Spring Fashions | post 17

A maxi skirt

I dare you to find anything sister-wifey about this skirt. Can't do it, can you? It's all in the happy-making color and the silky sway of the fabric that hints at what's underneath when you walk. They suggested adding a simple turtleneck, but eh, I'm not a huge fan of turtlenecks, and I know a lot of you aren't, either. Maybe try a simple t-shirt or even a light sweater. I love this look for Spring!




Anything with a peplum

What is a peplum, you ask? Definition of PEPLUM: a short section attached to the waistline of a blouse, jacket, or dress. Before you look at this '40s-era flourish and think, Yeah, not on my hips, take note: An otherwise trimly cut jacket like this one, paired with slim pants, gives anyone a showstopping hourglass of a figure. So cute!

In case you're wondering, because I was! {Blazer, H&M, $39.95}




Bold blush & a fun hair clip

How's this for a double shot of energy? First, swirl a blush you can actually see on the apples of your cheeks; poppy pink works on every skin tone. Then, tuck a flashy-pretty clip or comb into the side of a low bun. Couldn't be easier.




Printed pants

Word is, these are probably the biggest trend out there for spring. That doesn't mean I'm sold on them. I might as well stick a flourescent sign on my rear end that reads, wide load. In silky fabrics and slim, not pj-ish cuts, they're figure-friendly (and crazy comfortable). Balance them out with neutral, slightly flowy pieces on top. You haven't convinced me yet, but I might give them a try!




Colorful lace

A hue this vibrant, material this luxe--there's a lot to love here. The key to feeling confidently covered in a sheer top is wearing a skin-tone tank underneath. And go for something more conservative on the bottom, like this sweet pencil skirt. I'm digging this look.




The Jackie O. Dress

This flirty spring dress flatters every shape and adds a touch of class to your warm-weather wardrobe. Pair it with a little sweater and some flats and you just might be the talk of the town {in a good way}.

L.L.Bean Signature, $119




Spring Flat

Okay, I found this cute flat somewhere on Facebook, but now that I'm going through all my FB friends status updates, I can't find it anywhere. I wanted to give credit where credit is due, and also so you can all go out and get yourself a pair. Sorry, I will keep looking. I need {not want}, a pair for spring! Oh, oh, I found it... It's from Thistles Home and Gift. Click here. They also have a store in Draper, yea! It's at 217 E. 12300 S. Ste. J1. Check it out, I know I will!


Read more: Spring Fashion and Beauty Trends - Redbookmag.com

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Product Report Card | post 16

Hi everyone!  Recently, I was given the opportunity to try a product from Halftees.com. They are a clothing company that specializes in halved tees {hence, 'halftees'}.  They offer many colors at reasonable prices with free shipping on orders over 75 dollars.  You can choose from a tank, basic, 3/4 sleeve or long sleeved top.  There are even options for youth.

I decided to try out a white 3/4 sleeve in medium.  At first I was very curious to see how the shirt would feel with a band on the bottom edge but it rested right over my bra strap and was hardly noticeable.  The shirt was very comfortable being made of 48% Cotton, 48% Modal, and 4% Spandex.  It seemed the perfect length and fabric for the weather we've been having here in Northern California.  The material was quite soft on my skin.

The fit was a tad generous for my physique according to their Fit Guide; although I am on the petite side.  The shirt was very modest when I paired it with a pink top of my own.  It generously covered my bra straps and bosom and it came 3/4 of the way down my arm.  It was very easy to move in and didn't feel like it would tear when I lifted my arms up.  I love the versatility that these shirts offer.  I could wear a tank under a cowl neck or v neck top, a basic during warmer months and the longer sleeved halftees and turtle neck during the winter.

Now I chose a simple white color having to decided between 7 timeless colors for that style.  I do hope they would come out with different patterns and textures.  I know I would definitely buy a long sleeve that had lace material over it, if they ever came out with that.  This is certainly a wardrobe staple for all.  I can't wait to own more of these!  

Here's my HALFTEES report card:

Material: 10/10
Modesty {when worn under another shirt}: 10/10
Style: 9/10
Website: 10/10
Cost {splurge, moderate or affordable}: Affordable
Versatility: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10 
Size: 9/10

Overall {like, lust or love}: LOVE!  Can't wait to own more! 

Check out another TMW author's review {HERE}.  Please take a look at their website, {HERE}!

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Three outfits in one | post 12 , Guest Blogger

We would love to introduce you to The Dating Divas.  They are a group of women who love to share dating ideas and other relationship advice.  Here's a little more about them.

In a nutshell, each Monday the Divas will offer an awesome date already completely planned for your upcoming weekend! {Aw geez… you’re totally welcome!} Throughout the rest of the week we’ll also post quick & easy ideas to serve your spouse, unforgettable family outings and activities with the kids, intimate moment ideas to spice things up in that room, and fun “romance” crafts to boot! There is definitely something for every couple! .

Below is an article from their website {used with permission}, that shows a fun way to wear an outfit, not only on a date, but THREE DIFFERENT WAYS!

