Get Comfort and Style from Flex-Stretch Scrubs

Friday, September 3, 2010 by Liza Guikema
Last week I had the chance to stop by a Lydia's photo shoot- I love going behind the scenes! The models looked amazing in their scrubs from Lydia's and of course I had to ask them what looks they liked best. I talked with Rebecca and found out that she's a huge fan of the Flex-Stretch Scrubs.

Rebecca modeling a Flex-Stretch medical uniform ----->

My favorite outfit was the Flex-Stretch by Cherokee Flexibles. This top has a very stylish neckline that isn’t cut too low. The side panels were a great feature that added comfort and flexibility to move easier. And the pockets were very roomy, making it ideal for nurses on the go!

The scrubs pants are unbelievably comfortable. Everything from the waistband of the pants to the fabric made it feel like anything but a uniform! The elastic waistband was very nice and provided extra support. The flare leg style made it very fashionable and many pockets made it perfect for storing accessories. These are definitely pants that I would purchase for casual wear since they were so comfortable. The color I wore was Cinnabar. It is a great fall color and looks great on!
-Rebecca

Get Rebecca's look here!

Lydia's Picks

Wednesday, August 11, 2010 by Liza Guikema
Lydia, our VP of Merchandising, has carefully selected her top scrubs selections for the new fall season. Take a look and see what pieces inspired her with their fashion, quality, fit and comfort.



1. Lydia's Pro Stretch Jitterbug Knit Inset Crossover Scrub Top
2. Lydia's Pro Stretch Mambo Cargo Pocket Scrub Pant
3. L.A. Rose 100% Cotton Kate Contrast Side Tie Scrub Top
4. Lydia's Pro Stretch Cha Cha Framed V-Neck Scrub Top
5. Koi 100% Cotton Mariposa Fuchsia Demi Scrub Top
6. B Green by L.A. Rose Crewneck Scrub Top

Have you tried any of these medical scrubs yet? We would love to hear what you think of them!

Two New Collections You Won't Want to Miss!

Thursday, July 22, 2010 by Liza Guikema

This week I've had the chance to give you a sneak peek at new fall medical uniforms and I hope that everyone loves what they've seen so far. I know that I do :-)

With that being said, there are two new collections that I haven't told you about yet. It's been difficult not to mention them, but I'm excited to say that I finally have permission to spill the beans! In the new fall catalog, and online soon, we'll be presenting our very own and brand new Lydia's Pro Series and Pro Stretch uniforms and scrubs. These collections have been the talk of the office for weeks now; so much time and effort went into creating the perfect scrubs for Lydia's to call their own and everyone is more than happy with the results.

The new Pro Series and Stretch lines were strongly inspired by popular designer medical scrubs and I think you'll like what you see. We've taken features from some of your favorites to make two amazing collections of value scrubs. If the Koi Lindsey pant is a staple in your wardrobe then I recommend trying our new Starburst Pant. Love Urbane's sporty looks? Then definitely consider our new Peony top. The prices on these products cannot be beat!

I personally love affordable alternatives to stylish, designer looks and that's the main reason that I'm so excited about these new medical uniforms. I know that having affordable scrubs to choose from is also important to you, which is why I can't wait to hear what you think of these brand new collections! Keep an eye out for your new fall catalog or check back very soon to see these products online.

My Top Five for Fall

Thursday, July 22, 2010 by Mandy Lovell

Here in the Call Center we have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of our Fall Catalog. We love to get the first look at the new products and brands we can offer our customers. It finally arrived and I have picked out my top five favorite uniforms and I would love to share  them with you!!

1) Koi Kathryn Top Healing love
This top by Koi Uniforms is so adorable and cozy! This 100% cotton scrub top would be a great pick this Fall to wear during Breast Cancer Awareness month in October. We are also donating proceeds from this top to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. What a great way to give money to a good cause!!

2) Cherokee Flexibles Round Neck Scrub Top
All of the Flexibles line by Cherokee is super comfortable, but this style is one of my new favorites. The neckline is very feminine and will look great with all different color scoop neck tees underneath when it gets chilly outside. It also comes in stylish color choices. Check out the Bay Leaf and the Cinnibar colors, those are the perfect tones for the Fall season.

