One Piece Logo #02

Logo, graphic, icon, logotype, typogram, logoform, image...call it what you will, a logo by any other name is the group of letters and/or symbols used in a consistent and unique way to identify a company. It is the most prominent and stable element of marketing, and should be planned carefully to fully reflect your brand. Understanding the key aspects of a logo will help in developing a durable, on target identity.

It is important to be aware of the images around you. Creating a logo that is inappropriate for your industry, too close to a competitor's, or reminds viewers of another company can sabotage communication. A logo should be like a fingerprint, one of a kind.

Logos have many elements that can be coordinated to deliver maximum impact. When developing an image to reflect a brand, consider these key points for aligning visuals with the verbal and experiential message of your company.

Beth Brodovsky is the president and principal of Iris Creative Group, LLC. Brodovsky earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Communication Design from Pratt Institute, New York. Before launching her own firm in 1996, she spent eight years as a corporate Art Director and Graphic Designer, providing a sound foundation in management and organizational standards and structure. Iris Creative specializes in providing marketing and strategic communication services to clients in service industries and small businesses.

The process of creating a logo has come a long way since the days when artists labored with technical pens to draw them by hand, and specialized printing processes were required to reproduce them in the various sizes, colors and media in which they might appear. Today's tools enable the creation of logos in formats and variations suitable to all manner of screen display, print and specialty applications. Far from being a single piece of artwork, a logo is generally delivered in an array of formats, and knowing which version should be used in a given situation can be confusing. Following is an explanation of what a client will typically receive from a designer when creating a logo.

These are the two types of artwork in which a logo is usually delivered, although as I will explain later, there are variations within these two types. Raster art is designed for screen display...the logo is made up of pixels so that it can be displayed on a monitor. Programs such as Photoshop are used to create raster art (typically as a .gif, .jpg or .png file) everything viewed on the internet is a raster file. Vector art is a different animal...it uses a complex set of mathematical instructions (created as .eps files) to define the artwork in mathematical terms, rather than a pixel grid. Programs such as Adobe Illustrator are used to create vector art, and it is most often used to create the master files that comprise a set of logo art files.

The main difference between the two is that vector images are scalable... they can be enlarged without degrading their quality. Raster images, because they are made up of pixels, deteriorate as they are enlarged because the pixels themselves are spread over a larger area without adding any more detail, making the image blurry or jagged. This can be addressed by creating raster files with lots of pixels, but this increases file size...a raster file large enough to look good on a trade show graphic or the side of a van can be hundreds of times larger than a logo on a web page, whereas the vector version's file size stays the same (as does the quality of the image) no matter how large it is displayed. In most cases, though, raster files work fine, if they have enough pixels (are high enough resolution) to look good when printed, and because .eps files are not supported by many programs or the internet, raster files are used more often. I generally provide raster logo files in several sizes...small for typical screen display and larger for print, along with the guideline that it is always best to use a large file and scale it down to the display size in a print document, rather than increasing the display size of a small version intended for screen display. I also provide the vector files...usually the client isn't able to work with them directly, but can supply them to a vendor if they need it to print the logo really large. It's also a simple process to make a .jpg file of any size from the .eps vector art, but making vector art from raster art is much more difficult.

Most logos start out as a simple black and white design. In addition to being the purest expression of the design, they also allow for the reproduction of logos where there is only positive and negative space to work with, such as etched glass. In addition to the black and white "parent" version, other versions can be derived that may be gray, shades of gray, one-color, or full-color versions. Since the digital revolution has made color printing the norm, rather than the costly proposition it was in the past, black and white, or one-color logos, are now used mainly for specialized purposes, such as promotional items, signs and rubber stamps, although even that is changing rapidly. Usually a client needs only a black and white and full color version of their logo, although if they request, I can make them one in gray or a single color. Although gradients are appearing in logos more and more, I tend to avoid them, as it makes it difficult to create a logo that will work, say, with etched glass or a cutout shape for a sign.

There are also different types of color files, each of which have their purpose. Nearly all color digital files use the RGB color model, which is tailored to screen display but works fine in most in-house printing environments as well. Some publications and vendors require files using the CMYK color model, which originated with pre-digital process color printing and is also the format native to .eps vector files. Gif files are often used on the web and in phone applications, due to their small file size, and have their own color model... I generally supply logos in that format as well.

