Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles

Gwen Stefani Launches Harajuku Mini Clothing Line

2011-11-21T19:34:00.000-08:00

American fashion designer Gwen Stefani stepped out for attending launch of her new children’s clothing line, Harajuku Mini in Los Angeles on November 12, 2011. 42-year-old star made a bold fashion statement in an eye-catching pantsuit and fancy hairstyle.
gwen stefani harajuku mini clothing line

Hot and sexy, Gwen Stefani grabbed everyone’s attention as she made her appearance, sporting white and black patterned jacket, styled with matching cropped pants, both from L.A.M.B. Spring 2012 collection.
gwen stefani harajuku mini clothing line launch

‘Hollaback Girl’ singer teamed her ensemble with stylish wedges by L.A.M.B. She added some fun to her look with a large gold spiked necklace and lots of bangles and rings.Mother-of-two, Gwen also wore a pair of stud earrings. She added a pop of color with bright red lipstick and looked modern.
gwen stefani lamb spring 2012 dress

Hollywood star, Gwen Stefani opted for a very funky messy high bun hairstyle. She wore her hair up in a tall top bun with lots of face-framing sleek tendrils hanging down.
gwen stefani tall bun

Stay connected with FashionFame.com and follow us on Twitter and Facebook for more latest celebrity news and fashion trends.

see more photos here

Gwen Stefani Launches Harajuku Mini Clothing Line

2011-11-21T19:29:00.000-08:00

Gwen Stefani inspired by costumes

2011-11-21T19:27:00.000-08:00

Gwen Stefani's debut childrenswear line borrows prints "right off costumes" she's worn in the past.

The stunning star recently launched her Harajuku Mini collection in Target stores in the US. The range caters for babies, children and tweens and is Japanese anime-inspired.

The brand is Stefani's first venture into clothing for babies and boys, and was launched off the back of her successful Harajuku Lovers young apparel and accessories collection.

Stefani says the range is true to her fashion roots.

"If you look at the line, it reeks of everything that I've worn and done, especially this first collection."I wanted it to be a real condensed version of things that I've done in my career and to shrink them down.

"Actual prints that I'm using are actually right off of costumes that I've worn, and you can pull them right up to dresses that I've worn and things like that," she told Style.com.

"There's really a traditional side to it, because that's really my style. I've always really liked that traditional kind of English schoolgirl type of look, but there's also an edgy modern thing going on, which is what I have always loved about Japanese culture.

"You've got the deep tradition of Japan and then you've got their futuristic modern thing, and I love that whole mix of masculine and feminine. I think this line really has all that in it."

The 80-piece exclusive collection includes apparel and accessories.

"It's just so exciting for me, because now I can do real fashion," she explained.

"Before it was like, 'OK, Gwen, you can do a onesie with a character on it.' But that's not fashion, you can get that anywhere."

Gwen Is Still Gorgeous At 42

2011-10-24T05:51:00.000-07:00

Singer Gwen Stefani turns 42 years old today and still looks as amazing as she did when she first burst out onto the music scene back in the '90s as the lead singer of the pop/ska band, No Doubt. After ten years of performing in tiny clubs, 1995 was the year of No Doubt and their breakout album, Tragic Kingdom and there was no looking back for the band and their talented and breakout lead singer.

Don't let the platinum blonde hair fool you! The stylish Stefani is a shrewd businesswoman who is also a clothing designer, (L.A.M.B. since 2004), actor (she portrayed the late Jean Harlow in The Aviator with Leonardo DiCaprio), a fragrance developer and L'Oreal cosmetics spokeswoman.Along with that, she is mother to two of the coolest kids on the planet, Zuma Nesta Rock and Kingston James MacGregor, and the wife of the world's hottest English rocker, Gavin Rossdale.

Stefani is the kind of person you would just love to hate if you could, but her genuine concern for those around her and for her planet puts her on another level of music superstar. The kind you aim to be like.

It wasn't that long ago that her quirky style and self-designed costumes launched a million Gwenabees, who dressed like, wore their hair like and tried to live like their idol.

Stefani's lyrics spoke directly from the heart, particularly the band's biggest single, "Don't Speak", which chronicled her failed relationship with No Doubt bandmate Tony Kanal.

She took a break from No Doubt in 2003 and in 2004, released the first of her two solo albums, Love. Angel. Music. Baby and 2006's The Sweet Escape.

In 2009, she reunited with No Doubt for a national tour and since then, has concentrated mostly on raising her children and developing her fragrance, clothing and accessory lines.

Shiloh Jolie-Pitt is 'dating' Gwen Stefani's kid

2011-10-24T05:43:00.000-07:00

That's right folks, you can all stop calling Shiloh Jolie-Pitt a lesbian now, because she's got a boyfriend …According to the vivid imaginations of the writers at InTouch magazine, anyway.

A couple of weeks ago Angelina Jolie took her army of children over to Gwen Stefani's house for a play-date, and now the tabs are gushing about a budding romance between Shiloh and fellow five-year-old Kingston Rossdale.

Gwen's son Kingston was born the day before Shiloh and apparently the two kids share a very special bond and keep in touch via Skype whenever their parents' jet-setting careers keep them apart.A source tells InTouch that the pint sized pair "love playing the same games, watching the same movies and even dressing up in the same silly costumes".

And Shiloh is crushing on her friend so badly, "whatever Kingston does, Shiloh imitates".

Stefani decks Kingston out in spectacles

2011-10-24T05:41:00.000-07:00

Look closely. No, that's not a miniature Harry Potter fan following Gwen Stefani around London.

It's her fashion-forward son Kingston Rossdale, 5, rocking new glasses and a colorful, Cosby-esque sweater.

Kingston, whose dad is Stefani's rocker husband Gavin Rossdale, is a fashion maverick, having dyed and cut his hair numerous times in his short life.Kingston's 3-year-old brother Zuma seems to also be getting into fashion. The pesky paparazzi snapped him this summer getting a mani-pedi.

How Gwen Stefani lost 10lb in just 10 days!

2011-05-28T19:53:00.001-07:00

Gwen Stefani looked stunning as she strolled the decks of Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich's yacht Luna on holiday in Cannes - and we can reveal how the 41-year-old got her smoking hot bod.

It's all thanks to a secret raw food diet.

According to a close pal, Gwen began the raw regime and ramped up her exercise programme to seven days a week in the run-up to her family holiday with husband Gavin Rossdale, 43, and sons Kingston, five, and Zuma, two.

‘Gwen wanted to look incredible on her break, so she went on a strict 10-day cleanse,' says the friend.

'She only ate raw foods, which she found really hard as she loves cookies and pizzas, but she was determined to be able to indulge in the fabulous French food on offer.

'Her diet consisted of fruit for breakfast; raw meat or fish for lunch and dinner; and lots of raw veg.

