Modest Makeup | post 08

Modesty, Noun

1.  freedom from conceit or vanity

2.  propriety in dress, speech, or conduct

Modesty.  Do you know what that is?  Well according to Merriam-Webster.com it is defined as freedom from conceit or vanity, propriety in dress, speech, or conduct.
Now what does propriety mean?  You can either click on this {link} for the literal definition, or summed up it can mean proper, decent, appropriate, polite or TRUE NATURE....

"God has given you one face and you make yourself another" - Hamlet

In a recent article on Yahoo.com, they shared a photo of a reality television star, Nicole 'Snooki' Polizzi without ANY make up on.  Now Snooki is notoriously known for fake bake'n it up, layers of bronzer, fake eyelashes, radical hair colors, and tons of cosmetics applied to her face.  What do you think?  Better with or without make up?  In my opinion, she looks TONS better without-  she went from Oompa Loompa to Snow White! ;)  .....

Ever wonder why women start wearing make up in the first place?  It usually starts in your teens and doesn't end until you're very mature.  Teenage young ladies wanting to look more grown up, trying to fit in with peers, wanting to fix their 'flaws', or maybe trying to mimic a famous celeb's image, will start wearing cosmetics to 'make up' for lack of self confidence and individuality.  They can then form a life long habit and mind set believing that they ONLY look good with make up on.

In the article on Yahoo of Snooki wearing no makeup, nearly all the comments agreed that she looked much better without it, yet our society is constantly flashing advertisements giving ideations that we NEED make up to fit in and look good.  In this day it truly takes self mastery to NOT wear make up.

When I was a teenager, I used to perform in Hawai'i in front of tourists dancing hula and tahitian and we were told to wear heavy make up and false lashes because the bright lights would wash out our features.  I'm pretty sure this is the same thing many celebs and models need to do since they are constantly in front of cameras and bright lights.  Now that I'm older I don't wear heavy makeup and occasionally wear light make up for special outings, occasions and usually for church.  I don't always feel confident with out any make up on {I'm no Angelina Jolie} but do think that when you are wearing make up casually, then it should be JUST to enhance the features that you have and not let them get hidden by wearing too much.  You should not look completely different when you do or don't wear make up.  Embrace who you are and the beauty that you have.

To the brave and confident women who don't ever wear any makeup I applaud you.  To those who do, I suggest to keeping it natural and modest.  You don't want to look like someone else when all that makeup comes off.  You are probably very gorgeous if not MORE without any on!  Don't be fooled by celebrities or cosmetics ads.  No one is flawless!  If you do end up going heavy on the makeup then I wold recommend only for VERY special occasions.  Buy cosmetics in natural shades and tones.  Try to stay away from all those very tempting colors- greens, reds, purple, orange, blue {unless you know how to use them}.  Hope this article helps you to reflect on how you do your makeup, how much makeup you put on, if it's modest, and why you do.  Remember that you were created in the image of God and as my husband likes to say, "if it isn't broken don't fix it!" 

{continue reading ...}

What's Your Season | post 07

I think this is something that every person should know. What season are you? Are you a Spring, Summer, Fall or Winter? When I say season I'm talking about your color palette, the colors that most compliment your skin tone and features....

*

You might wonder why this is important? Knowing your season helps to brighten you up!  It'll also help to most flatter you features, making your brown eyes browner and your blue eyes sparkle!  You season will make you look your best, especially when trying out new fashion trends. Have you ever bought something in the wrong color and people commented, asking you if you're feeling well or not?  Well, once I dressed my kids in cute outfits, but the wrong season, and everyone asked me if they were okay! If you are wearing the wrong color for your skin type it can really wash you out.

Your season is not limited to just your wardrobe but also include your hair and eye color too.  Ever notice how a natural red head just stuns in green?  Check out the photo below of Emma Stone and how that green dress compliments her skin tone and hair and truly makes those gorgeous green eyes stand out!  In some cases, your eye color can 'change' depending on the color and shade you wear.  The season that flatters you can highlight the different tones in your eyes.

*

It's amazing to see the difference complimentary colors make!  Finding out your color palette will help you to feel confident in your clothes and will make shopping loads easier.  Although an expert is the best person to ask when you want to know what your season is, you can also take {THIS QUIZ}!