Many designers are reluctant to provide the source vector art files, out of concern that their work may be altered or because they wish to control the creation of raster files derived from them. I believe in a partner relationship with my clients, providing them with everything they need, and empowering them to work with their own vendors, although I am happy to assist them as needed. Should they want to modify the logo, I trust that they will work with me, as they will rarely be able to work with the .eps files themselves.

At the very least, a logo package should consist of the following: black and white vector .eps files (if fonts are used, I set the files up so that fonts are not required to print) and raster files (.jpg and .gif) in several sizes for print and screen display. If they need a different version (such as a CMYK or version of the logo in a single color) I provide that as well. Rather than simply handing over a piece of artwork, designing a logo in today's digital world calls for multiple versions, and a willingness to support our clients so that the best version for a given situation is always used.

One Piece #03

One piece designer swimsuits still come in a wide variety of attractive designs and colors for anyone that prefers this style because of modesty or body shape. One piece suits are still versatile and sexy enough to get excited about buying and wearing to the beach. Many come with detachable and neck holder straps. Sunflair of Germany tries to design the style for girls and women looking for quality, great fit, and fabrics. Bold colors, scoop necks, extra support, and details on each strap are just a few of the features of these suits. Another manufacturer of beautiful one piece swim wear for girls is Roidal from Barcelona, Spain. This company offers beautiful black and white designs that will wow most customers. The suits come in an assortment of solid colors sold in boutiques and specialty department stores.

Another European designer that makes one piece bathing suits is Asha Couture. Bathing suit styles include halter ruffle malliot and icon cut malliot with under wire and side stays for extra support and shape. It has varied tones of brown, blue, black and grays to choose from and many sleek styles. Another German swimsuit company Sunflair has some beautiful multi colored suits in a rainbow of colors with slick V neck tank tops to dazzle the spectators. It has some under wire strapless one piece suits in multicolored blue mixed with rainbow of other colors.

One piece swimsuit manufacturers in the United States like Ujena of California represent style and class. Sexy black and white V neck halter style suits are just one type of suit to choose from for girls. These flattering one piece suits make black and white a classic look. How about a zebra design with a plunging neckline all in one suit. You can find dipped necklines, spaghetti straps, and even zipper fronts in dazzling yellow and orange. One piece swim wear offers plenty of style and fashion to choose from for even younger girls.

The revival of the one piece suit is a trend that the company Gottex knows well. This company is known for its unusual designs, patterns and colors. Many of their one piece suits remind you that travel to exotic places is an option that many people today take advantage of. Open backs and cut way fronts make those monokinis create an optical illusion that girls have an hourglass figure. This is one of the hottest one piece styles this year. A toned body works best with this type of suit.

The tankini is the style for girls with some flab in the middle. It is the suit designed to hide and flatter those flaws. This suit is a cross between a one piece and bikini. The one piece suit for girls still has sleeker lines but follows some guidelines when choosing a one piece suit. Big busted women should avoid too much detail around the bust and if they have a wide waist too much detail that calls attention to the waist. Dark colors will hide your flaws and always looks chic. Cut away suits are good for physically toned girls and women. Keep some these guidelines in mind when selecting a one piece suit.

One piece swimwear is back in fashion as women all over the world are realizing that modesty doesn't have to mean zero sex appeal. Modern one-piece swimsuits have come a long way from knitted wool talks of the 1920's.

The runways of Paris reveal we haven't quite lost that love of everything retro in one-piece bathing suits with many referencing the Hollywood belles of the 1940' and 50's including the forever glamorous Marilyn Munroe and Betty Garble.

Low v-necklines and vertical seams at the bust line are helping to make this year's swimwear more flattering than ever before, demonstrating that covering up a little can be just as alluring as an itsy bitsy bikini.

In fact women often feel more comfortable and confident, therefore omitting more sex appeal in a one piece.

This season it's all about details and embellishments. The higher end one-pieces tend to look more "bling" than bland with beading, sequins and studs. Rings, buckles, bows and ruffles also give suits a retro style. Keep a look out for suits with asymmetrical detailing like big rings or buckles on only one hip or shoulder.

