What To Wear Wednesdays

MY BLOG HAS MOVED!

2013-11-14T11:50:00.003-05:00

This blog has a new home....

it is now being hosted right smack in the middle

of the

I hope you'll visit me over there.

We'll soon be setting up a way for you to follow the blog,but for now, come see me and find out what I'm in love with right now.

Thank you for being such faithful followers of this blog. I appreciate each and every one of you.

Love you all,

Shari Braendel

Click here to visit the new blog:

Fashion Meets Faith

If you're not regular readers of our Facebook Community, please join in here:

Fashion Meets Faith Facebook Community

A Widow's Experience at Beauty Boot Camp

2013-09-04T00:00:00.000-04:00

Oh my goodness I was so excited to see this blog post on Ferree Hardy's website I thought it'd be fun to share it with you too. Ferree Hardy began her blog for widows and she has quite a following...and a book for widows, too, that is absolutely beautifully written. She gave me a copy and if you are either a widow or know one, I highly recommend you get a copy. Here is a pic of it.

Ferree came to our Beauty Boot Camp two weeks ago in Tennessee. She wrote a post about it on her widow's blog and I thought I'd pass it along to you too. I love Ferree's heart and know you'll love her too, by the time you're done reading this. Thank you, Ferree for writing about BBC AND for pouring into widows around the world. -Shari

By Ferree Hardy

Online ministries and websites come and go, but I've watched Shari Brandel's Fashion Meets Faith for three years now and what this ministry does is grow and grow! I decided to check it out for myself last weekend to see if it'd be a good thing for widows. Carol, widowed since May of 2012, found out about it when I announced it on this blog in May. And a widow for five years--Wanda--- came on her own, and I was delighted to break out at Baskin Robbins with her for icecream. Both Carol and Wanda told me the same thing: Beauty Boot Camp is a great ministry for widows too!

This is Carol and Ferree the first day of Bootcamp

It's refreshing to get away for a weekend of girl talk
An afternoon of shopping with professional stylists and expert bargain hunters??--what a deal!
Laughter! And more laughter! It's good for the soul!
Discover there's God-given beauty within each of us just waiting to show up on the outside!
Learn to dress in a way that brings out your own special beauty and honors your Creator God
Experience meaningful fellowship with women who will touch your heart and feed your soul
And without that husband around anymore to say, "Honey, you look beautiful..." when we look in the mirror we need to know that God intimately loves us and delights in us
You'll be transformed inside and out!

And here's AFTER hair stylist extraordinaire Sherry Long
worked her magic!

click the Speakers Schedule tab to find an event you can attend
sign up for her on-line classes starting in September
buy the book Good Girls Don't Have to Dress Bad if you want all the information right now and at your fingertips in the least expensive way
start saving up for the next Beauty Boot Camp
or even consider a new career as you train with Shari to become an image consultant!

If you are in the Knoxville, TN area, get to know Donna Roland www.DonnaRoland.com, for an unforgettable Girlfriend Getaway, styling, personal shopper experience, closet organization and more! In Charleston, SC, Sherry Long can become your personal fashion coach and give you a fantastic new hairstyle! Contact me at WCplace@gmail.com for her DesignHer contact info.

So, in closing, what do you think? Can you see how a beauty boot camp could benefit a widow who's ready to step into the next chapter of God's story for her? I'd love to hear your comments today.

♥ ferree

P.S. Note from Shari:
If you are a widow or know of one, visit Ferree at her blog for widows by clicking here.

Contentment

2013-08-28T00:00:00.000-04:00

I'm excited to introduce Guest Blogger Renee Law. Here's a picture of us together with a few others from our June CIC class having lunch! She's the one next to me in the purple against the window.

Renee is a recent graduate of Fashion Meets Faith's Christian Image Consulting Course and now contentedly resides in West Virginia. She is available to speak to your church, MOPS, Moms or other women's groups in and around the Hunington, WV area. Or if you're in need of a local, fabulous stylist, she's your gal! She can reached by emailing her here.
Enjoy her post!

Shari Braendel

"Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned to be content with whatever I have." Phillipians 4:11 NLT

By Renee Law

Contentment....God has been teaching me many things about that word. You see, I am from West Virginia. I have lived here 40 out of my almost 41 years. My goal in life was to move away to someplace I deemed as fun and exciting....a BIG city!

I have begged God and my husband to allow us to move somewhere else. Neither of them has allowed that to happen yet. I can say now that I am truly thankful that we are still here. Yes, thankful! You see, if God had opened any doors for us to get out I would never have learned to be content with where I was. I would have run as fast as I could.

Do you ever feel that way about your body? Just completely discontent with what you see in the mirror?

If you're like me, you look in the mirror and think, “Why do I have to be bigger on the bottom half? Can I push some of this booty weight to the top?”

Or maybe you have the opposite problem. You wonder why you have to be so blessed on your top half? If you've read Shari’s book "Good Girls Don't Have to Dress Bad" you know which body type you are:B, O, D or X

No one seems to be happy with the letter they are (except maybe the X's, but even a balanced body like an X struggles with her body at times!)

Again, we are back to the word "contentment". We are just they way God wants us to be.

Embrace the way He made you. God doesn't make mistakes. Your hips are not a mistake. Your thighs are not a mistake. Your blessed or small chest is not a mistake.

If you need a reminder of how to be content, visit Fashion Meets Faith's Contentment Board on Pinterest.

You might just want to print some of these sayings on some small cards and post them on your mirror or in your car to remind you to be content...just where you are.

You are His masterpiece just the way He created you! Loved sharing with you today!

Renee Law
CIC Graduate of Fashion Meets Faith

Who can wear a peplum? You can!

2013-08-07T00:00:00.000-04:00

This week I introduce to you Guest Blogger Sharon Woryn!

