beginning of summer and Labor Day as the unofficial end of the season. The national Click it or ticket campaign ramps up beginning Memorial Day weekend, noting the beginning of the most dangerous season for auto accidents and other safety related incidents. The USAF "101 Critical days of summer" begin on this day as well. Some Americans use Memorial Day to also honor any family members who have died, not just servicemen.

Flags flying at Fort Logan National Cemetery during Memorial Day 2006.Memorial Day formerly occurred on May 30, and some, such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW), advocate returning to this fixed date, although the significance of the date is tenuous. The VFW stated in a 2002 Memorial Day Address, "Changing the date merely to create three-day weekends has undermined the very meaning of the day. No doubt, this has contributed a lot to the general public's nonchalant observance of Memorial Day."

Following the end of the Civil War, many communities set aside a day to mark the end of the war or as a memorial to those who had died. Some of the places creating an early memorial day include Charleston, South Carolina; Boalsburg, Pennsylvania; Richmond, Virginia; Carbondale, Illinois; Columbus, Mississippi; many communities in Vermont; and some two dozen other cities and towns. These observances eventually coalesced around Decoration Day, honoring the Union dead, and the several Confederate Memorial Days.

Decoration Day, c. 1900. "You bet I'm goin' to be a soldier, too, like my Uncle David, when I grow up."According to Professor David Blight of the Yale University History Department, the first memorial day was observed in 1865 by liberated slaves at the historic race track in Charleston. The site was a former Confederate prison camp as well as a mass grave for Union soldiers who had died while captive. A parade with thousands of freed blacks and Union soldiers was followed by patriotic singing and a picnic.

The official birthplace of Memorial Day is Waterloo, New York. The village was credited with being the birthplace because it observed the day on May 5, 1866, and each year thereafter, and because it is likely that the friendship of General John Murray, a distinguished citizen of Waterloo, and General John A. Logan, who led the call for the day to be observed each year and helped spread the event nationwide, was a key factor in its growth.

General Logan had been impressed by the way the South honored their dead with a special day and decided the Union needed a similar day. Reportedly, Logan said that it was most fitting; that the ancients, especially the Greeks, had honored their dead, particularly their heroes, by chaplets of laurel and flowers, and that he intended to issue an order designating a day for decorating the grave of every soldier in the land, and if he could he would have made it a holiday.

Logan had been the principal speaker in a citywide memorial observation on April 29, 1866, at a cemetery in Carbondale, Illinois, an event that likely gave him the idea to make it a national holiday. On May 5, 1868, in his capacity as commander-in-chief of the Grand Army of the Republic, a veterans' organization, Logan issued a proclamation that "Decoration Day" be observed nationwide. It was observed for the first time on May 30 of the same year; the date was chosen because it was not the anniversary of a battle. The tombs of fallen Union soldiers were decorated in remembrance of this day.

Many of the states of the U.S. South refused to celebrate Decoration Day, due to lingering hostility towards the Union Army and also because there were very few veterans of the Union Army who lived in the South. A notable exception was Columbus, Mississippi, which on April 25, 1866 at its Decoration Day commemorated both the Union and Confederate casualties buried in its cemetery.

The alternative name of "Memorial Day" was first used in 1882, but did not become more common until after World War II, and was not declared the official name by Federal law until 1967 . On June 28, 1968, the United States Congress passed the Uniform Holidays Bill, which moved three holidays from their traditional dates to a specified Monday in order to create a convenient three-day weekend and for the first time recognized Columbus Day as a federal holiday. The holidays included Washington's Birthday (which evolved into Presidents' Day), Veterans Day, and Memorial Day. The change moved Memorial Day from its traditional May 30 date to the last Monday in May. The law took effect at the federal level in 1971 . After some initial confusion and unwillingness to comply at the state level, all fifty states adopted the measure within a few years, although Veterans Day was eventually changed back to its traditional date. Ironically, most corporate businesses no longer close on Columbus Day or Veterans Day, and an increasing number are staying open on President's Day as well. The holiday has endured as one where most businesses stay closed because it marks the beginning of the "summer vacation season" (similar to neighboring Canada's Victoria Day, which occurs on the prior Monday).