Your Moment to Shine-Modest Dressing

Your Moment to Shine

You spend hours finding the perfect accessories, fabulous shoes, and oodles of time doing your hair just right. It’s your big night. It’s your night to get all dolled up and celebrate with your friends. It’s prom night.

But what about the dress? Cocktail or full length? Crinoline or no crinoline? Bright colors or sweet and subtle? Spaghetti strap? Strapless? Halter? The decisions are endless! You want something unique to you and, of course, drop dead gorgeous. Well, JOY is here to give you a hand to make your day just as special as you are!

First of all, let’s make it clear. ANY body is a good body. Don’t be fooled by media’s version of beauty. You are beautiful the way you are. You should never feel embarrassed or ashamed of your body. Remember who you are? A Princess of the Most High! You are a Holy Temple for God! Going with this, steer away from dresses that show too much cleavage or are too revealing. Don’t compromise your values for a second look from guys. You wouldn’t want a man that wants you only for your body, so don’t advertise that this is what you want. Dress for respect.

Colors
Darker colors are more slimming. So if that is the effect you want, try colors such as a rich chocolate brown, black, navy blue, emerald green, or a dark mystical grey.
Try to match your dress to make your striking features pop! If your eyes are blue, try wearing a shade of blue (or accessorize in blue) to make your eyes stand out.
If your skin takes on a darker hue, contrast it with a beautiful bright color. It’ll give your skin a striking glow and allow you to shine.

It’s All About Proportion
Look at your outfit like a piece of art. You want to create balance in your outfit. Try creating a pleasing proportion by wearing a dress that has a fitted bodice matched with a poufy skirt. Play with your outfit and make it a work of art!

Pear-Shaped Bodies
If you have a more pear-shaped body, try a dress that plays up your upper half. Dresses that hug at the hips will emphasize your hips and thighs. Instead, try a dress that wraps or an A-line dress! It will play down your hips and thighs and bring attention upwards.


Straight Bodies
If you have a straighter figure, emphasize your curves by slipping on an A-line dress. A modest dress that still shows some shoulder may be a good option as well. For a bit of flair, try a dress that poufs on the skirt.

Round Bodies
If you have a round figure, try a dress that has a low waistline. This will make your torso appear longer. Empire waist dresses also lengthen your torso and are very flattering! Dresses that flare slightly at the end will also flatter your figure.

Play with your outfit! Make your outfit totally you! Dress modestly and enjoy the moment. You are worth every second!

We’d love to see pictures of your outfit from your big night! You may just inspire someone else with your modest way to look amazing! Send a picture of your prom night to joyfilledgirls@hotmail.com. You may even appear on the website!

By Heather Engh

I’ll Take the Mumma’s Boy, Please!

I’ll Take the Mumma’s Boy, Please!

Since when did being a “mommy’s boy” become a bad thing in men? Well, of course, there is a fine line to this. I mean, if your guy can’t go forty-five minutes without calling his Mum or she insists that she accompany you on dates, then there is a serious problem… But men who respect their mothers tend to respect the lady they are dating. Want to know how a man will treat you later on; watch how he treats his Mum.

God wants only the best for you, stay strong in the Lord and trust Him to guide you!

Do you have a relationship question for JOY? We're here to offer sound, Christian advice and our prayers. If you have a question or a prayer request, email JOY at: joyfilledgirls@hotmail.com.

By Heather Engh

A Wrinkle in Time-Natural Glow

Natural Glow

A Wrinkle In Time

Summer brings us the promise of sunshine, warmer weather, and a lighter wardrobe. Seems that once there is a glimmer of hope that summer could be in the air, people start wearing sandals and tank tops, taking bolder moves to hurry along the warm weather. All of a sudden, girls start taking a more keen interest in how their nails (especially toe nails!) are looking for sandal weather. I think the most hilarious part of an approaching summer is when girls start to say amongst themselves, “Now I have to shave my legs more often!”
Aaaah, yes, summer is a funny time for females. We take so much time and effort to look nice in the warmer weather. But summer is also the season when women let their guard down more easily. They allow their bodies to suffer from a harsh substance that slowly wears down their natural beauty. Yes, ladies, I am referring to (please cue the dramatic music)…ultraviolet rays!!!!!!
Alright, maybe it’s not all that dramatic, but tanning is a serious issue. Dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon as well as author of the book Face Value: The Truth About Beauty—and a Guilt-Free Guide to Finding It, Dr. Hema Sundaram shares this truth about tanning, “Sunlight contains different wavelengths of UV light. UVA rays penetrate deeper into your skin and cause tanning. UVB rays damage the more superficial skin layers and cause sunburn. Many tanning salons claim that indoor tanning is safe because you are exposed to more tanning UVA rays than burning UVB rays. Medical research disproves this claim. “ Not only is tanning the main cause for skin cancer, but it also causes wrinkles! (gasp!) Yes, ladies, wrinkles! Be nice to yourselves now and you’ll thank yourself later.
We still want that beautiful summer glow though. Your skin will still tan gradually if you use sunscreen. Ensure that you apply sunscreen thoroughly to areas that are prone to getting burnt by the sun: nose, cheekbones, forehead, shoulders, back, and arms. Drink lots of water. Spending time in the sun deprives our body of the water it needs. Want a more natural glow? Hydrate yourself with an extra bottle of water. You’ll feel healthier, look gorgeous, and save yourself a wrinkle later on.

Do you have a hygiene or make-up question for JOY? Email us at: joyfilledgirls@hotmail.com.