Sharon is a graduate of Fashion Meets Faith's Christian Image Consultant Training Program and resides in Michigan. She is experienced in speaking to groups, large and small, Christian and Corporate, Moms and the Mature! This week she's sharing about Peplums and how to wear them.
Welcome, Sharon!
-Shari

Peplums are in style and you will find them in all the stores as they show transitional pieces for the season and get in new Fall merchandise.

The peplum was popularized by Dior in the 1940’s with jackets that were nipped at the waist with peplums at the hip to create an hourglass shape.

Peplums are feminine and elegant. All body types can wear a peplum but you must try the peplum top on because they are cut differently and the length and amount of flare will work differently on each body type. This suit is part of Talbot’s new Fall collection.

If you are a b body type, then your tummy is your challenge area and a peplum top can be a great way to camouflage this area. Some peplum bodices have a higher waist an inch or two above the natural waistline which can be great for concealing your midriff. Wear the peplum with skinny jeans, the new slim ankle pants or a pencil skirt. Avoid a knit peplum top because it will be too clingy for your body type. This top from Bluefly has a waist that is higher than the natural waistline.

If you are an O body type and your bust is your challenge area, a peplum top can create balance and proportion by accenting the waist. Because you have great legs, pair the peplum top with a pencil skirt. This top is by Anne Klein and is available at Macy’s.

If you are a d body type and you don’t want to make your hips and thighs look larger, a peplum can be flattering on you too, just be sure that it accentuates your waist and doesn’t end at the widest part of your hips or thighs. Wearing a monochromatic look with the top and your skirt or slacks in the same color will work well for you. The peplum top shown is great for a d body type because it has a ruffle which creates visual interest in the upper part of the body as well. It is from Target.

Curvy girls can also wear a peplum, just wear it with tapered or cropped slacks instead of skinny jeans. Darker colors will give you a leaner look. This beautiful turquoise top is from Forever 21.

A lace peplum or a metallic one paired with a pencil skirt would be a great look for a formal or evening event. Choose some elegant accessories and feminine heels to complete the look. I love pearls with a peplum top but wearing some edgy accessories would also be very modern. This one from Forever 21 is very reasonably priced.

When you are out shopping, take the time to try on some peplum tops. You will be surprised at how lady-like this style will make you feel!

Tell us, would you wear a peplum? If so, would you prefer a dress or top? And do tell, what is your body type?

Emerald - Day 2

2013-08-01T00:00:00.000-04:00

Thanks for coming back to join us mid-week!

Yesterday I left off with a question: What if Emerald is just the starting point?

What if Green is the color of the year? How would you add it to your wardrobe? How can you be “trendy” without following unflattering trends? What if you added the Color of the Year for the next 10 years… what would your closet look like?

Ok… first question. Let’s call the color of the year Green.

How do you add green to your wardrobe?

If you have the basic neutrals (remember Navy is THE all-time best)… Black, Navy, Grey, Tan, Cream and White… with ALL of their various hues.

If you have neutrals you can add Green to any outfit. PICTURES

· Add a Green Jacket to your wardrobe

· Pick up a Green set of flats, heels or running shoes

· Grab some Green accessories, gem stone earrings, bracelets or necklaces

· Find a great Green purse

Here are a few webpages to look at for Emerald Ideas: To find more ideas go to Google... type in Pantone Emerald 2013 and look at Images... you will see lots of ideas!

http://covetgarden.com/blog/2013/1/7/emerald-city.html

http://www.fashionmagazine.com/blogs/fashion/2012/12/06/pantone-colour-of-the-year-2013-emerald/

http://thestylespy.com/2012/12/green-with-envy-emerald-is-the-pantone-2013-colour-of-the-year/

http://www.makeupandmacaroons.com/2012/12/emerald-green-is-pantones-colour-of.html

http://blogs.glam.com/glamblush/2012/12/07/10-beauty-buys-to-enter-pantone%E2%80%99s-emerald-city/

This is where the swatches really start becoming useful. Shari’s swatches will show you which colors are best for these “pop” color accents to your wardrobe. The small investment now can help you save on getting pieces that don’t quite work for your coloring.

Back to the questions: So in order to be “trendy” with Green accents you will need to pick up a few and wear them. If the color is great on you, you will be noticed as a beautiful, put together woman who understands how to best present herself… which is WAY more fun than attempting trends not meant for “normal” women.

So this is a question for you ladies… If you added a color every year for the next 10 years what would your closet look like? How would it be different from your closet today?

For me? Most of the green in my closet is Green Bay Packer fan-wear. I have a few green tops and now thinking about it… they are a really nice addition to my regular outfits. I think that getting a few more under jacket shirts might be on my shopping list next time around.

I hope this adventure into the Pantone was a great experience for you and helped you step out of your “normal”… it did for me!

Join in on the discussion below or over on Facebook.

Thanks for joining us for a Green week!

Laura Gutknecht

Certified Christian Image Consultant

Supporting Editor of FashionMeetsFaith.com

Pantone Color of 2013: Emerald

2013-07-31T00:00:00.000-04:00

In the land of the Fashion Industry the Pantone colors are the first place many fashionistas look for the “in” colors of the year. This year’s color of the year is Emerald.

OK… cool… now what?

Well let’s go back to last week when I had you pull out your swatches and take a look at the famous fashion guru’s on the Pantone website.

Let’s start with the fashion guru’s. They know the fashion industry, they choose trends, and they support creative ways to move the industry forward, as you can read here, they sometimes are fashion forward by bringing inspirations from past decades.

Let me switch gears real quick for an example: Industry experts in automotive measure cars selling. They look at cost of a vehicle, miles per gallon, resale value, and other practical, logical and boring things.

Auto makers were trying to figure out what drove the sale of a new vehicle… is it the miles per gallon, paint color choices, the options they can select for cloth, leather, wheels, heated seats, etc.

What astonished executives was this… many customers count the number of cup holders in the vehicle before deciding to purchase it.

What?!?   Cup holders? Really?

That is what is changing designs of new vehicles today? Yep.
(Note: this isn’t for every customer or the only factor but it was a shocking one.)

