With the popularity of Internet shopping, classic toys that were hard to find, have now started to find a whole new audience. These classics, which sold very well after they were introduced, never seem to go out of style and can still bring a smile to any child’s face.

Let’s step into the past and take a look into the history of one of these classic toys.

In 1943, a Naval engineer accidentally knocked some springs off of a shelf while he was working on a meter designed to monitor horsepower on battleships. He marveled at the way they “walked” instead of falling and the odd movement of these springs gave Richard James an idea and an instant toy was born. That toy: The Slinky.

Richard James then spent the next two years testing and refining the best steel gauge and coil to utilize for his new toy. His wife, Betty appropriately found the perfect name for this new toy- a Slinky; which is the Swedish word meaning traespiral or sleek.

The couple borrowed five hundred dollars and James designed a machine to coil eighty feet of wire into a two-inch spiral and manufacture their new toy. Sales were slow at first, but soared after the Slinky was demonstrated at Gimbel’s Department Store in Philadelphia for the Christmas season in 1945. The first 400 sold within the ninety-minute demonstration and a new fad had begun.

Around 1960, Richard James suffered what some called a mid-life crisis and left his wife, their six children and joined a Bolivian religious cult. He also deserted the Slinky toy he worked so hard to produce and left the company in debt and ruin. Betty James took over as CEO of James Industries and introduced other toys for the “Slinky line-up” including: Slinky pets, crazy eyes Slinky (glasses with Slinky-extended fake eyeballs), neon Slinky, and also replaced the original black-blue Swedish steel with American steel. Additionally she moved the company headquarters from Philadelphia to Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania and began an aggressive advertising campaign, complete with the now famous Slinky jingle:

“What walks down stairs, alone in pairs, And makes a Slinkity sound?
A spring, a spring, a marvelous thing, Everyone knows it’s Slinky…
It’s Slinky, it’s Slinky, for fun it’s a wonderful toy
It’s Slinky, it’s Slinky, it’s fun for a girl or a boy”

However, the Slinky is not just an entertaining toy for children. It is used in schools in physics classes to demonstrate wave properties, forces, and energy states. The Slinky still continues to sell (250 million have been sold to date) and are still manufactured in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania using the original equipment designed by Richard James.

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It is embroidered sportswear that distinguishes one player from another in team sports such as football. The numbers on their jackets serve to identify each player. The embroidery can also promote teams, clubs and events. Team logos and promotional messages are often embroidered into the sportswear.

Sportswear is worn by non-sportspersons as when fans of a club wear replicas of their team uniforms. Standard sportswear such as tracksuits and polo shirts might be worn as casual wear by persons who might not even be interested in sports.

This kind of widespread and varied use of sportswear has made it a good medium to promote businesses, in addition to teams and sports clubs. This is particularly true in the case of businesses that produce sports goods. For example, an Adidas sports shirt promotes the Adidas brand and its range of sports products.

What is Sportswear?

While all of us would be aware in a general way what sportswear means, many of us might be surprised at the kinds of wear that falls under this category.

In general, sportswear is tailored to the sport. Some kinds of sports require tight body-hugging wear to reduce drag; others require loose clothing for easy movement; many might require moisture absorption to remove perspiration; yet others require protective devices to be incorporated into the wear.

Distinctive uniform-like team sportswear serves to distinguish between the two teams in a game. Numbers sewn into each piece of uniform distinguishes each player in the teams.

Tracksuits are worn over athletic clothes, and are taken off when the wearer is actually participating in an event.

Shorts, pants, shirts, helmets, shoes are all sportswear when designed for particular sports.

Why Embroider the Sportswear?

Well-done embroidery adds a touch of style and quality to your branding exercise. When the embroidery is stitched into the cloth, it is more permanent than painted material, which can become indistinct over many washes.

With the aid of computers, embroidering is not the kind of time-consuming manual craft it was in earlier times. Your logos and designs can be transferred to jacquard tapes, which are then used to control the sewing of the embroidered patterns into the sportswear.

You will thus be able to get your embroidered sportswear in bulk quantities without undue delays.

