If you are fully immersed into fashion you might have someday dreamed of being a fashion designer of your own.

Well, chances are you didn’t fulfil on that dream, and perhaps you don’t really want to devote your life to it.

However, you could still enjoy a little bit of design on your own, perhaps in smaller, DIY projects that won’t become a career choice.

A perfect choice for something like this would be the Cricut Machine!

What is the Cricut Machine?

If you haven’t heard of the Cricut, it’s a cutting machine thats relatively inexpensive and targeted towards the home/consumer market.  In the past cutting machines were usually industrial pieces of equipment that were very expensive and wouldn’t make sense to use at home.  The Cricut came on the market some years ago and filled a need of home crafters that wanted/needed a way to make digitally precise cuts in different materials.

How Can They Be Used?

It can be used for a wide variety of applications.  The truth is, there is no real limit, just what you can imagine.  Obviously its not going to be used for factory level processes and pumping out 10,000 shirts or dresses, but it can be used in various combinations and with various materials to create a whole array of different possibilities.

Materials include wood, rubber, vinyl, paper, and yes, fabric.

If you are wanting to use a cricut machine for fabric and other fashion related projects, you’ll need to grab the  Cricut Maker or the Cricut Explore Air 2.  Both of these can cut fabrics nicely.  But it doesn’t have to stop there, fabric could just be one factor of your craft.  You could combine fabric and wood to create ornaments.  Or fabric and vinyl prints to create specialty t-shirts and other apparel.

The Cricut and other printing/cutting machines can really open doors for those that want to flex their wings in terms of creativity, but aren’t necessarily great at drawing or cutting/crafting by hand.

How to Choose a Machine?

There are several models of the Cricut available, as well as competing brands like the Silhouette Cameo or even cutting machines by Brother, the famous printer brand.  You should do your due diligence in terms of research to make sure you spend your money wisely.  Of course there are plenty of resources online to help you make the decision, such as this list of the best cricut machines by CuttingMachine.Reviews, as well as breakdowns of the specs and comparison of each model on Cricut’s website.

At the end of the day you may want to start small (with some of the beginner models) if you aren’t very experienced with cutting machines, scrapbooking and crafts in general.  If you’ve got a bit of history in this niche, then go all out.  The difference in price from the beginner and advanced models is up to a couple hundred bucks, so might not be the biggest purchase decision ever.

How to get Inspired?

Now that you’ve gone ahead and educated yourself on the best machines for your interests, researched the model specs and prices, and made a purchase, now where to go from here?

Well thankfully the scrapbooking/crafts segment of the Internet is positively booming with free content for you to check out.  Just on Youtube alone, there are hundreds of different bloggers and crafters that are putting out really quality DIY and instructional videos.  We’ve gone ahead and pull together a few for you to check out:

Maker’s Gonna Learn – Youtube channel all about DIY makers and crafts.

Karley Hall – Video dedicated mostly to Cricut and other crafts.  Very detailed instructions, perfect for beginners.

Crafting Princesses – General crafting videos, with lots of videos on how to leverage Cricut and cutting machines.

To get you started, here is one of our favorite videos for beginners:

This summer, rompers are holding their position as the best and coolest clothes for the season. They are so adorable and fun to wear, and the right one can make your body look much better. Also, rompers are so easy to put on, and they are girls best friends on summer vacations because they don’t take too much space in the suitcase. When you have a romper, you have the whole outfit. I just love them because of that!

Then again there are so many mistakes that you can make if you don’t know what fits you well. They can make you look like you are in your pyjamas, or like a child if the fit is wrong. But don’t worry, we are here to help you.

If you are curvy, and your hips are wider than your shoulders, you have a pear shaped body. When you know your body type, you can easily decide what fits you well, and what kinds of clothes are making a balanced look.

Roxy Juniors Spin Sail Sleeveless Romper

Roxy Junior Sleeveless Romper

The first rule about choosing the right romper for the pear shaped body is to try to find rompers that are darker at the bottom. So this one is a school example what to buy to make a perfect balance.

This design is very cool and versatile, so it can be worn on many occasions such as brunch, party or just for a walk by the seashore.