{continue reading ...}

Define your Style | post 05

What's YOUR style?

There are many different styles and trends to follow and sometimes it's hard to know exactly what YOUR style is.  Well, we're here to help!  We've come up with a few categories that will help you determine your style while staying classy and chic.  The categories are DownTown, Feminine, Rustic, Vintage, UpTown, Prep, and Breezy...

Downtown

*

Someone who dresses 'DownTown', loves to make a statement.  Your style often turns a few heads.  You love to accessorize with BOLD prints or colors.  You enjoy mimicking popular celebrities for style updates.  When applying makeup you go for eye catching colors.  Your hair color and hairstyle is always evolving with the seasons {about every 3 months}.  Your jewelry, glasses and handbags are not what you'll see your mother in law wearing. ;) You love to follow trends and when you see a new piece on the shelves you are quick to buy it.  You enjoy wearing leather or exotic patterns.  Your style is not for wall flowers, drawing attention where ever you go.   

Celebrities who dress in a DownTown manner include: Keri Hilson, Jennifer Lopez, the Kardashians, Halle Berry, Beyonce, Rihanna, Victoria Beckham, Gwen Stefani, Tyra Banks and Britney Spears.

Keep it Classy:

DON'T OVER DO IT when dressing this way.  With your makeup, we understand that you want to use fun colors but be careful not to be doing too much- you don't want to end up dressing in drag.  When using animal or graphic prints be careful not to look like cat woman- try one area such as your sandals, belt, purse, top/bottom.  To play prints down even more, you can add just a hint of style with a hair feather accessory or statement earrings.  If you have to be conservative {such as in a work place or at church} you can incorporate your style into your outfit with printed nails, a sassy watch or a trendy umbrella.  Try an edgy leather jacket or printed scarf over a more casual dress.   

Feminine  

*

Someone who is Feminine loves to wear soft colors.  You dress in a timeless, classic manner that always looks great no matter what the occasion.  Floral prints are a favorite.  You opt for subtle, natural makeup and hairstyles.  All though you dress fashionable it's always understated.  You enjoy buying delicate fabrics such as lace, crochet, cashmere, and chenille.  Your 'go to' jewelry include pearls, diamonds, and fabrics {ribbons and flowers} which are in pastel or neutral colors.  Your hair has soft layers and is most often mid length or long, embracing your womanhood.  You purchase many loose and flowing materials.  You know how to show your femininity without wearing skin tight clothing.  Your smile and personality are your favorite accessories.  

Celebrities who dress Feminine are the Duchess of Cambridge (Catherine Middleton), Angelina Jolie, Natalie Portman, Jessica Alba, Olivia Wilde, Katie Holmes, Keira Knightly, Jennifer Aniston, Rachel Mcadams and Kerry Washington.

Keep it Classy:

Slips please!  When buying clothing they may sometimes be shear so wear an under garment or a slip if necessary.

Rustic

*

A Rustic styled woman is someone who loves nature and the outdoors.  You often live in the country, mountains or near the beach.  Your jewelry consists of shells, pearls, feathers, metals and stones.  For those who live in the country or mountains you aren't afraid to pair a dress with some cowboy or military boots.  Your hair is natural or if colored it's understated.  Braids are a common way to style your hair and you dress it up with a flower.  Many times your favorite accessories are belts or hats.  When wearing makeup {if any} you choose neutral tones or even only a hint of mascara.  You may own a vest or two, faux fur, and a jean-material jacket.  You like to buy floral or plaid patterns and cotton is your 'go-to' fabric.  You have a great pair of jeans and even some that were bought with styled 'holes'.  If you live in the country you enjoy buying clothing in yellows and muted colors, and by the beach you love blues, green and reds. 

Celebrities who dress Rustic are Kerry Underwood, Taylor Swift, Karina Petroni, Faith Hill, Shania Twain, Alana Blanchard, Hanah Teter, Miranda Lambert, Gretchen Bleiler, LeAnn Rimes and Martina Mcbride.

Keep it Classy:

You may have faux fur but pleaaseee don't wear it on EVERYTHING and please, please, don't wear a faux fur 'tail'.  Also, try to keep your style simple so you don't look like you tried too hard and came straight from the Boonies. Floral is wonderful but be careful not to look like a walking curtain.  Try adding natural elements like a metallic and gem necklace.

Vintage

*

A Vintage styled woman loves to do it old school, usually choosing a particular decade or mixing in between a few.  You are seen wearing your signature red lips, with black eye liner, and rose cheeks.  You have mastered a few vintage hairstyles from your favorite icons, including the 'beehive'.  Consignment and thrift stores are where you find your best pieces or you may even make them yourself.  Your favorite statement piece is owning an apron with frills!

Celebrities who dress Vintage are Kelly Osbourne, {the late} Amy Winehouse, Emily Deschanel, Emma Stone, Adele, Debi Mazar, Katy Perry and Zooey Deschanel. 

Keep it Classy:

Although you dress Vintage your wardrobe doesn't have to be old!  Look for a few vintage inspired pieces and update them into your own.  Also be aware of how high your beehive is, it's not supposed to attract real bees.  A conservative way to incorporate vintage style with accessories are with brooches and antique jewelry.  If you wear red lips make sure that the color goes well with your skin tone and don't go too heavy on your eyeliner.  Lastly, shoulder pads are a trend that all women should never bring back!

UpTown

*

The UpTown gal is a woman who may be working 40 hours a week.  You own a few feminine suits, blazers and vests.  You wear classic colors such as navy, beige, black and white.  One of your favorite hairstyles are either a top knot or a short bob.  You are independent and want everyone to know.  You stay away from frills, dress a bit more conservative and mean 'all business'.  Your makeup is conservative and the boldest you'll venture with color are with red lips.  Your accesories include jewelry that show power such as diamonds, gold, silver, and platinum. 

Celebrities who dress in an UpTown style include Michelle Obama, Kate beckinsale, Jada Pinkett Smith, Oprah Winfrey, Michele Bachman, Sarah Palin, Ivanka Trump, and Melania Trump.

Keep it Classy

Sometimes your look can seem a bit harsh or too powerful and it can make you seem unapproachable. Incorporate a softer touch with your style.  Try experimenting with metallics or even sequins.  Wear a lace top under a blazer, add a pop of color with accessories like scarves, or bright bags.  On days when you can dress a bit more casual where nice dress pants with a silk blouse or buy your suits in more feminine colors (like Michelle Obama, above).

Prep

*

Prep, or Preppy fashion is a mixture of UpTown, suburbia and nautical.  Your look screams clean, modest and conservative and may even boast a little wealth.  You love to shop at high end, name brand shops.  You prefer a skirt or dress to pants or shorts.  Pearls and diamonds have taken over your jewelry box.  You obey a few fashion laws that apply to this style, such as never pairing black and brown, gold and silver, never wearing white shoes after Labor Day, always matching your shoes and belt, always matching your shoes and purse, and of course- tucking in any shirt with a shirttail. You own tweed.  You always wear hose with a dress or skirt {unless wearing open toe shoes}.  You aren't afraid to wear a suit top with a skirt.  You live in fine silk blouses and you own a few sweater vests.  Let's not forget those polos!  When dressing casual you wear prints that remind you of the ocean- anchors, sailboats, and seagulls.  Your hair is always sharp, styled and never left loose.  Your calling card are matching accessories or a cardigan over your shoulders.  

Celebrities include Emma Watson, Mischa Barton, Pippa Middleton, Michele Williams, Blake Lively, Elizabeth Mckay, Kourtney Kardashian {and beau Scott}, Reese Witherspoon and the preppy guru Ralph Lauren.

Keep it Classy

Although you prepsters follow strict rules it's okay to relax every once in a while.  Style and fashion should be fun.  Even though you tend to shop in expensive stores, don't be afraid to search a thrift store for name brand items to finish your outfit. 

Breezy

*

Breezy, or Care Free are women who don't have any particular favorites when it comes to fashion. You enjoy wearing your boyfriend's {or husband} sweater or even baggier jeans.  Your favorite go to shirt is a cotton tee.  Your look is simple and you never have a single moment where 'I took 30 minutes to put this look together'.  You often throw your hair up in a pony tail or unkempt bun, or if it's down you simply brushed it.  A favorite jeans and shirt is what you wear and if you do try to spice it up you just add heels.  You may own a couple pieces of jewelry but if you aren't wearing your 'signature' piece you don't wear them too often.  Your make up {IF ANY} is very natural and subtle.  The most accessorizing you do is to throw on your favorite hat and maybe a pair of glasses.  Your hair is never edgy and at most will have a few highlights or coloring that is easy to maintain.  When going for a walk or to the store you don't mind wearing sweats or khakis. When going out the most fashionable you get is by throwing on a graphic tee. 