'Gwen was also doing a daily super-high intensity cardio workout in the gym.'

The singer's diet allowed her to tuck into the meals on Roman's yacht, where world-class chefs cater to guests' whims.

‘Gwen says she's been eating pain au chocolat for breakfast without guilt,' adds our source.

‘She feels her cleanse was worth it to be able to do that.'

Read the full story about Gwen Stefani in Now magazine dated 30 May 2011 - out now!

Gwen Stefani Didn't Design It

2011-05-28T19:36:00.000-07:00

We would never have pegged Gwen Stefani as one of those celebrities (or people, for that matter) who'd take credit for work not her own. But turns out, Stefani may have been caught in her own web. According to The Cut, the dress Stefani wore in Cannes, which she widely claimed credit for—telling a reporter, "In choosing [a dress for amfAR], we just said, 'Let's make one,' which is a whole other job in itself."—was actually made by designer Michael Angel."

"Angel is no under-the-radar young designer—his business has been most definitely on the radar and thriving for years. He even shows every season on the official New York fashion week schedule." "The dress Stefani wore was from Angel's Fall 2010 collection, but instead of crediting him, the dress was billed as "a creation of her own, by L.A.M.B."

Gwen Stefani in Sequin Jumpsuit

2011-05-28T19:27:00.000-07:00

Gwen Stefani was seen attending the premiere of “The Tree Of Life” during the 64th Annual Cannes Film Festival at Palais des Festivals on May 16, 2011 in Cannes, France. 41-year-old “Hollaback Girl” hit the red carpet with her husband Musician Gavin Rossdale and stole everyone’s attention.

Hot and sexy Gwen Stefani showed off some skin in a glittering sequin jumpsuit. The starlet was clad in a glamorous and very stylish black sequined jumpsuit with a plunging neckline and a black belt by Stella McCartney.Gwen was carrying a beautiful gold clutch that completed her exquisite look. She was wearing lovely tiny earrings and some statement rings.

Very gorgeous, Gwen Stefani also showcased a very unique and modern hairdo. The diva rocked a voluminous curly hairstyle that made her look more appealing and attention-grabbing.

Bitch Stole My Look: Gwen Stefani vs. Iman

2011-05-28T19:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Gwen Stefani donned Stella McCartney's supersexy, chest-baring, sequin one-piece with sheer sleeves to the Tree of Life premiere at Cannes. The rocker paired it with a red clutch, hot-pink pout and curly 'do.

Just weeks earlier, supermodel Iman took the same plunge in a disco-tastic gold version at the Met Costume Institute Gala. A black clutch, smoky eyes and voluminous hair completed her look.

Which babe wears it better, dark-horse Gwen or golden-girl Iman?

Gwen Stefani's son Kingston takes a tumble off his scooter

2011-05-28T19:20:00.002-07:00

They seem to be the must-have toy for every child this summer.

Including Kingston Rossdale, who took his new scooter for a spin around a London park yesterday.

However, the cute four-year-old seemed to be having a bit of trouble getting the hang of it and took a tumble onto the grass.
Kingston was joined by pop singer mother Gwen Stefani, rock star father Gavin Rossdale and little brother Zuma as they enjoyed a family day out at the park.

And while Kingston was busy perfecting his scooter technique, his parents took Zuma on the swings.

He sat on his mother's lap as they swung back and forth together while Gavin checked emails and messages on his phone.

Gwen Stefani sets the bar very high in a teeny polka

2011-05-28T19:20:00.001-07:00

June beckons, bringing with it the annual three-month bonanza that is the great celebrity holiday getaway and its attendant ‘bikini-off’.

As the rest of us blink into the holiday sun, wondering whether we dare squeeze our pasty limbs into last year’s swimsuit, in celebrity land a summer holiday is the perfect opportunity to flaunt the results of that Dukan diet and rigorous daily workouts.

Already the bar has been set high by singer Gwen Stefani, who was pictured this week frolicking in a teeny tiny polka dot bikini on board her yacht in the South of France.

Hot on her heels was fellow singer LeAnn Rimes, honeymooning in Mexico in a sparkly rhinestone two-piece, flashing a stomach that you could iron your smalls on.The message is clear: ‘Beat this, fellow A-listers.’ It remains to be seen how Hollywood and the UK’s finest will live up to the challenge this season.

The rest of us, meanwhile, can only look on forlornly, as we pack our cover-up kaftans into our suitcases — hoping only for the odd unflattering celebrity holiday snap or two to cheer us up.

Gwen Stefani: Leader Of The AmfAR Fashion Pack

2011-05-28T19:18:00.002-07:00

When you’ve got red carpet competition from the likes of Bar Rafaeli, Freida Pinto and Clemence Poesy, you know you’ve got to up the ante, and Gwen Stefani did so to epic proportions at last night’s AmfAR Gala at Cannes Film Festival 2011.

Oozing attitude (not easy to do in a fishtail, so kudos, Ms Stefani) in a knockout gown from her L.A.M.B collection, Gwen put her own edgy stamp on the big hair trend, with a modern slicked back bouffant.

Cheryl Cole and co, this is how it's done. While Stefani took last night’s Cannes style queen crown, the other attendees put up a good fashion fight with Freida in metallic Lanvin, and Karl Lagerfeld's girls Clemence and Kirsten Dunst in Chanel Couture.

We'll be suffering from red carpet withdrawals once Cannes is over!

Gwen's the belle of the ball again

2011-05-28T19:18:00.001-07:00

GWEN STEFANI led the glamour charge at a star-studded charity bash in Cannes last night.

The singer upstaged her younger rivals in a stunning lacy black number, a skilled application of make-up and a slick hairdo.

She was accompanied by her smart hubby GAVIN ROSSDALE at amfAR's Cinema Against Aids event.

However, the rocker appeared ill at ease with his posh attire, with the look of a man who'd rather be in jeans and a T-shirt.At the age of 41, Gwen stole the spotlight when she arrived at the event - as did COURTNEY LOVE for all the wrong reasons.

The HOLE frontwoman left little to the imagination in an unsightly gown that exposed much of her torso - and her sinister grin didn't help to improve the look.

Gwen Stefani's Bow Tie Boy

2011-05-28T19:17:00.000-07:00

Dapper dude! Rockstar mama Gwen Stefani wore a flowing floral print dress as she took her boys Kingston and Zuma to a party in Hollywood, Calif. on Saturday (May 28). Kingston was ready to party in a white shirt and bow tie, while Zuma napped on mama's shoulder.

Gwen and hubby Gavin Rossdale's elder boy just celebrated his 5th birthday on Thursday. Zuma will turn 3 in August.The Stefani-Rossdales have just returned from a holiday in Europe, where they were seen yachting in the South of France and spending time at their home in London.

Gwen Stefani Have Rocker Wives’ Night Out!

