There are many natural fibers that are liked for their comfortability and looks. With the increasing environmental awareness, these natural fibers have gained unimaginable importance. Now, many raw materials that were not traditionally used for making fabrics, at least not commonly, are there to make fabrics from. One such raw material comes from banana plant- the banana fiber. Although banana fiber have been used for making textile in some parts of the world such as Japan and Nepal since very early ages yet their application in many industries has gained momentum only in the recent past.

A native plant of Southeast Asia, banana is now grown extensively in all tropical countries for fruit, fiber or foliage. Generally, banana fiber extraction is done by hand stripping and decortication. While hand stripping, a narrow strip of banana leaf sheath is placed under a serrated knife with pressure. Fiber is then extracted by pulling the leaf sheath by hand. Decortication is a mechanized process in which, cut stalks are first crushed by roller and fibers are scraped by means of revolving wheels with knives.

The fiber extracted from banana plant is brownish, somewhat flat and darker in shade. It appears like bamboo and ramie fiber, but is fine and spins better than them. It is considerably strong and also has shiny appearance. It can absorb moisture very well and is bio- degradable, thus eco- friendly.

In Japan, the traditional dresses like kimono and kamishimo are made from banana fiber and are liked especially as summer wear. The Banana silk fiber yarns are used to make traditional rugs by Nepalese women. Banana fiber is also used to make fine cushion covers, ties, bags, table cloths, curtains and many other items all over the world. Due to the growing popularity of items made from banana fibers, many manufacturers are engaged in research to come up with cost effective and fast methods of making banana fiber. One such innovation has been made in India where a Banana Fiber Separator Machine has been developed. This machine uses the agriculture waste of banana harvests to produce silk grade fiber which is widely used by handicrafts and textile industry.

There are many natural fibers that are liked for their comfortability and looks. With the increasing environmental awareness, these natural fibers have gained unimaginable importance. Now, many raw materials that were not traditionally used for making fabrics, at least not commonly, are there to make fabrics from. One such raw material comes from banana plant- the banana fiber. Although banana fiber have been used for making textile in some parts of the world such as Japan and Nepal since very early ages yet their application in many industries has gained momentum only in the recent past.

A native plant of Southeast Asia, banana is now grown extensively in all tropical countries for fruit, fiber or foliage. Generally, banana fiber extraction is done by hand stripping and decortication. While hand stripping, a narrow strip of banana leaf sheath is placed under a serrated knife with pressure. Fiber is then extracted by pulling the leaf sheath by hand. Decortication is a mechanized process in which, cut stalks are first crushed by roller and fibers are scraped by means of revolving wheels with knives.

The fiber extracted from banana plant is brownish, somewhat flat and darker in shade. It appears like bamboo and ramie fiber, but is fine and spins better than them. It is considerably strong and also has shiny appearance. It can absorb moisture very well and is bio- degradable, thus eco- friendly.

In Japan, the traditional dresses like kimono and kamishimo are made from banana fiber and are liked especially as summer wear. The Banana silk fiber yarns are used to make traditional rugs by Nepalese women. Banana fiber is also used to make fine cushion covers, ties, bags, table cloths, curtains and many other items all over the world. Due to the growing popularity of items made from banana fibers, many manufacturers are engaged in research to come up with cost effective and fast methods of making banana fiber. One such innovation has been made in India where a Banana Fiber Separator Machine has been developed. This machine uses the agriculture waste of banana harvests to produce silk grade fiber which is widely used by handicrafts and textile industry.

The Apparel market is very up to date and pacing up at a very high rate. Though, some obstacles are there which hinders the growth of this industry like :

1. The raw material is usually procured from under developed or developing countries and these countries don't have appropriate manpower and resources to explore them.

2. The developing and under developed countries do not have proper finance to set up factories for garment production.

3. Day by day, demand for apparel is growing, though production rate is not able to match with ever rising demand. Still more facilities are required to match up with the demand.

4. Globalization has helped a lot in raising apparel market, but due to increased competition, its difficult to meet deadlines and maintenance of quality.