Swimwear lovers can get a more sophisticated style by keeping the suit simple and classic. But not every one-piece reveals an unblemished silhouette. This is to some extent because one-pieces can be tricky to fit properly, mainly do to the fact that many women are different sizes on the top and bottom.

Another variation to the one piece swimsuit, the tankini, solves this problem by allowing customers the cover of a one piece while being able to opt for separate top and bottom sizes.

The most recent take on the classic one piece are now referred to as monokinis and are popping up everywhere brought on by Paris Hilton's sexy Carls Jr advertisement.

Even the stars of desperate housewives, one of the sexiest shoes on television, decided to ditch the bikinis and grace the cover of Vanity Fair in various one piece swimsuits, cementing their spot in celebrity culture.

Other stars in recent times to catch the eyes of the paparazzi in their one pieces were Penelope Cruz in an Ermes Red Swimsuit with ring detail and Katie Holmes in her infamous black belted one piece.

One Piece #02

There's no doubt that one piece swimwear is a classic. It was the first type of swimsuit to exist and that kind of history appeals to a lot of people. These days, one piece swimwear is experiencing a rise in popularity as swimwear designers create new, modern styles that appeal to the younger generation.

One piece swimwear makes your body look great. Bikinis show more skin, but sometimes the body has flaws that bikinis would only accentuate. One piece swimsuits cover up more of the body, including stretch marks or a few extra pounds.

Speaking of extra pounds, one piece swimsuits have a way of making the body look more toned and firm. Because of that extra fabric around the midsection, your stomach and hips will be shaped nicely. One piece swimsuits also provide support during activities in the water. With bikinis, you may worry about a top or bottom slipping off in the ocean or at a water park. Bikinis and other two piece swimsuits have their place of course, but one piece swimwear is probably more appropriate for activity.

Another advantage to one piece swimwear that many women appreciate is the modesty. Even some women with great bodies still aren't comfortable showing everything they have in public. With one piece swimsuits, these women can cover up and still feel fashionable.

Other one piece swimwear styles are less modest. Some of the newer designs especially strive to show more skin than their predecessors. A common trend is for sections of the swimsuit to be cut out, revealing skin.

Choosing a one piece swimsuit is easy when you keep one thing in mind: choosing a suit that compliments your body shape. Color can be used for this. Bright colors or patterns aren't exactly slimming, but they draw attention away from flaws. Dark colors, as always, are slimming.

Balance is key when deciding on the style of swimsuit. Women with narrow shoulders should wear a strapless suit, while women with broad or normal shoulders should go with regular straps or a halter design. A suit with padding or a design across the bust will enhance the breasts, lending symmetry to someone who might not be so gifted in that area.

One piece swimsuits with cut-outs or designs on the sides will be even more slimming, especially if the designs are darker than the rest of the swimsuit. One piece swimwear is naturally slimming so adding these touches can really make your body look great.

One piece swimwear definitely has the advantage of time on its side. When a clothing item has lasting power like that, you know there's a reason. One piece swimwear is great for all ages and body types.

Do you remember when one piece swimsuits were only made for women trying to conceal a less than attractive figure or to hide an unsightly tummy and the forbidden love handles? Or when Mother's bought them for their teenage daughters because they were modest and covered more. One piece's used to be what you wore to do laps at the pool; they were certainly not a fashion statement.

When I think of a one piece swimsuit, I remember the tank style straps with a round neck line, a full back and bodice that tapered into a ruffled skirt to cover one's not-so-toned bottom. The whole swimsuit was usually in a big ugly floral print with a matching cover up in a button up with the same print. There is nothing sexy about that image! One in particular comes to mind is a one piece that my mother had picked out for me, Oh what a nightmare! I was so embarrassed when we would go to our local pool. It was a black one piece with big pink flowers all over and a ruffle trim to boot. It also came with a matching shawl in the same identical print. The whole outfit reminded me of a set of shower curtains.

Luckily for young girls everywhere, the one piece swimsuits that I remember are a thing of the past. Today, one piece swimsuits are fashionable, edgy and incredibly sexy; one piece swimwear is this summer's hot item.

This season, one piece swimwear is much more appealing than their predecessors from previous decades. Sleek and sexy, alluring detail, beautiful fabrics and prints in a variety of unique designs. From fashion houses and renowned brands around the globe, a variety of elegant swimsuits are now available.