2011-05-28T19:13:00.000-07:00

Gwen Stefani set out to prove that blondes do have more fun.

The rocker wives — Gwen is married to Bush singer Gavin Rossdale and Gwyneth is with Coldplay frontman Chris Martin – took on the streets of London Tuesday night! The women were snapped both coming and going out of a Japanese restaurant in Soho. Gwen had her trademark lipstick on and a stripped minidress, while Gwyneth had her hair up in a ponytail and chose some loose fitted khaki colored pants to match her short blazer.

Now that Gwyneth is spearheading a music career, could these two be talking about a collaboration?Gwen, after all, is a huge name in the music industry between her days in No Doubt and her successful “Holla Back Girl” solo career. Gwyneth has been showing off her vocals on the big and small screens lately.

The actress portrayed a singer in the film Country Strong and has appeared more than once on the singing show Glee. She also sang with Cee Lo Green at the Grammy Awards and is featured on Glee star Matthew Morrison‘s debut album that was just released Tuesday.

Gwen Stefani flaunts her Assets

2011-05-28T19:10:00.000-07:00

With the growing popularity of sheer fabric, Hollywood celebs are now and then seen wearing eye-catching see-through dresses everywhere. See-through dresses trend has become a hottest trend among Hollywood and stars are daring enough to show off their skin in public.

Recently, hot and sexy singer Gwen Stefani created a buzz wearing a see-through shirt while spending some quality time with her sweet family. Gwen was spotted with her hubby Gavin Rossdale, and sons Kingston and Zuma, donning a sassy black see-thru shirt that showed off her bra.“Hollaback Girl” singer wore a smart blazer over her sheer shirt. She teamed her shirt and blazer with a pair of blue loose pants.

Very beautiful, Gwen Stefani jazzed up her ensemble with black belt and looked every inch the bombshell. The starlet wore a pair of smart black shoes and lovely tiny earrings.

Gwen Stefani a scarlet woman

2011-05-28T19:07:00.000-07:00

She's known for always being immaculately turned out whatever the situation - and Gwen Stefani showed her attitude to fashion has military precision even when taking her children to the park.

The No Doubt singer was kitted out in a bright red military-style jacket and shiny black leather knee-high boots when she took sons Zuma for some play time today near their home in London's Primrose Hill.

The 41-year-old blonde beauty was also sporting her trademark bright red lipstick - and a scarlet matching bra which peeked out from underneath her rock'n'roll grey vest top.The top featured the printed slogan '1980 London, back stage 1992' and was worn long over black skinny jeans.

Even the pram for two-year-old toddler Zuma was in style, accessorised with a cosy leopard print fake fur throw to keep him cosy if the spring sunshine faded.

Gwen and her boys were later joined on the day out by the man in her life, rocker husband Gavin Rossdale, 45, who was bearing a giant bunch of flowers - presumably for his beautiful wife.

Gwen Stefani & Gavin Rossdale: London Lovers

2011-05-28T19:06:00.000-07:00

Enjoying another beautiful day across the pond, Gwen Stefani, Gavin Rossdale and their two boys Zuma and Kingston were spotted out for a walk on Friday (May 6).

The “No Doubt” babe and her “Bush” hubby pushed their sons in strollers, with the help of a nanny, making a couple stops along the way and eventually heading to a park.Earlier in the week, the adorable family visited a relative’s house getting the chance to catch up with some family members.

In other news, before her trip to London, Gwen made a special guest appearance at Prince’s concert at The Forum in Los Angeles last Saturday.

Gwen Stefani Rocks Out With Prince Onstage

2011-05-28T19:03:00.000-07:00

Gwen Stefani recently revealed that she received songwriting tips from Prince and Idolator reports that she returned the favor by joining the Purple One on stage on Saturday, April 30 at The Forum, which is part of the enigmatic singer’s 21-night residency in LA, the dates of which he is announcing in piecemeal fashion!

Fans that attended the April 30 show were treated to Stefani sauntering on stage to perform ‘So Far, So Pleased’ with Prince. The crowd was incredibly pleased at this bonus performance, which was essentially the collision of two pop idols on a single stage. Of course, Stefani, who attended the show with husband Gavin Rossdale of Bush, looked as radiant and fashion-forward as ever in a white polka dot romper ensemble with black stockings.Prince and Stefani go way back. They recorded the song ‘Waiting Room’ for her band No Doubt’s last album, 2001′s ‘Rock Steady.’ Stefani also revealed Prince’s advice in her candid chat in ELLE’s May issue, saying, “Prince, who is one of my idols, gave me some advice when I worked with him: ‘Have you ever just tried writing a hit? Like, don’t just try writing a song, try and write a hit song.’ I remember him saying that and me thinking, ‘Yeah, you’re right. Why would you write anything else?’” Sound advice, indeed.

Gwen Stefani Knows How To Wear a Bow

2011-05-28T19:00:00.000-07:00

I'll Have What She's Having: Two Big Bows and NOT look like you escaped from a prom!

Ok, I must confess, bows on grown-up women can really wreck my style nerves. It's not that I don't like a good bow here and there, it's that many women have a tendency to make them look too sweet and juvenile and end up looking ridiculous.
But when worn right, a few well-placed bows on a dress can look positively stunning.

Case in point: The Giorgio Armani white and black gown that Gwen Stefani worn on the red carpet for the premiere of Paolo Sorrentino's "This Must Be the Place," at the Cannes Film Festival. Granted, it's an Armani dress so the tailoring will be sublimely perfect and that it's Gwen Stefani who call pull almost everything off... her platinum hair makes the whole shebang look that much cooler.
Here's the rest of the fashion formula on how to wear a dress with bows and look chic rather than sissyish:

Counter-balance is key, since the bows on their own are super feminine, be sure the rest of the garment has more tailored than frilly lines... thank Mr. Armani for that.

Follow Gwen's path and stick to a sophisticated color palette, like the graphic white & black, rather than girly pastels.

Don't be afraid to experiment with more dramatic makeup to upstage the sweet touches. Here, we have dark smokey eyes and red lips, a combo that usually can be a bit overpowering but absolutely works on Gwen.

The peek-a-boo cut-out is completely unexpected and creates a sexy vibe without being too revealing.

Add a pop of bold color, like the blood red hard clutch.

Put it all together, mix in the right attitude, and you get a sexy and chic way to wear bows like a grown-up woman.

GWEN Stefani hasn’t ruled out having another child.

2010-03-06T04:26:00.000-08:00

The It’s My Life hitmaker — who raises Kingston, three, and one-year-old Zuma with husband Gavin Rossdale — says she’s keen to add to her brood in the future.

