Frazzled Fridays!

Clothes-Minded

Fall is SO in the air!  Are you as excited as I am?!  This is my favorite season.  Unfortunately, with allergies it doesn't like me as much as I like it!  Thankful for allergy meds.  

There are so many fabulous style trends this Fall and the colors are some of my very favorites!  There are colors for every DCC (Dominant Color Characteristic).  But before we go too far in talking about the latest and greatest styles I want to make sure you understand that you may be able to find most of what you need in your own closet!  Why?  Because some of us (ahem, including me) have clothes in our closet that we don't know are there, or have ignored, or waiting for them to magically fit again.  To tell on myself, I have what I call my small, medium and large wardrobes.  This is not necessary, period. 

I found this quote; love it:  "Women usually love what they buy, yet hate two-thirds of what is in their closets."  ~Mignon McLaughlin, The Neurotic's Notebook, 1960.  

Too much stuff clutters your life.  I learned from a professional organizer that when you buy something, say a new handbag, you need to take one that you have and either throw it away, give it to a friend, consign or donate it.

Let's talk a little "closet-keeping".  Have you ever looked around you closet and said to yourself, "I've nothing to wear"?  Yes, me too.  Before we go barreling out to buy something....anything, let's take an hour (or 3 or 4) and go through our closets and drawers.  This way we can at least find things that we don't like or wear anymore (and maybe a few things we forgot we had!) and make room for any new necessities.  Also, don't forget consignment or thrift stores.  If we consign clothes with a store, some will give their consigners a discount on purchases.  I found a great consignment store today!  It's called Divine Consign.  It's located in The Fountains off of Ardrey Kell Rd.  It's worth a trip; but please don't be in a hurry when you arrive.  They have lots to look through.  A lot of high-end brands as well as some like Old Navy and Coldwater Creek.  Very reasonable prices too!  Here is a link to their website http://divineconsigncharlotte.com/index.htm

Our goal is to keep our closets and drawers filled with things that we like, are in flattering colors and fit just right.  You may want to have a box, bag or a pile keep, throw away, consign/donate ready.  Here are 10 tips to follow when de-cluttering our closets and drawers:

1.  If you haven't worn something in the last year, it's in a color that doesn't flatter you or it doesn't fit, take it out.

2.  Now if that/those items that you've not worn in the last year are a great color and you believe that you will one day be able to wear them again (because of a size), then take them out and store them in a box or bag marked with the size and try to store them somewhere other than your closet.  This also includes special occasion items that you haven't worn in the last year as well.

3.  Make some time to try on clothes that you are unsure as to whether they fit correctly.  If they need to be altered, then start a pile for those items.  

Now you should have a pile of clothes that you like, fit properly and are in colors that flatter you.  These things are what belong in your closet.

4.  Next, organize your closet by color and style.  Try grouping clothes together such as jackets, shirts, pants, etc.

5.  At this point you can begin putting together an inventory list.  Do you have more tops than bottoms or vice versa?  Make a list of things you may need to buy (i.e., a black skirt, a pair of jeans, brown pants...)  Don't forget to check your undergarments as well.  If you have not bought a new bra in the last year, you are overdue!  What about shapers?  There is no shame in a shaper honey!!

6.  Onto organizing your shoes.  Group spring/summer and fall/winter shoes together, make sure they are in boxes labeled with the size and color/style.  

7.  If you have several handbags you may want to hang them together or have a clear box so that you can find the one you need quickly.  

Ok.  Ready?  1, 2, 3. Go!  Let's own our closets (and drawers)!  You and I may be surprised by what we find!  And if you have some great clothes in great shape that you no longer will wear, talk to the ladies at Divine Consign about consigning them at their store.

Once you have inventoried you closet you can now shop on purpose, not impulse!

I'd love to hear how this project goes.  Did you find something(s) that you had forgotten you had?

Blessings,

Dawn

Frazzled Fridays!

It's in the Bag!

Hi frazzled friends!  To those who may or will be affected by Irene, please know our prayers are ongoing.  

We have been talking about Fall accessories these last couple of blogs.  Today we'll talk about the latest and greatest handbags!  Let's be honest girls, handbags can make or break an outfit.  It's the way we carry all our "essentials" - and why not carry them in style?!  And, if you are looking for one great accessory to update your wardrobe for the Fall, a handbag is a great one!

Top handle handbags and clutches are a carry-over from Spring and Summer.  You will find these in beautiful, rich jewel tone colors, fabrics, textures, lots of fur and even polka dots.  The "rule" for handbags is the color should closely match your hair color OR should fall within your DCC.  (click here for info on your Dominant Color Characteristic).  If you have blonde or gray/white hair, your handbag color should be more neutral.  