5. Some countries are facing very less competition in apparel industry, for example China is manufacturing very high quality apparels due to availability of cheap labor.

6. Apparel industry is also known as fashion driven industry. Fashion keeps on changing and firms have to complete the orders in very less time. This kind of scenario makes the whole condition to work under high pressure.

The Apparel market is very up to date and pacing up at a very high rate. Though, some obstacles are there which hinders the growth of this industry like :

1. The raw material is usually procured from under developed or developing countries and these countries don't have appropriate manpower and resources to explore them.

2. The developing and under developed countries do not have proper finance to set up factories for garment production.

3. Day by day, demand for apparel is growing, though production rate is not able to match with ever rising demand. Still more facilities are required to match up with the demand.

4. Globalization has helped a lot in raising apparel market, but due to increased competition, its difficult to meet deadlines and maintenance of quality.

5. Some countries are facing very less competition in apparel industry, for example China is manufacturing very high quality apparels due to availability of cheap labor.

6. Apparel industry is also known as fashion driven industry. Fashion keeps on changing and firms have to complete the orders in very less time. This kind of scenario makes the whole condition to work under high pressure.

The term 'Hammock' has come to be a synonym of 'Relaxation'. We enjoy the cool breezes, the sun rays, beautiful scenario, all lying in the hammock. However, for getting optimum benefits from your hammock, you have to be cautious while buying it, otherwise, you may end up with health problems like backache and the like. Here are some tips for rightly selecting your hammock

Fabric Hammocks

If comfort is what is on your mind then nothing is better than a fabric hammock but certain fabrics are more suitable than others. Cotton hammocks are great for indoor use and occasionally for outdoor use. Cotton is comfortable and breathable but is prone to mold & mildew and can't be left outside in bad weather. Polyester is very durable, weather resistant, lesser prone to mold & mildew and needs little maintenance so it is perfect for outdoor use. Canvas is also very tough & durable, making it ideal for outside use. However, canvas hammocks can be made from cotton or polyester so know what the material is so that proper care can be taken of it.

Rope Hammocks

They are classy and stylish but relaxing on a rope hammock can be tricky. However, the material from which rope hammock is made can greatly contribute to its comfort and durability. Cotton rope is quite comfortable as it stretches according to body shape, and also feels good against skin. Durable & weather resistant polyester is not so comfortable but ideal for regular outside use. Polypropylene, shiny synthetic and mildew resistant rope, is also good for outdoor use but wears out quickly if left in direct sunlight.

Hammocks for smaller Spaces

If you are tight on space, choose from among hammock chairs or portable hammock with stand. Hammock chairs need only one point of support. Fabric choice has to be made in similar manner as for full sized hammock. For a family with children, they are all the more suitable as they are more stable and kids can't fall out of them easily. Buy the stand and hammock chair together after checking that both fit each other perfectly. Although hammocks are technically portable but some of them are even more portable examples being folding or collapsible hammock chairs. Consider the size when buying such portable hammocks with the view of storage and transportation. Take the light weight hammocks but avoid the flimsy frames which are not able to support much weight. When buying, make sure that it supports, at least, double of your own weight.

Size of Hammock

Always read the dimensions of the hammock, reason being some names might suggest that a hammock is larger than it really is. If buying for fitting two persons, then go for one which is a 54-inch-wide by 84-inch-long hammock and if its for family purpose then 60 inches wide will do. If hammock is to be used by a single person at a time then 45 inches wide and between 76 and 84 inches long is enough.

Camping Hammocks

There are many uses of hammocks. When buying a hammock for camping go for fabric hammock which is more comfortable. A bigger hammock will store your gear off the ground. If camping in bad weather then also buy a rain canopy so that you remain dry and include mosquito netting to keep yourself safe and secure. Always dry out hammocks completely before storing back.

