Renaissance Lady Anne Costume Review

Dressing up is fun for me. I’ve loved costumes and fancy clothes for as long as I can remember. When I was younger I would dress up like Wonder Woman, Jeannie of I Dream of Jeannie, Lady Jaye or Scarlett from G.I. Joe. Now I go for things a little more sophisticated — like Renaissance clothing or other historical dress.

The latest addition to my wardrobe is the Lady Anne Costume from AnytimeCostumes.com. It is one of my favorites because it is gorgeous and well-made. While some costumes are sewn together haphazardly, this costume has finished edges in the seams that won’t unravel as easily. The fabrics are good quality. It is made with stretchy, reddish/burgundy velvet-like fabric and golden brocade.

It is one size that fits up to 14/16. I wear a size 10 dress, and it fits me just right. I’m also about 5’8, and the length falls a couple of inches above my ankles.  It is a full length dress with long, bell-shaped sleeves. One unique thing is the side pleats that help it to be more flowing, yet form fitting around the hip area. The style feels quite elegant. It’s great for costume parties, Halloween dress-up, plays, or any occasion that requires a historical element.

The dress comes with a golden fabric belt and a unique headpiece with a veil in back. Shoes and jewelry aren’t included. Care for it by hand washing it and allowing it to dry flat. 

This costume is based on Lady Anne Neville, who was the Princess of Whales during the late 1400s. She became Queen in 1483, when her husband Richard seized the thrown. Unfortunately she passed away less than two years later. However, this costume is great for depicting any upper-class woman from the Late Middle Ages and Renaissance time periods.  

*disclaimer — I did receive a complimentary costume for review purposes from Costume Reviewers.

Bangs: A Mid-life Crisis?

 In an interview with Raechel Ray, First Lady Michelle Obama attributed her new haircut with bangs to a mid-life crisis. The interview will air on Wednesday on Rachael Ray.

Mrs. Obama is known for her fashion sense and style. it 2006 Essence included her in their list of "25 of the World's Most Inspiring Women" and in 2007 and 2008 Vanity Fair named her one of the "World's 10 Best Dressed People." She is also number seven on Forbes list of the World's Most Powerful Women.

I've often gotten the urge for a new hairstyle when I reach different milestones of my life: a new job, a birthday, birth of a child, etc. A new hair style is a good way to get a boost in self-confidence and feel refreshed. A trip to the hair salon and a new look can also be fun. I don't know if I would necessarily call a switch to bangs is necessarily a sign of a mid-life crisis.

How to Dress for a Job Fair

On a recent day, my internet at home wasn’t working so I sat at the library to use the Wi-Fi. As I sat at the edge of the parking lot, I watched several people walk across. The unemployment office across from me was holding a job fair. During the time I sat working on my laptop, about 100 people passed by, hoping to find leads for jobs.

I saw men and women that were a variety of ages. Some wore suits, while others wore jeans, ball caps, and sneakers. Many were well-groomed, but a surprising few had greasy and untrimmed hair. I realized that there are obviously many people who have no idea how to dress to impress at a job fair. The goal is to look professional and competent, not sloppy.

Tips

Look sharp — suits, business wear, slacks, skirts, hosiery, etc. Don’t dress too casual, avoid jeans, sneakers, and t-shirts. Men look good with a button-up shirt or at least polo. Women should opt for business style blouses and button-up shirts. Go for a conservative look, with neutral makeup and minimal jewelry.

Wear clothes that fit — most of us grow it ways we’d rather not, and sometimes finding a pair of pants in our closet that fit is challenging. Please keep in mind that tight pants and high-water pants don’t look good.

Be organized — bring your résumé in a leather or faux leather folder or portfolio. It doesn’t look impressive to carry around a worn folder or peechee or spiral notebook stuffed with papers.

Don’t forget to look at your shoes — we can’t all afford top of the line footwear, but keep in mind that your shoes to help define your overall look. Dirty sneakers don’t impress anyone. Don’t ruin your look with scruffy and worn shoes that don’t fit your look that you are trying to project. You may be doing a lot of walking to look at different displays, and I do know the importance of comfortable footwear. Look for shoes that are clean, comfortable, and that look nice.

Walk tall — Good posture makes a valuable statement. Walk tall & proud because it will help you look more confident.

I know it’s not nice to judge people by their appearance, but unfortunately that is what happens. If you are going to a job fair or interview, you need to put your best foot forward to present a good image of yourself. While sitting that morning, watching people come and go, I got a mental picture of those who were serious job seekers and professional, and those who were sloppy and had a bad attitude. The important issue here is the psychological aspect of creating a positive image, which your choice of attire can impact.

more job fair tips Tips for Success and How to Make Job Fairs Work for You

Costume Review: Hooded Velvet Black Cape for Adults

I recently got a hooded black, velvet cape costume for adults from Costume Discounters. I was excited to have the opportunity for this review and eagerly awaited its arrival. 

The cape is 63 inches long, made of black crushed velvet. It has a generous hood and slits on the side for putting your arms through. The cape itself is made out of quality velvet that is neither too lightweight or heavy. It has a Velcro® fastening at the neck. The sizing is “One Size Fits All” and can be worn by both men and women. I found the cape to be quite roomy; I’m 5’8 and of average build.

This cape is extremely versatile, with the ability to add something to many different types of costumes. You can be mysterious, bewitching, evil, sexy, or elegant. Be a vampire, a Sith Lord from Star Wars, a witch, wizard, or magician, the possibilities are endless. I felt rather gothic while wearing it. Overall this cape is well made and will serve my family and I well.

The Hooded Velvet Black Cape for Adults sells for $16.97, plus shipping and handling, along with any applicable tax.  

Costume Discounters also has a wide selection of costumes for children and adult costumes. There is also an ample supply of costume accessories. There seems to be something for everyone. Costume Discounters has a “lowest price guarantee” and has a generous exchange policy.

Hooded Velvet Black Cape for Adults from Costume Discounters

A new discovery Endless.com

I'm a sucker for shoes & handbags, especially when they are eco-friendly. I've found a new website (at least it's new to me, lol) at Endless. They sell lines like SAK's Eco Harmony that are made bamboo yarns that are dyed with non-toxic and azo-free pigments with recycled cotton linings.

Just type in "eco" to the search bar at the top their website & it will pop up with tons of eco-friendly shoes & handbags. There are much more than I ever knew existed. Some items look more eco-conscious than others.