Let’s go back to the fashion guru’s… they may know the industry, the trends for styles and colors but I think the reason you are here, on this blog, following us on Facebook… the fact that the Fashion Guru’s haven’t gotten yet is this… Not everyone looks good in the fashion guru's trend choices.

What!?!

Yep. You heard it here. You are NOT crazy when that Emerald blouse looks hideous on you because it was cut like a potato sack. You’re NOT crazy when that Emerald set of eyelashes looks like an alien possessed you.

Trends are NOT a good source of information when it comes to finding YOUR best look. Leave the trends to the models and grab your swatches for this next step.

Emerald may be the trend color of the year but it doesn't mean that it is YOUR color of the year.

For this next step we are going to call Emerald green. It’s in the green family.

Your color green looks different and let me show you what the 6 DCC’s green swatches look like when placed side by side..

Tell me what you see. I see olive for Warms, darker green for Deeps, bright green for Clear’s, lighter green for Lights, medium green for Softs and semi-bright green for Cool’s.

Do you see Emerald? It might live between Clear and Deep.

What if Emerald is just the starting point?

Come back tomorrow to hear more about our Green discussion.

For today… Tell me what your favorite color Green is.

Which color green do you use to paint your house, add as throw pillows or use as a comforter for your bed?
Which color do you wear (besides St. Patrick’s Day and Christmas)? What DCC are you?

Use a paint store color if you need to explain your color (like Home Depot, Benjamin Moore, etc) and add the link with your response!

See you tomorrow!

Laura Gutknecht

Certified Christian Image Consultant

Supporting Editor of FashionMeetsFaith.com

West Point bound

2013-07-24T00:00:00.000-04:00

Hey all, thought I'd share some personal news with you this week.

I'm in New York with my husband, Dave and our son, Luke, who is entering the West Point Prep School to prepare to enter West Point. He is my baby boy who is now over 6'7" and has been recruited to play basketball for Army.

Today I dropped him off....here we are at the hotel before we took him for his in-processing. As you can see, he still has his hair.

And here he is at the end of the day right after taking the oath to serve the United States of America in the Army when he graduates from West Point.

Oh dear will I miss this boy. He seemed to be a bit nervous as in this pic they had just given us 5 minutes to say Goodbye...we won't have contact for the next 3 weeks...though we are hoping for a phone call in there sometime. As they say, no news is good news so we really don't want to hear from him before the designated time.

But because of his tears (I think they were of exhaustion), and because of mine (more like a river), will you lift up prayer for Luke when you read this? And if you do, will you let me know you did in your comments below.

It will do this mama's heart some good today.

Thank you friends,

love, Shari

Would You Wear This?

2013-07-22T21:36:00.000-04:00

I'm in New York dropping my son off at West Point...and yes, this mama has been crying a river.

However, in my search for something camo (oh don't worry, I will likely buy out the gift shops tomorrow),

I came across this unusual dress.

Artists Adrienne Pao and Robin Lasser have created tent dresses or ‘wearable architecture’ for the outdoors.

Let's just say I probably won't be wearing it to the next Army/Navy game.

Ahem.

Love you!

Shari

Beauty Boot Camp

2013-07-18T11:01:00.000-04:00

WE STILL HAVE ROOM!

It's a weekend you won't soon forget...I promise!

Click here to watch the video from a past BBC.

JOIN US! It's a great way to kick off Fall 2013!

love, Shari

The Whole Elephant...

2013-07-17T00:00:00.000-04:00

Ever hear the expression... "How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time."

I think I ate the whole elephant and I honestly am too excited to write a post about just one thing tonight...

Here is why...

1) You ladies wrote some AWESOME things in the survey. If you didn't take it please join in the fun!... http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/HQWBP3L.

You talked about having local consultants, more books, more posts, guest bloggers, more pictures... body shape, colors, more expensive clothing, less expensive recommendations... full outfits, full closet makeovers...

It is SO exciting to see that you are as passionate as I am about all of these things and your comments are showing us that our hearts are in the right direction even though there are only two of us blogging, Facebooking and sharing on social media. You give us the encouragement to keep growing!

2) You are SO beautiful! Honestly I have put myself as Shari's side kick, behind the scenes blogger, and it is Shari's success that gives me the privilege to support this amazing group of women... thank you SO much for the compliments and the personal emails.

I've never felt more awesomely loved yet so willing to be the best "roadie" to Fashion Meets Faith's next steps. Thank you for my own spotlight for those very precious moments.

3) OK... so you probably want some Fashion-y stuff don't cha?

Okie dokie! I will try to keep it to one topic today...in a way I only know how... with honesty and complete truth.

The Pantone Colors are sort of the "bible" when it comes to colors in the Fashion Industry.
(note: this is coming from Laura who has stumbled into this site, looked at it like a deer in headlights, and who promptly clicked the "close" button for the last 12 trips to this website... Shari will have a different perspective.)

Anyways according to wikipedia the Pantone colors are chosen by elite fashionistas from around the globe. They are based in New Jersey, not far from New York City. They decide the best colors of the year and are the leading expert in color trends around the world.

Ok so what does that mean to you? It means that this is where most of the designers get their inspiration and they want to make sure they create collections that are on trend or compliment the trend colors. These are the colors you will see at the mall when looking around. They show up in accessories like handbags and shoes and even show up as makeup trends (when they maybe shouldn't... last years top color was tangerine!)

In the next few weeks we will take the colors from the Pantone and share with you how YOU can wear them with your regular styles at home.

While I gather the information and then have Shari check my work (I need her to make sure I translated "fashionista" correctly). I have a few homework assignments for you too!

The homework...

a) Find your DCC. Soft, Light, Warm, Cool, Deep, Clear.

b) Get your swatches handy, if you don't have a set then grab one here.

c) Take a peek at the Pantone website. This particular page shows the inspiration for styles this season. The people are from the fashion industry. If you don't know a person, if you don't know a term then take a risk and google it to see what it means or what that person is famous for... trust me... I know from my experience that it is scary to dip my toe into the fashion world so don't worry I will be here to bring you back to the modest, "normal" world that we love here at FashionMeetsFaith.com!