The term 'Hammock' has come to be a synonym of 'Relaxation'. We enjoy the cool breezes, the sun rays, beautiful scenario, all lying in the hammock. However, for getting optimum benefits from your hammock, you have to be cautious while buying it, otherwise, you may end up with health problems like backache and the like. Here are some tips for rightly selecting your hammock

Fabric Hammocks

If comfort is what is on your mind then nothing is better than a fabric hammock but certain fabrics are more suitable than others. Cotton hammocks are great for indoor use and occasionally for outdoor use. Cotton is comfortable and breathable but is prone to mold & mildew and can't be left outside in bad weather. Polyester is very durable, weather resistant, lesser prone to mold & mildew and needs little maintenance so it is perfect for outdoor use. Canvas is also very tough & durable, making it ideal for outside use. However, canvas hammocks can be made from cotton or polyester so know what the material is so that proper care can be taken of it.

Rope Hammocks

They are classy and stylish but relaxing on a rope hammock can be tricky. However, the material from which rope hammock is made can greatly contribute to its comfort and durability. Cotton rope is quite comfortable as it stretches according to body shape, and also feels good against skin. Durable & weather resistant polyester is not so comfortable but ideal for regular outside use. Polypropylene, shiny synthetic and mildew resistant rope, is also good for outdoor use but wears out quickly if left in direct sunlight.

Hammocks for smaller Spaces

If you are tight on space, choose from among hammock chairs or portable hammock with stand. Hammock chairs need only one point of support. Fabric choice has to be made in similar manner as for full sized hammock. For a family with children, they are all the more suitable as they are more stable and kids can't fall out of them easily. Buy the stand and hammock chair together after checking that both fit each other perfectly. Although hammocks are technically portable but some of them are even more portable examples being folding or collapsible hammock chairs. Consider the size when buying such portable hammocks with the view of storage and transportation. Take the light weight hammocks but avoid the flimsy frames which are not able to support much weight. When buying, make sure that it supports, at least, double of your own weight.

Size of Hammock

Always read the dimensions of the hammock, reason being some names might suggest that a hammock is larger than it really is. If buying for fitting two persons, then go for one which is a 54-inch-wide by 84-inch-long hammock and if its for family purpose then 60 inches wide will do. If hammock is to be used by a single person at a time then 45 inches wide and between 76 and 84 inches long is enough.

Camping Hammocks

There are many uses of hammocks. When buying a hammock for camping go for fabric hammock which is more comfortable. A bigger hammock will store your gear off the ground. If camping in bad weather then also buy a rain canopy so that you remain dry and include mosquito netting to keep yourself safe and secure. Always dry out hammocks completely before storing back.

When it comes to fashion accessories, women are always in lead but men are not very far behind. And when it is something like that of footwear, men seem to be more cautious while choosing them according to the latest trends. Although, there is very little scope to be much innovative with mens shoes, yet knowing the fascination of men towards footwear, designers take it as an opportunity and try to introduce styles that are both trendy and comfortable. So what are the styles available this Spring Summer- 2009! Let's explore!!

Slip-ons: The casual slip-ons are going to be favorite of all. Being casual doesn't bring the tag 'sloppy' to them. They are in fact stylish. And this Spring and Summer, they'll be liked most in the shades of cream and light brown. Some of them are perforated so that your feet remain cool in the hot weather. They can well be worn with jeans, shorts or casual pants.

Leather Loafers: The classic and simple loafers will be available in classic colors like black, brown, white and tan. They go well with 'not so formal' dresses.

Suede Shoes: Widely known to be winter material, suede in its cool version is there for spring summer footwear too. They are used for practically any style- slip- ons, loafers or boat shoes. Shades like tan, black, brown and mustard as well as non conventional ones like yellow are there for all. The adventurous guys can try non conventional shades with light neutrals or denim.

Improvised Boat Shoes: The conventional boat shoes will now be seen in an improved avatar. These casual slip ons can be seen without laces and the upper part made of suede or leather. Available in almost all colors such as red, brownish- yellow, or black, they look great with shorts, jeans or khakis.

Formal Dress Shoes: Men can not escape formal wear any way. So the evergreen dress shoes also can't go anywhere. They look awesome with light colored suits and dress pants. Shining blacks, browns, light gray, all's there to choose from.

Other Details: Elongated Shoes will continue to dominate the market. Oxford shoes, slip-ons or summer boots- they can all be found in elongated style. Desert boots will also be there in natural, sandy shades. The indispensable sneaker can be found in bright colors, some of them having color blocking and graphic-art prints.