Conclusion

These days, even non-sports persons wear sportswear. For example, fans might wear replicas of their team uniforms. Comfortable wear like tracksuits might be worn as casual wear by the general public.

Such widespread use makes embroidered sportswear a good medium to promote teams, clubs and businesses. Embroidered logos and messages are more permanent than painted ones, and embroidery can also add a touch of class to your branding exercise.

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A polo shirt is a t-shirt with collars, and a tastefully embroidered polo shirt has greater appeal. Remember that alligator across your left breast? The polo shirt collars are often button down. The shirt typically has two small slits on both sides at the bottom, and might also have a pocket.

Polo shirt originated as a tennis shirt, to replace the earlier cumbersome tennis wear. Its inventor of this new tennis shirt, tennis champion Lacoste, put the crocodile emblem on these shirts because he was often called 'the alligator' in the tennis circuit.

How this tennis shirt became the polo shirt is an interesting story. Though polo players soon adopted it, replacing their earlier long-sleeved wear, this fact alone could not have led to the fame of the polo shirt. It was when Ralph Lauren's embroidered polo shirts (with the horse-borne polo player emblem) became immensely popular that the erstwhile tennis shirt all but became the 'polo shirt'.

Golf players also adopted the shirt as their own, often with golf cuts to make them true golf shirts. It is standard wear for golf players now.

So the tennis shirt not only became a polo shirt; it became a de-facto sports shirt, by whatever name it was called.

Status of the Embroidered Polo Shirt Now

The polo shirt entered day-to-day lives soon and has become a standard item of clothing worn by both men and women these days. It is even worn to offices that accept less formal wear but are not ready to accept t-shirts yet.

Polo shirts come in numerous styles, with the horizontal striped style being a popular one. The shirts come in different colors, with or without a pocket, in men's and women's styles, made of knitted yarn, cotton or poly-cotton, heavy or light and so on.

Polo shirts are often worn with an under shirt for warmth.

Embroidered polo shirts with a neat little emblem on the breast add a neat touch. The emblem is typically tailored to specific themes or needs, such as golf tours, corporate events, business branding and even a stag weekend.

Conclusion

The embroidered polo shirt started out as a tennis shirt, with the Lacoste's famous crocodile emblem on the left breast. Designed as an alternative to the uncomfortable tennis wear, it was soon adopted by other sports such as polo and golf. The tennis shirt had become a de facto sports shirt, with the name polo shirt stuck to it.

These days, both plain and embroidered polo shirts are worn in non-sports environments, including offices that accept some informality. A tasteful little emblem adds a touch of class to the polo shirt, which can come in many styles.

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Be a quirkier fashionista whatever the weather! Know the latest trends in eyewear that fits your personality!

Everybody has wanted a taste of luxury but unfortunately for most people, it's either too hard or too expensive to achieve. The closest to luxury one can ever taste is through wearing the latest trends in fashion, adorning themselves with the latest accessories, strutting in the latest in shoes, and carrying the latest in handbags along. Sad to say, these can come quite expensive, too.


Perhaps the greatest accessory that is sure to get you noticed is the ever trendy eyewear! Yes, even the latest in eyewear hasn't pushed past the expensive mark as yet. Sunglasses are just as important as all the outfits you put together; it gives a better overall impression. Not to mention, it gives you an air of mystique. No wonder people have been purchasing glasses here and there. The decision to buy is not just random; it has to be calculated even to the last detail.

So what can you fashionistas get in as little cost as possible? Numerous! Whether you wish to purchase designer brands or those that don’t have brands at all, if you know what there is to know about eyewear, and then nobody will ever notice the difference!

There are a lot of designs that have been coming out from the fashion industry with regards to the latest in eyewear. Let's start with the shape. The latest fashion in eyewear that are in the rave right now are your oversized shades. Fashionistas anywhere in the world have a preference for these glasses as it shields enough of the eyes and face without hampering your appearance. You should choose wisely, for some of these oversized shades can be heavy and can rest on your cheeks if they don’t have the proper ear supports and nasal rims. Oversized shades that have these qualities can be a nuisance and should be avoided as possible.