Also remember that when accessorizing you still need to consider balance and proportion.  Those who are 5'4" or under or wear smaller clothing sizes should beware of big bags.  You don't want people to see the bag before they see you!  And likewise, if you are tall or where clothing sizes over 14 you should beware of small bags which will make you appear bigger.  

Next time I will concentrate on clothing styles and colors for this Fall!  If you only get one new accessory for Fall, what will you get?  Love to hear from you!

Blessings!

Dawn

Frazzled Fridays!

Fall 2011 Rundown

Animal Prints, Feathers and Fur, Oh My!!

 (Continued...)

So how did everyone do with their respective tax free shopping?  We didn't have too much to get; I got a lot of extra things at the end of "back to school" shopping last season.


Continuing with a short series on accessories for the upcoming Fall season....

Cuff and chunky stacked bracelets are all the rage.  

There are bracelets made of leather (most studded with a type of metal) and some that are fringed.  Many colors, metals and stones.  

 Watches are large and in charge this season too.   




 

Another "big" trend this season is a statement ring, which is also a carry-over from Spring/Summer. 

And let us not forget earrings!  They are a key piece of fashion this Fall.  When you begin wearing coats and gloves, earrings may be all the jewelery that is seen. Returning this season are long, dangling styles in various stones, feathers and beads.  

There are a number of different head wraps, headbands, fedoras, caps and berets in stores that are great additions to your wardrobe!  

 

Hair accessories were once thought of for only weddings. Not anymore!  And pretty headbands are not just for little girls anymore.  

Whether you have short or long hair, accessories of some type can really accentuate a great hair style!  (or cover a bad one *smile*)

When you are choosing accessories of any type, remember proportion.  Big accessories are the trend, however, make sure that you over do it.  You don't want people to see your earrings before they see your beautiful face!  There is a 16 point accessory rule; (click here to read my previous post outlining the rules).

Have mercy there are SO many accessories aren't there?!  And there are more to talk about... so next time we'll talk about belts, handbags and maybe shoes.  Oh how I love to accessorize!!

Blessings!

Dawn

Frazzled Fridays!

Fall 2011 Rundown

Animal Prints, Feathers and Fur, Oh My!!

I have been to several malls this last week, window shopping.  I was blessed to receive some birthday money, and you know how it is... you have a pocket full of money (so-to-speak) and can't find a thing you really want to spend it on!  Sigh.  That's ok, it's tax-free weekend now!

I'm kicking off my fall blog series with accessories because sometimes all a wardrobe needs for the new season is a few new accessories!
 
This fall, everything seems to be themed around an animal print (seeing lots and lots of leopard, tiger and zebra prints), fur and feathers!  Since our family lives among the "dance world",  fur and feathers (and various prints) are quite the norm.  But for many, these may seem a little exotic.   But when worn proportionately - beautiful!

The trends this fall include color-blocking, mixed prints, metallics, plaid/tartan, Apache patterns, polka dots, flowers, stripes, fringing, tassels, knits, leather, snakeskin, animal prints and fur.  Whew!  That's a lot!  Remember, a little bit goes a long way.

A carry-over from Spring and Summer are the beautiful, bold colors.  Remember your DCC (Dominant Color Characteristic)? (click to read more)  Accessorize with your pop colors! 

Since I started drafting this blog post, I've researched and found SO many different accessories and pictures that I've decided to talk about just one or two at a time... it was overwhelming for me and I don't want it to be overwhelming for you!  So this week, I'll talk about adorning your neck. 

Large, decorative necklaces are the major trend this fall.  You'll find choker necklaces, collar necklaces, tangled pearls (of all different colors), bib-style necklaces, and chains in various combinations of gold, silver, brushed metal and bronze.

 

You may think that some of these styles of necklaces are specifically for either day, night or dressier occasions.  Not true!  You can definitely wear those opera or matinee length chains with a great t-shirt or blouse.  As well as lots of bib necklaces.

The bib necklace does look a little dressier and adds a whole new dimension to your little black dress!  But they are not just dressier occasions. 

Necklaces with pendants are a carry over from last season.  There are necklaces made out of cloth and other woven materials, natural stones, and even fur! 

 

 

Feathers are very popular this season as pendants! There are lots of pieces that are made out of safety pins!  Do you remember these from the 80's??!! (hahaha - love me some 80's!!)

As an alternative, try a scarf in an animal print, geometric print or a  beautiful floral print.

