2011 New Year's Resolutions by Steve Wickham

The old-fashioned but still conventional New Year's resolution is just as popular as ever. So, what's your flavour?

For something so stigmatised it's still relevant. It's because it's a logical point in time for change. It's a far enough time away to aim for. As each long year closes it brings a mix of reflection, frustration, fatigue and hope for the future. There is a natural want of 'out with the old; in with the new'.

If you're the average person you've probably had mixed results with your New Year's resolutions. Some have worked and others haven't. In other words, the resolve stuck in the former cases, but resolve was difficult to sustain on the latter occasions.

And this is the point. A resolution is a resolve to do something; in this case, something different. Change is only hard because new habits are being formed which aren't yet natural, and old entrenched habits (which aren't yet unnatural) are being resisted.

A Want of Resolve

Change can only occur when there's enough resolve - when there's a vision for what is wanted, sufficient dissatisfaction with the status quo, and where there's a process to get to the new, better place.

1. Vision

Creating a vision for 'who' we want to be or what change we desire is paramount. This is the dream that with the two below will ensure reality is a possibility. The more inspirational and visually rich our vision is, the more powerfully we can effect our change.

2. Dissatisfaction

This is the motive and intent driving the change. When we become sick and tired of being sick and tired, and we're really had enough, that's when we'll make bold-enough steps to surpass the temptations that will bring us back into the field.

Dissatisfaction is a most important weapon of intrinsic motivation. It's us that is dissatisfied and no one else. Nobody else's dissatisfaction can supplant ours if change is going to stick. It has to be ours and ours alone.

3. Process

Proverbs 29:18 (NRSV) says, "Where there is no prophesy, the people cast off restraint." No plan is a plan to fail. For any successful venture there has to be a way of getting there that's well thought out; one that wards against the pitfalls that will almost certainly bear their teeth, usually at the least expected moment.

Summary

With sufficient dissatisfaction, a vision for something better, and a process to get us there, nothing's out of the realms of possibility this New Year (or anytime).

We are rulers of our destinies regarding change. It's only us who can do it. One day at a time, re-resolve and manage the resolve to continue the good track that's now establishing itself.

Copyright (c) 2010 S. J. Wickham.

Steve Wickham is a Registered Safety Practitioner (BSc, FSIA, RSP[Australia]) and a qualified, unordained Christian minister (GradDipBib&Min). His blogs are at: http://epitemnein-epitomic.blogspot.com/ and http://inspiringbetterlife.blogspot.com/

Will 2011 Be More of the Same? Thoughts on the New Year By Steve Woodburn

I've often said to people in my next life I want to come back as a TV weatherman because they make a lot of money, they're wrong at least half the time and they never seem to get fired. What a gig! Then I got to thinking, what if I could be a psychic weatherman? Now how cool would that be? I went to a supposed psychic once and although it was interesting, I'm not sure how accurate she was and I've never sought their advice since. Experts say we all have psychic abilities to one degree or another and that with work we can sharpen them like musical skills.

Although I'm not a psychic I do like to prognosticate each year on future trends in those areas I work in and below are thoughts on five trends for 2011.

• Cotton Prices. I wrote a blog recently on why the price of cotton has been steadily rising based on high demand and a lack of supply due to droughts, floods and bad weather in China, India, Pakistan and the U.S., the four biggest producers. Prices are up almost 80% since July and analysts don't think supply will catch up to demand for at least two years. As a result not only will you see substantial price increases in corporate apparel, but also in retail store brands. You'll also begin to see more blends of cotton with man-made fibers to keep costs down in all areas of apparel as well as fewer buttons and other components that add to the price. In the long run, fashion experts worry new generations will be more accepting of synthetic fabrics which could hurt cotton's overall market share along with the industry and jobs built around it.

• Inventory. As demand for products dropped over the last few years due to the recession companies reduced their inventory levels substantially to save cash. As demand began to pick up this year though the reduced levels left many buyers, in both the promotional products and retail worlds, angry their orders couldn't be filled. In 2011 this trend will continue to be a problem as manufacturers work to balance demand vs. inventory levels knowing production times to restock shelves has increased substantially. If you're purchasing quantities of promotional products in 2011, be prepared with several alternatives in case you find the product you want is out-of-stock. Planning ahead for your needs and ordering early will also help ensure the products you choose will be in stock. Also be aware that China basically closes during the month of February to celebrate their New Year and nothing will be produced or shipped during that time. This means if you want something produced and imported from overseas, even if you ordered today, it most likely would be March before you'll have it in hands.