Until next time stay beautiful!

----

Laura Gutknecht

Christian Image Consultant

Supporting Editor of FashionMeetsFaith.com

Take a Survey!

2013-07-10T00:00:00.000-04:00

Hi Ladies!

It's Laura.... I hope you had a beautiful 4th of July weekend and you were able to spend it with people you love.

A year ago I had this inkling to jump into blogging to help someone who inspires me... I never imagined where the journey would take me in just one year!

Here is how my year has gone both personally and on Fashion Meets Faith

* I went on a yearly family vacation to northern Wisconsin with my husband's family at the end of July and found that Fashion and Faith were two of my passions. I brought lots of books for inspiration for a church retreat and found after hours of pouring into those books that at the end of the day women need to hear that they are beautiful... so I scratched the formal retreat ideas and got started on things that inspired me.

* I met up with Shari and a few other AMAZING women in Indianapolis, IN. Honestly ladies... if you can get a small group of women together, enough to fill a medium sized meeting room... send Shari a note. It. WILL. Change. Your. Life. That mini-retreat was the idea of a small church and they simply asked how to get Shari out there.

* I struggled personally with hormone and adrenal issues (superwoman lost her powers of energy). I struggled with harassment at work and ultimately changed jobs. I lost my dad this year and am finding that my legacy is to connect people with ideas, processes and people that inspire them to be amazing.

* I led a retreat of 35 church women and found that God truly blessed me with a gift of helping women realize their true potential by showing them that the woman in the mirror is beautiful. Seeing women hold themselves differently, confidently and seeing them smile has been a true blessing.

* I blogged about closet challenges, body shapes, colors, accessories and about how to look and feel put together.

* I connected with readers from around the country and met a few at Christian Fashion Week... I still cannot believe that I sat first row at a fashion show... a huge leap for a self-proclaimed nerdy tomboy.

So what does the next year hold? Well Shari and I wanted to ask you... Would you help us develop what's next on Fashion Meets Faith? We would love if you would take some time to tell us what you want to see, how we can make this page better and what you wish we did more of. It is an opportunity for you to tell us if there is something you see that you think we could do for our readers.... be bold and let us know! We are all ears.

Here is the survey. http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/HQWBP3L

Or you can email Laura@FashionMeetsFaith.com

One more note.... this year we hope to add more guest bloggers so I will be adding my last name to posts... it's Gutknecht (yes it is long and people usually say "God Bless You"... it is pronounced Goot (like boot) - Nick... at least that is how the American's say it... the German's say every consonant)

Thank you for sharing this year with me. I plan to stick around for a few more... care to stay with me?

----

Laura Gutknecht

Christian Image Consultant

Supporting Editor of FashionMeetsFaith.com

Maxi Rules

2013-07-03T00:00:00.000-04:00

I'm excited to introduce you to Missy Tidwell as our guest blogger this week.

Missy is a recent graduate of Fashion Meets Faith's Christian Image Consultant Training Program (CIC) and she's a Personal Stylist and Fashion Speaker from Denver, CO.

Welcome, Missy!

I love maxi dresses in the summer! They are comfortable to wear, can be dressed up or dressed down and have so many layering options. But these past couple of seasons I have noticed some “issues” with maxi dresses as I am out and about. And if you’ve never owned a maxi but are thinking you might like to give it try, I’ll give you some helpful tips as well. So here goes…

Proper undergarments - Many maxi dresses are made of very soft yummy cotton knit but with that comes cling and transparency. I have witnessed more than my fair share of thong panty outlines, fabric stuck in the cheeks and cellulite showing through. Not good but SO easy to fix.

You have many options available. My favorite in the summer is the Spanx Bermuda short called Skinny Britches. It works for dresses and skirts and if nothing else just keeps everything smooth. You can also wear a traditional slip or there is a new Jockey underwear (not a shaper) called Skimmies Slipshort that also acts as a slip but looks like a short. Make sure your undergarment matches your skin color and you can wear them all year round. Even skinny girls wear shapers and smoothers!!

Skinny Britches by Spanx

Jockey Skimmies Slimshorts

A new product by Unbelievabra called the Tankee Slip. A shaper and bra all in one with no bumps or back fat.

Print and style – If I could only have one maxi in my closet, it would be a solid color or simple stripe, column in shape and sleeveless. Here is why. This style of maxi can be layered and worn in so many different ways, you will get a ton of wear out of it.

a. Add a belt, wide or skinny.

b. Add a cropped sweater, with or without a belt.

c. Add a denim vest or jacket, with or without a belt.

d. Add a button down shirt. In the summer, chambray or linen is beautiful. Again, leave it open or button it partially, with or without a belt.

e. Mix and match all of the above. This is one of my fave’s.

f. Or of course, wear it as is; add a statement necklace and/or some cute bangles with a fun clutch and off you go!

Enjoy your maxi!

Missy Tidwell

CIC Graduate from Fashion Meets Faith

Fashion Speaker and Personal Stylist

Denver, CO

If you live near the Denver, CO area and want Missy to speak at your women's or mom's group OR to help you with your personal style, email her!

Love you all!

Shari

www.FashionMeetsFaith.com

Beauty Truth

2013-06-26T00:00:00.000-04:00

So several weeks ago I ran out of my day-time moisturizer...
I thought OK no problem I will use my night-time one since my skin IS kinda dry anyways.

Well it took me weeks to just purchase my day-time one again... I kept forgetting to grab it while out running errands. I use L'Oreal Youth Code that is even at the grocery store so I really have no excuses.

I'm back to my regular moisturizer schedule now and picked up an older magazine this weekend... What did All You Magazine April 2012 have to say?

It told me that night time moisturizers are thicker and won't let makeup "stick" because they are so thick.