When it comes to fashion accessories, women are always in lead but men are not very far behind. And when it is something like that of footwear, men seem to be more cautious while choosing them according to the latest trends. Although, there is very little scope to be much innovative with mens shoes, yet knowing the fascination of men towards footwear, designers take it as an opportunity and try to introduce styles that are both trendy and comfortable. So what are the styles available this Spring Summer- 2009! Let's explore!!

Slip-ons: The casual slip-ons are going to be favorite of all. Being casual doesn't bring the tag 'sloppy' to them. They are in fact stylish. And this Spring and Summer, they'll be liked most in the shades of cream and light brown. Some of them are perforated so that your feet remain cool in the hot weather. They can well be worn with jeans, shorts or casual pants.

Leather Loafers: The classic and simple loafers will be available in classic colors like black, brown, white and tan. They go well with 'not so formal' dresses.

Suede Shoes: Widely known to be winter material, suede in its cool version is there for spring summer footwear too. They are used for practically any style- slip- ons, loafers or boat shoes. Shades like tan, black, brown and mustard as well as non conventional ones like yellow are there for all. The adventurous guys can try non conventional shades with light neutrals or denim.

Improvised Boat Shoes: The conventional boat shoes will now be seen in an improved avatar. These casual slip ons can be seen without laces and the upper part made of suede or leather. Available in almost all colors such as red, brownish- yellow, or black, they look great with shorts, jeans or khakis.

Formal Dress Shoes: Men can not escape formal wear any way. So the evergreen dress shoes also can't go anywhere. They look awesome with light colored suits and dress pants. Shining blacks, browns, light gray, all's there to choose from.

Other Details: Elongated Shoes will continue to dominate the market. Oxford shoes, slip-ons or summer boots- they can all be found in elongated style. Desert boots will also be there in natural, sandy shades. The indispensable sneaker can be found in bright colors, some of them having color blocking and graphic-art prints.

An Outfit is complete only when it has all the complementing accessories worn or carried along with it. Footwear is one of the most important fashion accessories that can make or mar the looks of your 'so cautiously chosen' apparel. So, its always better to be careful while selecting shoes that go with your wardrobe. Equally important is to know the trends prevalent in existing fashion circle so that you may always look hot and happening! It's time now to know the latest trends that'll make the heads move in Spring- Summer 2009!!

Heals


Stilettos: They are back with a bang! Stilettos are everywhere- on ramps and on roads. However, it has been mixed up with platforms to give an innovative style- a hidden platform at the front and a real high stiletto at the back. The higher the stilettos, the more they attract. If you prefer fashion over comfort, stilettos are for you. If not, then think twice before falling for them.

Tapered Heels: They are thick at the top and slim down as they reach the ground, often with a curve, into a stiletto-esque point at the bottom. If you can't wear stilettos, try tapered heels to be somewhat comfortable.

Platform and Wedge Heels: In spite of stilettos returning, platforms and wedge heels will remain. Thick heels are always more friendlier to feet and they can't be let out of fashion so easily.

Ballet Flats: Talking about heels, we can't forget shoes without them. Like platforms, ballet flats will also stay around. However, they'll come in new colors and luxe fabrics like satin.

Toe Shapes


Squared-off toes: They will return but with a difference. Rather than a fully squared toe, the new squared-off shape will be tapered in toe with a short blunt nose.

Pointed Toes: The razor-sharp pointed toe footwear is all set to make a comeback. When stilettos come, how can pointed toes remain behind? Those who don't get along with them, can definitely find 'always available round toes' or the squared off ones.

Colors and Prints

Bright Colors: Bright hues of red, orange, yellow and purple will make way into the shoe racks. If you are afraid that you can't pull off the oranges or purples, you'll find them paired with skin friendly colors like blue and white. Pinks will also be there ranging from baby pinks to even fuchsia.

Two- Tone or Multicolor: Contrasting colors will there be on different parts of your shoes like contrasting straps or heels. From bright colors to the classic greys and blacks, all will be used to bring style statement through shoes. Multi-colored shoe is not only for wearing with a plain colored outfit, they can well go with anything.