If you are doing some tax-free shopping this weekend, enjoy!  Maybe I will see you if you are in the Charlotte, NC area.  Otherwise, I will see you here next time and I will continue my rundown of the new Fall 2011 accessories.  Until then...

Blessings!

Dawn

Frazzled Fridays!

An Accessory Faith?

My beautiful friend Carol Davis, said something this past weekend at the end of She Speaks that pricked my heart.  If I remember correctly, she said she used to have an "accessory" faith.  Now it's a "necessity" faith.  Whoa.  How long have I worn my faith as an accessory.  Can it be easily removed, broken, repaired, changed.  Worn when and where I deem appropriate; on special occasions only.  My accessory faith can adorn me, providing an exterior "bling", but is it real?

I am challenged by her statement.  I want my faith to be a necessity NOT an accessory.  Not something that can be easily removed and exchanged or put away in a box to be forgotten and discovered at another time. I want my faith, my love and worship of Jesus Christ, to be so necessary that I cannot take a breath without Him.

I've been reading in Isaiah this week.  Isaiah 42:16 (NLT) says, "I will lead blind (Dawn) down a new path, guiding (her) along an unfamiliar way.  I will brighten the darkness before (her) and smooth out the road ahead of (her).  Yes, I will indeed do these things, I will not forsake (her)." (emphasis mine)

Isaiah 42:20 (NLT) - "You see and recognize what is right but refuse to act on it.  You hear with your ears, but you don't really listen."

Isaiah 43:1-4 (NLT) - "But now (Dawn), listen to the LORD who created you... the one who formed you says, Do not afraid, for I have ransomed you, I have called you by name; you are mine.  When you go through deep waters, I will be with you.  When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown.  When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.  For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.  .... you are precious to me.  You are honored, and I love you."

What a beautiful love note!

I woke up this morning to this song on the radio... Not a coincidence, not at all!  So reminded to look for blessings or "b-lessons"(a lesson that is a blessing) in those deep waters and rivers of difficulty.

Next time, I will talk about fall 2011 accessories... can't wait!!

Blessings!

Dawn

Frazzled Fridays!

Hey frazzled friends!  Well I don't have any fashion or retail musings for you today.  I do have wonderful news!  My husband has started a new job (Praise You Lord!!) which means very soon I will be able to drop one of my part time jobs and can focus more on my blog and speaking ministry.  Yay!   

Love to all!

Dawn

Frazzled Friday!

Musings of a (wanna be) Retail Therapist

Hi Frazzled Friends!  This week's post is gonna be short - no pun intended!! Ha!  Anyway... I recently had a great time helping a friend shop for a few new outfits.  And by-the-way, I'd love to come along with you on your next clothes shopping excursion!  It would be great fun!  I promise!  

As we were picking items out, looking specifically for the best colors and the best style for her body, she began looking for a particular size.  I "gently" reminded her that different manufacturers make clothes differently and therefore the sizing can be all over the place.  (Example:  I have jeans in my closet that I can wear now, that range from a size 8 to a size 14.)

When suggested that she go up a size in a particular item, she said what most of us say; "I'm not going up to the that size!" "No way!"    ...   I know that I've said this before, have you?   Although I tried to encourage her that it was not about the number of the tag but how it fits your body, she remarked, "but I'm a numbers person."  Ummm.  

Ok, so what does that add up to?  Does size ___ equal too big, too little or not quite enough?  By whose measuring tape are we trying to measure ourselves against?  Yes, it's true that our bodies change over time in all kinds of ways ; up, down and around; but don't you know that this is how God planned us from the beginning?  Yes, we do need to take good care of our bodies because they are the dwelling place of the Most High God.  So there may be areas that have a little or a lot of opportunity for improvement.  But this does not mean that if you have to wear a certain "size" that makes you look proportional and just plain nice that you no longer need to attend to the business of caring for your body.  If you need to lose or gain some weight or tone up here or there then do so in a healthy way and then when the time is needed, go back to the store to purchase clothes that will fit your updated shape!

Realistically, do we really think other people know or even care what number is on the tag of our clothes?  More importantly, do we understand that God does not care what the size says on that tag!?!

I Samuel 16:7 (NKJV)

For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance (or the size on the tag), but the LORD looks at the heart.” (emphasis obviously mine!)

Love y'all

Blessings!

Dawn

Frazzeled Fridays!