Another trend that has evolved is the quality of the lenses. Contrary to the fad in the past, lenses now offer the best protection packed in one single pair of glasses. Lenses now are polarized and can offer ultraviolet protection to varying degrees depending on your preference. Eyewear lenses have now been creatively produced to meet your varying needs. In sports for instance, tennis players now make use of specialized lenses that have yellow enhancement capabilities. This is important in tennis as the sunglasses not only shields your eyes from the glare of the sun but also makes the tennis ball more yellow to aid you in following its every direction. In snow sports the same technology has been maximized but rather than yellow enhancements, these sunglasses have amber lenses or rose lenses that can help you mark the slopes in the snow. This is crucial, again because it shields from the glare of the sun that might hamper your vision, it would also allow you to perform at your peak capacity that does not oversee the rule of safety. For everyday casual wear, you can choose from a variety of dark tinted glasses or those glasses that have no tint at all. However, dark tinted glasses are more often purchased in the market. Or you can even settle for no lenses at all! Yes, the latest and craziest trend in eyewear has just released a new line of sunglasses that have no lenses at all. These type of glasses used to be a fad in the later centuries and now they are back to make a statement. You would have to go to a specialty optic store for these babies however, because these are usually custom-made.

If you are hard of vision and are either myopic or hyperopic and you just can't withstand the routine of contact lenses, then eyeglasses may be prescribed for you. Be the fashionista that you are. You probably don’t want to wear those tacky round-rimmed glasses that don’t do wonders for your appearance. These won’t be a problem for long. Optical stores are now offering you the choice of frames, that can be branded or not, to go with your prescribed lenses. Never has wearing prescription glasses been any trendier!

The last factor that is perhaps the most crucial factor that could make or break a fashionista's decision to buy her eyewear is the frame. These frames come in a myriad of colors, materials, and embellishments. Go crazy! With the rising popularity of eyewear there have never been more options to choose from. Frame colors usually come in available choices of classic black, plain brown, brown and gold combinations, silver, gold, pink, white, and the list is endless. If you don’t have the color you want available but have the money, then you can settle for custom made frames. These frames can be made from the colors, design, and embellishments that you prefer. Aside from the color, frames can also come in different types of materials. You have the cheapest of all the plastic and the latest of which are materials made from titanium and the like that offer the best style in a lightweight fashion.

Your facial structure and personality should always be considered when you choose your eyewear. The type of eyewear that you should decide on purchasing should also be able to afford you the most function in the best design available.

You will be having no more troubles choosing the right eyewear for you. Budget won't also be a factor anymore as more and more manufacturing companies in eyewear has been releasing a number of products in as much variety as possible that would please the fashionista in you.

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One of the most versatile dresses that were ever designed for wear on special occasions is the cocktail dress. While the events for which cocktail dresses are worn are usually late afternoon or early evening affairs that are too casual to be called black-tie events, many cocktail dresses can now be worn elsewhere, depending on the cut and the material of the dress and the accessories worn with it.

To wear a cocktail dress to a more formal event, all you need to do is to accessorize accordingly, perhaps wear more flashy pieces of jewelry and heavier makeup. If you need to wear something dressy to the office for any reason other than the usual skirt or pantsuit, you can wear a cocktail dress that is not too flashy and just throw on a blazer and slip into sensible office shoes. Many current styles of cocktail dresses are no longer limited to being party wear anymore.

Choosing what style of cocktail dress to wear, however, can be very tricky for most women. After all, only a few women could claim to have truly perfect bodies, and most women who do not fall into the supermodel category prefer to hide the flaws of their figures. Wearing a one-piece dress such as a cocktail dress can easily reveal those flaws if the dress does not fit the wearer’s body type.

In picking out the right cocktail dress to wear, a woman should always consider her body type - whether she is top-heavy or bottom-heavy – and find something that will balance out her figure. If she is bottom-heavy, her aim should be to draw attention to the upper part of her body and to her face. If she is top-heavy, she has the option either to emphasize her cleavage or to wear something that will pull the eyes to her legs.