“It could happen,” said the No Doubt star. “But who knows. I kinda have a lot on my plate right now being a mom. My three-year-old is so naughty and I have the baby as well.” Gwen recently admitted she was a bag of nerves when she had to hit the runway in front of an audience during one of her L.A.M.B. fashion shows at New York Fashion Week.

“I do get nervous right before the girls go out, and I don’t like going out there myself,” she said.“The catwalk is just a different place to the stage. I find it so much more scary. Everyone is there and can be critical about your work. I’m proud of my work but it’s a daunting place to be.”

Gwen Stefani: Look At Those Curls

2010-03-06T04:23:00.000-08:00

When Gwen Stefani unveiled her new L.A.M.B. line on Feb. 9, the crowd was treated to an eyeful of that trademark Gwen glam. “It’s a little bit of me,” she tells OK!, “a little bit of a vintage, Hollywood starlet wannabe, a little bit of a soldier girl and a little bit of a modern girl all clashing together.”

Fashionistas oohed and aahed as the models strutted the runway in skinny leather pants and skintight dresses, but it was Gwen who stole the show with her head of sexy platinum curls! Those soft curls and ruby-red lips may recall the classic glamour of ’40s movie stars, but Gwen’s glossy signature look is bang up-todate. And, thanks to the latest hairstyling technology, trying out Gwen’s super-polished style at home is easier than ever.Whether you want to copy her retro curls, build body or get sparkling shine, here are the most effective products for creating your own Gwen-tastic look.

Gwen Stefani and Kingston Go For a Spin

2010-03-06T04:04:00.000-08:00

You spin me right round baby, right round!

Gwen Stefani and Kingston James McGregor, 3 ½, take a trip on the tire swing during a trip to the park Monday in Beverly Hills, Calif.

The No Doubt frontwoman, 40, and her sons — including Zuma Nesta Rock, 17 months — ran around the playground and even climbed a tree before settling down in the grass to refuel with some orange juice.

Kingston and Zuma are Gwen’s boys with husband Gavin Rossdale.

Gwen Stefani's Generous Gift

2010-03-06T03:59:00.000-08:00

What a happy group! Still sporting that dyed blonde hair, Kingston Rossdale was seen with his mother Gwen Stefani and a friend in sunny Beverly Hills on Thursday (February 25). When the No Doubt rocker saw a homeless man asking for money, the mother-of-two generously gave him twenty dollars!Gwen and her hubby, fellow rocker Gavin Rossdale, are also parents to 17-month-old son Zuma.

Gwen Stefani Revisits '80s for New No Doubt Record

2010-03-06T03:55:00.000-08:00

News regarding No Doubt's first studio album since 2001's Rock Steady continues to trickle in. Tom Dumont, guitarist for Orange County's most beloved band, recently tweeted: "Tony [Kanal] and Gwen [Stefani] are rocking the synth. Our little studio is warm and candlelit, above the glowing city."

And now Gwen Stefani has spoken to Rolling Stone about how since joining the boys in the band, who had been doing some recording without her, "things are kind of starting over." Because, y'know, she is pretty much the boss. Stefani also reveals where No Doubt is turning for inspiration.
"The last few weeks, we've been listening to the worst of the '80s, in the sense of bad but good," she tells RS. "Pop songs, one-hit wonders, nifty songs, things like that. You just go back and find things that you love, and try to figure out how they made them. We just listen to good songs, and then writing our own stuff, we try to pull it out wherever we can."

Gwen, Gavin and Sons Party with the Beckhams

2010-03-06T03:51:00.000-08:00

Always ones to spend as much time together as a family as possible, Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale stepped out with their sons Kingston and Zuma in North Hollywood on Saturday (February 20).

With the No Doubt frontwoman tending to little Zuma while her Bush rocker hubby scooped up Kingston as they headed off to celebrate Victoria Beckham's youngest son Cruz's 5th birthday at Xtreme Martial Arts.

With Miss Stefani recently returned back home from presenting her L.A.M.B. collection in New York City during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, the blonde beauty confessed that she's dealing with quite the full plate at the moment.When asked about the possibility of adding to the family, Gwen replied, "It could happen. But who knows. I kinda have a lot on my plate right now being a mom. My three-year-old is so naughty and I have the baby as well."

Gwen Stefani and Kelly Osbourne Hang Out

2010-03-06T03:48:00.000-08:00

Kelly Osbourne and Gwen Stefani hanging out at the BMW-sponsored L.A.M.B. fashion show in NYC.

Selena Gomez celebrating Valentine’s Day in L.A. with Crumb Bakery’s Valentine’s Day cupcakes covered in pink and red Skittles.

Vanessa Williams meeting her real life counterpart in Elle Editor-In-Chief Roberta Meyers at STYLE360 and Joonbug.com's Fashionable Farewell to Ugly Betty event in NYC.

Vanessa Hudgens and Zac Efron having a cozy dinner at Sam Nazarian's Katsuya in Glendale, California.

Chloe Sevigny drinking Belvedere martinis at the Purple Magazine party in NYC.

Vera Farmiga showing support for non-profit Peace Games at a fundraiser at 675 Bar in NYC.

Gwen Stefani Brings Zuma to Her L.A.M.B. Show

2010-03-06T03:32:00.000-08:00

Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles
Showing off her latest looks, Gwen Stefani hit the catwalk for the L.A.M.B Fall 2010 Fashion Presentation during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York City on Thursday (February 11).
The opening-day runway display was held at Milk Studios, with Miss Stefani posing alongside her models before heading backstage to join back up with her youngest son, Zuma Rossdale.

Bon Jovi, Gwen Stefani sued bar owners

2009-12-07T06:10:00.000-08:00

Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles
Jon Bon Jovi and Gwen Stefani have sued an American bar for playing their music without authorisation.

The stars have taken legal action against the owners of Sally''s Saloon and Eatery in Minneapolis, Minnesota after allegations that they do not have the proper music licence, reports the Daily Star. According to TMZ, the damages claimed in the suit are not known.

Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles

2009-12-06T06:28:00.000-08:00

Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles

Gwen Stefani isn't afraid to muck in with the buggy-pushing and sticky-finger-wiping – in fact, she seems to love it!

2009-12-06T06:23:00.000-08:00

Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles
We love the Stefani/Rossdale clan. Gwen, 40, husband Gavin, 44, and their kids Kingston, 3, and Zuma, 1, try to keep themselves out of the limelight – but whenever we do see the family out and about, like in these shots taken at LA airport yesterday, Gwen's always showing just how much she loves being a mum.

Lisa Loeb's Baby Girl; Gwen Stefani & Gavin Rossdale take kids to Winter Wonderland

2009-12-06T06:19:00.000-08:00

Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles
Gwen Stefani (pictured) and husband Gavin Rossdale get into the festive spirit by taking their children to the Winter Wonderland fair in Hyde Park, London.