• Social Media. It's been around long enough now where people and businesses are taking social media seriously. Facebook is not, in and of itself social media nor is Twitter or LinkedIn, digg, Foursquare or the myriad of other sites. Social media is all of these and more and in 2011 the brands that "get it" will start tying all of their media/social media together. People and brands that are only out to promote themselves will be pushed aside by those looking to connect and share their knowledge and expertise with others of like mind. Mobile applications (apps) will become more robust as more than 50% of the American population will be carrying smart phones; essentially miniature computers that marketers can tap into with permission. QR codes, those strange 2D barcode symbols will begin to be more common on everything from apparel, posters, signs, point-of-sale materials, promotional products and even stickers placed in areas where their demographic targets live and work. Companies will learn how to better track their social media spend and the results obtained from that investment which will help them know where to direct their marketing dollars. If you think social media is like drinking water from a fire hydrant, just wait. It will feel like Niagara Falls soon as more people and companies delve deeper to find their niche.

• Technology. It's hard to believe my teenagers have never lived a moment without a computer in their lives, cell phones and many other technology innovations only dreamed of a generation ago. In 2011 companies will most likely begin to let go of some of the cash they've been holding waiting to see a glimmer of hope before investing it. IT will be one of the main areas for spending as companies look to do more with fewer people. Cloud computing or sharing of software and other resources located on third-party servers will become a more cost-effective way of doing business with reduced head counts. As mentioned earlier, IT companies will be producing more and more mobile applications to capture customers and prospects when they are the most likely to spend on goods and services. Security will continue to be a threat to anyone who uses the Internet as hackers and cyber criminals become more savvy and bold.

• Potpourri. Given the economy (or lack thereof), Congressional gridlock, high unemployment and world instability it's hard to know what to think about next year much less five, 10 or 50 years down the road. What is certain is that everything is a cycle and our children and grandchildren will look back on these times as many of us do The Great Depression. The tide is turning and the light at the far end of the tunnel is not a freight train, but the warm glow of better things to come. In 2011 I believe we'll see corporate America begin to spend some of the cash it's been holding onto until they felt the time was right. With increased spending will come more jobs, lower unemployment rates and the slow start of a recovery. I sometimes think life truly is like the mythical character Sisyphus who forever rolls a boulder up a hill only to have it roll back down and he must start all over again. Most everyone I know says they will be glad to see 2010 in the rear-view mirror and are looking forward to better things as the new decade begins.

Chances are you'll have more and more friends starting their own businesses, going back to school and looking for ways to stay out of corporate America. With the massive layoffs over the last few years people are finally realizing that secure jobs and fat pensions are gone forever. The new reality is you must be savvy, adaptable and rely on your own skills and expertise to forge ahead. Those who are able to find their joy and do what they love will prosper in the coming years and those who don't will be like a cork on the water, going wherever the tides may take them.

As the Swedish proverb says, "God gives every bird a worm, but he does not throw it into the nest." Hope your 2011 is filled with "worms" that bring you health and prosperity.

With 25 years in promotional marketing, Steve Woodburn works with clients to develop creative and measurable solutions that solve their marketing needs using promotional products, uniform programs, online company stores, point-of-sale initiatives and rewards and recognition. He builds long-term relationships and becomes a trusted advisor and consultant his clients can turn to for all their brand extension needs. You can reach him at: stephen.woodburn@staplespromoproducts.com

Victoria Beckham's Spring and Summer 2011 Collection at New York Fashion Week By Jake Reacher

Victoria Beckham has graduated from pop star, to fashion icon, to true designer. Her last few collections have been well received by celebrities and fashionistas alike and her designs seem to be going from strength to strength. This year, her Spring/Summer 2011 collection is feminine and striking with lots of beautiful figure hugging designs. Here's what Mrs Beckham had to show the fash pack at New York Fashion Week.