Alright Girls, do you ever have those days where you look in your closet and think “Ugh, I have nothing to wear”?  I am here to help you with that, by SURPRISE using things you already own. In times like these we all need to be recessionista’s! What better way to save money and go green then by using what you already have. I am just here to give you a little inspiration!

Start with something really basic. I like a white loose fitting tee, but any white tee will do. Add a dark pair of jeans,  I like skinny jeans but anything you are comfortable with works! In a poll in the February issue of Glamour Magazine (Yes, I am a self- proclaimed magazine junkie) of 1000 men, GUESS what was their top pick of their favorite outfit for women? A white tee and jeans! So simple and basic and that is what most of our husbands want to see!

Now it’s time to add some personal flair! This first look is super simple. Just add flats and a scarf! Yes it is that easy, and you are ready for lunch with the kiddos and your best friend! (Okay, a quick disclaimer before you see pictures of me…I am not one of those girls that loves 1,000 pictures of myself.  In fact, I would prefer not to have any of me. I will take pictures of my kiddos all day long but NOT MYSELF.) My husband snapped these for me just to show you all how easily you can have a cute look on the fly!

Look number two is just as easy but you look a little more polished!  Just take your favorite pair of boots and any simple blazer.  I call this Cameron Diaz Chic (She is always in a blazer).

Look number three is a little more dressy. Add heels and tuck in the shirt. Now throw on some extra jewelry and you will be ready for date night. 

It is so easy to use what you already have to make something simple so much CUTER!  Have fun shopping your closet and send us some pics of what you come up with!  Who knows….you MAY just come up with the PERFECT outfit for your next date night!!

I hope you all enjoyed this fun article and are able to apply the same method with your clothes.  {HERE} is where you can read their mission statement and find out just a bit more of who the Dating Divas are and what they have to share. 

Show some love and stop by their website, TheDatingDivas.com for more dating tips, ideas, and suggestions!

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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

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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  

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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Winter Wardrobe | post 04

Winter Essentials

Happy New Year! I can't believe another year has come and gone, and that it's already 2012. I don't know about you, but I feel like I need a new wardrobe for a new year!



Having just recently moved from warm weather, to cold weather, I have learned a thing or two about dressing for cold winter days. I am going to share with you a few essential pieces you may want to add to your winter wardrobe...

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1. A big, slouchy sweater: I love to have an oversized sweater as part of my winter wardrobe, it's pretty essential. I have a few oversized cardigans that I wear to death in the winter. You can wear it in so many ways. You can pair it with a belt, or wear it loose. You can wear it with jeans or leggings.


2. Skinny jeans: Okay, I know skinny jeans aren't for everyone, but I think most of us can get away with wearing them, seriously. You have to wear them correctly. I like to pair my skinny jeans with boots, or even ballet flats (for the warm-weathered friends). If you're wearing skinnies, don't pair them with a tight, short top. You have to have balance. This would be a good time to pull out the slouchy sweater and maybe cinch it with a belt.


3. Leggings: Again, leggings might not be for everyone, and maybe they're so 2010, but I think they're cute {and comfortable}. I like to pair my leggings with boots, or even little booties. #1 cardinal rule: if your leggings or skinnies have a pocket, you can get away with wearing a top that doesn't cover your bottom. If there's no pocket, cover the tush, ladies! And, if you're bottom heavy, cover that tushy.


4. Boots: I have like 5 pairs of boots in my winter wardrobe. I know, I know, maybe a little too much, but I love them. I have a pair in every color. They are so fun. You can wear them with skinnies, leggings, dresses, skirts, anything! I'm digging the low heal, or no heal. I'm also tall, so heals make me look like a giant. Every girl should have a pair, or two, of tall boots.


5. Scarves: Scarves are so versatile. I seriously love them. They are definitely a staple in any winter wardrobe. They are a key accessory, and sometimes they just complete the outfit.




Don't forget to accessorize, ladies! Sometimes it's the little accessories we add that just complete the look. But, don't go overboard. Less is more!

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Wardrobe Essentials | post 03

Wardrobe essentials for the modest woman

So you want to be modest but you don't know where to start? All of the clothes you've ever owned were never modest and now all of a sudden you find you have nothing to wear.  That happened to me {Ashley} and I remember getting so frustrated trying to put outfits together because none of them were modest.  The surprising thing is that although you may own clothes that aren't modest individually, when paired or layered it can become a wonderful staple to your wardrobe....

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Tops

In the photo above, are what I consider the nine essential tops {besides the tee shirt}.  These tops are very important to have, they make dressing modestly very versatile.  The first top is a classic button up blouse. Most of these blouses can be found with sleeves and since they have the buttons you can wear it opened {with another shirt under it}, or buttoned all the way up.

2. The second top is a halter top.  Halter tops usually tie behind the neck.  With these shirts make sure the collar comes up high enough.  They are great paired under a blazer or even the button up blouse.  