Bon Jovi and Gwen Stefani versus Sally's Saloon and Eatery

2009-12-06T06:14:00.000-08:00

Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles
Sally's Saloon & Eatery, the venerable Stadium Village institution, apparently has some licensing issues, and it's got Bon Jovi and Gwen Stefani mighty upset, sort of. According to FOX9, Sally's is facing a federal lawsuit for its use of "Thunderstruck" and "Livin' on a Prayer" all the way back in 2007 and "The Sweet Escape" last February, despite allegedly not having a license for any of these songs. What did they do with the songs? Well, it's not completely clear. It might have been a band that covered it. It might have been somebody singing it during karaoke. But whatever the context, it might cost Sally's as much as $90,000.

A little bit of context comes from a Malaysian website, for whatever reason: The Star Online points out that this lawsuit follows another, by "country hottie" Taylor Swift against an Idaho sports bar. TMZ has more of that story, in which BMI representatives found the bar was playing music they hadn't licensed, and a copyright lawsuit resulted.

Gwen Stefani collaborates with Apple

2009-12-06T06:03:00.000-08:00

Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles

Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles

2009-02-05T05:01:00.000-08:00

Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles
Stefani looked happy for friends and family to dote on newborn Zuma, who made his public debut on her website last week. The pop star posted a cute picture of her cuddling her new son, writing: 'Gwen, Gavin, Kingston and Zuma are all doing well and enjoying being a party of four.'

Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles

2009-02-05T04:56:00.000-08:00

Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles
The 39-year-old singer, Gwen Stefani, flew to the Big Island earlier this week for relaxing break from busy Los Angeles. As she chatted to friends on the beach, her son Kingston played in the water before wrapping himself in a towel and cuddling up to mum.

Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles

2009-02-05T04:26:00.000-08:00

Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles
As any new mother knows, it's not recommended to go out without a good maternity bra on.

While a backless, halter-neck dress would normally be last on the list of suitable clothes a mother could wear with a maternity bra, Gwen Stefani appeared content to show off her supportive underwear.

Gwen Stefani's Harajuku Lovers Clothes Line At Macy's

2008-07-13T05:27:00.001-07:00

Harajuku Lovers has been successful in part to AmericaA's open embrace of what it represents: another culture and freedom of creative expression.

As the lyrics of "Harajuku Girls" from Gwen Stefani's first solo venture, Love, Angel, Music, Baby, so vividly proclaim: "Work it, express it, live it, command your style. Create it, design it. Now let me see you work it. You bring style and color all around the world – you Harajuku Girls."

Gwen Stefani spoiling son Kingston before new baby’s arrival

2008-07-12T02:01:00.000-07:00

Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale are said to be spoiling son Kingston on the run up to the birth of his baby sibling.

The couple, who are currently based in London, have been spotted doting on their two year old son recently, taking him on tourist trips around the city, including to London Zoo, and stocking up on toys at Hamleys.

A source explained: “They know they’re going to be busy with the new one within a few weeks so want to make sure that Kingston knows he’s loved.

“They’ve also had Kingston picked out toys and clothes for the new baby so he feels involved. He’s probably looking forward to the birth as much as them.”

Gwen is due to give birth later this month.

Gwen Stefani - Tokyo fashion style of Harajuku girls with many pictures

2008-07-11T02:12:00.000-07:00

Harajuku Girls is a term to describe women and teenaged girls in Harajuku (Tokyo Japan) who wear a style of clothing that originated in the street culture of major cities in Japan, i.e. Tokyo and Osaka. The "Harajuku style," named for the Harajuku district of Tokyo, combines a wide range of diverse influences, and is also known as "Fruits Fashion" by followers of Fruits Magazine. The terms "Harajuku Girls" and "Fruits" are not used by the Japanese to describe themselves.

There are many fashion styles, and many different groups who spend time in this area. You may see people dressed in the following styles: Gothic Lolita, Decora, Kogal, Ganguro, Wamono, Second-Hand Fashion, Cyber Fashion.

Gwen Stefani - How to Dress Harajuku Style

2008-07-10T02:19:00.000-07:00

Harajuku style originated among teens on the streets of the Harajuku Shopping District in Tokyo. It may have been brought to many people's attention by American singer Gwen Stefani, but the evolution of the style certainly didn't begin with her and it certainly won't end with her. Like many "street fashions" it is difficult to characterize, both because it is constantly changing and because it has many manifestations.

here is no cookie-cutter approach to the style, but if you want to dress in Harajuku style, here are some guidelines to get you started. read more..

Gwen Stefani admits being a workaholic

2008-07-09T01:54:00.000-07:00

Pop star Gwen Stefani "never wants to stop working".

The 38-year-old singer - who is currently expecting her second child with husband Gavin Rossdale - insists she is too driven and motivated to give up her career and become a stay-at-home mother.

She said: "I never want to stop working. I don't want to disappoint people and that pressure is kind of healthy. I never think that I've got it made.

"I've had my ups and downs but it has always been more to do with things on a personal level. Work has always been my way out of despair or anguish because it focuses you and I've always drawn a lot of strength from the things I've achieved in my life."

Gwen also revealed her life is more "special" since she had son Kingston, who is now two years old.

She added to Look magazine: "I've already accomplished everything I originally wanted to. Most of my dreams have come true. What has changed is that at this point in my life I also have the comfort that comes from knowing I'm making a family and that there's a different meaning to my work.

"It's a little more special now."

Gwen Stefani On V Magazine

2008-07-08T04:41:00.000-07:00

While some think its fabulously high fashion, other says its creepy and over photoshopped.

Gwen Stefani - Luxurious

2008-07-07T04:24:00.000-07:00

Gwen slows things down for the latest release from her 'Love Angel Music Baby' album. The single mix sees her going back to being hip hop Gwen with the help of hot new rapper, Slim Thug. The collaboration has already set the track off at clubs and urban radio stations on both sides of the Atlantic.

'Luxurious' is written by Gwen and No Doubt bandmate Tony Kanal. The familiar soul sample on the track is from The Isley Brothers 'Between The Sheets'. Hip hop fans will remember the sample being used on Notorious BIG's mid 90s classic 'Big Poppa'.

Gwen Stefani releases another hot jam in the form of 'Luxurious' on December 5th through Interscope records.
'Love Angel Music Baby' has just sold 1 million copies in the UK and includes all the smash singles to date - 'What You Waiting For', 'Rich Girl', 'Hollaback Girl' and 'Cool'.

Gwen recently made digital history by becoming the first artist to sell 1 million downloads for her single 'Hollaback Girl'.

Gwen Stefani isn't scared of weight gain anymore

2008-07-06T04:30:00.000-07:00

Gwen Stefani has talked many times about her weight, and how she really has to work at keeping thin. Which is my favorite celebrity statement to read. Nothing makes me more furious than reading that a celeb lost the baby weight running around after their new child, because I've discovered something – babies can't move!

Gwen says the time has come to relax when it comes to her fitness regime.

Did Gwen Stefani Have Breast Implants?

2008-07-05T04:37:00.000-07:00

These pictures of Gwen Stefani in a see through low cut top have us wondering if maybe the Harajuku girl had the world tiniest boob job. Fashionista Gwen is not the type of girl to get huge sex bomb implants, because Gwennie loves her couture and couture designers don’t make clothes for D cups. But this shirt definitely shows some unnaturally perfectly round breasts and we all know post-baby that just don’t happen without the help of some kind hearted plastic surgeon.

Fashion designing is tough - Gwen Stefani

2008-07-04T04:44:00.000-07:00

Fashion designer, singer Gwen Stefani says that designing is all about real hard work.

The ultra stylish singer, who is a mother of eight months old son Kingston revealed that she had never expected her L.A.M.B. clothing line to be so successful right away.

The 37 year old was quoted saying,

"Suddenly I had to come up with all these designs last year after getting feedback from what kinds of clothes had been selling after four years of being put there on the market."

Despite being very successful at designing, Stefani claims that her first love is music. She compares the two professions and says that designing is more like work for her compared to music which is her passion.

Gwen Stefani has paid tribute to Keane pianist

2008-07-03T04:53:00.000-07:00

The pair collaborated on 'Early Winter' on her new album 'The Sweet Escape', out this week. But as Stefani told MTV, the collaboration ended up being largely one-sided.
Speaking to MTV News, the singer also revealed the reason she ended up following up solo debut 'Love Angel Music Baby' so soon was a Linda Perry-penned song called 'Wonderful Life' that was held over.

Gwen Stefani's 'romantic' Gavin

2008-07-02T04:12:00.000-07:00

Gwen Stefani's 'romantic' Gavin
Gwen Stefani News - China Daily, China - Jul 6, 2008
Singer Gwen Stefani and her husband Gavin Rossdale attend the finals match between Rafael Nadal of Spain and Roger Federer of Switzerland at the Wimbledon ...USA TodayGwen Stefani's Federer tennis cheerMonsters and Critics.com - Jul 7, 2008

Gwen Stefani says she and husband Gavin Rossdale have got "more romantic" since having son Kingston. The 38-year-old singer - who is currently expecting her second child with former Bush frontman Gavin - admits her relationship with Gavin improved after they became parents.

She said: "I feel Gavin and I are closer in many ways now that we have a child together. We've both become more romantic and caring for each other." Gwen also revealed she found it difficult to leave Kingston to return to work.

She added: "Sometimes I feel very stressed and think it's insane to be having so much going on when all I want to is relax and play with Kingston, but I'm in love with my fashion label L.A.M.B now. "The simple reason I started my label was to have something creative in my life other than music. I pinch myself every day, every second, when I think how far things have come for me."

Hollaback Girl - Gwen Stefani

2008-07-01T05:30:00.000-07:00

Before she discovered she could write songs, Gwen Stefani was looking forward to a life of marriage, children, and white picket fences.

What's It Like Being Married to Gwen Stefani?

2008-06-30T05:32:00.000-07:00

Ever wondered what it would be like being married to an icon like Gwen Stefani? Well according to her gorgeous hubby Gavin Rossdale, "It's like marrying three different people a week, because you never know who's going to come out of the bathroom."

Although her fans adore every version of Gwen, Gavin insists his favorite is "Her five minute look. She looks perfect unmade-up."

Gwen Stefani Gives Back

2008-06-29T05:36:00.000-07:00

Gwen Stefani is more than just a music and fashion mogul. She's a philanthropist. She is donating $166,000 from her Oct. 30th San Diego concert to scholarships for student who lost their homes in the fires there this past fall.

The Gwen Stefani After-the-Fires Scholarship will be open to college students and graduating high school seniors who lost their homes or their source of income in the October fires, which killed at least 10 people and destroyed more than 1,700 homes.

The scholarship application deadline is Jan. 28, so get crackin on those essays!

Elle Magazine with Gwen Stefani

2008-06-28T05:40:00.000-07:00

Platinum pop star Gwen Stefani talks about her hit addiction, yodeling fantasies, and how she kicked her Madonna habit. Now she prepares to conquer the world, with baby in tow.

You know the story: Blonde Italian-American pop diva, music video emience, and all-round material girl marries a Brit artiste and moves to England. The relationship hits some bumps along the way, but a baby boy ensues and celebrity life keeps rolling. “It is weird that we have all these similarities,” Gwen Stefani allows as she nestles on a couch in one of the many rooms her entourage has taken in London’s Landmark hotel in mid-November. With a voice that hovers somewhere between sultry and Kewpie doll, the singer has a knack for sounding about seven years old: “Madonna’s had us over to dinner and stuff, and she’s always been very nice to me.”

Stefani, by contrast, will lose her flat

2008-06-27T05:45:00.000-07:00

Undeniably, there is a scale to Madge’s assult on the Old Country, everything from the horsey rural estate to the creeping mid-Atlantic accent. Stefani, by contrast, will lose her flat, half-swallowed Californian vowels when hell freezes over, and anyway, she hasn’t even truly relocated to England; she and Brit rocker husband Gavin Rossdale have for the past 10 years split thier time between the house in London’s tony Primrose Hill (neighbors on either side are Jude Law and his ex, Sadie Frost) and a manse in L.A..

But if Madonna does it bigger, it is no longer hersey to suggest that musically, Stefani does it every bit as well. After 17 years of fronting the redoubtable rock/ska/reggae band No Doubt (she should make the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on the strengh of one immortal break-up tune alone, “Don’t Speak”), Stefani took the solo plunge. Her 2004 giddy confession of dance tunes Love. Angel. Music. Baby. went triple platinum. (”I remember telling Madonna I was going to do an ’80s dance record,” Stefani says, “and she rolled her eyes, because I think when you’ve lived through it like she did, she’s like ‘Whatever.’ But alot of my influences came from her early work, like directly, like a Xerox.”) That album spawned one monster single, “Hollaback Girl,” a saucy cheerleader chant that taught teenage girls how to spell the word bananas and simultaneously established Stefani’s urban street cred as a white suburban rapper comfortable with the “S” word and with pop-hop notables the Neptunes’ marital beats.

“Gwen was always dope,” says Pharrell Williams

2008-06-26T05:49:00.000-07:00

producer and one half of the Neptunes. “If there was an ill black record out there, she knew what is was.”

Linda Perry, the songwriter-producer who made Pink into Pink, says she barged her way onto the Stefani solo team by physically accosting the singer at the Grammy awards in 2004. “I was pokin’ her on the head,” Perry says, “and I was like, ‘Dude, you gotta give me a call for the new record.”

Just last week, Stefani put the finishing touches on her new solo album, The Sweet Escape, which, if industry buzz and early radio play can be trusted, is poised to make a major impact. Less self-consciously retro than it’s prodecessor, The Sweet Escape employs the same working method as L.A.M.B.; Lock Gwen up in the studio with a blurry succession of dream-team producers all vying for that one megahit (can you spell bananas?), tape everything, toss it up in the air, and see what sticks. A likely recipe for disaster (which No Doubt purists, partial to human beings playing actual drums and bass, may well judge), but it works, mostly due to Stefani’s feckless, reckless impulse to try anything that pops into her head. Nothing is more out there than the album’s first single and video, “Wind It Up” — typically sinister Neptunes beats and Stefani, backed by a symphony orchestra, singing fragments lifted from The Sound of Music’s “The Lonely Goatherd.” (Yes, that’s right: “High on the hill was the lonley goatherd/ Lay, odl ay odl ay hee hoo.”)

Gwen Stefani Tour Memorabilia Charity Auction

2008-06-25T05:51:00.000-07:00

Bid on a chance to own a piece of memorabilia from Gwen's tour!
In an effort to raise money for two Orange County based charities, Gwen is offering fans the chance to acquire costumes and set pieces from her recent world tour. All proceeds will benefit the Orangewood Children's Foundation and the Children's Hospital of Orange County.

"When I saw how successful the last charity auction was, and how supportive and excited the fans were to be a part of it, I thought it'd be great to do another one. To be able to share these amazing costumes with my fans and raise more money for CHOC and the Orangewood Foundation at the same time is very exciting." - Gwen Stefani

Click HERE for more information!

Gwen Stefani nominated for a People's Choice Award!

2008-06-24T05:57:00.000-07:00

Gwen Stefani has been nominated for the People's Choice Award for Favorite Female Singer!

Click HERE to vote for Gwen and help her win!

Tune in to CBS on January 8th at 9PM EST to watch!

» www.pcavote.com

Special Web Store Offer

2008-06-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

Special offer! Receive a free Harajuku Girl doll with any total purchase of $40 or more from the Gwen Stefani web store featuring exclusive merchandise from Gwen's Harajuku Lovers and Sweet Escape world tours.

This offer is limited to one Harajuku Girl doll per order selected at random (Love, Angel, Music or Baby). While supplies last.

Gwen Stefani at Children’s Foundation Children’s Hospital

2008-06-22T06:05:00.000-07:00

Gwen Stefani will auction off memorabilia from her 2007 Sweet Escape world tour to raise money for California charities, the Orangewood Children’s Foundation and the Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC).

Gwen says: “When I saw how successful the last charity auction was (in 2007), and how supportive and excited the fans were to be a part of it, I thought it’d be great to do another one. “To be able to share these amazing costumes with my fans and raise more money for CHOC and the Orangewood Foundation at the same time is very exciting.”

The auction will hit eBay on March 8th.

Gwen Stefani Says No Doubt Are In The Studio 'Every Day,' Working On Album Expected In 2009

2008-06-21T06:17:00.000-07:00

t's hard to believe, but by the time No Doubt finish work on their next album, they will have released only one CD during George W. Bush's two terms in office. Of course, in the interim, singer Gwen Stefani has kept busy with two solo albums and a son (with another kid on the way). Meanwhile, guitarist Tom Dumont has produced albums by his pal Matt Costa, bassist Tony Kanal has helped Stefani on her solo efforts, and drummer Adrian Young played drums on Bow Wow Wow's 2004 tour

But, after several years of promises to get back to their day job, No Doubt are finally hunkering down in the studio to work on their first album of new material since 2001's Rock Steady. Stefani took to the message boards on the band's Web site on Friday to break the news.

"Been thinking so much about you all lately as I am back in the studio again with the boys, trying to write some new music," wrote Stefani, 38, who is expecting her second child with husband Gavin Rossdale this summer. "What an amazing few years it has been. So inspired going through the dance-record phase of my life. Thank you so much for all your support! The tour was incredible. We ended up doing over 100 shows around the world, and it was so rewarding and again inspiring. Thank you to everyone who came out to see it ... memories for life!

NO DOUBT - STEFANI GIVES UP ON SKINNY OBSESSION

2008-06-20T06:25:00.000-07:00

GWEN STEFANI has vowed to give up her obsession with her weight - because she is fed up with worrying about her body.
The pregnant singer has long been concerned with what others think of her physical image, but insists she is now learning to let go of her fitness fixation.
She says, "I've spent a lot of time wasted on it, thinking about it. Nowadays, I just try to realise how stupid it is, because nobody cares - except me!"

What is Digital Signage?

2008-05-23T07:40:00.000-07:00

by ROBERT MELKONYAN

As the name suggests, Digital Signage enables Screens (LCD, Plasma, TV, and Projector) to be installed within locations where the target audience can view the screens and the information that is being played on them.

Digital Signage can replace or enhance traditional printed signage and posters with the advantage of being updated from a central location at the press of a button. The ease and immediacy of updating Digital Signage content removes the numerous processes involved with printing, distributing and installing traditional printed material.

The ability to create date and time specific playlists of numerous types of media content including still images, animation, video and web pages make Digital Signage the perfect marketing tool for advertising products, promoting offers or distribution information to the viewers when you require and in an attractive and enticing way.

Digital Signage is being adopted by thousands of companies across many business sectors with each company benefiting from one or several of the advantages it offers, including:

* Brand reinforcement * The promotion of products and special offers * Corporate communication * Staff training * Generation of income from media advertising sales

With dozens of digital Signage software packages available today, making the decision which one to choose can seem impossible; what features do I require? What media does it support? What are the upfront costs? What are the ongoing fees? And most importantly, what are the hidden costs?

Find a company that keeps it simple and makes it extremely easy for anyone to upload, create multi-zone layouts, build playlists and distribute new content to one or a thousand screens and ensure that the new content is running where and when you specified. Technical Overview

* Compatible with a comprehensive range of Digital Signage hardware from 4” Shelf-Edge screens through to the latest 84” Digital Poster. * Multiple methods of communication from each location to the software servers including; standard phone line, ISDN, ADSL, GPRS/3G mobile telecommunications and satellite. * Up load and store your media content on the software servers ready for scheduling and distribution to your connected screens across thousands of sites. * Auto-archiving of media to ensure old content is separated from media currently in use. * Create and store multi-zone layouts incorporating, live streaming, stored media content and RSS/XML news feeds * Create and store playlists containing multiple media content ready for scheduling and distribution to your connected screens. * Set individual media files to expire at a specific date and time enabling automated playlist management. * Group your sites and screens as you require to enable quick and easy update to multiple screens or individual screen as and when you require. * Distribute your playlists and media content in advance with date and time specific instructions ready to commence playback when and where you require. * Every time a piece of media is played the date and time is stored in the software and is available in a range of reports for internal use or to prove to third parties that their advertisements have been played. * Comprehensive live diagnostics displayed in a graphical format showing the status of every screen connected to the software including automatic notification of screens that cannot be reached by the software. * Extensive security enabling the set-up and management of users with total control of access rights. Detailed audit trials for all software activity by individual user are stored and available for reporting by administrators. * This unique software has been developed to enable seamless integration with media planning and account systems proving a fully automated Digital Signage solution tailored to individual requirements of our customers.

Robert M endorses Chris Tyrrell who writes for James Hogg Display, experts in digital signage and audio visual equipment. Visit the website to learn more about this subject.

Related Articles - Digital Signage, technology, tv, monitors, projectors,

Privacy Policy for Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles

2008-05-18T07:43:00.000-07:00

If you require any more information or have any questions about our privacy policy, please feel free to contact us by email at kedarah@hotmail.com.

At Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles, the privacy of our visitors is of extreme importance to us. This privacy policy document outlines the types of personal information is received and collected by Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles and how it is used.

Log Files
Like many other Web sites, Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles makes use of log files. The information inside the log files includes internet protocol ( IP ) addresses, type of browser, Internet Service Provider ( ISP ), date/time stamp, referring/exit pages, and number of clicks to analyze trends, administer the site, track user’s movement around the site, and gather demographic information. IP addresses, and other such information are not linked to any information that is personally identifiable.

Cookies and Web Beacons
Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles does use cookies to store information about visitors preferences, record user-specific information on which pages the user access or visit, customize Web page content based on visitors browser type or other information that the visitor sends via their browser.

Some of our advertising partners may use cookies and web beacons on our site. Our advertising partners include Google Adsense, .

These third-party ad servers or ad networks use technology to the advertisements and links that appear on Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles send directly to your browsers. They automatically receive your IP address when this occurs. Other technologies ( such as cookies, JavaScript, or Web Beacons ) may also be used by the third-party ad networks to measure the effectiveness of their advertisements and / or to personalize the advertising content that you see.

Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles has no access to or control over these cookies that are used by third-party advertisers.

You should consult the respective privacy policies of these third-party ad servers for more detailed information on their practices as well as for instructions about how to opt-out of certain practices. Gwen Stefani Latest Hairstyles's privacy policy does not apply to, and we cannot control the activities of, such other advertisers or web sites.

If you wish to disable cookies, you may do so through your individual browser options. More detailed information about cookie management with specific web browsers can be found at the browsers' respective websites.

Accessibility of Photocopiers

2008-05-15T07:38:00.000-07:00

by JENNINFER CHILTON

The way photocopiers have changed in the last ten years is impressive, but this move into multifunctional digital devices has caused some problems with accessibility. The large operating buttons have been replaced by small touch screens and many people have found the lids much heavier to lift. New features have been developed recently which have the potential to drastically improve accessibility for disabled users.

Photocopiers have changed drastically in the last ten years, now being able to perform many more tasks than just duplicating hard copies of documents. These improvements in technology mean that many photocopiers use a built in hard drive so function in a different way to some older photocopiers. Although impressive, these changes sometimes cause a few problems with accessibility for disabled users, especially as small touch screens have replaced the old large, easily recognisable buttons. Photocopiers can perform many more functions and so need a screen to display all the options but this change meant that some people found them hard to access. However, a few photocopier manufacturers have now come up with ways to improve the accessibility of photocopiers.

Voice guidance kits are now available for visually impaired users which often work by having a small speaker attached to the side of photocopiers and use speech-output software to communicate with a user. The number pad is used to go through various functions, with the speech output guiding the user. Braille label kits can also be provided for some devices, making tactile buttons recognisable.

Automatic document feeders that are now included in photocopiers increased the speed at which multiple documents can be copied. However, where there used to be just a straight forward platen cover covering the platen glass, these often now incorporate automatic document feeding equipment, making them heavier to lift and especially difficult for wheelchair users. To combat this problem, an accessibility handle can be fitted to many photocopiers which makes lifting the document feeder much easier.

Touch screens can also be a problem as they are designed to be viewed from above and sometimes do not have very high contrasts making them difficult to access by wheelchair users and people with low vision. This problem has again been addressed by some photocopier manufacturers. The majority of photocopiers can now be networked. Software such as Remote Operator's software kit can be installed on the photocopiers, allowing users to access from a laptop or desktop PC, where the contrast and size of the information can be changed to make it more easily readable.

A number of measures have been taken to improve accessibility of photocopiers. Technology in photocopiers and their capabilities has improved vastly in the last ten years and should be accessible to everyone. Now that a few photocopier manufacturers have taken measures to improve accessibility for disabled users it should mean that more people will be able to take advantage of these new features and access them easily.

For more information about the accessability of photocopiers please click here.

Satellite communications by laser

2008-05-13T07:36:00.000-07:00

by SHANE ENNERSON
Satellites currently use radio waves to exchange data. Now the data rate has been increased a hundredfold by using lasers instead of radio signals. Two test satellites each carried a diode laser pump module developed with the help of Fraunhofer researchers.

The data whizzed back and forth at the speed of light between German satellite TerraSAR-X and US satellite NFIRE, covering more than 5000 kilometers in space without any errors. What was special about this space test recently performed by Tesat-Spacecom was that the data was transmitted by laser.

The bandwidth achieved in the test was a hundred times greater than during conventional communication by radio waves, enabling a data rate equivalent to roughly 400 DVDs per hour. This could make it possible to transmit large data packets between several satellites in the future, for instance to send image data from Earth observation satellites to a ground station. That has not been possible until now, as the bandwidth of radio waves is not large enough.

Another advantage of this new form of communication is that lasers are easier to focus than radio waves, which means that data transmissions can be directed more accurately.

The communication lasers on board the satellite are actuated by pump modules, which were developed to a large extent by researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT in Aachen on behalf of Tesat GmbH & Co. KG as part of a program financed by the German Aerospace Center (DLR).

“The modules have to withstand the vibrations and forces of acceleration on board the satellites during the launch and must then survive the inhospitable conditions in space – such as extreme radiation and strong temperature differences,” says Martin Traub, who led the developments at the ILT.

“We therefore tested the pump modules under extreme conditions in advance, subjecting them to temperatures of -35°C to 60°C, acceleration forces 1300 times as strong as those of the Earth, and gamma rays.” The modules mustn’t be too big or too heavy for use in space: Measuring 5 x 5 x 2 centimeters, they are barely larger than a matchbox, and weigh little more than a bar of chocolate at 130 grams.

“We achieved this minimal weight by selecting the right materials and a sophisticated housing: Any material that wasn’t absolutely essential was milled away,” says Traub. The major challenge is that, despite the reduced weight, the heat generated by the laser’s several-watt output still has to be dissipated.