Floral Patterns: The evergreen flowers will be there either as prints, appliqués or embellishments. You will find them in subtle as well as extreme patterns.


Styles and Other Details

Gladiator Sandals: Footwear representing Greco-Roman fashion, heavily strapped and heeled versions and in bright colors will be the choice of the season.

Mary-Jane Style: The style was also popular last year but this year, it has changed its looks. They'll be now seen with double or even triple buckles, bright colors, luxurious fabrics or sharply pointed toes.

Open Toes and Cut-Out Shoes: Open-toes or peep-toes are pretty fashionable this season. If not open toes then cut-out heels or cut-away sides will be there to give relief to your summer stricken feet.

Heavy Accessory Shoes: Shoes are going to be heavy with the accessories like zippers, snaps and buckles. There might be one or multiple of such accessories on them. They'll nicely decorate our footwear whether it be sandals or pump shoes.

An Outfit is complete only when it has all the complementing accessories worn or carried along with it. Footwear is one of the most important fashion accessories that can make or mar the looks of your 'so cautiously chosen' apparel. So, its always better to be careful while selecting shoes that go with your wardrobe. Equally important is to know the trends prevalent in existing fashion circle so that you may always look hot and happening! It's time now to know the latest trends that'll make the heads move in Spring- Summer 2009!!

Heals


Stilettos: They are back with a bang! Stilettos are everywhere- on ramps and on roads. However, it has been mixed up with platforms to give an innovative style- a hidden platform at the front and a real high stiletto at the back. The higher the stilettos, the more they attract. If you prefer fashion over comfort, stilettos are for you. If not, then think twice before falling for them.

Tapered Heels: They are thick at the top and slim down as they reach the ground, often with a curve, into a stiletto-esque point at the bottom. If you can't wear stilettos, try tapered heels to be somewhat comfortable.

Platform and Wedge Heels: In spite of stilettos returning, platforms and wedge heels will remain. Thick heels are always more friendlier to feet and they can't be let out of fashion so easily.

Ballet Flats: Talking about heels, we can't forget shoes without them. Like platforms, ballet flats will also stay around. However, they'll come in new colors and luxe fabrics like satin.

Toe Shapes


Squared-off toes: They will return but with a difference. Rather than a fully squared toe, the new squared-off shape will be tapered in toe with a short blunt nose.

Pointed Toes: The razor-sharp pointed toe footwear is all set to make a comeback. When stilettos come, how can pointed toes remain behind? Those who don't get along with them, can definitely find 'always available round toes' or the squared off ones.

Colors and Prints

Bright Colors: Bright hues of red, orange, yellow and purple will make way into the shoe racks. If you are afraid that you can't pull off the oranges or purples, you'll find them paired with skin friendly colors like blue and white. Pinks will also be there ranging from baby pinks to even fuchsia.

Two- Tone or Multicolor: Contrasting colors will there be on different parts of your shoes like contrasting straps or heels. From bright colors to the classic greys and blacks, all will be used to bring style statement through shoes. Multi-colored shoe is not only for wearing with a plain colored outfit, they can well go with anything.

Floral Patterns: The evergreen flowers will be there either as prints, appliqués or embellishments. You will find them in subtle as well as extreme patterns.


Styles and Other Details

Gladiator Sandals: Footwear representing Greco-Roman fashion, heavily strapped and heeled versions and in bright colors will be the choice of the season.

Mary-Jane Style: The style was also popular last year but this year, it has changed its looks. They'll be now seen with double or even triple buckles, bright colors, luxurious fabrics or sharply pointed toes.

Open Toes and Cut-Out Shoes: Open-toes or peep-toes are pretty fashionable this season. If not open toes then cut-out heels or cut-away sides will be there to give relief to your summer stricken feet.

Heavy Accessory Shoes: Shoes are going to be heavy with the accessories like zippers, snaps and buckles. There might be one or multiple of such accessories on them. They'll nicely decorate our footwear whether it be sandals or pump shoes.