Colour

Often seen in blacks and greys, Victoria Beckham went against type and opted for some bright and juicy citrus colours. Block colour mandarin dresses were showcased alongside deep and sumptuous purples, as well as bright yellow. Monochrome was also a key colour combination, with several completely white dresses, as well as black dresses, and dresses which incorporated both black and white. Different shades of pink were seen throughout the collection, from dusky pinks, to nudes, to deeper brownish shades. Shiny metallics were also a key part of the collection with the models wearing dresses in silver, shimmering blue and steel.

Style

Victoria's show at New York Fashion week was full of feminine and sleek dresses. Her ladylike designs included sleeveless dresses with a belted waist and puff ball skirt. The collection boasted a new take on the shift dress which featured contrasting top and bottom colours that met in the middle in an arching curve. There were also long and stunning floor length dresses, some of which had a simple slash neck whilst others had a plunging neckline and a thigh high slit.

Spaghetti strap dresses with simple knee length designs were featured in shimmering materials, whilst studs were used to add interest to some of the shift dresses. The prom dress was showcased to great effect, with a beautiful heart shaped bodice and full skirt with simple striped detail. There were also dresses in a Grecian style which featured loose flowing material that was gathered over one shoulder and then hung down in folds.

Accessories

The models wore gold pointed court shoes with some these shoes including an ankle strap. The accessories were minimal; however, some of the models were sporting round retro looking dark sunglasses. The handbags on show included under the arm clasp bags as well as larger bags with straps and handles. The bags were smart and structured with crocodile texture as well as suede and leather finishes.

The Spring/Summer collection Victoria Beckham unveiled at New York Fashion Week was sleek and stylish. The crisp lines and minimal detailing made the collection distinctive yet very wearable. Her bold choice of bright colours ensure the collection is ideal for the warmer spring and summer months, whilst the monochrome pieces looked smart making them perfect for office wear. Her evening gowns were minimal yet luxurious, with beautiful swathes of sumptuous material. Victoria Beckham's latest collection shows her to be a grown-up designer with a distinctive style which celebrates the feminine shape whilst avoiding anything twee of fussy.

Jake Reacher likes ladies fashion, and in particular, playsuits for women from Matalan as there are a wide range of styles.

Fashion Over 50, 2010 Fall and Winter Colors By Susan Tolles

Fall has finally arrived, and most of us are soaking in cool crisp mornings while looking forward to wearing sweaters, scarves and boots. Even in the more temperate climates, it is time to bring out those darker colors and stash away your summer clothing for the season. For all fabulous-over-50 women, no matter where we live, we want to look our best, which means incorporating new fashion trends in to our existing wardrobes.

Forward-thinking fashion designers have to predict the future as they create seasonal palettes 24 months before they actually hit the retail stores. The designers at Pantone, Inc., the world's color authority for over 45 years, have been preparing for Fall & Winter 2010-2011 for over two years, and the colors of the seasons were selected with a "crystal ball," taking into account the economy, technology and "the needs, moods, fantasies and aspirations of consumers."

The 2010 Color of the Year is a beautiful tropical Turquoise, which has been transported into fall as "Lagoon." Turquoise is a color that is flattering on most everyone, and can be paired Fall 2010 Lagoon with neutrals, reds, deep blues and greens to add a splash of extra color. Long thought to be a color of faith and truth inspired by water and sky, Lagoon can transport your thoughts to a tropical paradise as you go through the cold of winter.

Fall and Winter 2010 colors are titled "Mosaic," and include vibrant colors of the universe, deep darks, and rich botanicals, all based on the mosaics of the environment and of the human personality. Along with Lagoon, these colors include:

* Endive-a yellow-green that can brighten an otherwise dark outfit
* Golden Glow-an earthy yellow, like in autumn leaves
* Living Coral-a soft orange with a pink undertone
* Lipstick Red-a dramatic sexy red
* Purple Orchid-a purple with fuchsia tones
* Chocolate Truffle-evoking visions of delicious treats in rich browns with purple undertones
* Woodbine-the season's neutral green, darker than sage, and looks great paired with Purple Orchid and Chocolate Truffle
* Oyster Gray-the season's classic neutral, lighter than the traditional fall gray and can be carried in to Spring 2011.
* Rose Dust-a romantic, flattering beige

Today's over-50 women are more cautious than ever about spending money on clothes. Cate Adair, Costume designer for Desperate Housewives, says "In these economic times, it's actually quite fashionable to get more life out of our closets before we buy new. As costs increase, so does our appreciation of beautiful fashion. Fashion now is something that needs to transcend seasons as well as be seasonal. My new fashion rule is to embrace colors that make you feel good and breathe new life into your closet. Now more than ever is the time to mix new colorful accessories with your classic silhouettes. You'll be amazed at what a splash of color can do to both your 'look' and your 'outlook.'"

