Smart jewelry: The fashion-forward way to stay connected

(BPT) - Jewelry has signified the bonds between people since the ancient Egyptians created the wedding band. But the digital revolution is quickly converting jewelry from a symbol of connection to wireless ways to stay connected.  

Rings, watches, pendants - even cufflinks - have been transformed into miniature electronic devices that keep us in touch with people, including ourselves. This merger of fashion and function is catching on fast with consumers.

According to Gartner Inc., an information technology and research advisory firm, purchases of wearable smart devices will increase 16 percent in 2016, with smartwatch sales alone predicted to rise a whopping 66 percent.

The wearable device trend took off a decade ago, primarily for fitness. The Nike+iPod fitness tracker was the forerunner for a flood of new products embedded with tiny sensors that report the wearer's workout progress.

Functions, aesthetics determine price

Today, nearly all the major tech companies compete in the smartwatch market, including Apple, Google, Microsoft, Motorola and Samsung. Meanwhile, some traditional watchmakers - such as Tag Heuer - have developed their own high-tech timepieces.

Top designers are also collaborating with high-tech developers to create smart rings, bracelets, necklaces and other fine and fashion jewelry. FitBit, for instance, offers a line of fitness trackers conceived by Tory Burch, a well-known women's wear designer. The technology is embedded in embossed metallic pendants and bracelets.

Protect smart investments

Since smart jewelry could be a major jewelry investment - second only, perhaps, to an engagement ring - it's important to adequately protect it with insurance.

Most homeowners insurance policies cover jewelry to some extent. In many cases, however, your coverage may be limited. Plus, a jewelry claim could affect the status of your entire policy. That's why it's important to evaluate your insurance options.

Typical warranties and protection plans won't reimburse you if your smart jewelry disappears under mysterious circumstances - meaning you're not sure whether it was lost or stolen. The best jewelry insurers, such as Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company, a leader in jewelry insurance since 1913, will cover loss in such circumstances. They will also repair or replace the item through the jeweler or manufacturer of your choice and a loss.

If you're someone who appreciates socially responsible companies, there's another reason to look up Jewelers Mutual. This summer, the company is making news by offering $2 million in donations to nonprofits that fight hunger, provide affordable housing and deliver medical research and exceptional care to kids battling cancer and other life-threatening diseases.

As part of its "Band Together" campaign, Jewelers Mutual is inviting consumers to select which cause receives the largest share of its unprecedented philanthropic gift. For everyone who casts votes at JewelersMutual.com/BandTogether from July 11-31, this campaign offers more than the chance to help their favorite nonprofits. Every individual who answers the call to "Band Together" online will be eligible to win a set of three stacking bands from Stacked New York. Three exquisite sets will be given away during the campaign. While, the bands are not the kind equipped with smart technology, they are a smart fashion choice and symbolize the timeless bonds that connect people to something bigger than themselves.

5 fall fashion finds that blend comfort and style

(BPT) - As Mother Nature exchanges her green attire for endless hues of yellow, orange and red, you too may be thinking it's time to spruce up your wardrobe. This fall, the leading trends are blending fashion with comfort to create eye-catching styles that move with ease through all your autumn adventures.

As the leaves turn and the chill sets in, make sure your closet is stocked with the top five fashion finds of the season.

Thin and thick, scarves for everyone

Store your statement necklaces for next season because fall 2016 is prime for scarves of all shapes and sizes. Chunky knits are a classic among both men and women, with infinity scarves bridging the gap between dainty and daring. To add further dimension, skinny scarves are a new addition for this season. Thin scarves of silky material are being layered, wrapped and knotted to create a one-of-a-kind look guaranteed to catch a glance. Long-hair scarves or silk belts are ideal for experimenting with this fresh trend.

A comfortable twist on the skinny jean

When fall arrives women from coast to coast don skinny jeans with boots and booties. Until now, this unforgettable look came at the price of comfort and mobility. Enter the Lee Dream Jean. Designed to look like a skinny jean on the outside while feeling like a yoga pant inside, you can wear these jeans for any fall adventure - whether stretching for the highest apple or lounging with a pumpkin spice latte. The patent-pending Dream Jean wraps you in softness with a t-shirt-like lining, and the stretchy, skinny fit ensures you'll never want to take them off.