Celebrities who are sometimes Breezy {let's face it most celebrities are too absorbed with their reputation to dress this way} include Jessica Alba, Cameron Diaz, Vanessa Hudgens and Jennifer Aniston.

Keep it Classy

Dressing Care Free is supposed to be simple, easy and look effortless- but don't look Care LESS.  Please attempt to put some thought into your outfit.  There's a time and a place for everything so don't go frolicking around the mall ANYWHERE in pajamas {or Pajama Jeans}.  Your style is low maintenance so spice it up with polished nails, a splurge on your 'favorite jean' or tee.  If your clothes weren't tailored to have holes in it then it's time to toss it.  If you are going to be going to a place that requires you to be a tad more sharp try wearing a blazer over a tee with jeans and cute wedges.  If you are going somewhere such as Church or a special event then invest in a comfortable spring dress or nice dress pants if dresses just aren't your thing.   

Hope you were able to determine your style.  Keep it Classy.  Don't be afraid to mix one style with another.  Be unique and original but most of all have fun.  By understanding what your style is you should be able to shop easier and look towards role models who display similar fashion tastes.

{continue reading ...}

Perfect fit for you body | post 02

Before we get into depth about dressing modestly, you need to know how to dress yourself, not just what is popular, but what really flatters you.  You need to choose clothes to help accentuate your assets and cover your problem areas.   There are many things to consider when wanting to make the most out of the way clothes look on you: your body shape, height, age, bone structure, face shape, neck length and circumference, shoulder width, leg length, skin tone, hair color, and even eye color.  Knowing these basics will help you to be able to shop for the right style, color, and accessories....

*

{Determining your body shape}
There are some easy ways for you to know what shape you are.  You can use a tape measure and find out what your measurements are, get a photograph and using a marker outline your shape {like above}, or even look it up on websites such as this one.  A good tip is to look at celebrities whom have a similar body shape as your own and learn how they use their clothing to proportion their figures- **but remember that they often use photoshop and other camera illusions to alter the way we view their figures.

Apple shapes want to wear v necks or wrap around tops to help visually 'break up' your torso. Long tops, long and simple necklaces, flared pants or fuller skirts will even out your proportions.  Wear belts on your smallest part of your body, not your hips, to help distinguish your waist.  Don't wear empire shaped tops or baby doll tops.  Apple shaped women usually have larger bust lines, stomachs and or arms than their hips; sometimes considered 'top heavy'.   A few celebrities who are apple shaped are Sigourney Weaver, Queen Latifah, Catherine Zeta Jones, Tyra Banks and Jennifer Hudson.

Pear shapes want to add lots of attention to your top half.  Choose medium to high neck lines.  Layering your shirts and using chunky necklaces, scarves, and even shoulder pads will help to even your proportions and draw your eye up.  Cowl neck tops help to exaggerate the bust line and padded bras add volume.  Wear boot cut, straight, or flared bottoms to help even out your waist to bust ratio.  Avoid wearing baggy clothing, tapered skirts and clothing that draws your eye downward.  Pear shaped women have large bottoms, hips and or thighs with smaller busts, waists and shoulders.  Celebrities who are pear shaped include Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna, Kim Kardashian, Nicki Minaj, Beyonce and Serena Williams.

Wedge shapes {or inverted triangle} should avoid wearing clothing that draws attention to your bust or shoulders.  Do wear flared or boot cut jeans and avoid straight or skinny jeans.  Tops that help to divide your torso are essential, as well as flared tops {in picture}.  Accentuate your lower half to distract from the top. Wearing bell or circle skirts are your best bet.  Long and simple necklaces will help to draw your eye down.  Women who are wedge shaped have broad shoulders, a large bust, or both.  Your waist  and hips are slim and your bottom is small.  Celebrities that are wedge shaped are Angelina Jolie, Demi Moore, Victoria Beckham, Charlize Theron, and Audrina Patridge. 