Sometimes, all it takes is a one new piece of clothing or a "wow" accessory that you can mix and match to update your current wardrobe for fashion over 50. If you can only get one new item, here are some suggestions in the season's "must-haves" from some well-known designers.

•Adrienne Vittadini - The tiger print dress - very easy and very sexy, and comes in an earthy shade that mixes beautifully with rich jewel tones
•Charlotte Ronson -Pleated maxi skirt in sullen solids and restored '70s floral prints
•Christian Cota - A structured drop-waist skirt in a multi-colored print
•Christian Siriano - A perfect party/evening dress that makes you feel glamorous at night
•Dennis Basso - A short, cropped, long-hair fur jacket in natural tones from Golden Camel to Tan and Black
•Ella Moss - The perfect day to evening dress that can be layered and worn differently throughout the season
•Frank Tell - Whether it is a perfectly tailored tuxedo jacket or a striking grommet-adorned motorcycle style, the suede leather jacket is a must have for fall
•Ports 1961 by Tia Cibani - A Pepper Gray carbon dyed slim jacket with metal embellishments
•Rachel Roy - Our very glamorous "fur" coats we are building with a new technology using absolutely no fur!
•Tibi - A fabulously structured tweed coat paired with a gorgeous, flowing, jewel-toned, ruffled top in silk and super chic Army Green suede skinny trousers with deep pleats - a romantic and reinvented take on a stayed classic
•Tommy Hilfiger - The Navy sleeveless blazer is a new take on an irreverent classic
•Tracy Reese - A jacquard lace strapless dress in Black - it has a raw, edgy feeling with a touch of sparkle

Spring 2011 colors are again focused on taking us on an exotic journey, with lighter colors including Lavender, Honeysuckle pink, a lighter green called Peapod, and a light clear blue Regatta. According to Pantone, "The season is a new look at definitions of harmony, proportion and balance," with inspirations from the world of flowers.

Susan Tolles is the articles author and owner of Flourish Over 50, which is a website that provides information to women over 50 to help them live life to the fullest. Tips on fitness, nutrition and exercise provide ways to achieve a better overall "wellness." You can find out more information on how style and beauty tips help women look their best while accepting the changes their bodies are going through. Join us for stories about other women your own age who have accomplished big goals, or gone through their own transitions, help us inspire women to step out on faith and achieve their own dreams. Visit http://www.flourishover50.com/

Prom Dresses 2011 By Ashley Adam

Prom dresses 2011 are intently creeping for this year's prom season. The latest fashions have developed through the course of time, the thing that was obsolete then has now end up being the latest trend this season. For instance, skinny jeans, leggings and acid wash outfits were all goods from the eighty's; however, it is back into trend. A powerful way to determine the new fashion of prom dresses 2011 would be to do research online, get hold of a magazine or watch Hollywood entertainment shows to see what all of the superstars are wearing. Always remember, well-known actresses may appear wonderful on screen however it doesn't imply a similar outfit will look great on you. Just a warning everyone has unique body type.

Among the top features that could be considered typical for many prom dresses 2011 will be the fantastic combination between the enchanting and contemporary components. Though we could look for a tremendous variety of romantic features that individuals would associate to a conventional dresses, the cuts as well as the general styles are usually very contemporary, giving a variety of options a modern female can select from to be able to showcase her personality as precisely as possible and in order to deal with daily difficulties in style.

Mini dresses are a good option to longer dresses as a great option for individuals who choose to showcase their features and for people who find long dresses slightly unpractical for day to day wear. Having a well outlined waist or with a good amount of womanly particulars for instance ruffles or floral accents, the options are many. With such a large selection of designs and styles it is simple to find styles for a variety of occasions in addition to versatile pieces that will help you get a refined look for several social circumstances.