Black and white are not even colours, so you can match them with all of the colours of this world.

For a clean look, just forget accessories and combine this romper with a cute clutch.

The back of this romper is sexy, there is only one strap on the back, so you can put your hair up and be the main star of the street.

Angie Women’s Bell Sleeve Romper

Angie Womens Bell Sleeve Romper

Another good advice for women who have wide hips is to put attention on the upper part of the body. With this Angie bell sleeve romper, the attention will be on the sleeves and on the neck.

Interesting print of this romper will make you look youthful and free-spirited, so it is a great pick for the beach. I would wear it with leather ankle wrap sandals. They can be combined with mules if you want to follow trends.

This fabric is very light and there is a drawstring on the waist so it can be adjusted to fit you even after a big juicy meal.

Sanctuary Clothing Women’s Soft Surplus Tencel Romper

Jeans is a huge trend this season. Yes dear, I know, again!

Maybe we can thank Rihanna and her music video “4,5 seconds” for this. I am not bothered with that, I just love jeans, and if you are also a fan of this fabric you should definitely buy this romper!

Ok, actually this romper is not made of denim, it is 100% Lyocell, wich makes it much lighter, and suitable for spring and summer. You can unbutton the upper part when you are feeling hot, and twist your sleeves.

It has interesting upper part with pockets, just like jeans shirt. Excellent for girls with flat chests. This washed out jeans romper go well with sandals, but also with sneakers, and I love wearing sneakers in the summer because I think I have ugly toes. I hope that you don’t have the same problem.

NY Collection Women’s 3/4 Sleeve Printed Romper

NY Collection Romper

Again, our aim is to focus the attention of a viewer on your face and your upper body. This pink line on the fabric is very helpful.
The stripes on this fabric are making you look taller, but it might not suit well to bigger girls. Tie waist makes this romper adjustable, and 3/4 sleeve are so cool. You can add a nice watch on your wrist, or some interesting bracelets. The shorts is free flowing and roomy, so you don’t have to worry about that.

Combine it with pink shoes, if you are so lucky to have them, or use the safe ones – nude heels.

If you are not a party girl, this romper will be a good companion if you match it with flat sandals and hat.

BCBGeneration Women’s Long-Sleeve Romper with Lace Neck

BCBGeneration Women's Long-Sleeve Romper with Lace Neck

You will get pure elegance with this lace collar and perfect shape of this romper. Black covers everything perfectly, makes you look so sophisticated even tough you are wearing a romper. Large cutout at centre front will put attention on your chests and not on your wide hips, and that is how you will profit from this look.

You will save your money on jewellery because this one doesn’t need any. Ok, maybe small effective earrings. If your legs aren’t as long as this, you have to wear heals, and it should be fine ankle heels just like in the picture.

Match clutch and earrings, or lipstick and clutch and you are ready to enjoy in compliments at every party this spring!

Guess Women’s Short Sleeve Anja Belted Faux Suede Romper

GUESS Women's Short Sleeve Anja Belted Faux Suede Romper

On this romper secret agent vibes are strong! Navy blue colour, zipper closure and detachable belt reminded me of all those female secret agents. They are smart and they only wear clothes that fit perfectly! So should you.

Reviewers said that this faux suede material is great, and some of them have bought this romper in both colours. Belt will make you look thinner, and short sleeves will make you look ready for work.

Navy blue is great with red, white and black so you can add those colours to this style.

And don’t forget your confidence, and smile. Those are essential accessories to every outfit!

There are purses, satchels, tote bags and the ever so cute backpacks. Other than pockets, these bags help us carry all of our belongings while we galavant around town to run errands, go to class, or just take a stroll downtown. Now don’t get us wrong we love our handbags, but we are a little partial to backpacks! Because of our backpack obsession we’ve curated a list of the 6 best backpacks for women! These backpacks range from boho to edgy backpack styles and some others in between. Backpacks are great from daytrips or anything active that may call for secure mobility and the usage of 2 hands. These backpacks will have you trading in that purse as soon as your order comes in, so go ahead and check these bags below!

French Connection Kim Backpack

French Connection is known for its high quality clothing and this accessory is no exception! This French Connection backpack looks exactly like a purse, but it comes with some awesome features!

This backpack has 2 slip pockets and 1 zip closure pocket on the interior of the bag. It also has 3 exterior zip closure pockets. It also has adjustable and detachable backpack straps, so you are able to fit the right fit! This backpack is currently available in 2 colors; black and blue. There a large price difference between the colors, so be sure to check out the difference before purchase.

Customers love this backpack purse, because of the amount of space and pockets. They also love its versatility. It can be used as a backpack, a regular purse, or a crossbody bag!

Multiple colors available.

Coofit Leather Backpack

 

This Coofit backpack is super cute and the pink colors make you think of cotton candy! The backpack size is 26 x 11 x 30 cm. The site says it has a little leather smell and the color might be a little of due to lighting and coloration. Therefore be cautious of that before purchase.

This Coofit backpack has 2 outside pockets and 1 zipper pocket on the back. In the interior there are 2 small pockets for a mobile device, 1 medium size pocket, and 2 zip closure pockets.

This bag comes in four different colors; beige, pink, rose, and black. Customers love this bag, because they say it is a nice small size and a cute style!

Multiple colors available.

Vera Bradley Preppy Poly Backpack

Vera Bradley Preppy Poly Backpack

Vera Bradley trades in its signature patterns and prints for these super cute and sleek looking bags. Customers are loving this style and we are sure you will too!

This backpack is lightweight and is made from water repellent fabric. The straps are also adjustable, so you are able to find that perfect fit. The backpack size is 5 x 12 x 11. There is a front zip closure pocket hidden behind the front seam and a slip pocket on the back. On the interior there is a large compartment, then a zip closure pocket and a slip pocket. The backpack closes with a drawstring and a snap closure.

It is available in 7colors; black, citrine, cobalt stripe, mint, orange, sky blue, tango red, and toast. Customers love this backpack saying it is great for daytrips and it has fantastic functionality/durability! They also love the super cute look!

Multiple colors available.

Roxy Savanna Cay Backpack

Roxy is known for active sportswear and fun accessories for the girls who like to get outside and be a little more adventurous. This boho style backpack is great for that girl who wants to explore.

This bag is 100% cotton, with padded shoulder straps, and a drawstring cord for closure. This backpack has one main compartment and a zip closure pocket on the inside. This backpack is currently only available in the color, True Black. This bag is great for a day of adventure or a relaxing day at the beach.

Customers gave this backpack 5 stars because of the amount of space and the great quality! Roxy products are great and this bag wont disappoint.

Lucky Brand Nyla Backpack

This Lucky Brand backpack is definitely on the pricier side, but with its top notch quality and unique style this will be a bag that you will use way more than once.

This boho style backpack has a 17.5” shoulder drop, it is 13” high, and it is 10” wide. This leather magnetic snap closure backpack has 2 interior slip pockets and 1 back zip closure pocket. It also has super cute hassle detailing on the closure and a Lucky Brand keychain! This backpack is currently only available in the color Tobacco.

Customers love this purchase, because of its roominess and cute boho style! You’ll feel totally boho chic with this strapped to your back!

Sakroots Backpack

This Sakroots backpack is a coated canvas and perfect for that boho babe. There is a zip closure front and middle pocket. The interior is one large comaprtment has a padded pocket and a middle zipper closure pocket with seperate sections.

This backpack also comes with a super cute wristlet of the same print, so that is a great bonus! The coolest feature of this bag is its built-in powerbank of 2500mah. The backpack is 9 x 4 x 13 and a 31 inch drop. The wristlet is 8.9 x 0.4 x 5.3 and a 6 inch drop. This backpack is available in 8 different prints!

Customers are ranting and raving about their Sakroots backpack because of it Style/design and awesome features!

Multiple colors available.

No matter where your day takes you, these totally trendy backpacks will have you covered by holding anything you will need! There are backpacks for any style and they are always a great accessory to have handy. We hope you are totally falling for our choices for the 6 best backpacks for women! What style is your favorite? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

With the cold weather quickly approaching (and in some areas of the country, already here), it’s important to be prepared with a warm, comfortable and fashionable winter coat. We’ve done the research and have chosen the 10 best winter coats for women. All these options will keep you warm against the harsh cold of the winter while still keeping you looking your best.

Columbia Women’s Lay ’D’ Down Jacket

“This coat is amazing” – Actual Review

We thought we had seen popular winter jackets, but when we came across this Columbia’s “Lay ‘D’ Down” we were blown away! It essentially jumped to the top of our list.  It seems that keeping it simple works best when it comes to a comfortable, warm and cozy winter weather coat.

The jacket is extremely warm even if harsh climates of Michigan and Utah. One customer remarked that she wore it in -20 Degree Fahrenheit with only a t-shirt! The down filling and scientifically tested material/fibers of Columbia brand coats insures the best protection possible against the cold.

It’s also extremely stylish. As shown above it is not bulky at all, and the short length gives optimal flexibility and maneuverability when on the move. A perfect jacket for a quick run to the store or a long hike in the woods, it seems Columbia has found the best of both worlds with this one.

Phistic‘s “Lacey” – Down Puffer Coat – Long

“Exquisitely Made, Exceptionally Warm” – Actual Review

This was the most popular and best reviewed coat we found during our extensive research. The long length and down insulation provide “exceptional warmth” even in the coldest temperatures.

Customers report fast shipping, and excellent fit. Virtually no negative comments at all about this coat.

Quilted Down Toggle Coat from BGSD (Faux Fur Trim)

BGSD Women's Waterproof Quilted Down Toggle Coat

Rounding out our Top 3 is the Quilted Down Toggle Coat from BGSD, one of the most popular coats we found during our research.

According to real customers who have bought this coat it is “flattering” to the figure, “warm and cozy” in freezing or near freezing temperatures, due to its down quilt and trimmed hood.

NOTE: Many reviewers suggest to order 1 size larger then you need, which leaves room for additional sweaters/bulk clothes, if necessary. While many expected this to make them look large, it trimming effect of the slim coat give’s it a slender figure even at the larger size.

The perfect coat for taller women, according to one reviewer: “I’m 5′10″, so I prefer longer coats, and the length is awesome”.

The coat is praised for it’s stylishness, warmth and affordable price, with nearly all reviewers claiming to be extremely happy with their purchase.

Gallatin Coat from Carthartt

FREE SHIPPING
FREE RETURNS

Carthartt is a brand know for winter weather apparel, but often offers bulky, utilitarian jackets and coats. This one however, according to one reviewer “[is] finally a FEMININE coat from Carthartt”.

It’s slim and slender but provides the warmth necessary for cold climates such as the Pacific Northwest and the Northeast. Large pockets provide the hands with a respite from the wind.

A huge advantage of this coat is that it is machine washable. No need to go to the dry cleaners if the coat gets covered in snow, rain, mud/etc.

The coat is available is many sizes, and Amazon’s offer of FREE RETURNS makes it’s easy to get the right one. Many reviewers have made use of the free return option and are very happy with the results.

Jessie G.’s “Alicia” Quilted Puffer Down Coat w/ Detachable Hood

FREE RETURNS (restrictions apply)

Looking to spice up your wardrobe for the winter? This is a perfect option for you. This highly praised Down Coat from Jessie G. combines warmth and style with slender fit and affordable pricing, a perfect fit for fall and winter.

The jacket comes with a detachable hood and a faux fur trim. Customers are happy with the versatility of the style, the warmth of the jacket and the perfect fit. Available in many sizes.

Orolay Thickened and Long Down Jacket w/ Hood

FREE SHIPPING
FREE RETURNS

Colors Available: Blue, Red, Black, White

Using a different, bolder approach to winter styles, this thickened, long winter jacket from Orolay has proven to be one of the most popular cold-weather jackets available this year. The manufacturer makes special note to tell customers to buy larger sizes, as plentiful covering is what this coat is made for.

This coat tends to run small, so order a size bigger than you would normally order. This coat is a deviation from the norm, so it’s perfect for switching up your style, and additional colors provide a punch that can brighten your wardrobe during those cold, white days of the winter months.

Estelle Down Jacket by Holden

WATERPROOF

Colors include: Blue, Maroon, Black and Bone (Cream)

This is a serious winter jacket. Holden is known for making some of the most durable and advanced cold-weather apparel, and this is not an exception. In addition to being waterproof and breathable and up to 20,000 feet, this jacket stunning. Perhaps a verified customer’s one-word review sums it up perfectly: “Beautiful”.

It’s available in multiple colors, include dark-red/maroon and blue. This incredibly warm jacket comes with underarm vents to avoid sweat buildup and is 100% Nylon. Perfect for long winters and harsh climates, this is a no-brainer for the stylish, yet practical woman.

If you are truly serious about improving your fashion game, then one of the things you need to do is develop a look that is truly your own. In other words, you need to figure out a foolproof look that you can always go to. This should give you a template of things you should wear while still giving you a myriad of options when it comes to possible variations.

Don’t know where to start? Well, a good place to do so would be to picture the ensembles that make you feel comfortable in your own skin. Alternatively, you can also seek help from people close to you by asking them which outfits you look great in. That being said, if you ever come across an article of clothing that you need to talk yourself into, then chances are you should probably skip that one.

When putting together your look, be sure to avoid overmatching different articles of clothing. Instead, you should go with different colors that help enhance one another. A simple look at the color wheel should help you choose the items most suited to each other.

 

Getting dressed and putting together an outfit is simply one of those routines that would be impossible to avoid, no matter your line of work. However, despite being an everyday occurrence, it can still often feel frustrating. The feeling of not having anything to wear is a daily conundrum that most of us have to go through every morning. Luckily, we are here to make things a bit easier for you. Take note that the following tips come directly from fashion experts, retailers, and industry leaders so be sure to take note.

Pay attention to proportions

As common sense would tell you, you want your outfit to highlight the parts you are proud of while also taking attention away from the parts you wish to downplay. Of course, that can be a bit tricky but it is certainly possible if you know what you are doing. For instance, you can opt to add opposite volume to even out your proportions. It is all about redirecting the eyes.

Age-Appropriate Fashion

Most people forget that being comfortable in your own skin is a crucial component to dressing well. To look fashionable is to dress in age-appropriate ways. This means adapting to the latest fashion trends while not looking kitsch.

April showers bring May flowers, isn’t that how the saying goes? Well in preparation for this years wet season (whether it’s Hurricane season in the Southeast, or springtime showers in the North) we want to provide you with the the best selection of men’s raincoats available anywhere online. Mining through tons of different selections, evaluating on a plethora of factors like fabric and materials, water resistance, insulation and warmth, as well as customer feedback, we’ve come down to a final selection.

This is a hand selected list of our favorite 7 jackets, all high quality and from premium manufacturers and high scorers on all of our evaluation factors. Now without further ado, lets get to it!

Evapouration from Columbia Men’s Sportswear

Our #1 pick this year is comes from a heralded brand in the outdoor wear space, Columbia. While known more for their winter wear, many of the same variables are carried over to make some exceptional rain wear. It’s got more features and factors than some other Columbia jackets, including proprietary EVAP advanced evaporation panels.

Omni-tech waterproof, it can provide all the protection you need from the cold sting of rain. However it also includes underarm venting to allow for ventilation during times of high heat or activity (i.e. running, jogging, biking, etc).

It’s pockets zip close to help secure you valuable items like cell phones, wallets, keys, etc. It also keeps these items behind the same water resistant materials, helping to shield them from potentially damaging water.

Earning consistently positive ratings from customers, our staff has also awarded this model the #1 pick of the year. It scores extremely high among all of our evaluation factors. Take a look:

  • Comfy Fit: 10/10
  • Dry: 10/10
  • Water Resistance: 10/10
  • Customer Feedback: Outstanding!
  • Price: $$ – $$$$

Dubliner Rain Jacket from Helly Hansen

This is definitely on of our top picks this year, and for good reason. It performed well on all of our factors, even the common underperformers (like material and fit). Made out of 100% Polyester, this is definitely a winner over the more common Nylon (which is less expensive, but ultimately draws the ire of those who purchase it due to its light/flimsy nature and tendency to seep through with water). Polyester performs much better than Nylon in these regards.

As for size and fit, it tend to fit as expected (unlike some other jackets that might be too large or too small). So if you are an extra large, go ahead and order an extra large.

The fit is loose but not baggy, allowing for freedom of movement, and fully sealed for protection from wind, cold, and of course, rain.

High scores on all our factors! See below:

  • Comfy Fit: 10/10
  • Dry: 9/10
  • Water Resistance: 9/10
  • Customer Feedback: Outstanding!
  • Price: $$$

Men’s Resolve Jacket from The North Face

Buy Now!

A legendary brand in outdoors wear, The North Face began it’s life providing apparel for moutain climbers that scaled the likes of Everest and K2! They bring that same high level of quality to the consumer market with this excellent rain slicker called “Men’s Resolve”. Using many of the same principles from their famous winter coats (such as the front Velcro closure over the zipper and elastic over the wrists), this coat provides excellent protection against the elements, while of course being lighter and slimmer than their heavy winter coats.

Customers have very few complaints about the “Resolve”, and have included praises that it protects against both the wind and the rain (not just one or the other), and it can be comfortable in temperatures down to 50 degrees Fahrenheit (any lower than that and its recommended to pair with a sweater underneath).

Overall this one is real winner, waterproof, “weatherproof”, lightweight and the high quality that is come to be expected from The North Face, we doubt you will be disappointed with this selection.

Scores high across the board too!

  • Comfy Fit: 9/10
  • Dry: 10/10
  • Water Resistance: 10/10
  • Customer Feedback: Outstanding!
  • Price: $$$

Breathable and Waterproof Rain Jacket from Paradox

A little break from the ordinary for this one. As you can see from the picture its not your usual rain coat, and looks more like a lab coat or hazmat suit than a standard windbreaker, but it checks off all the boxes and gets some great customer feedback, so it’s made our final list. Also not quite pictured is the hood (which is does indeed include). Fully waterproof and including vents for breathability, it a perfect selection for high intensity outdoors activity in the rain, such as running or biking.

Form fitting and coming with Velcro cuffs and adjustable waste, the 80/20 Nylon/Poly mixture gives a good feel and an excellent protection against the elements. It is coated with a water repellent finish to keep you both dry and warm.

In the case of rain in high temperatures, the breathable and light constructions provides a perfect match. One customer commented on her trip to Vietnam where it was both 90 degrees and rainy, and this provided just the right type of protection she needed from those elements.

Scoring very strong on our scales, this is a great pick for the outdoors adventurers:

  • Comfy Fit: 10/10
  • Warm: Combine with sweater.
  • Dry: 9/10
  • Water Resistance: 10/10
  • Customer Feedback: Very Positive!
  • Price: $$

Watertight II from Columbia

Just as The North Face is a heralded brand when it comes to winter weather wear, so is Columbia. For decades they have been providing some of the most rugged winter gear available on the market. This type of protection is helpful to have in the form of raincoats, and the factors that perform so well in winter coats carry over excellently. We highly doubt you will be disappointed with this choice.

Besides the brass tacks of comfort, warmth and protection from the elements, this also has some great style choices. We’ve counted 19 different colors available for this particular model, so if you want a jacket that will match your boots, iPhone case or new hair dye, this is the perfect choice for you.

Super light, this particular model is great for spring time or early fall rain showers. You’ll need to pair with a sweater for the colder weather (not unlike many other models listed here). Plenty of pockets to fit your cell phone (as one reviewer put it, it fits a iPhone 6S with plenty of room to spare).

Tons of positive feedback from customers, and scores very high on all of our scales, take a look:

  • Comfy Fit: 9/10
  • Warm: Combine with sweater.
  • Dry: 9/10
  • Water Resistance: 8/10
  • Customer Feedback: Very Positive!
  • Price: $$ – $$$

PVC Raincoat from 32 Degrees

For those that are looking for an inexpensive option that will keep you dry in a heavy rain storm, this is a great pick for you. The PVC Weatherproof coat from 32 Degrees uses the unusual material of Polyvinyl Chloride (as opposed to the more common Polyester or Nylon), to make a waterproof coat that is light and perfect from those very rainy days.

Not meant to keep you warm, this will need to be combined with some additional layers if you are facing a very cold day. However its perfect for a light jacket that is comfortable to wear (doesn’t stick to the skin like some other unlined jackets).

These are sized appropriately (so if you are normally a large you can order a large). Very competitive in pricing, this makes a great buy if you need to pick up jackets for several children, or to be used as gifts.

Scoring very solidly on our evaluation factors, this item makes a perfect pick for those not too concerned about the very cold, but still want to stay dry during epic rainstorms.

  • Comfy Fit: 8/10
  • Warm: No, very light. Combine with sweater if necessary.
  • Dry: 10/10
  • Water Resistance: 8/10
  • Customer Feedback: Very Positive!
  • Price: $

Men’s Venture from The North Face

Another item from The North Face made it on our list. You can expect this one to be as high quality as any available rain slick on the market. Waterproof, seam sealed as well as breathable, this one checks off all the boxes when it comes to a reliable jacket. It’s even got the chin lining that will keep help protect your face from high winds.

It also comes in literally dozens of different colors and styles, so its perfect if you want something more than just the standard black/grey. What’s life without a little color in it anyway?

We particularly liked the Duck Green and Shady Blue Heather varieties, but you can choose your own based on your own personal color palette. The “Venture” is sure to make a great accompaniment to any fall or spring wardrobe.

  • Comfy Fit: 10/10
  • Warm: Moderate, somewhat light. Combine with sweater if necessary.
  • Dry: 10/10
  • Water Resistance: 10/10
  • Customer Feedback: Very Positive!
  • Price: $$ – $$$

Distressed jeans are the in thing right now, specifically because they look well worn out. Distressed clothing is any garment that is made to look dirty or ripped during the manufacturing process.

For some reason, distressed jeans have made their way back into our closets of late, probably because they look stylish, cool and casual at the same time.

Intentional damage

Unlike normal jeans, distressed jeans are damaged in such a way that they look aged and worn out. The damage can be caused by abrading them with friction, chemicals or even bleach (for the classic faded designs). New jeans that look distressed are usually bleached to give the trademark faded look. The bleaching can cover the entire garment, or may be applied to cover part of the legs. The chemicals and bleach also serve to weaken the fabric, giving the fragile, threadbare appearance. The worn outlook can also be achieved through Stonewashing.

Tears, Holes and Rips

As is the rage today, distressed jeans can come with holes and tears to add to the old, worn out look. The holes and shreds vary, with some brands preferring slight cuts and rips, and some designers going all the way to tear the garments up. The edges are not seamed, allowing them to continue fraying. The bottom hems can also be abrased with sandpaper to make it look more worn out.

Home-made distressed jeans

If you have a thing for crafts and embroidery, then you can also make yourself a pair of distressed jeans from regular jeans in your closet. If you have some ancient jeans that you want to give a new life to, then distressing them is the perfect way to give them a new lease of life.

You will need bleaching solution that will be used to fade and weaken the denim fiber. You can use chalk to mark the areas you want to add rips and holes, then using small scissors, make holes at the areas you had previously marked with chalk. You can use a seam ripper to make crosswise tears at the knees and hem.

Make sure you slip on the jeans before beginning the process so that you can have the best view of where you’d like to create the holes and tears. After marking the spots, insert an old magazine into the leg to prevent the scissors (or a box cutter if you have one) from cutting through both layers of fabric.

If you are using a box cutter, slice through the fabric in horizontal strips. They don’t have to be equal in length. You can opt for two strips, each about two inches from the knee for the classic ripped look. Use short slicing motions, creating longer slices as you approach the mid-section of the area you want to slice through then end with short slicing motions. This gives a more natural look.

You can now use tweezers to fray out the ripped area. Pull out the vertical threads to leave horizontal threads hanging onto the fabric. You can skip alternate strips for a more defined look. Allow the frayed edges to remain as they are, or you can use sandpaper to braise the bottom hem. The result is a pair of distressed jeans that will look trendy as part of a casual outfit.