Fashion Spotlight

Glamor Galoshes

By Nikki Ramler

If you live in Minnesota, chances are you have a pair of galoshes in your closet. For the practical, yet fashion-conscience gal, galoshes can be the foot accessory that will set her apart from all weather-weary women with their black, grey, brown rubber gear.

While they may be a wardrobe necessity, they don’t have to be a wardrobe “depressity.” Your momma’s galoshes are a very different animal from today’s fashion-forward rubber boots. In fact, animal prints are very trendy and sophisticated. Patterns and prints in rubber boots are as varied as the personalities of women. From bright solid colors in every hue of the rainbow to paisley prints, flowers and patterns, you’ll be sure to find a design to brighten up any dreary day.

The choices of style are endless, as are the prices, and you’ll have a problem just choosing one pair.

Vacation Earrings

By Erin Bitzan

If you are lucky enough to escape the sub-zero arctic chill and find yourself lying on a beach somewhere, you might vow to never come back again.  Who doesn’t want a vacation to last forever? And while we can’t take it with us, the souvenirs that make it home remind us of our escape to paradise. Beyond the gift shop favorites of t-shirts with pert greetings, shot glasses, and other trinkets guaranteed to break on the way home, other treasures like jewelry can serve as lasting mementos of your trip. However, before you bring your booty home, here are a few things to keep in mind.

People can be swept away in the emotional tides of their romantic holidays. They desire a souvenir that commemorates the time spent together, the love they share, and their exotic destination. Finding a piece of jewelry that encompasses all those sentiments can be fun to hunt for. A piece of fashion jewelry native to the location you’re visiting, like dangle earrings made of coconut shells, beaded necklaces made with locally sourced semi-precious stones, and other hand-crafted pieces are perfect examples of something fun you can wear and fondly remember your vacation.

Buying fine jewelry is usually more expensive and should be approached more cautiously than buying a piece of fashion jewelry.  If you’re hoping to find a rare treasure abroad, do your research before you jet set or set sail from home.  Especially if you have your heart set on finding that one-of-a-kind jewelry box gem, make sure you utilize the resources available to you before embarking on your journey. The Washington Post published a report on “what to know before you buy,” when purchasing jewelry on a cruise. Their independent reporters recommended the following advice: thoroughly research the companies, read past testimonials and reviews, shop around, bargain, and be clear on return policies and warranties.  Other things to consider might include: is the item sizeable? Are the goods certified? How long will the company keep record of the purchase? What happens if it breaks or needs repair? Is an appraisal supplied with purchase? Are there local branches of the chain you bought from?

While many people have discovered fabulous pieces at pirate’s prices, others have been disappointed with their prizes. Making sure you’re covered in the event that your souvenir isn’t what you’ve bargained for is important.  In the end, if you still love the piece, are satisfied with how much you paid, and have no problems then you made the right decision.  You don’t want any regrets when you come home relaxed and rejuvenated. But bringing home a great tan, beautiful memories, and a little bauble you found beachside will help you brave the blistering cold until the next great escape.