Slim-fit jeans for men

For fall 2016, men's jeans are seeing a slimmer cut than in previous seasons, and more men are looking for styles with stretch to achieve this look. The Lee Slim Fit embraces both elements to produce a pant that looks and feels great, whether you're tailgating with friends or picking pumpkins with the family. The slim, tailored style fits closer to the body for a great fall look, while the Active Comfort Denim technology allows the denim to flex and move with ease to keep up with your every move.

Fabulous fall footwear

Beyond boots, fall footwear is getting a sensible yet stylish update for fall 2016. One of the leading shoe trends of the season is the classic mule. Making its comeback, the mule blends the best of a loafer with the ease of a clog. Slip these on with your favorite jeans for a chic look for the office or a weekend get-together. Mules offer the ideal way to polish a casual look and create a beautiful blend of high and low fashion.

Pops of color

As Mother Nature delights the eye with radiant hues across the landscape, you may feel inspired to add pops of color to your fall wardrobe. Just because it's autumn, however, doesn't mean you're limited to just crimson and sienna. Fall is a season alive with life, so integrate your favorite bold colors in any way you can. If you opt for colorful pants to bring life to your outfit, try one of the eleven colors available in Lee's Essential Chinos, including perfect fall shades like Moss Green and Blush. Pink, in fact, is trending for fall, so rock those pants and pull that raspberry fedora out of storage. It's no longer relegated for spring alone.

Fall 2016 is unlike any other when it comes to fashion. By blending comfort and style, you're sure to find a favorite look to keep up with your every move this season.

Creating confidence: 8 steps to feeling more self-assured

(BPT) - Virtually everyone struggles with a lack of self-confidence at some point in their lives and it's perfectly normal to feel unsure of yourself in certain situations. However, if you find a lack of confidence is holding you back from fully enjoying your personal life, or achieving your professional goals, it may be time to take action.

"There are actually steps you can take to rebuild your confidence, even when you're struggling to feel self-assured," says Susie Moore, a motivational speaker, best-selling author and life coach. "Confidence is a real-life super power that affects every aspect of your life, from your relationships to your career and social life, but it's also more attainable than you think."

Moore shares tips on how you can be your most confident self and live a
fulfilled, unconditional life:

* Tap the power of words and positive thinking by starting every day with an uplifting mantra. Positive self-talk such as "I am loveable. I am worthy. I am enough" can help boost confidence levels. Make a conscious decision to be more kind and gentle with yourself every day.

* Practice a strong pose and smile to help enhance your sense of confidence. Confidence is all about attitude. Making these small physical changes can immediately impact how self-assured you feel in any situation.

* Make self-care non-negotiable. Take time to listen to your body and give it what it needs to help you feel confident. For example, millions of men and women experience bladder leakage, but products like Depend FIT-FLEX Underwear, which are designed to move with your body while offering trusted protection, can help you think less about leaks. That's energy you can devote to better things, like reconnecting with the people and parts of your life you've been missing.

* Keep your mind and body active. Being busy leaves you little time to overthink, so fill your life with activities you enjoy. Yoga, visiting friends, reading, cooking, going for walks or even organizing your closet all count!

* Speak with intention. The way you talk impacts your mood, your confidence and how other people perceive you. When you use verbiage like "I'll try" or "I don't think I can," you're really allowing yourself permission to feel unconfident. Instead, build confidence and commitment with statements like "I will" and "I know I can."

* Don't overcomplicate things or allow yourself to be distracted by unimportant things. Focus on your daily objectives and long-term goals by cultivating a clear and positive vision of how you want your life to be.

* Listen to, but don't heed negative opinions of others. Your positive attitude and vision are more important than anyone else's negative thoughts.

* Be sure to reserve time and energy for your own priorities. Busy lives mean we can get bogged down with commitments to others, and while those things are important, it's vital to take care of yourself and your own priorities first. Build your schedule around the time you need for your own goals and let everything else fit in around that.

