Women rule the world in whispers

All politics aside, women rule the world. It is not a rule of dominance or dominion over men but a leadership of concepts and lifestyle that starts at the cradle. The formative years of childhood are spent in the arms of a mother. The mother imparts values to her child, a wisdom that ingrains itself and forms the man or woman the child becomes.

The word ‘rule’ can ruffle feathers. However, to rule means to have a directive, to lead, to manage, and to reach a decision. I feel compelled to clarify that when women rule, it is in the social sense that the most potent element is at play. Powerful because social norms determine how men and women relate to and respect others. Historically, societies were not ‘civilized’ until the female voice of reason took the lead.

Women can change how society views women, men, equality, justice, fairness, respect, education, and much more. When individual women realize their potential to bring about social change, social change will begin. Women can raise their sons to respect women as they respect themselves. Woman can raise their daughters to respect themselves. Women can enable social equality with just a whisper.

When I see the horrific pictures on the internet showing veiled women in chains, or veiled women being buried, I understand that women do not know how powerful they are.

I read the values of International Women’s Day: Justice, Dignity, Hope, Equality, Collaboration, Tenacity, Appreciation, Respect, Empathy, and Forgiveness. These are the lullabies of women who move society forward.

Choosing a dress for holiday occasions

With the holidays fast approaching, you can expect invitations to holiday parties, galas, fundraisers, and holiday dinners. But who has a closet full of ready-to-wear, elegant apparel? Before you head to the store, consider how to pick a dress for your special occasion.

Choosing the perfect dress can be both exciting and challenging. When you receive an invitation to a special occasion, it may state that formal, semi-formal, or casual apparel is appropriate. We all want to look good but don't want to be overdressed or underdressed. These simple guidelines for formal, semi-formal, and weddings will help you find the best dress for the occasion.

Formal dresses

Formal

When invited to a formal occasion, the invitation usually includes a clue to the dress code, such as "lack'tie' o' 'formal'. Usually, fundraisers, galas, balls, and formal dinners require formal attire.

Formal dresses can be floor-length or cocktail-length, but not too short or too revealing. The fabrics for formal dresses include silk, brocade, lame (a metallic fabric), and jacquard. Dresses can be off-the-shoulder, strapless, or have thin spaghetti straps. Formal colors are white, black, red, gold, and silver. Formal dresses should be one color and may have limited patterns. Remember, the darker the color, the more elegant you will appear. Formal dresses can be trimmed with rhinestones, embroidery, or other accents.
  

It is essential to make sure your shoes match your dress. If you cannot find an exact match, the rule is that the shoe color can match the hemline or be slightly lighter. Formal footwear can be elegant high pumps or dressy sandals.

Choose an elegant small evening bag that matches your shoe color.

For an exquisite appearance, understate your jewelry. Choose a simple necklace and earrings, and keep bracelets to a minimum.
  

Semi formal
  

For a semi-formal occasion, choose a cocktail length (short dress) or dressy pants paired with a jacket. The fabric can be the same as for formal dresses; however, semi-formal fabrics can include taffeta, chiffon, and other flowing fabrics. Avoid fabrics that cling to your shape and dresses that are too revealing.
    

Follow the same rules as formal dressing when choosing your shoes, handbag, and jewelry.
   

Weddings   

Choosing a dress for a wedding has only one unbreakable rule. "No one wears white except the bride." Other than that, dressing for a wedding will depend on the formality of the wedding. If the couple is getting married at a park with a barbecue reception, the dress will be much different from attending a formal reception at a hall or hotel. Unless the reception is casual, a cocktail dress, elegant pants, or a full-length dress is acceptable. Good etiquette is to choose an outfit that complements your beauty, but will not draw attention away from the bride. Other than that, buy a dress that is fun and looks good on you.