3) Wink Charlie Five Pocket Scrub top
This is a new collection that we brought on this Fall. These scrubs have such a clean and fun look to them at an incredible price. These unique scrubs feature a hidden pocket, insert for scissors and a badge holder. My favorite color combinations the Green Apple/Hunter Green or the Malibu/Navy. These would be great for group orders.

4) Sanita Claire Professional Clog
These shoes are comfortable for those long shifts because the sole carries heat and moisture away from your feet. Also, if you have plans after work, these will look great both in and out of the office!

5) B Green Short Sleeve Tee
This top is super soft and so cute with the screen-printed butterflies. This new line is made from organic cotton and recycled polyester (the tee is 100% cotton) and definitely adds some personality to your work wardrobe!



 

I would love to hear what your top five favorite items from Lydia's are! Leave a comment here.


Leaving Mitochondrial Disease in the Dust

Friday, July 2, 2010 by Melissa Q. (Web Team Supervisor)
I am Melissa, the Web Customer Support Supervisor here at Lydia’s. Last September, I volunteered at Payton’s Race for a Cure, a charity dirt bike race held in Cedar Springs, MI. The event was put on by Payton’s mother, Michelle, our Human Resources Generalist. Payton is five years old and when she was 18 months old she was diagnosed with Mitochondrial Disease.

Mitochondrial Disease is the body’s inability to produce the necessary amount of energy to maintain the day-to-day functions of the body. Ninety percent of your body’s energy is created by “the powerhouse” of a cell, mitochondria. When mitochondria fail, the human body cannot function as it is supposed to. Symptoms include the brain becoming impaired, muscle weakness and fatigue, seizures, gastrointestinal dysfunction, developmental delay, vision and hearing loss, and unexplained organ failure. A cure for Mitochondrial Disease has not yet been discovered. It is a relatively new disease resulting in limited research and lack of awareness.

There was a great turn out at last year’s event, and since then Michelle has founded Payton’s Race for a Cure as a non-profit organization. The 2nd annual event will be September 25, 2010. Michelle’s passion for awareness and fundraising has spread to many Lydia’s employees.

This Spring, Michelle approached me with the desire to create a website. The website would serve many purposes; first and foremost to spread awareness of the disease, but also to increase attendance and sponsors for the event. I was honored, touched and eager to start working on it. I immediately contacted my friends Margaret, who is a graphic designer, and Ben, who is a web programmer. Our team of three worked hard to make a site that Payton deserved and that we hoped could reach many more with the facts of Mitochondrial Disease.

I am pleased to announce the website is now up and running! Feel free to check it out at www.PaytonsRaceForACure.com and also friend us on Facebook.

Low Sale Prices on 5 Star Scrubs

Wednesday, June 30, 2010 by Liza Guikema

Our Jockey medical uniforms are currently marked way down and since this brand has received such positive reviews I thought you might be interested in shopping these looks while the prices are low.

Here are a few things to know about these scrubs before you get your very own pair. Jockey medical uniforms are incredibly comfy (just ask Caresse who tried them out during a Lydia's photo shoot). The knit fabric blend is soft to the touch and a little bit of stretch allows for easy movement. The colors are fun and vibrant-lagoon blue and plumberry are my two faves! And lastly, the prices are now only $12.99 to $14.99, so you can't go wrong.

Shop our collection of Jockey Medical Uniforms here. Already have a pair or two? Leave a comment and let me know what you think of these designer scrubs.



Get in Style in Baby Phat Scrubs

Wednesday, June 16, 2010 by Liza Guikema

"Baby Phat by Kimora Lee Simmons celebrates the diversity and beauty of the career-oriented woman - particularly those in the medical industry. We are a brand dedicated to providing women with certain elements of fashion, flair, and fabulosity in their everyday wardrobe needs.”
- Kimora Lee Simmons

The Baby Phat brand is all about fashion and their commitment to style is apparent in their collection of medical uniforms. With each new catalog I've noticed a common trend from Baby Phat: eye-catching prints and attention to detail (the top to the right is a perfect example!). I think it's safe to say that if you love Baby Phat looks for everyday wear, you'll definitely want to try their nursing scrubs and lab coats. Already own a pair of Baby Phat scrubsLeave a comment and tell me what you think!