You might want to take a second look at these enticing creations before you head for the bikini racks. This range of sexy one piece suits in bright, eye-catching colours and exotic styles are sure to make you the centre of attention at any summer outing. Whether it is a casual day at the beach or a glamorous summer pool party with friends, the one piece serves you well, it is even more practical for doing laps in the pool.

Sleek and flirtatious swimwear in a variety of styles and reasonably priced so as not to break the bank are a must this summer. Halter Style necklines or strapless styles are available with a low cut in back and high cut thigh to reveal shapely legs. These styles have transformed the one piece, making them sexy and stylish and very flattering for your shape, whatever you are, an apple, pear or column, there is a style out there to suite your body. A one piece can make you feel sexy and confident about your body whilst also being secure that your problem areas are covered and more of your body is protected from the sun.

When choosing your designer one piece swimwear, make sure that it is made in fine quality fabric and well made, sometimes paying a little bit more can really ensure that you get a piece that lasts the test of time and fashion. See you on the beach!

If your hair is fine and limp or thinning, you can easily apply do-it-yourself, one-piece hair extensions that will immediately transform your hair from thin to full, thick and voluminous. By adding synthetic or natural hair to your own in a five-minute process, you can conceal fine or thinning hair or even hair loss. These single hair pieces are perfect for beginners and, blended with your own hair, they look realistic. While this brief guide is all about the fastest and easiest method of clip-in extensions, it will lead you through the hair choices, application, care and terminology you need to know to choose this glamorous method to conceal your fine or thinning hair issue.

Fastest and easiest are words I like to hear when researching for a simple approach to hide wispy, fine and thinning hair. The multiple websites for hair extensions and wigs offer many workable solutions, and there are so many products available that it is confusing. However, fastest and easiest are associated only with clip-in one-piece hair extensions. So narrow your scope to this type of hair extension that you can attach for yourself without assistance.

Most hair extensions are designed so that you must wear several different "wefts" (hair pieces) that vary in length. This makes it difficult and time consuming to clip in 4 to 12 pieces by yourself. Extensions designed as one piece will make application go faster. With one-piece extensions, you only need to part and clip up your own hair once. Apply the one-piece and then un-clip your natural hair to flow over the hair piece. You're ready to go! While it was quick to apply, it is even faster to remove!

Clip-in hair extensions, also known as clip-in wefts, can be integrated into your natural hair to hide thinning hair and add length and volume. These can be purchased in the range of $50 to $200, depending on the quality, and they can last for up to a year, depending on your use and care. You can choose to purchase one-piece extensions with the clips already attached or buy the clips separately and sew them in yourself.

The hair extensions come with a straight or contoured attachment band, and the extension can be cut into multiple pieces. But the easiest method is maintaining and clipping it in as one piece. Application takes a matter of minutes and it's so easy to do anyone can master the process. And because they are so easy and temporary, clip-in hair extensions allow you to clip them in and take them out whenever you want. With that kind of flexibility, they are also a way to temporarily add highlights to your hair without coloring it. They are also a perfect solution while growing your hair out from a short cut to add length immediately.

Another choice you might make for a one-piece hair extension is buying a clip-in set of bangs or a clip-in "fringe." The fringe is a bang with lengthier hair on the sides which creates a nice frame for the face. The attachment of a fringe may handle your fine or thinning hair issue in itself, or, add both the fringe and a one-piece hair extension for a complete new you. In fact, depending upon your style and needs, you can choose a one-piece hair piece that is called a 1/2 wig. If more coverage is what you are looking for then you may also want to check the 3/4 wig, also known as the head-band wig.

Some of the celebrity hair extensions brands which offer the one-piece types and bangs are by Ken Paves, Jessica Simpson, Raquel Welch, and Hair Do, among many others. To get your glamorous star look, a visit to a hair stylist for a trim and styling may assure you that the added hair creates a natural look and give you the best result.

Human hair is available for the one-piece hair extension in many different quality grades. It will be advertised by its ethnic origin, such as India, mainland China, and other Asian countries since they are currently the major suppliers for unprocessed hair. Human hair pieces can be treated like your own hair, that is, colored, curled, ironed, and shampooed, but it is best if it is air-dried rather than blow-dried.