^{Fancy Pants}

But who are you, a human being, to talk back to God? “Shall what is formed say to the one who formed it, ‘Why did you make me like this? Does not the potter have the right to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for special purposes and some for common use? (Romans 9:20-21 - NLT)

God says He created your inmost being (Psalm 139:13-14).  He even knew you before you were created!  He loves you very much and wants to have a personal relationship with you.  Not just when something goes wrong or something bad happens.  An every day, every hour, every moment relationship.

Go with me here... just because my body (the pottery) was not shaped like 'hers' does not mean that her body (or pottery) is more beautiful or special than mine!  I am constantly convicted when comparing myself with others.  Whether it's the way I look, the way I act, my blog, my ministry, my circumstances.  God loves us unconditionally.  We don't have to DO anything or BE anyone other than who He created us to be.  That should be freeing.  But I suspect others struggle with this like I do.  “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” Eph 2:10 (NLT)  

In one of her devotions, Renee Swope said "...God has taught me that He wants my spiritual ears more than my spiritual efforts. He wants daily dependence, interaction and intimacy with me. And He is more concerned with my character than my calendar."   Over this last year the Lord has been surveying, drilling, building and shaping my character.  I can say for certain that this has not been the most pleasant experience.  

When you (we) find ourselves comparing the way we look, certain body parts, your clothes, we MUST constantly allow the Spirit to whisper Truth into our hearts... “The king is enthralled by your beauty…” Ps 45:11 (NIV) and my "vase/pottery" may not be as fancy as "hers" but God created us exactly this way because he knew that it was the absolute best for each of us. 

Speaking of fancy pants... I thought I would give you some tips for the best type of jeans for your body type (click here for information on body types).  I realize it is summer now, but there are times when long jeans are necessary and, there are lots of jean shorts and other shorts with pockets.  And there is a secret to pockets.  Read on.

For 'b' body types:

• Make sure your jeans cover your midsection, particularly if you tend to have a muffin top.
• 
• Find jeans with flap pockets with buttons
• Pockets that are not too far apart
• Pockets with decorations in a curvy or vertical line or design.

For 'o' body types:

• No skinny or wide-leg jeans.  You want to have jeans that help form a straight line - balance.
• Stay in between the skinny and wide-leg styles with a relaxed fit or boot cut. 
• Mid-rise is best. 
• Consider wearing a tummy shaper or a camisole shaper. 
• Make sure the pockets on your jeans do not have lots of bling on them (draws attention) and, that the pockets hit right where your bottom begins to curve under.

For 'd' body types:

Because it is very difficult to find a pair of jeans that fit nicely on your waist, hips and thighs, you need to find jeans that fit nicely on your hips and thighs first.  Then if needed, have them taken in in the waist.  This may mean that you will need to go up a full size in your jeans so that when they are taken in it doesn't pull the waist down too far in the back.  Concern over the size? Cut the tag out!  You want to know that you look good in your jeans, not what size they are.

• Look for relaxed fit jeans that do not hug your hips and thighs (draws attention). 
• • Stay away from decorative pockets or pockets with flaps.  These make your rear end look bigger. 
  If the pocket has some detail on it, make sure it is curvy or vertical in shape.  Horizontal designs make your hips look wider.
  
  • Large pockets make your bottom look smaller
  • Simple and small designs are best on pockets that are proportionally sized and spaced on your bottom.

For 'x' body types:

• Because your body is already balanced or proportional top to bottom you can wear most styles of jeans (or pants/shorts)! 
• If you tend to gain weight in your tummy area, consider wearing a tummy shaper
• Pockets should be proportionate to your size and shape.  (i.e., women who are size 12-14 or higher should not have small pockets on their jeans - looks unbalanced).
• Mid size pockets with mid size designs
• Notice the design on the back pockets.  If your bottom tends to be wider, you want to have curvier and more vertical designs.
• Bottom of pockets should hit right where your bottom starts to curve under.

Now that you know what styles of jeans (or pants and shorts) to look for, PLEASE remember to bend over and look in the mirror when you try on jeans, shorts, pants.  Is anything showing or falling out?  When you crouch down does the waist line fall well below ... well, you know... no plumbers please!  Are they too tight?  If any of these are true, then move on to another pair. 

So that's it for today my frazzled friends.  Feel free to leave a comment or question!

Blessings!

Dawn

Frazzled Fridays!

Well Suited

Part 2

I'm back!  I apologize.  I took an unannounced hiatus for dance competition season.  I didn't really think that anyone was paying much attention to the blog until I received a facebook post saying they missed it!  So good; someone is reading this!