Product Review: Med Couture E-Z Flex Scrub Top and Pants

Wednesday, June 9, 2010 by Liza Guikema

Green and navy make up one of my favorite color combos so I was instantly drawn to these looks from MedCouture by Peaches; they're so fresh and stylish!

I was happy to look at our customer reviews and see that our customers seem to love this look as much as I do. Here's what one customer, Lisa from California, had to say in her product reviews:

Love!
Love this top and matching pant. Color are great, fit is great. All around great scrub top!!
-Lisa, CA

Great Pants!
Absolutely love these pants (and matching top). The navy and apple are a refreshing combo, especially with the apple green long sleeve tee underneath! -Lisa, CA

So what do you think of this medical uniform from MedCouture? Is it your style or is there another look that you have your eye on? Leave a comment and share your thoughts!

Our Reps Pick Out their Favorite Nursing Bags!

Wednesday, May 26, 2010 by Mandy Lovell

Whether you are a recent graduate or have been in the medical field for many years a everyday work bag is an essential. We had our representatives pick which one was their favorite based on functionality and style. Here is what they had to say:Microfiber Tote
 

Melissa's Pick: Item #B505  Microfiber Tote                       

"I love this bag because of the durability, adjustable straps and zipper closure for security. The fabric can also be easily cleaned!"



Nursemates Ultimate Nursing Bag
Shelley's Pick:  Item #WUNB Nursemates Ulitmate Nursing Bag 

"The Ultimate Nursing bag is my favorite. You can fit everything you need for the day in one bag!"


Messenger Bag
Lindsay's Pick: Item # AP3200 Messenger Bag          

"The green messenger bag is fashionable and you can clip your keys or badge right to it. I also love how lightweight it is and that it has adjustable straps to go over your shoulder. This bag can also be personalized on the front with your name or a cute logo!"

                                                                         

Michelle's Pick: Item # Nursemates Ultimate Nursing Bag WUNB             Nursemates Ultimate Nursing Bag
                                       

"The Ultimate Nursing bag is great because of all the pockets for extra organization and the stylish stripes are great for a summer look!" 




Mandy's Pick: Item # AP3200 Nursmates Ultimate Mono Sack
Nursmates Ultimate Mono Sack
"I love that this bag can be carried on your back instead of your shoulder. I know carrying around bulky bags can get really heavy, so this would be great to put your lunch, keys, badge and wallet in when you are on the go."
 


Style Watch: What's IN for Summer 2010

Wednesday, May 26, 2010 by Liza Guikema
Nursing scrubs are all about style and comfort and this season is no different. Our summer collections are packed with fashion-forward looks and innovative styles that will work for you. As I flip through the pages of Lydia's latest catalog I can't help but notice a few stand-out trends that will definitely be a hit as the weather warms up.

The number one trend this season: Stand-out colors and prints! For example, these three looks can't be missed. 



From left to right: Baby Phat Scrubs Fashion Neck Top, Koi Ashley Scrub Top, L.A. Rose 100% Cotton Firestar Chestnut Contrast Side Tie Scrub Top

Another trend that's perfect for the warm weather is lightweight, cotton tops featuring summertime colors and prints. Since these stylish scrubs aren't heavy or thick they're the perfect pieces for a scorching hot day.

From left to right: Koi 100% Cotton Starry Bridgette Scrub Top, White Cross 100% Cotton Pucker Up Paisley Lilac Two Pocket Scrub Top, Koi 100% Cotton Waikiki Bridgette Scrub Top

So what trends have have you noticed while browsing through our new summer catalog? Leave a comment and tell us about your favorite!