Doh! It was like a flashback to several weeks ago... my phone screen was getting gunky from my foundation, I would blow my nose and make up would come off in my tissue, and I couldn't quite figure it out.

Ever just have a "smack yourself in the head" moment? That was one of mine for the week.

But while we are on the topic here are a few tips...

1) Wash your face every night (especially if you were glowing from the heat during the day).

2) Use a moisturizer to help keep your skin soft (it should be the same brand as your face wash - no soap please!)

3) In the morning use a day-time moisturizer with SPF (I usually get pink from the sun when it is cloudy outside so having a moisturizer on your face to start your day will help you prevent any sunburn or sun damage).

4) Remember that you are most beautiful with a smile.

Have a great summer day ladies!

Laura
Supporting and Contributing Editor of FashionMeetsFaith.com

Hanging up the Bikini...

2013-06-19T00:00:00.000-04:00

My grandpa has a beach house on Lake Huron and so does my uncle. My husband and I usually stay for a weekend and enjoy walking on the beach, swimming in the (frigid) water and helping out around the houses.

If I am honest I will say that only in the last few years I have started feeling really uncomfortable running around in my only two swimsuits I had left... my bikini's.

I usually covered up with shorts and a tank top shortly after getting out of the water or I would borrow a pair of board shorts from my hubbie. But overall I was covering up instead of looking for a swimsuit that fit me and was less revealing.

This year I found a tankini for my slight B-body type to be "fluffier" at times and my skirt (that covers my butt very well) lets me move around without feeling the need to cover up right away.

This picture is closest to my new tankini. Mine does not require the straps to stay up and the bustline goes a little higher too. Mine is white with a blue flowery/artsy print. Remember prints minimize trouble areas and maximize your curves!

http://skinnymom.com/2012/06/01/bikini-body/tankini-swimsuit/

This top is a great option for younger girls and those who are less busty.

http://weheartit.com/entry/2996957

Doesn't she look fabulous? She is NOT a size 2 yet she looks pulled together and BEAUTIFUL!

http://www.swimsuitsjustforus.com/delta-burke-plus-size-swimwear-d603.html

This simple swimsuit shows a classic top that would look great on many body styles. It also shows a beautiful woman who is not overshadowed by her (lack of) clothing.

http://swimjazz.com/speedo-conservative-ultraback-one-piece-w-princess-seam-nautical-navy/

Now looking at this very slim beauty... it is hard to look her and think that she looks beautiful because I'm wondering where the rest of her swim suit is... if you still have your bikinis I have a question for you... are you ready to hang up your bikini too?

http://swimjazz.com/vix-swimwear-solid-navy-triangle-bikini-top/

What is the hardest part of finding a new swimsuit?

Love you ladies!

Laura

Christian Image Consultant

P.S. I said to only hang up your bikini's... but don't forget that Christian women are allowed to privately show their husband their beauty in ways that might include that sassy swimsuit that is no longer beach attire. Be bold and beautiful my dears!

You look great!

2013-06-05T09:31:00.001-04:00

Have you ever noticed that it is easiest to accept a compliment when someone just tells you that you rock?

Laura: “You Rock!”

You: “Why Thank you!”

See? Easy! Give compliments where Thank you is the immediate reaction and when you sit back and let them soak in the compliment you might get a great conversation going!

Ok that would have been a very short post had I stopped there.

The REASON I had this idea was because my mom and sister FINALLY let me style them. They got all sorts of compliments like “did your mom lose weight” or “did your sister do something different with her hair”… people couldn't quite put their finger on WHY they looked fabulous… but in all honesty… just tell them that they look beautiful.

Here are a few ways my mom and sister were able to look absolutely beautiful…in no particular order…

* They accessorized… are you wearing enough accessories? Just a few accessories like necklaces, shiny bracelets and earrings make a world of difference when you are going for a put together look.

* They wore makeup… this is one thing that does not happen that often in my mom’s world… wearing a simple foundation with a little eye shadow, blush and mascara goes a LONG way!

* The dresses that they wore had a print that minimized their curves. Both my mom and my sister are tall enough to be “Rock Stars” so their dresses had prints that were on the larger side… it made them look like they had smooth curves, smaller waists and when a dress fits right… it looks amazing!

* AND They let me take them shopping for shape wear! The other reason why their dresses looked great was because the shapers they purchased pulled them in and minimized their “fluffy” areas.

We honestly went to Sears.

My sister is a D/B Body Type... most of her weight is in her Derriere and some in her Belly. She liked the "bicycle shorts" type of shaper. She also found this tank top type shaper that she could help control her "fluff" with jeans, pants, etc.

Mom is a B Body Type – she holds her weight in her belly. Mom got two shapers… one to wear with a funky topped dress (this shaper pulls on like underwear...mom didn't like the bicycle shorts type... she couldn't get them on without falling over.) The other shaper is just like a tank top with suction.

The four shapers are very similar in what they do... BUT it all depends on how YOU feel in them. Just go out and take a girlfriend (or a sense of humor) and try some on. I went with sister and mom in different trips and our mission was to get a dress. We found them each 2 dresses and 2 shapers in about an hour.

Both mom and sister felt great and looked amazing... their smiling faces made them look beautiful which prompted comments from family and friends.

What can YOU do to upgrade your look? What is keeping you from looking? Any compliments you've received lately that were memorable?

I hope you ladies are doing well!

Love ya!

Laura

Don't forget to Shine!

2013-05-08T00:00:00.000-04:00

This last week I have seen some of the most beautiful women I've ever seen. It was amazing to see their inner beauty shine through on the outside... let me tell you about them.

One was a mom whose husband was called away to Alabama late Friday. She took her two baseball kiddos and her third child as her cheerleader to the ball fields on Saturday. She went to church, hosted a Wildtree Food Prep Workshop and made it to our Church Small Group on Sunday Night. Despite how tired this stay at home, home school teaching mom was... she shined.

Her look was put together and her eyes told us that "she made it" to the final event of the weekend. Phew! But she shined with the confidence that she made it and could get through the busy week.

