The season we are all about is Fall 2013 Ready-to-Wear and there was a since of darkness as black was the go to color of the season mixed with bold colors, structured paneling, leather, fur, plaid and vintage inspired silhouette’s. Dark palettes for the garments were definitely the main trends of the majority of the collections.

The Levi’s company was founded in 1853 by Levi Strauss, the creator of working dungarees. With 470 company-operated stores and over 16,200 employees, Levi’s leads the market and sets the trends for denim. While the style of denim comes and goes with the times, acid washed, stone washed, loose fit, skinnies, and more, jeans and denim are timeless. We find ourselves tangled up in blue.

What type of denim are you? Let’s explore the different options and what each may say about your personality. Relaxed fit, skinny jeans or boot cut?

Relaxed fit: the perfect pick for your laid back, care free guy or chick, easy going with a lawn chair and a cold beer in hand.

Skinny jeans: trendsetter and sometimes up tight. Could we blame you? You’re not afraid to show off the curves. Hit a coffee shop or trendy boutique with style and confidence.

Boot cut: you’re preppy and most likely a jock or a cowboy. These provide great comfort for sports and activities outdoors like tailgating or roping in your cattle. They give you perfect room when throwing the football at a picnic or attending a neighborhood BBQ.

Trends:

Denim trends have a lot of option and can get overwhelming if you are not a fan of shopping or looking to try new styles. Let’s begin with the basics, the color hues. After we pick our favorite tones, then we can experiment with the hottest trends.

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Spring is in full effect and summer is just around the corner, let’s make sure we take caution when out in the sun. Try these products to ensure your skin stays protected from sunburns, UV rays and dry skin.

Elemental Herbology Sun Kiss
• Delivers botanical, self-tanning agents that add a beautiful glow to the skin while prolonging the life of your tan.
• Soothing, nourishing and hydrating formula that includes watermelon seed oil, pomegranate, fig extract, aloe vera and lavender.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen
• Feels clean and light leaving a weightless feel on your skin.
• Leave a Non-Shiny Finish with the oil free formula leaving a matte finish.
• Won’t clog pores, PABA free and non-comedogenic.

Clinique After Sun Rescue with Aloe
• Provides a post-sun repair to help prevent today’s sun exposure from becoming tomorrow’s visible damage.
• Ultra-moisturizing balm with soothing aloe calms sun-exposed skin.

Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion
• Clinically proven to improve the health of skin in 1 day with significant improvement in 2 weeks.
• Helps prevent and protect dry skin, it leaves skin feeling soft, smooth and naturally healthy-looking.
• Fragrance free, non-greasy, and non-comedogenic.

Paul Mitchell Awapuhi Moisture Mist
• Ensures soft, healthier-looking skin.
• Lactic acid and Hawaiian awapuhi provide deep moisture and enhanced shin
• Sodium PCA (a natural component of human skin) balances moisture

Paul Mitchell Sun Shield Conditioning Spray
• Instantly softens hair and adds brilliance.
• Helps maintain vibrant, shiny hair color.
• UV protection and adds shine.

Beekman 1802 Stick Of Butter
• Unlike greasy liquid lotions, Stick of Butter will moisturize and treat without leaving you sticky.
• Made with goat milk, calendula-infused olive oil, mango butter, pure beeswax and essential oils.
• Simply rub the stick on your lips or skin and allow the natural heat of your body to do the rest.
• Order from www.beekman1802.com

Until, perhaps, you take a deeper look.” -By Moni Basu, CNN

Gaza, 2000; Paris, 2006
Photographs by Christopher Anderson/Magnum Photos

See the rest of the images here.

Unless you’re one of the few who seem to spend more time traveling than back at home station, chances are you’re never quite sure what and how to pack for the next trip. Just like any other mission, preparation is essential. Before you start grabbing clothes from the closet, know where you’re going, how long you’ll be there, climate and cultural considerations, what uniforms are required, and any social responsibilities and fitness opportunities you’ll have.

Once you’ve determined these basics, start with uniforms. Collect everything you need and don’t forget your undergarments, boots or shoes, hats, belts, and blousing straps. You’ll be amazed at how much space uniforms take. Consider travelling in yours, if possible, to help you travel lighter. Plus many airlines offer early boarding and upgrades for military traveling in uniform. Otherwise, be sure to pack the uniform you’ll need on the first day of the trip in your carry-on bag. Nothing is more embarrassing than late or lost luggage causing you to wear civilian clothes in a sea of uniforms. It will not only cost you personal comfort but perhaps that next job opportunity, as well. First impressions are everything.

Ditch the roller bag. Add style and structure to your carry-on with Giorgio Armani’s crocodile-embossed weekender bag. It’s large enough to hold a uniform, including combat boots, and has a compartment on the side big enough for your MacBook. Inserting a tri-fold cosmetic bag with many compartments consolidates all of your toiletries while making your daily regimen— and clearing security checkpoints—easier.

Never wear your uniform oxfords socially—it’s tacky. But if you want one less pair of shoes to bring, consider a civilian pair that is still in regulations. Or, take it up a notch with Cole Haan’s Air Harrison Brogue boots that look good in both dress slacks and jeans, saving you room in your luggage.