Caring for your Stethoscope

Tuesday, May 25, 2010 by Melissa Q. (Web Team Supervisor)

A stethoscope is an investment to use while in school and throughout your career. The proper washing and handling extends the life and quality of your stethoscope and routinely cleaning your stethoscope will ensure optimal acoustic performance. Lighter colored ones are more susceptible to staining and looking grungy so you may want to opt for a darker color or commit to a regular cleaning regimen to keep it looking like new. The other reason to keep it clean is that 80% of stethoscopes used by doctors and nurses in hospitals are contaminated with microbes, mostly Staphylococcus.

The majority of tubing used on stethoscopes is made of PVC (polyvinylchloride) which becomes hard when exposed for long periods of time to the lipids found in human skin. Wearing the stethoscope around the neck may cause stiffening of the tubing over time. If worn around the neck, wear the stethoscope over a collar or use a stethoscope cover, away from contact with your skin.

General cleaning instructions:
  • Do not immerse your stethoscope in any liquid or subject it to any sterilization process. If disinfection is required, the stethoscope may be wiped with a 70% isopropyl alcohol solution
  • Keep your stethoscope away from extreme heat, cold, solvents and oils
  • Ear tips may be removed from the ear tubes for thorough cleaning
  • Before and after every shift, wipe down the stethoscope, starting at the earpieces (which helps prevent the spread of ear infections among the staff), continuing down the tubing, and ending around the bell and diaphragm. Take the diaphragm apart to remove dust, lint, or debris and clean it well before reassembling it.

Tips:
  • Remove ink stains – peroxide
  • Armor All your stethoscope to remove scuffs
  • Keep the box/packaging it comes in when storing it in your backpack or work tote keep.
  • You don't want to use anything abrasive to clean a stethoscope because it will end up looking worse. Wiping it with a disinfectant will get the marks off as well as anything.
  • After trying on your scrubs, wash them before wearing them. This will prevent any dye rubbing off on your tubing when wearing it around your neck or storing it in your pocket.
  • You want to be careful when you clean the tubing on your stethoscope. Too many applications of alcohol or Cavicide will cause it to stiffen and crack. Every once use a tire dressing. It's meant to keep rubber tires supple and lubricated and it works just dandy on stethoscope tubing too. Just make sure you buff off the excess.
  • Use disposable covers. Available in various styles, the most useful covers are designed for single use. They're made of thin plastic, which prevents crackling sounds. Most covers protect the bell and diaphragm and the tubing leading to the stethoscope's bifurcation. Ask your infection control coordinator about these covers.

Leave a comment and share your tips
for cleaning and caring for a stethoscope. Need a new stethocope? Shop our stethoscopes and medical supplies here.

Ask Liza

Tuesday, May 18, 2010 by Liza Guikema
Send me your questions about products, sizing, styles or anything regarding your medical uniforms and I'll answer them here on the blog. Today's question is from Rose:


Q. I have over 40 of the cutest fashionable as well as traditional scrubs in a wide variety of colors. I love them all and enjoy wearing them, some have hardly been worn. Unfortunately my hospital just changed our policy that all RNs wear royal blue. I can see the logic but for me it was a tragedy because it throws a wrench in my love for getting dressed for work. What's worse is all the money I spent for these clothes where now I can't wear over 80% of them. I'm finding some of the scrubs, esp. Koi, cross over well for streetwear. A lot of them don't crossover like the Greys Anatomy junior tops (I have 8 of these!). Some tops I can sleep in. People have recommended donating, selling, or making bags out of them. All good ideas but I still wish I could just wear them so I won't feel like I've wasted so much money. If you've heard of any ideas of how other nurses with large closets have handled this problem, throw them my way. This all seems so unimportant especially since I see real problems that my poor patients deal with, but I'm really bummed out about this. Thanks!