Rectangle shapes need to wear fitted clothes that define their waist. Use belts and ribbons on your smallest area to create a waist.  Chunky jewelry or scarves will help to emphasize your top.  If you have a small bust then wear padded bras to add volume.  You can also wear boots and bold shoes.  When shopping, look for horizontal patterns or wide bands that go across your hips or waist.  Rectangle body types tend to be boyish or athletic & muscular and are usually on the slim side; with bust, waist and hips around the same diameter.  Many times they have smaller busts.  When gaining weight, it usually tends to hang on your waist or back 'love handles'.  Celebrities who are rectangular include Keisha, Fergie, Jessica Biel, Cameron Diaz, and Hope Solo.

Hour Glass figures are one of the easiest body types to shop for but have to be careful not to accentuate the bust or hips too much, other wise it will become immodest.  You need to wear the perfect compliment of fitted and loose.  One way to do that is to use layers.  You can also use flowy  fabrics and feminine touches such as flowers and pastel colors.  Avoid skinny jeans or leggings unless wearing longer, loose shirts and tall boots.  Don't put too much emphasis on your waist.  Women who have hour glass figures are around the same diameter in their busts and hips (no more than 3 inches apart).  They have slim waists and gain weight equally in their top and bottom.  Often considered curvy, or thick and don't have defined hip bones or ribs.  You could also be an hourglass figure and be petite *see below.  Celebrities include Jessica Simpson, Sofia Loren, Marilyn Monroe, Katherine Heigl, and Scarlett Johansson.

Petite woman need to wear items that will add length to their body.  Wearing fitted clothing that isn't too tight is essential so that their body does not get lost in the fabric.  Flowers in your hair and headbands are ways to enhance length.  Wearing tall sandals are also ways to give the illusion of height.  Avoid wearing chunky jewelry or busy fabrics because that'll add the illusion of weight and shorten your appearance.  If wearing outer wear make sure it is fitted and cropped- not long!  Pinstripe pants are another way to lengthen your image.  Avoid skirts that go pass your knees because that'll only shorten you more.  Don't use oversized purses, opt for clutches or wallets.  Petite women are short and thin. They most often have hour glass figures, occasionally wedge or rectangle shaped, with the rare apple figure.  Petite celebrities are women such as Keira Knightly {rectangle}, Jada Pinkett Smith {hour glass}, Lucy Liu {pear}, Natalie Portman {rectangle}, Eva Mendes {hour glass}, Jessica Alba {hour glass}, Shakira {pear}, Rachel Mcadams {pear} and Dolly Parton {apple}.

Maternity wear is something to consider when choosing clothes that fit your body.  I like to break it up into three stages.  The first stage is when you are just barely showing.  You can wear tops that are rouched, and comfortable bottoms.  They now sell maternity pants that have a spandex top to grow with your belly- or you can simply loosen your top button and keep a belt on.  Wearing wedge sandals elongate yourself as you gain weight.
During the second stage, your stomach is pronounced and you can no longer conceal that you are pregnant.  You should wear fitted maternity clothes NOT baggy clothes.  Baggy clothes will give you the appearance that you are fat and not pregnant.  Wear empire tops so that they are fitted in your bust (remember no cleavage) and loose over your stomach.  Cardigans that are wavy help to conceal weight on your back/love handles while being open for your stomach.  Wear flats to be most comfortable and safe- you'll be waddling!
The last stage is postpartum.  Your baby has arrived and you want to be seen in photos and in front of friends in more than just sweats.  Wearing layers will help to conceal gained baby weight until you return to your pre pregnancy figure.  Wear a wide belt that fits across the middle of your abdomen.  Tops should be loose but not baggy and having ruffles {like the green dress, above} will help to disguise weight in your mid section.  Outer wear should be cropped and fitted, not loose.  A comfortable wedge sandal will add height while walking around with that heavy car seat.

The journey to modest style begins with knowing what your body shape is so that you can accurately purchase clothes to emphasize your greatest features.  Your body shape may change with weight gain or loss, surgery, or pregnancy so it's always good to review all of the different shapes.  In upcoming blogs we'll help you to apply your knowledge of your body shape into your own personal style, while keeping it modest.

{continue reading ...}