Leather Clothing and Goods Cleaners

Natural Leather Cleaners

Leather clothing and goods are durable and valuable items that may be ruined when cleaned improperly. Use natural cleaners to clean this natural fabric. Do this at least twice a year to avoid excessive accumulation of dirt and stains. Many household formulas enable natural cleaning of leather without any use of dangerous or artificial chemicals.

Lemon Juice

 Juice from lemons works great for black or tan leather shoes. Do not use an excessive amount of the juice during cleaning and be sure to buff the shoe with a soft cloth right after cleaning.

Vinegar

 Vinegar helps remove water stains from leather. Rub the stained area with a cloth dipped in a solution of vinegar diluted with water. Keep in mind that vinegar may get rid of the stain but it doesn't smell very nice. You may want to add a fragrant oil or herb to the solution to disguise the odor.

Petroleum Jelly

 Leather may dry out and crack during cold or hot weather. A dab of petroleum jelly rubbed into leather will moisturize the material to keep this from happening. However, petroleum jelly may not be a good cleaner for baseball gloves, as it leaves a dirt/dust-catching residue. It also may create conditions that encourage the growth of harmful molds and mildew.

Banana Peels

 Leather shoes can be polished and buffed with the inside of a banana peel. Bear in mind, however, that banana oil will not work as an effective cleaner, though its fragrance may be a good deodorant.

Saddle Soap and Oil

Saddle soap is a mild soap with softening ingredients such as glycerin. It also contains beeswax, which protects leather. As its name implies, the soap is used to clean leather horse saddles. After rinsing off the saddle soap, clean the leather with saddle oil. One vendor ("Bee Natural") sells saddle oil that will kill fungi and bacteria that are harmful to horses such as Streptococcus equi.

Mink Oil

 Mink oil consists of the layer of subcutaneous fat minks have under their fur. It is good for softening and waterproofing top grain leather such as boots or shoes. The only drawback is that it carries a strong odor, so you may want to use a fragrant oil to mask the scent.

Ills of a very tight bra

When it comes to dressing even the bra you wear is important. Many women think that the tighter the bra, the better it is. Tight bras give you a fuller and more enhanced bust and more importantly, gives support and shape. Some woman are so used to wearing bras that they even wear one when they sleep! However, a recent study conducted at the Harvard university, has linked wearing tight bras to breast cancer. This is because wearing a very tight bra can restrict blood circulation and can also impair the lymph tissues.

According to the study, less oxygen and fewer nutrients are delivered to the cells, while waste products are not flushed away. This is especially the case with women who wear bras for more than 12 hours a day and even sleep in them. The study also discovered that middle-class women are at a higher rick of breast cancer since they work for longer hours.

Since lymphatic vessels are very thin, they are extremely sensitive to pressure and are easily compressed. General Physician Dr M D Mody agrees. “The main reason why extremely tight bras are bad for breast health is because they restrict the lymph flow in your breasts. Normally the lymph fluid washes out waste materials and other toxins away from the breasts but bras inhibit this action, so toxins can start to accumulate in the breast, and that can help cancer to develop.”

Many experts say that a lot of women believe that if they follow a regular diet and exercise daily, their chances of developing breast cancer are reduced. According to gynaecologist, Dr Smiti Kamath, “A lot of the women who come to me are very health conscious people, who exercise regularly. They get surprised when they’re told that the lymphatic circulation in many tissues (especially the primary lymphatics) is highly dependent on movement. Wearing a bra, especially a constricting one with underwires, and especially to bed, prevents normal lymphatic flow and is likely lead to anoxia (lower than normal oxygen content), which has been related to fibrosis, which in turn has been linked to increased cancer risk,” she says.

Oncologist Dr M V Shah says that women who have a history of breast cancer in their families should be especially careful. “Bras inhibit the way our bodies normally cleanse themselves and get rid of cancer cells and toxins like dioxin, benzene and other carcinogenic chemicals that cling to the body's fatty tissues like breast. In fact, if you find a lump in your breast, it may very well be filled with lymph fluid that was not able to move away from the breast tissue,” says Dr Shah.

Overweight and dig net saris?

Net saris are a rage at parties and weddings this season but don't go for it if you are short and fat, advise designers. If you still want to risk flaunting your flab, go for dark colours, satin petticoats and a lot of motif.

"Net saris look fabulous on women with well-toned bodies, long torsos. Such women, in fact, look very sexy in net as it accentuates their perfect curves. But fat women should try to avoid it," Seema of designer duo Swapan-Seema said on the sidelines of the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week (WIFW).

According to a Delhi-based stylist, "net saris are a complete no-no for fat women".

"Net tends to contour the body type and I don't think it's worth showing the flab," said the stylist, who did not wish to be named.

Designer Seema, who has a range of net saris in pastels with subdued work, says there are a lot of women in their 50s who wish to wear net saris in order to look younger.

"It is up to an individual if she wants to wear it. If my clients wish to wear net and I feel it won't suit them, I recommend chiffons or georgettes. But if they insist, what can one do?"

But overweight women who are still keen to wear net saris should not be disappointed.

Designer Jaya Rathore, whose ethnic Indian collection is dominated by net, says comfort can play an important role.

"Good petticoats in satin and brocade can always make a difference to women wanting to wear the net sari. I feel every woman should try every possible type of clothing and see for herself if it suits her. If she is comfortable, she should just wear it.

"The only thing I would recommend is that heavy women must try net saris that have a lot of motif and jaal, which can help camouflage the fat if they feel conscious of their girth," Rathore said.

Young designer Joy Mitra, who has been working with nets for the past few seasons, has some tips for overweight women.

"Fat or slim, short or tall - a sari always looks beautiful on any form. One shouldn't feel conscious. There's always a way to fix such problems. You can wear a full sleeve blouse to hide fat, the petticoats can be different and more stylish to take attention away from the waist.

"I also feel heavier women should wear darker colours - that can do the trick of making them look a little slimmer in case they are way too conscious," he said.

Some, of course, avoid it themselves.

Veteran actress Moushumi Chatterjee is a little on the plump side and she feels net saris dont suit her.

"Women should wear what suits them. I don't think net saris suit me much and I am not comfortable wearing them. I prefer saris in cotton, chiffon, kanjeevaram, silks, etc," Moushumi, who flaunted a black and white sari by Reynu Taandon at WIFW, said.

Neetu Chandra's Fitness mantra

Bollywood Actress Neetu Chandra's fitness mantra

Neetu Chandra became an overnight sensation with her sensuous and scandalous lesbian photo-shoot. Just a few films old, she has taken the world of Bollywood by storm.

This actress is always in the news for bold roles and her bold figure. But does someone as thin as her need to ‘get fit’? Why is Neetu sweating away in the gym? Click on, this video for the inside information on Neetu’s fitness craze.

Katrina Kaif Nakshatra Vivah collection Photos

Bollywood Actress Katrina Kaif In Red Saree in Nakshatra Vivah collection Launch Exclusive Unseen Photos.
MUMBAI: Katrina Kaif launched the Nakshatra Vivaah – an exclusive wedding line from. She was accompanied by Gitanjali Group CMD Mehul Choksi.
“Today’s Indian bride wants to be modern and traditional at the same time. We have created the new Vivaah collection from Nakshatra to suit her needs. Each piece has a unique contemporary look, but is also based on the seven stone floral clusters which is considered in Indian mythology to be a symbol of Divine Luck,” said Choksi.
Kaif says, “Diamonds are a unique gemstone, and have a very special place in the hearts of most Indian women. And the much loved floral pattern that inspires the designs in this collection adds both beauty and good luck. I believe that every Indian bride would really love to have jewellery set like this for her special day.”

Indian models dare to bare

Models turn on the heat at a lingerie show in Mumbai, showcasing latest designs for the upcoming spring/summer season by international brand Triumph.

Plus size Models on ramp

SIZE DOESN'T MATTER

A plus size model wears a creation as part of Elena Miro's Spring/Summer 2008 women collection in Milan. Elena Miro, which is presenting its fourth collection at Milan, designs for women sized 42.

A plus size model wears a creation as part of Elena Miro' Spring/Summer women collection 2008 in Milan.SIZE 42

A plus size model presents a creation from the Mark Fast 2010 Autumn/Winter collection during London Fashion Week.
BODY TO FLAUNT

A plus size model displays a creation of Italian design house Elena Miro during a Spring/Summer 2006 Milan Fashion Week show in Milan.
WITHOUT PERFECT CURVES

A plus size model displays a creation as part of Elena Miro's Spring/Summer 2010 women's collection in Milan.
GETTING DRESSED

A plus size model prepares backstage before the presentation of Elena Miro's Fall/Winter 2008/09 women's show at Milan Fashion Week.
TUMMY OUT

A plus size model presents a creation from the Mark Fast 2010 Autumn/Winter collection during London Fashion Week
BLACK BEAUTY

A plus size model presents a creation as part of the Elena Miro' Fall/Winter 2010/11 Women's collection during Milan Fashion Week.
WITH THAT ATTITUDE

A plus size model presents a creation as part of the Elena Miro' Fall/Winter 2010/11 Women's collection during Milan Fashion Week.DIAPHANOUS WHITE

A plus size model displays a creation as part of the Elena Miro Fall/Winter 2009/10 women's collection during Milan Fashion Week.

Jayde Nicole in leaf skin bikini

Hot Gallery Jayde Nicole in fresh leaf skin bikinisteamy hot!