"Confidence is an almost-magical quality that can help you lead your best, most fulfilled life and - more importantly - it's in your grasp!" Moore says. Check out how Depend FIT-FLEX Underwear is helping real people feel confident and request a sample at www.Depend.com.

Has your tattoo expired?

(BPT) - According to a recent survey, nine out of 10 people with a tattoo have considered removing it at one time or another. While the reasons for removal vary, the increasing options available for tattoo removal are transforming the nature of tattoos from symbols of permanence to designs with a sell-by date. In a day and age when tattoos are more and more socially acceptable, even considered works of art, why are so many considering removal? Syneron Candela, the makers of PicoWay, a leading laser treatment that removes tattoos with less pain and fewer treatments, commissioned the survey which took a closer look at the motivations behind tattoo removal.

They want more!

The decision to remove a tattoo doesn't necessarily reflect a change of heart about having a tattoo. In fact, 83 percent of people who have removed a tattoo said they are considering getting a new one, sometimes in the very same place where they just had one removed, while only 8 percent said they would never get another tattoo. Additionally, the majority of tattoo removers were not swayed to remove their design for professional reasons, contrary to popular belief. Only 16 percent of tattoo removers attributed their decision to their professional lives and workplace environment, while an additional 5 percent of those contemplating removal saw their career goals as a deciding factor. Both tattoo removers (18 percent) and people with tattoos considering removal (29 percent) said a faded tattoo was the main reason to contemplate or complete tattoo removal procedures. So turns out, many just want a better tattoo!

It's only temporary.

Compared to previous generations, today's youth see tattoos as less permanent based on the availability and advancements seen in the removal processes, like the PicoWay laser, which shatters the ink into small particles to clear the tattoo faster than other devices. In fact, the majority of people who removed a tattoo received their first tattoo at a young age. While the average age of survey respondents got their first tattoo before they were 35, 61 percent of removers were between the ages of 18 and 24, compared to only 9 percent between the ages of 35 and 49. Women made up 62 percent of removers who got their first tattoo before age 25. With increased access to tattoo removal devices like PicoWay, people with tattoos can conveniently remove their design if they grow tired of it over time. And, nine out of 10 tattoo removers noted that they enjoyed having the option to remove their tattoo.

A pain in the butt, neck, arm, chest and back.

While tattoo removal has increased over recent years, the decision to remove a tattoo takes time. In fact, 76 percent of tattoo removers waited over a year before beginning the tattoo removal process. Although a variety of reasons contribute to a person's decision to remove a tattoo, pain and cost are two of the biggest factors that delay the tattoo removal process. The survey also found that 58 percent of people considering tattoo removal said cost was one of the main barriers they faced when considering treatment, while 45 percent of people regarded pain as their biggest hesitation. After removing a tattoo, however, seven out of eight people said their perception of the removal process was that it would be more painful than what they actually experienced.

So you've decided you're over it.

Good news, if you are interested in tattoo removal, options exist that are effective, less painful and cheaper than many believe. PicoWay removes tattoos in fewer sessions than other removal options due to its advanced technology, making it less painful and more cost-effective compared to alternative and competitive options. PicoWay's picosecond laser allows for the comprehensive removal and treatment of all colors of tattoos, including blue, green and yellow, and can safely treat all skin types.

Want to learn more? Visit www.picowaylaser.com to find a physician in your area and see if treatment is right for you.

Fabulous Fall Hair in 4 Simple Steps

The weather changes associated with chillier seasons can wreak havoc on hair. As leaves turn and flakes begin to fall, there's no need to worry about fly-aways, dry strands and lifeless locks. 

These five simple tips from Suave Professionals Celebrity Hairstylist Leonardo Rocco will help you keep your hair looking like a million bucks throughout autumn, all while staying on budget.

1. Trim split ends

After a summer full of sun and fun, your locks are probably due for a cut. Schedule a quick trim to get rid of split ends for a fresh, clean look heading into fall and winter.