A. Hi Rose, thanks for the question. It sounds like you're on the right track with your ideas about reusing your medical scrubs. Here are a few more suggestions: 

If you intend to use these medical scrubs again in the future, (at a different job or if you expect the dress code of your current job to change again) then I think it's a great idea to hold on to them.
I would look at each piece and see how it would work best in your wardrobe. If you have a pair that are incredibly comfy, try using them as exercise apparel. Scrubs are made to move, so many of them would work perfectly during a session on the treadmill. And why not take another pair and turn them into PJs? If they're clean, soft and comfortable, then go for it! As for your most fashionable pieces, like the Koi Uniforms you mentioned, incorporate them into your everyday wardrobe. Pair your stylish scrub tops with jeans and cute shoes and nobody has to know you're wearing scrubs. And lastly, take your functional medical uniforms and wear them when you work at home. Put all those pockets to good use when you're spring cleaning or working in the garden. These tops and pants are made for hard work, so why not use them when you're working off the job?

If you don't intend on wearing these scrubs to work again, pass them on or repurpose them. Many organizations, like thrift stores or relief groups will gladly accept these scrubs as donations. Get a receipt for this donation and you could claim it as a deduction on your taxes. One Lydia's customer even suggested donating them to a local theatre company.

If you can't afford to donate, you can always sell them. E-bay, consignment shops and Cragislist are a few places to start.

Still looking for ideas; get creative! An employee here at Lydia's made these amazing quilts out of print tops. I also had a customer share that she created a pillowcase for her toddler out of the cartoon prints. Pick out your favorite prints and create something new and one of a kind. Anything goes from blankets to bags or a whole new piece of clothing!

Best of luck! Let us know what you decide to do.


Lydia's Staff Picks for Summer 2010

Friday, May 14, 2010 by Liza Guikema
Leesa's Pick: Lydia's Spyro Gyra Print Mock Wrap Top
My pick is from the new low priced Lydia’s Exclusives. I like this print because it is only $11.99 yet because of the artistic print and wrap styling, it looks as if it could be from the designer line KOI.  I love the blast of color that can easily be worn with basic white scrub pants.  It is quick way to update the everyday wardrobe without breaking the bank.  Another bonus for me is that it is a comfy 100% cotton!


Amanda's Pick: Do No Harm scrubs
They’re environment friendly and I think it’s cool that they’re made from recycled bottles!  Plus, they are cute scrubs :)



Melissa's Pick: Peaches Jamaican Blue Pop Tina Tunic Top
This print is fun! The style has a bohemian feel and it is long, I see a lot of customers purchasing longer items lately. I also hear customer talk about sometimes wearing undershirts so they are covered when they lean over patients. This top has a piece placed at the neck to help with that.



Liza's Pick: Peaches 100% Cotton Webbed Floral Heidi Scrub Top
This print is so pretty and the style is flattering on everyone. I love that you can coordinate it with different color blues or white pants and get multiple outfits from the same top.



Rachel's Pick: Koi 100% Cotton Friends Bridgette Scrub Top
I really love the Bridgette scrub top by Koi. The print is so modern, and the peasant styling means comfort all day long (while still looking cute!).

You've Got Mail! Our Summer Catalog is On the Way

Tuesday, May 11, 2010 by Liza Guikema
The Lydia's Summer catalog is in the mail and as usual it's filled to the brim with great new pieces. Here are a few hints on what to look for this season:

If you love an amazing deal you don't want to miss the new looks from Lydia's Own Collection. There are a variety of mock wrap print tops that are affordable and feature a flattering fit.

If high-fashion is your thing then make sure to browse the latest looks from Koi and LA Rose. These brands' innovative styes will keep you looking good on the job.

For more suggestions, stay tuned, later this week I'll share the top picks from a few Lydia's employees.




Win Your Wishlist from Lydia's Uniforms

Tuesday, May 4, 2010 by Liza Guikema

The Win Your Wishlist contest is back and we're giving away $250 worth of uniforms and scrubs to one lucky winner. It's easy to enter, just log in to your Lydia's account and create a wishlist between now and May 12th, 2010. We'll randomly select one wishlist winner on May 13th and announce it right here on the blog. The winner will receive up to $250 in goods from Lydia's.