Here are a few pieces I found online that are similar to her outfit. She is a Soft. Look for an idea and see what you have in your closet.

Khaki Cardigan

Khaki Pants

Another woman I met tonight was dressed in navy scrubs (P.S. BEST color for every woman). She had on a watch and glasses. She had no other accessories except for medical items like a stethescope around her neck and a pen in her cargo pocket... but she had the sparkle!

She found a way to be personable, kind, and show her inner beauty though being understanding and loving in a tough situation. She knew that my family was having a rough day and she smiled anyways... and it helps to know that a woman like that is helping my dad tonight.

This week I hope you can do two things...
1) I hope you can dress up and look fabulous despite the world being crazy around you.
And 2) I hope you can shine in no matter what outfit you are wearing and be radiant in your own skin.

Here are my two things from this week:
1) I have committed to wearing accessories the last few weeks and one of those has been earrings. I have been such a good follower of Shari's "find a great pair of hoop earrings and rock them" rule that I've hung up on 4 people this week when my swinging hoop earring shut off my touch screen phone.   AND I haven't walked around with just one earring on when I took the earring off to talk on the phone.

2) I have worn really cute outfits to work (nice pants and cute jacket/top combinations with accessories) and I decided that wearing my chunky steel toe shoes still counts as 2 points on the 16-point Accessory Rule chart so I'm going to not worry about looking too manly.

2b) I also decided that Accessory Rule points are still points even when jewelry does not match EXACTLY... shiny silver, brushed pewter, gem stone piece... just own the look... especially if they are accessories in different areas like earrings, bracelet and necklace.

Confidence is 90% of the sparkle factor.   Go out there and shine!

P.S. I told both women that I felt they were beautiful. Try it yourself and see the result!

Love ya ladies!

Laura

Supporting Fashion Editor of FashionMeetsFaith.com

Leggings are Not Pants

2013-05-01T08:20:00.002-04:00

STYLE RULE FOR LEGGINGS:

It seems there are some (many) women and teens that don't know this but, drumroll:

LEGGINGS ARE NOT PANTS.

Leggings are meant to be worn with a longer style top and one that is at least 4-6 inches longer than your booty.

Girls, please don't leave the house in leggings with short, regular style shirts as in picture shown.

And mama, please don't wear them either.

Sometimes a post just needs to be short and sweet.

love you girls!

Shari

www.FashionMeetsFaith.com

Shari says flats are IN but only if...

2013-04-24T00:00:00.000-04:00

Flats.. they are feet snuggly and allow your tootsies a quick escape when the beach or the backyard beckons… but sometimes they are unexciting and just plain drab.

So how do you know which styles to choose?

Let’s start with you Fashion Personality.

If you like a little quirky, slightly hip with a touch of vintage, and you don’t mind some of the “off the wall” fashions… you might be a Creative Original.

As a Creative Original….Your flats should be the same… quirky, vintage/hip and slightly off the wall. They could be Minnie Mouse or kittens or paisley or artsy.

If you like classic looks dressed up to current fashions you are likely a Classic Modern. Keep your styles straight forward with a bow, sparkle, or a ruffle. Adding a plain shoe in a bright color is fabulous too!

If your style is bling, fashion forward, prints and accessorizing then you may be a Style Fashionista. Keep your styles on trend and enjoy accessorizing your shoes.

If your family is happy that you are wearing shoes to a backyard barbecue then you may be our dear Pure Natural. Go for a simple style that makes you smile... denim, black and white do not count... be bold!

This is just a start for your every day, wear more than once pairs of flats. If you are a Fashionista who thinks that Minnie Mouse is awesome for a niece’s 3^rd birthday party… then by all means… go for it!

There is nothing stopping you from wearing something fashionable, fun AND comfortable this Spring.

Wear your flats with jeans, dresses, work outfits, or even yoga pants... they are versatile and can make you feel like super woman... well at the very least you might be able to run in them (I can hear Shari cringe but that is why I love my flats!... they are feet friendly).

Which flats would you wear? Where are you going and what are you wearing with them... imaginative outings are fair game in the comments... we all love to dream a little don't we?

Love ya gals!

Laura

Now for the eye candy! You hopefully can find some inspiration from these outfits!

Can’t find enough flat ideas? Try Polyvore where these fashions came from.

From Drab to Fab...

2013-04-17T00:00:00.000-04:00

Hi Ladies! It is starting to look sunnier outside! Yea!!!

Today's post comes from a Pinterest pin that I found on a friend's board. If you don't know the lingo for Pinterest then it's ok... it might be better for you anyways since it IS a little addicting!

I found this Pin from a mom/grandma/seamstress who is in her late 50's... she liked the idea of re-purposing Goodwill type clothing.

The Pinterest topic was showing how you (not me, the sewing inept) can turn a bargain bin piece into a great outfit.

Here is one example of a drab outfit that was made into a fab dress. Click here to see the ReFashionista post.

I have a question for you though... did you realize that both pictures have the same woman? That cute spunky young woman on the right is the same woman on the left?

Does the woman on the left look young? Modern? Do you want to hang out with her? OR does she look frumpy and old?

Now you don't need to look like a 20-something fashionista who re-creates the latest fashions... but taking a look at what your fashions say about you is a definite way to look and feel younger.

A few things to remember when picking out an outfit.

* Does it fit properly? Is it too baggy or does it pull?

* Is it in your color pallet?

* Is your chin up and is there a smile of confidence on your face?

If your outfit isn't this awesome then give it to someone who will be able to give it the love it deserves!

A little more info...

Her little black dress post.

Jillian is a master at her craft and that she is helping women in need with her newest fashions by donating the sale of the garments to a local women's shelter. If you plan to visit ReFashionista's website be aware that Jillian shares her re-fashion steps as well as her personal life including social gatherings that toast to her accomplishments. We hope her site shows you not only how to re-fashion looks but also which looks are great and which looks need a makeover.