Russia wins Miss World 2008

Ms Russia is Miss World, Ms India 1st runner up

Miss Russia has been crowned Miss World 2008 at a glittering ceremony in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Miss India Parvathy Omanakuttan has finished as the first runner up. Miss Trinidad and Tobago is the second runner-up.

Among the other five finalists are Ms Angola, Ms Trinidad and Tobago, Ms Russia and Ms South Africa.

The final round was being held in Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg and the country was said to be expecting one billion-strong TV audience for the event aired on Zee Cafe

Exuding charm in her white gown, Parvathy cat-walked confidently on the stage to answer her question in the final round. She was asked what being in South Africa meant for her. To this she compared the "similarity in the cultures" of India and South Africa and thanked the locals for their hospitality. She also compared legends Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi and how inextricably linked the two countries' fates have been.

Earlier, a collective cheer went up in the audience when Paravathy’s name was announced at the end of a 15-name long list of semi finalists.

Other semi-finalists included Ms Trinidad and Tobago, Ms US, Ms Guatemala, Ms Venezuela, Ms Ukraine, Ms Croatia, Ms Brazil, Ms Angola, Ms Kazakhstan, Ms Puerto Rico, Ms Spain, Ms Russia and Ms South Africa.

Who is Parvathy?

Twenty-one-year-old Parvathy stands tall at 5 feet 9 inches and hails from Kerala.

Two days before the final round, she appeared sure of her victory and said she was confident of carrying forward the legacy of India’s glamour queens Reita Faria (1966), Aishwarya Rai-Bachchan (1994), Priyanka Chopra (2000), Diana Hayden (1997) and Yukta Mookhey (1999).

"I am very much confident about my victory. Femina Miss India World is not merely a crown of joy for me. With the crown, the responsibility of upholding the name of the country has also fallen on my shoulders," she said in a statement.

Asked on December 11, about her preparations for the pageant, Parvathy said, "Preparations have started ever since I won the Femina Miss India contest in April this year. Apart from just concentrating on my appearance, I am trying to be a stronger person to face the contest." "I'll try my level best to make every Indian all over the world proud," Parvathy said.

Born on July 23, this Cancerian charmer's "never say die" attitude has helped her conquer one beauty pageant after another- be it the Navy Queen contest held in connection with the annual Navy Ball or Femina Miss India, South held in Hyderabad last year.

Couple Massage Programmes

Husbands are turning masseurs to make married life more exciting

The home is where the heart is. For many a man, that heart is synonymous with his wife, which explains why he is going that extra mile to please her. Whether or not you believe it, some guys are actually practising massage to whip up a thrilling formula for a happy married life, and the trend is picking up slowly but steadily.

Nikhil Gupta, founder of a dedicated massage and spa academy, says, they handle a lot of enquiries from working men and women about massage courses. The academy usually runs full-time two week courses which does not suit working professionals often. “So, we have planned to introduce couple massage programmes that will be scheduled at a convenient time. Many couples have already registered for these courses. The personal satisfaction of having helped someone feel better is a reward in itself,” says he.

Maninder Kaur, a data analyst, freaks out at the idea of getting a massage from her husband. “That would be a dream come true. I see nothing better that can patch up differences between husband and wife.”

Massage is an excellent form of passive exercise and, at the same time, very stimulating and invigorating. But, treating massage as an ingredient to spice up married life is a relatively new phenomenon. Shweta Kekal, who runs a unisex salon, says, “It’s nice that men are going out of their way to please their wives. Some women do not enjoy massage because they are not comfortable baring their bodies before even female masseurs. With husbands turning masseurs, they will be able to make the most of it.”

Amit Ranjan Singh (name changed), working as a marketing executive with an automobile firm and an amateur massage therapist
, quips, “I am a natural masseur, and massage has been a part of foreplay all these years. If I can perfect the art, I think my wife will have a reason to love me all the more.”

With the women going gaga over the idea, what are you waiting for guys?

source:toi

Fit over 40: Fitness Secrets of Hot Celebrities

Shedding weight and being roaring fit is not an easy task at any age, especially when you are 40!

Having said that, certain 40-over celebrities can put any 20-year-old to shame with their fitness levels, and not to mention their sexy bods.

Not only are they slim the healthy way, but they are fit despite all the physical changes their body is going through.

And what are these changes? Fitness Trainer and Wellness Coach Amit Sharma says, "After the age of 30 a woman's body undergoes certain changes, she faces a change in her body structure, hot flushes, mood swings, growing hair in her upper lip and starts feeling less attractive."

And yet, these beauties still manage to look so hot.

We let you in on the fitness mantras of celebrities over 40 years of age who are fit as a fiddle. Also, you get tips from experts on what you can do at home.

Sarah Jessica Parker

Whatever she wore at the sets of the series of the hit sitcom 'Sex and the City' was a worldwide fashion rage.

She can carry off anything from a figure hugging outfit, a tube dress, skimpy attire to casuals with great aplomb all thanks to her well toned body. You only have to see the latest movie 'Sex and the City' to believe it.


Her fitness mantra

* Walks instead of taking a cab

* Eats small portions of food

* Eats a high protein low-carb diet

Expert Advice

* In case you do not have the time to exercise for 45 minutes a stretch due to your schedules, you can break it up into exercising 15 minutes thrice a day, advices Fitness Trainer and Wellness Coach Amit Sharma. Studies prove that this is just as effective as a continuous 45-minute workout.

* While a high protein, low carb diet always works for weight loss, do not follow any diet fad blindly. Nutritionist Shweta Shahaney says, "Everybody has a different body type, what may work for a celebrity might not necessarily work for you. It is advisable to seek the guidance of a dietician."

* Another thing you have to remember according to her is that at the age of 40 your body is preparing to fight menopause, so it is essential that you have all of your nutrients and micro nutrients.

Madonna

She rocked the 80s with her pop music. 20 years later she is still in the groove.

Check her out in her latest single, 4 minutes, with Justin Timberlake. Dancing with someone half her age, certainly deserves some accolades. And she is over 40!


Her fitness mantra

* To prevent bulking up of muscles, she changes her routine. She mixes up various types of cardio training along with various types of crunches and weight lifting with her dancing.

* Avoids diary food, processed food and spices.

Expert advice

* Fitness Trainer and Wellness Coach Amit Sharma says that weight training is essential for woman at this age. They are the only form of exercise that can prevent and reduce the risk osteoporosis. Calcium can be stored in the body, only till a particular age. After that the bones start becoming brittle.

* Nutritionist Shweta Shahaney elaborates that at this age you should not shy away from taking calcium supplements. Your daily calcium intake might not be able to meet the requirement. You can consult a doctor or nutritionist for the right dosage.

Halle Berry

She makes the list at 35 in FHM's 100 sexiest women in the world list. Even after the birth of her child, she is not far away from the sculpted body she had when she emerged out of the water wearing a skimpy bikini in the Bond movie Die Another Day.


Her post pregnancy fitness mantra

* She works out for 60 minutes, five days a week. Her fitness program includes cardio, strength training that focus on the abdomen and leg. Her cardio activity is divided in to three parts - on the elliptical, kickboxing and stairs or hill climb.

* Includes lots of veggies in her diet along with lean proteins, complex carbohydrates and a lot of water.

Expert advice

* Fitness Trainer and Wellness Coach Amit Sharma says that you should include cardiovascular exercises in your daily routine as it improves the heart and lungs functioning and also gets more oxygen into the blood. This is especially important at this age. According to reports from AP, as we age, the pumping capacity of the heart decreases, causing an increase in the resting heart rate. The body's ability to process oxygen efficiently decreases by one to two per cent each year after the age of 40.

* And here's another fact of the matter! Veggies and fruits are most important in your diet. Nutritionist Shweta Shahaney says that no matter what age, veggies and fruits are a sure shot way to lose weight and keep fit. Also keeping in mind that your body is preparing for menopause, you need to have veggies and fruits which will provide you with a lot of nutrients.

Cindy Crawford

One of the original supermodels, her beauty and well toned body has made her grace the cover of many magazines, get major ad campaigns and roles in movies and TV. She has managed to remain fit all these years even after having two kids!


Her fitness mantra

* Follows the Zone diet which involves eating small portions at regular intervals, and having a ratio of 40 per cent carbohydrates, 30 per cent proteins and 30 percent fat.

* Has a fitness regime of 20 minutes of cardiovascular and 40 minutes of free weights. Also incorporates yoga in her daily routine.

Expert advice

* According to Fitness Trainer and Wellness Coach Amit Sharma, as you age, your body loses twice the amount of muscle mass that it used to. This is one of the reasons for the decrease in the metabolic rate. Once again weight training comes to the rescue!

* A very simple and easy way to increase your metabolism is to have a cold glass of water, according to Amit. Try to have 500 ml to a liter of water once you get up in the morning. Drink at least 3 liters of water a day.

Brooke Shields

Being in front of the camera since infancy, the world has more or less watched her grow up. She has always remained fit and off late we have seen how her masculine appearance has toned down. What's her secret?


Her fitness mantra

* Whenever possible, she tries to do any physical activity for an hour everyday, it can be anything from spinning to hiking.

* She avoids weights for it can end up making her look bulky. She keeps her muscles toned with yoga.

Expert advice

So how can you manage to do all the forms of exercises without hurting your body? Fitness Trainer and Wellness Coach Amit Sharma gives you a schedule:

* Weight training 3 to 4 times a week.

* Cardiovascular exercises two times a week for 45 minutes.

* Stretching exercises 10 to 15 minutes before your weight training and cardiovascular exercise.

source:ibnlive.in.com