3. The third top is a vest.  While it may not be everyone's style, it's a nice element to layer over a dress shirt. 

4. The fourth comes in handy quite often, it's a bolero.  Boleros are fitted and cropped and are one of my favorite items to have because you can throw them over a spaghetti strapped dress or shirt.  They also make jackets in this style to wear during cooler months.  They are found in a variety of sleeve lengths that are very modest.

5. The fifth is a cropped shirt designed to wear under clothes that are immodest.  They can come in short or long sleeves.  

6. The sixth piece is a cardigan, or long sleeved shirt.  These are great to wear over dresses in the spring or if they're tight you can layer under a short sleeved shirt.  Cardigans are wonderful for looking 'put together' really fast, without being too dressed up.  Great for the park, mall, or going out to dinner. 

7. The seventh shirt is a spaghetti strap- or any type of strap.  Although they aren't modest, they are great to layer over a short or long sleeved shirt.  They are an easy way to dress up your outfit without wearing additional accessories.

8. The eighth is a draped waistcoat.  I like the one in the picture because you can wear a colorful long sleeved top under this neutral color.  Many times these are sold with long sleeves too and depending on the material can be very comfortable in the fall when you aren't ready to wear a jacket. 

9. The ninth and last shirt has a cowl neck design.  Many women who are pear shaped or rectangle shaped can use this style top to add volume and even out their proportions.  I especially like the style and again you can layer ones like in the picture above that are really low cut.  The alternative to this is a v necked collar, great for women who are apple or wedge shaped. 

These tops are a great staple to your wardrobe and you can buy the same style in different colors and patterns, to add variety to what you already have by mixing and matching. 

Bottoms

Being a modest woman, it may seem like we don't have too many bottoms to choose from but from the picture above, you can easily see that's not true!

For skirts, there are many different styles to choose from (just make sure it isn't too tight).  There are above and below the knee lengths, knee length, calf length, and floor length.  You can even choose high waisted ones like the top right two.   You have the same length sizes available in shorts and pants.  The pants can be straight, boot or even flare styled.  Also you can wear jeggings or leggings under a longer sweater with tall boots (as long as you aren't trying to flaunt you assets).    All of your bottoms can be worn in different material depending on the season and you can add belts or boots to accessorize.  Choose the style you want depending on how casual you'd like to be or professional you need to be.  For example, the gauchos {second from the right, bottom} are very comfortable and I enjoy wearing them on a hot day.  On the other hand the gray dress pants are a more professional look.

Dresses

There are many dress designs that are modest but if you are going to buy a staple for your wardrobe I would highly recommend the 'little black dress' or 'little red dress'.  These dresses are timeless and will always be fashionable.  They are meant to be a statement dress worn with not too many accessories.  My favorite accessory with a LBD or LRD is my wedding ring.  There are different length sleeves, collars, or skirts to choose from and to personalize it to your style.  If you have a favorite dress that is spaghetti strapped or sleeveless, then use an under shirt or bolero jacket to make it modest.  I suggest buying one of each, or even buying a classic black & white (top two right) or mixture of red and black (bottom right).  If you own a black dress make sure it doesn't look to morbid, try dressing it up with a red or white belt or ribbon over the waist, vice versa, with a red dress.  You can even dress up the LBD with red pumps or red lips.

Swim

The last piece of clothing that you'll need for your modest wardrobe essentials would be a swimsuit.  There are many different styles to choose from to fit your personality.  There is the sporty/ athletic one (top left) or even a more flamboyant one such as an animal print.  Patterns can help to camouflage areas that you may not want to have others see.  Many swim suits are made with ruching such as the bottom left one, to hide certain areas and show off others.  If you have a small bust opt for swimsuits that are padded or that can have silicone inserts.  If you are pear shaped choose one such as the bottom right, pink and if you are apple shaped then go for a style such as the middle light blue one.

I compiled this list of clothes so that you can start building your wardrobe, and see that when you learn what clothing staples to buy, modest style doesn't have to be frustrating.  With just a few shirts in different styles & colors, you can create many outfits.  Have fun shopping!

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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....

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{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.

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Welcome! | post 01

Welcome to The Modest Wardrobe! 

This is a collaborative blog with helpful tips and ideas encouraging women to dress modestly, according to our fashion beliefs.  While we are not experts, we hope to inspire women of all ages, backgrounds and heritages to feel confident in modesty and to see that you CAN be fashionable while dressing in this manner.  Many times in our society, modesty is looked at as dull, drab, and old fashioned but we at The Modest Wardrobe think otherwise.  Modest fashion can be fun, trendy, stylish, elegant and sophisticated during any event or situation....

In The Modest Wardrobe you'll be able to see before and after photos, guest bloggers, read personal struggles & triumphs, tips & tricks, and DIY.  We'll also include many examples for dressing during pregnancy & post partum, swimming, sports, date nights, and church.   We hope you may gain modest fashion ideas and apply them to your own personal style and personality.  Have fun viewing our blog and come back often!

We will officially be up and running January 2012, thank you for your patience!  We gladly appreciate input, sponsors, guest bloggers and reader requests!

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