Here are a few examples:

La-Femme Dress #1461 - one shoulder and short dress with flowers on the strap that continues over the shoulder to create a Great Back

When it comes to formal gowns and prom dresses 2011, designs are typically even more diverse and also differ greatly based on one's silhouette as well as the favored style. Body hugging or voluminous, with asymmetric designs or even more classic cuts or sheer fabric insertions, the choice when it comes to formal gowns is usually based on your body type, fashion sense as well as the personality of every woman. Having a generous palette of choices virtually any woman can find a style that will suit her needs as well as her expectations. Here are photographs of long formal gown.

Faviana Dress #6428 - strapless sweetheart Neckline with flowing chiffon train

Prom dresses 2011 have evolved to new trends and patterns however with of basics. Bold patterns like stripes and floral print, bright colors or black and white, pinafores, prairie look, new wave, slouchy mini dresses, as well as empire waist baby-doll dresses. They are all back in style again, ready for you to pair with some modern flare for a totally new look.

If you are looking for Prom dresses, we suggest you find the best online stores that have the widest selection and largest inventory. GoldenAsp and DressGoddess are great websites that sell leading brands such as Faviana, Tony Bowls and La Femme. No matter what your budget may be, you can find a Prom dresses in the color you want, the size that fits and style you love.

Spring 2011: Trends That Left the Fashion Schools Buzzing (the Rest of Us Too) By Lilly Gordon Platinum Quality Author

The new year is proving to be a very interesting and eclectic year in fashion. Watching the trends that came down the sunways for Spring 2011, left everyone with a sparkle in their eyes and a skip in their step (it wasn't just the champagne!) Looking at the bright, bold and fresh spring trends reminiscent of a fashion school graduate's first show (meant in the most flattering way possible) reminds us that fashion is not dead, drab or boring anymore. There has been new life brethed into the clothing world and it is going to be an exciting spring.

Top 5 Spring 2011 Trends:
1. Bold Colours: While nude is still nice, bold is fashion's secret weapon this spring. Dazzling hues of orange, green and blue make everything new and clean again (not neon!). Designers have taken inspiration from fresh fruits, Dr. Seuss, and the freshness of the season. For those who like to rock - wear it head to toe. For those who like to stand out a little less, buy some fabulously bright accessories and wow the crowd. Staples: oranges, greens and blues.

2. Feminine and Flirty: Nothing says feminine like the sultry 60s housewife-inspired look for the spring. Mad Men's Christina Hendricks reall knows how to fill out a sheath, and designers took notice. The hourglass figure is back, ladies and gents. Don't have a curvy bod? Pick up a full skirt and tiny belt and cinch that waist up. The full skirt is the perfect paradox for day and a perfect option for those who don't like flaunt what they've got. Staples: full skirt, fitted sweater, sheath dress and kitten heels.

3. Biker Chic: Replacing the uber-popular military trend that has plagued designers for more than a decade, biker jackets and quilted leather pants are suddenly all the rage. But don't go for basic black and matted leather; think metallic and futuristic. Then pair it with a funky pair of biker boots and you're good to go. Staples: bikeresque jacket, biker boots.

4. Punk-ish: While punk has been an underground favourite for years now, the newness has faded away, much like the washed out founders of the style. But the anguished and independent message remains, as do certain elements of the style. Studs, leather and holey shirts are pieces you can pair with other solid pieces of clothing. Don't over do it, and you won't drown. Staples: ripped or worn tees, Doc Martens and something studded.

5. Disco Dream: The 70s are back, and that's the way, uh-huh, uh-huh, the designers like it. This time around, though, the feathered do's and flared pants are elegant inspired. Statement belts and billowing sleeves finish off the look for day; while sophisticated bohemian dresses and a few well-placed chunky rings will blow people's minds in the evening. Farrah would be proud. Staples: Flared pants, blouses and a fantastically long dress.

There you have it: the styles and inspiration behind 2011 fashion trends. Fashion careers have been built on less and lesser trends have been appearing for years. Have fun and be fashionable!

Lilly Gordon is a freelance writer and web publisher. She enjoys writing on a variety of topics and is currently researching fashion design schools in Canada.