What in your closet could use a re-fashionista touch? Let us know!

With love,

Laura

Supporting and Contributing Editor of FashionMeetsFaith.com

Layers and Lengths

2013-04-10T00:00:00.000-04:00

Hi Ladies!

It's Spring… with Jack Frost hanging on in some areas.

It’s the time of the year where it might be chilly in the morning, hot in the afternoon and raining when you think it is supposed to be sunny… well at least that’s how it feels in Michigan.

So how do you dress without feeling like you’re taking your whole closet with you?

Layers!

This weekend I attended a baby shower. It was chilly outside (almost cold enough for my winter coat).

I wore a shawl over a sleeveless dress. I also wore bare legs and strappy open toe sandals.

It was a perfect amount of pieces to my outfit! Once we got moving (and talking) the room got warm and the shawl was left at my chair. The sandals helped cool me down too.

If it had been raining I had a towel in my car to wipe my feet and if I was cold I could always go get my coat from the car to cover my legs.

(Skirt) Length!

I love to run around and be helpful. I love to move. Skirts and I have had a long Love/Hate relationship… until I found the perfect length for me.

My favorite skirts end just above the knee or just below the knee (Chanel length or your knee diamonds).

They give me the opportunity to sit nicely without worrying that every pleat is in it’s place. I can move, pick up items from the ground AND I can dress them up with a heel or dress them down with a flat.

I have a few dresses that are at this length and it is so freeing to know that I don’t have to worry about “behaving”. Instead I can help carry gifts, sit in a chair with my hands full, or even capture escaping kiddos.

On a regular day-to-day basis I have a few cotton skirts that hit just below my knee and I honestly live in them once the weather is warmer. I can sit, stand, kneel, run errands and they even look cute with my grey and lime green sneakers!

If this length isn’t your favorite… maxi-length skirts are a great find too. Maxi-Length skirts (and dresses) are ankle length skirts that allow you to feel cooler (heat-wise) while still being covered.

Maxi-Length Skirts have a warning attached to them! Choose prints that are in your color pallet. Prints help women maximize assets and minimize trouble areas (at the same time!). When wearing this look make sure the cut of the fabric shows that you have a waist (even if it is the seams on the garment… you should look like you have a waist). Long skirts should be paired with a tank top, fitted jacket or another closer fit top.

Use Polyvore to find some cute long skirt options here.

Alright ladies! Question time for you!

· Do you dare bare your upper arms?

· What is your favorite skirt or dress length?

Boyfriend Trend and Bra Straps

2013-04-03T13:42:00.002-04:00

Hey girlfriends,

I hope your Easter weekend was BEAUTIFUL and that you gave thanks to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who died and ROSE AGAIN for each of us!

I spend alot of my time posting over at the Fashion Meets Faith Facebook Page so this dear blog here gets a little neglected at times so I thought I'd post the last 3 facebook entries to help you see what's going on over there...and to get you up to speed on some fashion issues as you prepare for Spring.

So here goes.

Boyfriend Trend

The Boyfriend Trend is a popular look. It's like crossing your favorite jeans with a pair of capris. The look is fresh, new and fun, especially if you get them in a pretty color like these from Old Navy. All body types can wear them.

Bra Stuff

Have you taken an inventory of your Bras lately? Here's a few bra tips. A flesh color bra is best as it will go under everything without showing through your clothes. The band should go straight around evenly, not hike up in the back. Every woman should have at least three bras. The one you're wearing, one in the wash, and one that is resting. Resting, you might ask? Yes, resting. You should only wear a bra one day, (not two or more days in a row), so when you're not wearing it, you allow it to 'rest' for a 24 hour period to maintain its shape! Your bust line should sit between your elbows and top of shoulder.

Style with Confidence Modesty Tip

Keep your bra straps hidden. One should never be privvy to them...no matter if they're clear, yellow, red, blue or polka dot...invest in a strapless bra or strap trap (clip for holding your straps together at the back) for tops and dresses that otherwise would show the world your straps.

Hope you're enjoying this weather as it warms up!

Love you gals,

Shari

FashionMeetsFaith

Did You Accessorize with Kindness Today?

2013-03-27T00:00:00.000-04:00

Did You Accessorize with Kindness Today?

The Spring Newsletter from Fashion Meets Faith went out yesterday and in it I wrote an article called

Does What You Wear Affect Other Women?

Did you read it? If not, here it is:

The Bible has such wise advice when it comes to dressing ourselves. One of my favorite verses comes from Colossians 3:12, it says,
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”

How we dress affects other women. Yes, I said women. Consider your friend who isn’t confident in her appearance; consider the woman at church whose husband isn’t faithful to her (with his eyes or otherwise), consider the mom at your child’s school who struggles with her weight. If you walk into a room showing off your assets in a not-so-modest way, you may affect the way another woman sees herself. All of a sudden, she feels even less confident in the way she looks. She didn’t see herself as pretty before she left the house and now her self-esteem has sunk even lower because she’s comparing herself to you.

This Spring, as skirts get shorter and tops get skimpier, I challenge you to consider others when you pick out your clothes each morning. Be kind and compassionate when you dress and consider how your choice of clothing may affect another woman; maybe even your BFF or your daughter who isn’t built like you. Consider those around you who could benefit from your gentle spirit and sincere humility. And if you’re the one who is affected by the way others dress, wouldn’t a little kindness from others go a long way in what they choose to wear?

My friend and CIC graduate Sharon Woryn made a comment on Facebook yesterday, after reading the article, and had this to say:

"I pray each morning that the Lord would line my lips with encouragement for others and my eyes with compassion."

I love that!

The thing I want to get across in this article, is not that we shouldn't dress nicely (for goodness sakes!) but when we dress each morning, we need to examine our HEART and perhaps the reason we're dressing a certain way. If we choose the low cut top because we know our friend's cute husband is in the room, we have a heart issue even more than a clothing issue...make sense?