2. Heal with moisture

Help repair yesterday's damage while protecting it against weather woes with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner treatment. The trick is to use products that enrich hair without weighing it down. Rocco recommends the Suave Professionals Coconut Oil Infusion Damage Repair Shampoo & Conditioner that provides weightless moisture for luscious, healthy-looking hair that visibly repairs damage in just three uses.

3. Block breakage

Chilly weather and additional styling steps can stress the hair's cuticle and put locks at risk of breakage. To protect strands, add a nutrient-dense serum to your hair-care routine. Rocco recommends Suave Professionals Biotin Infusion Anti-Breakage Serum which wraps each strand in a protective seal for advanced breakage defense. Infused with B7 Biotin, a vitamin known for superior hair-strengthening benefits, hair becomes 20 times stronger compared to hair treated with non-conditioning shampoo.

4. Style with volume

Hair-styling routines come full force in the fall, meaning you're probably reaching for your dryer and curling iron daily. This is the ideal time to switch to products that protect hair without adding extra weight. Start with Suave Professionals Luxe Style Infusion Volumizing Weightless Blow Dry Spray that's heat activated to give hair volume and body for up to 24 hours. Then, try the Suave Professionals Luxe Style Infusion Curl Defining Gel Serum, which offers the conditioning properties of a serum and the hold of a gel for soft, for defined curls from morning to midnight.

Now, crisp days and chilly nights don't mean sacrificing fabulous hair. 

Want to Design Your Own Bag? You Can, Thanks to This New Australian Label

It was a random shopping trip involving bespoke teddy bears that inspired Lana Hopkins to create Mon Purse, the chic new design-your-own-bag concept debuting in the U.S. this month. After unsuccessfully scouring a series of luxury shops in Sydney, Australia, for the perfect handbag, Hopkins stumbled upon the Build-A-Bear Workshop store in a local mall and decided to abandon her search and pick up a birthday gift for her nephew instead. As she set about creating the ideal bear from scratch, Hopkins became enamored with the sophisticated level of customization that went into a child’s toy. “I was so excited about building a bear,” admits Hopkins. “I thought, I’m a 30-year old woman, what’s wrong with me? At that moment, I wondered how happy my girlfriends and I would be if we could design our own bag as well.”

Hopkins dove headfirst into researching and developing what would become Mon Purse, a customizable accessories concept that uses premium European leathers, all while maintaining an affordable price tag—items range from a $35 heart-shaped key ring to a $480 classic bowler bag. Armed with tech-savvy skills, Hopkins mapped out the proprietary 3-D Bag Builder technology that lets customers see their creations sized to scale. She then stocked the system with seemingly endless combinations, ranging from the type of leather (including grainy, smooth, ostrich embossed) right down to the metallic hardware finishing’s (gold, rose gold, silver, and gunmetal).

Mon Purse’s core collection of handbags, wallets, and small leather goods was crafted by a team of in-house stylists—including a former designer at Chloe—that along with Hopkins built a series of boldly color-blocked templates to guide clients looking for design inspiration. Hopkins had already factored in a safety net for customers who might get carried away with all of the customization options and unwittingly creates a sort of Franken-purse. An algorithm embedded within the site’s 3-D Builder allows for stylishly sanctioned combinations.

Since launching Mon Purse in Sydney, Hopkins has taken the online model into high-end department stores with shop-in-shops, like Myer in Sydney, Selfridges in London, and at the brand’s flagship boutique in Paddington, Australia. She refers to her brick-and-mortar stores as “Mon Galleries,” creative spaces where clients can construct their ideal accessory from the label’s blank canvas styles. “For my creative team and me, it’s not about dictating but rather about empowering customers with options,” says Hopkins.

As Mon Purse gears up to celebrate its triumphant one-year anniversary, the brand will make its stateside debut on December 15. Just in time for all of the finicky folks on your holiday list, Mon Purse will open a shop-in-shop at Bloomingdale’s, featuring large-format touch screens for those who want to create their custom piece from scratch, as well as on-site monogramming for those seeking to take their new bags home immediately. “It’s about giving people what they want and when they want it,” Hopkins says wisely. Looks like Mon Purse’s ethos of handing the design reins over to the consumer might be just the ticket to stress-free gift giving this season.