Keeping your fitness up while traveling is imperative. Pack at least one workout outfit and a good pair of running shoes. Chances are your hotel will have a small gym and maybe even a full workout room and pool. A lightweight Nike shoe will not only save room in your luggage, it also will give you the best workout experience. Pairing it with a pop of color in your workout shorts will leave you trending for fall. Wear a solid-colored V-neck or your favorite sports team shirt.

The clothes you choose to wear at mandatory social events will speak volumes. Most call for business casual. This never means jeans. The essentials should be a nice, longsleeved button-up, or short-sleeved collared shirt. Prints and bold colors will set you above the crowd. Slim fit slacks and boot-cut khakis are in style; picking a great pair will allow you to easily transition from mandatory social to late-night after party. Last, when selecting luggage, pick something you can use whenever you travel, in or out of uniform. The bag needs to be functional and stylish. Try the Bodhi Vintage Army Shoulder Duffle and Backpack. The outside pockets allow you to tuck away small accessories needed for your trip. Choosing a fabric bag will allow you to pack more than hard-sided or shaped luggage.As you prepare for your TDY, remember that being organized will allow you to travel leaner and lighter while looking stylish and professional. You’ll arrive prepared to make and maintain that great first impression, you won’t have to worry about late luggage, and you can quickly transition from business to evening attire while keeping up with the latest trends.

Holiday parties are in full swing and Tis’ the season to be jolly… and stylish! With so many options to choose from, setting your military uniform aside and showing up to the festivities with a personalized style has never been so easy.

This year’s trends are all about printed, bold textures, and of course, accessorizing. You will be ready for any party, casual or formal. Get in the spirit and do it with style.

Sweaters are great by any fire and home festivities. Picking a bold fabric or a solid tone will keep you trending for this season of gatherings.

His:

Casual Red Sweater – Express $79.90

Casual Merino Crewneck – Gap $49.95

 

Fair Isle Shawl Collar Sweater $69.90

Hers:

Color Blocking Tunic – Gap $29.95

 

Houndstooth Sweater – Gap $54.95

Mesh Dolman Sweater – Express $49.90

Plaid is the go-to print for this holiday season and there’s no better way than by pairing these amazing tailored shirts with a great accessory or blazer. Stand out with great prints.

Plaid Fitted Military shirt Express $69.90

Plaid Western Yoke Shirt Express $69.90

 

Plaid Slim Cutaway – Express $64.90

Dress to impress and walk tall next to your spouse or significant other to any festive cocktail party or formal gathering. Mid-length dresses are great for showing off your legs and flirty is the trend of the season.

Low Back sequins Dress – Express $98.00

Printed Princess Dress – Gap $59.95

Rose Gold Dress - Express $148.00

Textured Blazers are fun and festive. Share the holiday cheer with a structured blazer.

His:

Velvet Blazer - Express $99.99

Herringbone Blazer - Gap $98.00

Hers:

Gilded Snakeskin Print Blazer – Express $79.90

Ultimate Double Weave Knit Inset Jacket – Express $118.00

When you hit basic and give your life to over becoming a service member, your personal style may rest on the back burner, getting into the same old high and tight and basic bun. While these styles are easy to maintain and quick to achieve, they hardly let your personal style show through.

For men in the military, hair is the main accessory to embrace your individuality.

Men’s hair cutting is in the main stream and the “mad men” style is huge for Fall and Winter. Tweak it slightly to meet regulations by adding a nice skin taper and having the fade move quickly and sharply up your head; just ask for a “skin to 4” fade.

Another trending look will give you maximum texture and movement. To accomplish this look, focus on a clean and crisp fade and have your nape tapered. Finish it with a basic number two fade on the sides and a scissor cut on top.

To make your hair stand out and add much needed sharpness, ask for an edge. This seals the deal and adds structure to your style.

Finish up your new and improved haircut with take home products that will keep you looking fresh everyday.

For women in the military, you’re looking for more style and individuality. What better way than adding braided hair styles to your daily routine?

It can be as simple as a French braid all the way back or a braided fringe. Be sure to tuck under the ends of the braided style because the ends can’t be expose and also remember your bun cannot exceed 3 inches in bulk. Keep your style conservative; the braids should lie snugly on the head to get this red carpet look in uniform.

Frame your face by braiding your fringe into a perfect bun. Adding a finishing spray will lock down the frizz and fly a ways while keeping your hairstyle looking fresh and full of shine all day long.

Prep your hair with a gloss, to add shine and structure to your hair. Consider adding twists and braids together. Be creative because your personal style matters.

Casual for a civilian is relaxed and unconcerned, but when it comes to a service member, it’s the total opposite. It is always best to dress for the job you want and not necessarily for the job you already have. First impressions are everything. Jeans are NOT an option, so let’s get that out in the open.

Here are a couple ideas to go for when dressing for a “casual” event. Keep it clean and crisp. Fall is about prints and bold statements. Polo tops and button up shirts will keep your style looking professional.

When in uniform, service members are one and united. Always remember to embrace your personal style when out of uniform. Be bold and stand out. You never know who you might run into.