This is one of my favorite contests because you get the chance to win whatever YOU pick out from Lydia's. The prizes are all up to you :-) So what items are going on your wishlist this week? Is there a designer lab coat that you've been eyeing or a pair of Merrell Shoes that you can't wait to get your hands on? Spill it!

Click here for the official rules.

Fashion Details Make All the Difference

Thursday, April 15, 2010 by Liza Guikema
Last week I introduced you to Do No Harm Scrubs. I shared a few details about what makes this new brand of green scrubs so functional and unique (anti-microbial and moisture wicking features just to name a few). Today I want to look at these nursing scrubs from a different point of view and talk about what makes them so fashionable. In my opinion, it's the little details that make all the difference, take a look:









So what details do you love-tie back tops that fit great or fun buttons that add a touch of fashion? Tell us about your favorite stylish scrubs here.


Become a Lydia's Video Star

Monday, April 12, 2010 by Liza Guikema
National Nurses Week 2010 is just around the corner and we can’t wait to celebrate all of the nurses who do so much. Throughout Nurses Week we will be featuring nurses from around the country on the Lydia’s Blog and we want to include YOU!

Love to be in the spotlight? Here’s what to do:

1. Create a short video of you and your co-workers. Need some inspiration on what to include in your video? Here are a few ideas. Choose one of these or come up with your own.
  • Show off your Lydia’s scrubs. Tell us what you love about them and how they work for you in a video review. Or, put your work wardrobe on display. Show us which scrubs you coordinate and coordinate your uniforms each workday. You could even get all your co-workers together and put on a uniform fashion show; strut your stuff!
  • Tell us about your job. What is it that you do and why do you love being a nurse? It is Nurses Week after all so it’s time to brag a little about your profession.
  • Make a quick video on lunch or in the break room. Introduce yourself and your co-workers and tell us about yourself. We want to see the fun side of your nursing team!

2. Click here to upload your video to Lydia’s Uniforms by May 1st, 2010.

3. Look for your video on the Lydia’s Blog during Nurses Week 2010 (week of May 6th).

Commonly Asked Questions from the Call Center

Thursday, April 8, 2010 by Mandy Lovell

One of the top questions we receive in the Lydia's Call Center is:

How do I know if these items will match in color?

We carry many brands that may have similar colors and we want to make sure you look professional as well as stylish when you are at the workplace. We always recommend staying within the same brand if you would like your scrubs to match up. Sometimes when you select different brands they may have the same color but since they are made by different companies they may be a shade different.

Another frequently asked question is:

Can I search by brand on the website?

Of course! We provide you with that option right on our homepage. Simply click on Brands at the top of the Lydia’s homepage and select your favorite scrub uniforms. Whether it is Koi scrubs or Landau medical uniforms they are sure to match up if you select items within the same brand

Can’t find your favorite style pant in the same brand as the top you ordered? Give us a call @ 800.942.3378 and we will do our very best to recommend a pant for you that matches in color as close as possible!
 

Lydia's Introduces Do No Harm Medical Uniforms

Tuesday, April 6, 2010 by Liza Guikema

I’m happy to share the news that Lydia’s now carries Do No Harm uniforms and scrubs. These medical scrubs are completely one of a kind and so far I love what I see. Here’s a little bit of info about these unique scrubs:

  • Do No Harm uses only sustainable fibers which are made from recycled water bottles.
  • Their uniforms feature an anti-microbial technology geared toward protecting you and your patients by prohibiting bacteria growth.
  • They also feature anti-odor and moisture-wicking qualities, which create comfort.

And in addition to all that they’re stylish- what more could you ask for?
 
I think these new uniforms have a lot to offer and I look forward to hearing what you think of them. Already tried them out? Leave a comment here and share your opinion.

 

Barco Scrubs- Which Collection Do You Like Best?

Wednesday, March 24, 2010 by Liza Guikema
There are so many stylish and professional pieces from Barco Scrubs that I thought I would take a poll to see which collection our customers like best. There are four to choose from: Crayola Threads, Grey's Anatomy Uniforms, Moving Comfort and NRG. So which collection from Barco Uniforms is your favorite? Take your pick: