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

Frazzled Fridays!

Well Suited

Part One

Hello Friday Friends!  I have chosen to blog about swimsuits/bathing suits before jeans because if you are like me it could take several trips to several different stores (or on-line ordering) to find the "right" suit.  However, if you are like me shopping for jeans is just about as stressful!  But that's because I am a 'd' body type and "normal" jeans don't work well for me.   But I digress...

For some, Spring Break is still a few weeks away, for others there may be big plans to get away to some place tropical around Memorial Day.  Either way, it's time...  And, please, please understand that I am right there with ya!  But I will be brave if you will.   Also, please understand that I am "preaching" to myself too.  

We have to give ourselves a break.  Regardless of what we see in airbrushed magazines and digitally enhanced movies, etc. no body is perfect.  Everyone has certain body parts they are not happy with; hence, the great success of plastic surgeons.  Uh um.  Just sayin'.  We need to be realistic.  Bathing suits are designed for swimming and/or sun-bathing.  Therefore, those areas that are not yet toned as we would like may very well be seen.  But you CAN look GOOD in a bathing suit!  Really you can!

Our goal for bathing suits is the same as dressing in general: balance and proportion.  Taking attention away from our challenge areas.  So you need to know your body type, challenge areas, and the parts of your body to accentuate.  Click here to review body types. 

Ok, here's what 'we' need to do first:  Try on last year's suit and get in front of a FULL length mirror.  This really is important!  I hear you now....ugh, no, argh... but seriously, if you are wanting to look your absolute best in a new suit this year it is imperative that you see how you look in last year's suit.   I hope I've convinced you this is a necessity. This activity is not meant for you to berate yourself and only look for flaws!  Look to see if last year's suit makes you look as cute as you are!!  Now, face the mirror first.  Does the suit conceal your fluffiest part(s)?   If you have a larger bust does your suit hold your girls in or is there spillage?  Do they droop, or sit nicely between your elbows and shoulders?  Then stand sideways.  Does it hold your tummy in?  Now face away from the mirror and look at the back of your suit.  Does it cover your bottom completely?  If you are a 'd' body type (hips and thighs) where does the leg opening stop on your thigh (cut high or not)?  Does it have a skirt?    Do you like the way the skirt falls or covers?  

Is last year's suit a color that flatters you?  For info on your best colors click here.  The right color is slimming!  It's that important!  If you are a soft, for goodness sakes please get rid of your black swimsuits! 

After your last year's suit assessment I would suggest having a plan by choosing one or two stores with a good selection of bathing suits and shopping there the first day.  Make sure you allow yourself plenty of time to shop.  This is too important to rush.  If you can go without children that would be best.  Wear really small underwear *smile*.  Don't wear socks when trying swim suits on!  You may want to get a nice pedicure before you go.  Make sure to take last year's suit with you to compare.  And finally, with the way bathing suits are designed you may very well wear at least one size larger than your regular clothes.  This is NORMAL!  So if you usually wear a size 12, then your bathing suit should be a 14.  And please don't stress about the tag size - like I've always said, if it bothers you, cut it out.  The most important thing is to be comfortable and look your best in your bathing suit, not what size it is!

Next week we'll talk more about which styles of suit look best on your individual body type.  I hope you all have a fantastic weekend and a blessed week ahead.  

Blessings!

Dawn

Frazzled Fridays!

Back to Spring Trends

All the Extras!!

Happy Frazzled Friday my friends!  I hope your week has been pleasant and productive.

The world of accessories - all the extras that bring an outfit together is abuzz this Spring (ha, no pun intended!).  There are several decades of influence this season from the 50's to the 80's.  So, you really can't go wrong, huh?!  

Love this slate stone combo

Things to add to your wardrobe can be bought at a variety of stores at a variety of prices.  Choose what's best for your budget.  Bangle bracelets - in lots of pretty colors or wooden and jeweled ones.
  

 

 

 

And look at these great Spring colors:

And one more; pretty jeweled one... although this could be a magnified statement ring.  Pretty non-the-less.

Also for wrists this season, colorful, whimsical, watches!

Notice the bright citrus color - very popular

 

 Even the very popular turquoise....

On those beautiful fingers (yes, yes they are!), make sure you have at least one statement ring.  Something that really pops out and makes a statement.

The very popular coral

How about this pretty gold/silver ring that is very dressy indeed:

Necklaces are long and bold this season.  Either long with pendants or short with longer pendants. 

Wooden, jeweled with a tribal flair:

The very popular turquoise, with the new wooden style intertwined.  Love this piece!!

Scarves continue their popularity this Spring with lighter weight materials.  

Florals and animal prints too!

Then we have those gorgeous, chandelier earrings:

Tribal inspired tassel earrings

Now, for out on the town, or out and about... sunglasses and bags!

The newest trends in handbags carried over from the last fall are satchel handled bags.  

And on the wild side - zebra print!  

And don't forget RUFFLES!

I will go into a little more detail with the "shades" - our big time summer wear, sunglasses!  When choosing sunglasses you need to take into account the shape of your face.  The trends this season are oversized, cat eye, aviator, Victoria Beckham and John Lennon styles.  Oversized is not for everyone. If you have small features these will overpower you.  Pick frames with smaller lines.

If you have an oval face the butterfly frames (some of the Victoria Beckham-like styles) are good as well as the cat eye styles. 

If your face is shaped more like a square try rounder frames like the John Lennon style or cat eye style.

 

For those with round shaped faces, look for sunglasses that are more angular, such as rectangular or square. And the aviator styles is great for you!  Both of these styles will make your face appear slimmer.

And for the (sweet) heart-shaped faces, you need glasses that will balance your beautiful face.  So do not get sunglasses with decoration at the top.  Try butterfly, cat eye or John Lennon styles.  

And so dear frazzled friends, this series of Spring trends must come to a close.  I will continue updating you as we get further into Spring and the start of Summer (can you believe school will be out in about 6 weeks!  Where oh where did the time go!)  

So tell me, are you looking at swim/bathing suits yet?   They all look really good on the ladies in the magazines!!  If we all wear the right kind of suit for our body type, we will all look great in bathing suits!  Really AND seriously!    I will be blogging about these wonderful "suits" very soon.  Would you rather hear about the perfect jeans for your beautiful, one-of-a-kind body first??  Let me know!  Until next time sweet friends....

Blessings!

Dawn

             

Frazzled Fridays!

B-Lessons

(and the winner is.....)

Happy almost Friday my frazzled friends!  We interrupt our regular scheduled series for this very important announcement!  As an introduction, I would love to know if any of you have a blog OR maybe you like to journal, or lead Bible studies, or coordinate women's get-togethers or events at church.  If you have a blog I would LOVE to read it!!!    And, there is a very important reason why I ask...


There is an absolutely phenomenal women's conference hosted by Proverbs 31 Ministries called She Speaks.  The date of the conference is July 22-24, 2011.  I invite you to consider attending along with me.  It will be my first time as a registered attendee and I'm one of those who likes to have a buddy along with me! I am posting early this week so you will also have the opportunity to be considered for a scholarship as well.  I am linking this post in hopes of securing a scholarship to attend the conference this year; and here is why...


She Speaks offers courses for women who want to speak to large groups and/or those who want to be more effective in teaching small groups like Bible studies.  Do you have a story to tell?  Have you ever thought of writing a book, whether it's a fiction or non-fiction book?   What about those who work hard to coordinate women's events at their church or in their communities and want to strengthen their leadership skills.


At the She Speaks conference you (and I) will experience God in a supernatural way - no doubt!  She Speaks will give us the tools needed to be the speaker, writer or women's director the God called us to be!  There are separate tracks for speakers, writers and women's ministry leaders.  I've attached a link/button at the end of this post directly to the conference website so you can read more and register!  


If you have been following me on Facebook or through this blog you know that I was certified as a Christian Image Consultant and Speaker this past summer.  I worked night and day to set up a website, a bio sheet, seeking and writing to numerous churches and MOPS groups in our area to begin the ministry that I know the Lord called me to.  When the opportunity presented itself to become certified I was so excited!  The Lord had my name written all over this opportunity!  However, the cost was prohibitive.  Jeff and I prayed separately and together seeking the Lord's answer to that specific detail.   We threw the fleece out (so-to-speak) and were given a great opportunity to delay payment of my tuition and earn it through working alongside my instructor/mentor in an event we were sure would generate the cost of my tuition.  We were elated and I cried as I told my friends and family how God answered our prayers!  


God did provide some of my tuition through the event.  But just a portion.  Wow, I was left wondering if we heard the Lord correctly when he said very clearly "Go, I will be with you ...".   I have had the immense blessing of speaking to a couple of MOPS groups.  Oh my goodness - what fun we had!   I would really like to learn more about jump-starting my speaking ministry.   How do I get others as excited about my topic(s) as I am?


I've wanted to attend this conference for the last couple of years.  We just have not had the extra money for registration.  Those who know me and my family know the job struggles that my husband has had over the last year.  I have been able to pick up a few odd, part time jobs to help us meet our monthly obligations.   My heart and soul have ached as I watch and try to encourage my husband as he pours over bills and listen in as he tries to work with financial institutes in an attempt to re-finance or restructure our loan.  You all know how impossible the market is out there.  Currently, in order to make changes we would have to incur more debt and risk our credit rating.  My husband is an awesome money manager (I call him the CEO and CFO of our family *smile*).  He has prayerfully considered all things and he will not jeopardize ours and our children's futures.  I am beyond blessed to be his wife! 


I know, that I know, that I know, the Lord will use our experiences with Jeff's job struggles and the humility we have experienced, to offer encouragement to others.  I also believe that our "b-lesson" is just beginning.  Yes, I said "blesson".  It's a lesson that is a blessing.  We would not experience such a blessing without the lesson.  And oh the lessons I am learning!  I can see how the Lord is using the odd jobs I've picked up to provide perspective of the society we live in and the struggles that everyone faces, particularly women.  As a certified Christian Image Consultant and Speaker, I have been given the unique opportunity ("blesson") to see how women (younger and older) dress.  That sounds like I was blind to the way women dress before, but now I'm certified to teach women how to dress their God given bodies in a way that enhances their confidence. These are beautiful women I would not have the "blesson" to meet otherwise.  I love seeing a surprised smile on a woman's face when as I'm taking her food order, and stop to compliment her on her hair, eyes, glasses, blouse, jacket, nails - you get the picture.  I have the opportunity to offer a sympathetic ear to those I work with and offer encouragement where I can.   Now, don't get me wrong.  I'm not always Mrs. Mary Sunshine.  My new work world is full of seemingly moody and miserable people.  But even though I don't bound out of the door every day intent on filling the needs of everyone I come into contact with, I hear the Lord's whisper that He's in control and there is a very important purpose for this season in our lives.  I choose to embrace and believe Him.  I choose to cry on His shoulder and feel His arms wrap around me to quiet my spirit. 


Below is the button that will link you over to the She Speaks website.  I would love for you to join me!  
Click here for more information on the scholarships being offered.

The winner of Shari Braendel's book "Good Girls Don't Have to Dress Bad" is Susan Lyons!  (blind draw by my wonderful hubby)

Please inbox me on facebook or email me at dawntugman@windstream.net with your address so I can mail it to you!! 

Blessings!

Dawn