So, tell me, how could you accessorize each day with one of the qualities that is described in Colossians. Say it in a sentence like Sharon did above. I can't wait to hear your responses!

Love you gals!

Shari
Fashion Meets Faith

The Lioness and the Lamb

2013-03-13T10:41:00.002-04:00

In the Midwest, kids are taught that March comes in like a Lion and out like a Lamb.

The Lioness and the Lamb

When we think of Lions we think of commanding, ferocious, unblinking and unyielding. They say look at me.

When we think of Lambs we think, soft, soothing, ~~young~~ inexperienced, meek and bashful.

In Christian fashion we want to walk the line between these opposites.

In fashion we do not want to be lionesses --- commanding (revealing), ferocious (immodest), unblinking (slutty) or unyielding (disrespectful).

We also do not want to be lambs --- soft (frumpy yet comfy), soothing (no-waist), inexperienced (no-makeup), meek (hidden in the wrong colors), or bashful (hidden in the extra clothing).

We want to be right in the middle

Where natural makeup meets shapely attire.

Where comfortable becomes powerful yet polite.

Where hem lengths kiss knees and sizes are spot on.

Like the tug of war in the seasons we also find ourselves in the tug of war in our fashions. We need to show off as a lioness with her majestic and regal attributes and to appear as a lamb who is approachable and kind.

What does your Fashion say about you today?

What other ways have you heard about Lions and Lambs?

Blessings,

Laura

Supporting and Contributing Editor of FashionMeetsFaith.com

Fun in 5 Minutes

2013-03-06T00:00:00.000-05:00

Hi Ladies!

Laura here, reporting on some great products I have been using and wanted to share with you I want to share with you!

In no particular order...

Almay Eye kits... They are available for all eye colors. This "paint by number" kit is great for an every day or an evening look. The case itself shows where the eye shadow goes and viola! You are good to go!

As a hazel eyed beauty I have also opted to purchase a L'Oreal eye color kit for the green eyed ladies, it makes the green in my eyes pop. I found this kit at a big discount at Ulta in the clearance aisle... I had to dig so don't be shy!

I have a confession. I have had a habit of biting my nails for a very long time.

This product has helped me keep my nails looking good. I have not broken the habit, even after 6 straight months of this product, however, as long as I remembered to put this on I had good looking nails. It appears as a matte finish and can be found at CVS.

Because my natural nails looked great I was able to try out the Shellac nail color. It is supposed to last 2 weeks... and it did! My cuticles needed some maintenance after 2 weeks, but the color stayed beautiful! The manicure ran me $30-40 but it was worth having the nice looking nails for 2 weeks.

On a whim I found this great lip color product, CoverGirl Outlast. It is a two part system where I put on the lip color to dry lips and let it stand 2 minutes. I then nourish my lips with the "chapstick" type lip gloss. I now have two colors of this lipstick, one for evening and one for day time. My day time look is very close to my natural lip color only a little pinker (and more even) and my evening color is a dark berry color (not suitable for working with a bunch of guys). It makes my lips dry but it is worth it to me to just carry around chap stick instead of dealing with lipstick throughout the day.

I love the CoverGirl lip color but as I mentioned it dries out my lips so I use the Satin Lips from Mary Kay. Exfoliation for my lips and a sweet balm to nourish them.

Alright ladies...those are my 5 tips in 5 minutes.

Let me know if you use any of these products or similar products! We love great tips to try out!

Laura
Supporting and Contributing Editor of FashionMeetsFaith.

Do You See Margaret?

2013-02-27T00:00:00.000-05:00

Margaret laughed to herself as she stood solo among the group of women. Her laugh was not one of happiness but one of mockery at herself and those around her. They didn’t even see her. They didn’t notice she had worn the same outfit for the last three weeks. They didn’t observe her as she lingered by herself each time she had come.

Margaret was new to the area and decided to visit a few local churches and bible studies before she landed on one. But it all seemed to turn out the same everywhere she went, no one noticed her. She was shy and introverted and it was hard for her to be the first to start a conversation with someone. “Why oh why, doesn’t someone talk to me?” she thought to herself, feeling awkward as she poured a cup of coffee in the entry way.

Have you ever found yourself in this situation? Have you ever gone somewhere and feel absolutely invisible?

My son started a new school a few years ago and I found myself in a similar situation. As I attended the PTA meeting for the first time I looked around the room, not knowing a soul. As I continued glancing around, I noticed I wasn’t the only one by myself. There were other women who appeared not to know anyone either. Each one, standing or sitting alone, pretending to be comfortable, yet not looking upward or outward, but tending more to her refreshments than having to seem comfortable in this most obviously, uncomfortable situation. Except for the loners, everyone else was talking and laughing in groups of two’s and three’s, unaware that there were isolated women in the room, oblivious, in fact.

Recently I had a conversation with Margaret and she was reminiscing with me about the time she felt so alone in that room full of women. She said she actually wore the same outfit on purpose for those few weeks in a row, just to prove to herself that it just didn’t matter because no one remembered her anyway.

How does it happen that we become so involved with ourselves that we forget about others in the room who might be new or lonely? I think about the times when I really don’t want to go somewhere because I’ve been to that meeting so many times before, or because I just don’t feel like it, or because I’m so caught up with my hair or outfit not being just so, and the list goes on and on. And then I think about Margaret’s story. I wonder, “Am I so caught up with what’s going on with me that I forget that it’s not all about me?” That maybe God wants me to go to that particular meeting because a “Margaret” might be there? Perhaps the meeting, the bible study or my child’s school party isn’t all about the girlfriends I already know but about reaching out to someone who needs a welcoming friend.

I challenge you to look beyond yourself this week. Wherever you go, look around the room and find someone who is by herself. Walk up to her and introduce yourself. Ask her some questions about how long she’s been coming and how you might help her find her way in that particular situation. She may be just the assignment God has for you today.

Let your inner beauty shine, girlfriends.

Love you,

Shari

FashionMeetsFaith.com