What kind of cocktail dress would suit a woman with a bottom-heavy figure? As said above, a woman with a bottom-heavy figure would want to hide the thickness around her hips and thighs. A good cocktail dress for her to wear would be a dress that fits closely around the waist but without the seams pushed out by extra padding around the abdomen and has a skirt that flares out around the hips and thighs. A cocktail dress with a full skirt would be perfect for a woman with a bottom-heavy figure because it will definitely hide whatever flabbiness and bulges that she wishes not to be seen around her lower body.

Another option available for a woman with a bottom-heavy figure is a cocktail dress that sports an empire-style waistline. A cocktail dress with an empire-style waistline has the waist placed higher, thereby pulling the eyes towards the shoulders, the neck and the face. It also drapes and skims over the lower body. The only risk with wearing an empire-style cocktail dress, however, is that the empire-style cut is often used on maternity dresses, and so a woman wearing such a dress may be mistaken to be pregnant.

And yet another choice open for a woman with a bottom-heavy figure is a cocktail dress that is either sleeveless or strapless, also with a flaring skirt. Again, baring the arms and the shoulders is effective in drawing attention away from the hips.

As for women with top-heavy figures, she could either emphasize her cleavage or her legs, as mentioned above. If she wants to put focus on her legs rather than her cleavage, she can wear a cocktail dress with a solid-colored top paired with a patterned skirt. She can hike the hem of her skirt up to make it shorter and really draw the eyes to her legs.

If she wants to attract attention to her ample cleavage rather than her legs, she can cover up her legs in a long-skirted cocktail dress but reveal a little skin on her upper body with a low V-neck or plunging neckline. In fact, she can draw the eyes to both her top and her legs by wearing a short cocktail dress with a low neckline if she wants to. What she should not do is to wear a cocktail dress with an overly busy top because it will make her upper body appear larger and skew the balance of her figure.

Accessories also help to keep the illusion of balance on a woman’s figure aside from wearing the right kind of cocktail dress. Bottom-heavy women can wear flashy earrings, necklaces or chokers, while top-heavy women can forego the necklace and opt for a bracelet instead. However, she should buy her cocktail dress first before figuring out what accessories, bag and shoes to wear.

Cocktail dresses are versatile dresses that can be worn on any occasion that requires some degree of formality without being a full black-tie event. A woman should be able to choose the right cocktail dress that can really flatter her body type.

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If you have already started to plan this year's Halloween costume, you might have taken some time to look in a costume store or two or check out the selections online. A major part of the costume industry includes Halloween masks. A popular part of Halloween celebrations, Halloween masks are not the answer to everyone's costume needs. Here is a look at the good and bad of this Halloween accessory.


The good

One of the best aspects of Halloween masks is that they disguise who you are quite thoroughly. Whether you choose a Halloween mask that covers your entire face and head, or just a portion, the final effect of either is that it alters the shape of you face. This can make it even more difficult to recognize you than it would be with merely face paint.

Another positive of Halloween masks is that they are very simple to use. If you paint your face, you will need a good deal of time, patience, and some artistic talent to get the right effect. With a Halloween mask, you simply slip it on and you are ready to go.

Masks can also be an inexpensive costume idea. By wearing a solid colored outfit and slipping on a mask, you can instantly become the character that the mask represents – other accessories are optional. You can even combine Halloween masks with your everyday clothing to become a zombie doctor, a cat who is a chef, or other unique idea.

The bad

Halloween masks can be dangerous if they are worn improperly. Special care should be taken to make sure that the mask does not block your vision or your breathing. This is particularly true with children's costumes, since an improperly fitting mask could cause them to injure themselves while out trick or treating. You will want to try the mask on to make sure that it fits properly before wearing it on Halloween night. Remove masks when driving to ensure that you are able to see properly.

Halloween masks can also be hot, so if your Halloween evening will be spent in a warmer climate or a crowded party room you may become uncomfortable rather quickly. If you feel that you are overheating, remove your mask. Also make sure that you drink plenty of water during your Halloween celebrations.