So where was I...?  Oh yes, bathing suits!  So did you try yours on?  I did!  Look, I'm not letting you do this alone.  We're in this together.  Today I will encourage you regarding the best 'style' of bathing suit for your body type.  We must also remember that we have a responsibility not to "trip" men/boys up - to see more than they should.  As a mother of a son, I cringe during bathing suit season the most.  It is absolutely possible to have a very stylish AND modest bathing suit!

In general, one piece suits or tankinis are most flattering and modest (in general) on all body types.  Here are some known concerns amongst our individual body types:

Do you want to conceal muffin top, tummy, or upper midriff?  This is for any of the body types - b, o, d, x.

Then you will need to get a suit with extra spandex or Lycra.  The sales associates can show you the different brands that have extra spandex or Lycra.  Do know that these suits are a little more expensive, but absolutely worth the money!  These suits WILL make you look several pounds lighter or slimmer.  Also, prints will make your tummy appear flatter!  Cool huh?

Do you have a waistline?  (b, o)  If not, look for suits that have a crossover or shirred middle or side.  This creates the illusion of a waist. 

 

Are you small - busted? (b, d, x)  You will need to choose a suit(s) that have decorative details on the top.  Rings, ruffles, prints, patterns, ruching or contrasting colors.  No plain, dark or solid colored tops.  Built in padding may also be an option.  I'm personally not a big fan of the removable padding, but that's just me.

Are you large busted? (x, b, o)  Support is key for you!  Always, always get a suit with a built in bra with an underwire.  Also look for suits with prints, patterns, v-necks, and darker colors.  High but armholes are nice to keep you all in with no spillage.

 

Do you want to hide your hips?  (d)  Look for suits that are skirted or have higher cut legs.  The skirted suits come in different lengths depending on just how much you'd like to conceal.  Just make sure your swim bottom is longer than the fullest part of your leg.  If it stops right in the middle of the fullest part of your leg that will draw attention to that very spot.   If you opt for a suit with a high cut leg, then a cute wrap skirt is nice to help hide your thighs.  Also, draw attention away from your bottom half by wearing details at the top half.  Look for straps that sit wide on your shoulders which will balance your hips.  Do not wear a halter neck top.  Remember, balance. 

Do you need to add more curves? (b, x)  Look for suits that have designs or patterns in the center of the suit to create the illusion of a curvier figure.

If you are long-waisted or are tall and slim look for lower neck lines and leg-eyes which will shorten the look of your body.  Avoid vertical designs or stripes!

 

If you are short-waisted or just short, vertical stripes or designs/prints make your body look longer and taller.  Higher cut leg eyes make your legs look longer.

 Are you a plus size?  Then go bold!  Bold prints are awesome for you!  Also look specifically for suits with 15-20% spandex or Lycra.  Again, you may spend a little more money on these suits because of the minimizing fabric, but quality is important as well as comfort and support.

Are your arms heavy?  Then find a suit that draws attention to your neckline with lots of details and decorations, or even a pattern in the middle of the suit.  An added sheer-armed coverup in the same color as your suit will help conceal your arms.

More tips:

For b body types, tankinis are perfect for you, especially those with a flare top that doesn't hug your tummy.  Patterns are best as well as halter tops.

 

For o body types, patterns and solid colors with shirring are best for you.  A suit with strong bra support is a must!

D body types should stay away from halter tops (minimizes shoulders, making hips appear bigger) and choose wide shoulder straps.  Suit tops can have horizontal strips or prints.  Skirted suits are great for you too.  Just make sure the skirt does not fall in the middle of the fullest part of your thigh.

If you are an x body type you can wear just about any bathing suit.  However, pay attention to where you tend to gain weight and use the tips above for the other body types to help keep your proportion and balance.

Accessorizing along with your new swim suit is fun too!  Don't forget hot shades (check out my earlier post where I talked about sunglasses), a coordinating cover up, sandals or flip flops and a great beach bag to carry all your sunscreen and magazines or books.  Don't forget painted toes!  Super cute!  

I'm ready to get my shop on and find a great new bathing suit and cover up!  How about you?!

As I end this week's blog, I would love for you to partner with me in prayer as I continue to seek God's direction for the ministry he has led me to.  I am sending promotional materials out for fall and winter speaking events, and into next year as well.  If you know of a women's group or church who would like more information on my speaking topics, please let me know.  Word of mouth marketing is so powerful!   I would also love to get together with small groups of women and do "style parties".   This would be a great way to find out more about your fashion personality and get tips and tricks on your best colors and dressing your God-given, beautiful body!  We could even do a fun fashion show! 

Blessings!

Dawn