While Halloween masks can be an inexpensive alternative to a full costume, they can also become quite pricey. The more detailed a mask is, the higher the price tag will often be. So if you are on a budget, you may have to settle for a less detailed Halloween mask, or an alternative like face painting, to achieve a similar effect.

Halloween masks can be an excellent addition to your Halloween costume, but they are not the perfect solution for everyone. Only you can decide if this Halloween accessory is right for you. If you purchase a mask and decide later on that it is not as comfortable or as safe as you would like, you can also use it as a creepy way to decorate your home.

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The New Year is a Festive time - and its time for loving, sharing and celebrating. Gifts, by far are the best way to express one's feelings and intent and a thoughtful gift is always well reciprocated. When it comes to picking a New Year gift for your boss, people usually find themselves in a state of perplexity; especially if they are running low on funds or perhaps if they are not sure about their bosses likes and dislikes. With a few helpful tips and ideas; you will be able to pick the right gift for your boss and a well intended gift is bound to be treasured for a lifetime and is usually well reciprocated.


A Desk Calendar/Planner

A desk calendar or planner would not only fit within your budget; but also proves to be an ideal New Year gift for your “busy as always” boss. If your budget allows you to be a bit flexible; you could even think of gifting a set of matching desk calendar and planner. This way, your boss would have easy access to his appointment schedules and each time he/she picks up that planner; he’s going to be reminded of your thoughtful gesture; no matter where he is. Pick a calendar or planner that goes well with your boss’s personality and taste.

Gift Baskets

With a gift-basket; you have the advantage of picking a custom-made gift basket; which can perfectly fit within your budget and gives you the flexibility of choosing individual items for the basket. If you are facing a paucity of time or if your budget allows; you can even opt for a pre-made gift basket. Choose from stationary items to luxury chocolates to expensive pen sets, cuff links or perhaps some mini electronic gizmo. Stuff that basket with gifts that you think will complement your boss’s personality and can be put to good use.

A Pen and Pencil Set

Although this may seem as a banal gift idea; an elegant and well crafted pen set is usually well accepted and reciprocated and makes for an ideal New Year gift for your boss; be it male or female. You could even consider upgrading the pen and pencil set by getting it engraved by your Boss’s initials or perhaps his company name. Just exercise your imagination well; and then decide on how you want to have it engraved. A wide variety of pen sets are available in wood as well as metal. If you don’t have the time to go shopping to a physical novelty store; consider buying it online. That way; you are subjected to a wider variety of options and many online stores offer decent discounts during festive season.

Tickets to a show, Concert or Game

This gift sure sounds like fun. Gift two or more tickets to your boss for a concert, game/sport or perhaps a show or performance. It’s the best way to remind him that he too like everyone else needs to snap out of his busy schedule and enjoy a nice night out at his favorite venue. Before you buy that ticket for him, it is a good idea to find out about his favorite sport, music band or performer. After all, you do not want to put him/her through an endurance test! If you are still unsure; take the advice of your colleagues or associates.

Gift Certificates

With a gift certificate; you not only get the flexibility with your budget but also on the type of gift. You could pick a gift certificate for his favorite restaurant or store; depending upon his preference and your budget. Gift certificates could range any where between $20 to $100 or perhaps more. Gift certificates are also available for online shopping and this way your boss has an option to pick an item that best suits his/her requirement. Remember; with a gift certificate you could never go wrong especially if you are unsure of your boss’s likes and dislikes.

Treat your Boss to a Lunch at his favorite Restaurant

Let your Boss indulge in some epicurean delights. Find out about his favorite cuisine and restaurants in town and make sure you book a special table in advance as festive time is usually chock-a-block. This way; you also get to spend quality time with him and talk shop while treating him/her to his favorite cuisine.

You can never go wrong with a Bottle of Wine

Well, consider this option only if your boss is not a complete abstainer. However, the bottle will definitely be popped open on New Year’s Eve and make it a perfect New Year’s gift for your boss. Choose between expensive or inexpensive and red or white wine depending on your budget and your boss’s preferences.

Golf Gifts

Find out if your boss is an avid golfer or even a beginner golfer. There are various golfing gifts available online to choose from that would fit your budget as well.

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