By Heather Engh

Hard-Working Hands

Hard-Working Hands

Spring get-togethers. I love them. After a long winter, its always nice to meet up with friends and family look fresh for spring. Outfit? Got it! Accessories? Check! Smile and cheerful attitude? Accounted for! Seems like I am all put together except for one little detail….. my nails.
Healthy nails are often overlooked in the realms of hygiene and beauty. However, healthy looking nails are noticed more often than you’d think. Think about how hard we work our hands and feet… why is it that we don’t always take care of them?
I try to give myself a pedicure and manicure once every two weeks. It keeps my nails healthy and fresh looking.


To give yourself a pedicure:

• Soak your feet in warm, soapy water
• After about 10 minutes of soaking, push back your cuticles using your fingernail or a file
• Trim away any excess cuticles
• Gently trim your toenails
• File the edges of your nails
• Massage your feet with lotion. Take time to rub each individual toe, the bottom of your feet, and your ankles.
• Add a splash of color or a clear coat of polish to keep your nails strong
o If you use nail color, put down a base of clear before applying. This will prevent your nails from being stained by the color.


To give yourself a manicure:

• Soak your hands in warm, soapy water
• After about 10 minutes of soaking, push back your cuticles using your fingernail or a file
• Trim away any hangnails or excess cuticles
• Gently trim your fingernails
• File the edges of your nails to keep them soft and rounded
• Massage your hands with lotion. Take time to rub each individual finger and the palm of your hand.
• Add a splash of color or a clear coat of polish to keep your nails strong
o If you use nail color, put down a base of clear before applying. This will prevent your nails from being stained by the color.

European Flare

European Flare

Spring is here! And not a moment too soon! Hurray for light jackets, open-toed shoes, and those pretty spring clothes we long for over the winter months. It is now the time to pack away your winter clothes and switch out your closet for some lighter attire.

Don’t pack away all of your winter clothes just yet though, leave out some decorative scarves. Mix your summer tank-tops, shorts, capris, skirts, and dresses with a scarf for a more European look. Scarves continue to be the latest trend hitting Europe. And they aren’t just for the chilly seasons! Step out in style this spring with a touch of Europe by just adding a decorative scarf.

Spring Challenge: Can you find light scarves to accent your outfit?

*Remember, be creative! Your outfit is your art. Where can you find outfit accents at a reasonable rate? Leave us your ideas by adding a comment. We’d love to hear how you created your look for less!

Guy Talk- Learn to Live

Learn to Live

Easter is a time of new beginnings. Jesus died to give us a fresh start. Why is it then that we tend to hold the past at the front of our minds when it comes to relationships? I have been guilty of judging guys simply on my own past experience. While it is important to “live and learn,” let’s not forget that we are also “learning to live.” There is a time for tears, there is a time for laughter. There is a time for sorrow, and a time for joy. Let go of the past and give your new relationships a fresh, clean slate. Just as God gave us a fresh start, give that same gift to the people in your life. Give those guys a chance. Trust God and move forward boldly into a new beginning.

With a Feather in Your Hair

Modest dressing

With a Feather in Your Hair

Listen up, Ladies! This is straight off of the London runways! Guess what the great new accessory that will be shining more brightly in the States is? Headbands! America is finally getting more unique headbands in its stores. This is the latest accessory to jazz up any outfit.

A fancy day out? Try to accessorize your look with a feather headband.

Going casual? Try on a headband with a bow! Or maybe one with an eccentric pattern!

If that’s not your style, find something more neutral and subtle. Whichever style fits you, there’s a headband with your name on it! Check them out on your next shopping day. And don’t forget, you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to look amazing. Check your existing hair accessory drawer or fix up a headband that you don’t wear anymore. Be creative and have fun!

By Heather Engh

Luck of the Irish?

Guy talk

Luck of the Irish?

Recently, I made a little trip to Dublin, Ireland. Being part Irish, I really got into the shamrocks and “luck of the Irish.” It is now the month, if you are Irish…or if you pretend you are just for the holiday…to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

I may be part Irish and may have really enjoyed the “luck of the Irish” theme during my trip, but truly, I don’t believe in luck. Especially when it comes to men. I know that God has someone picked out just for me. If I trust God, listen to Him, and do what He calls me to do, the rest of my life will fall into place. Trust, trust, trust.

It’s letting go of that steering wheel and allowing Him to guide me. It’s a tricky thing though! Remember those “trust tests?” You know, the ones where you would catch your partner, who would fall backwards into your arms? I always did have a hard time with those “trust tests.” Trusting God to guide me and place that perfect guy in my life is a difficult thing to let go of. But once I let go, everything falls into place more marvelously than I could ever have planned. Best thing about trusting God? Unlike those “trust tests,” He will never let you fall. It’s not luck; it’s trust in our Abba.

By Heather Engh

Is That Green on Your Face?

Natural Glow

Is That Green on Your Face?

With St. Patrick’s Day creeping upon us, everything is green. The stores are green, the food is green, people wear green. This month, I have a challenge for you: I want you to wear green on your face.

We really should wear green on our face every day of the year! Not only is it safer for our delicate skin, but it helps the environment. Oh yes, I’m not talking about wearing green paint on your beautiful face. I’m talking about being “green,” ecologically friendly! Not only are you stunning, but you are always brilliant because you know how to wear makeup that does less damage to our planet.

Many local labels are taking the steps to make their products more green. My challenge for you is to go to your local cosmetic department and see what green makeup you can find. Make sure you read the backs of labels to make sure they really are green!

By Heather Engh

The Must-Haves for Winter

Modest Dressing
The Must-Haves for Winter
I’m all about trying new things. New types of clothes, accessories, and new make-up or hygiene applications. After searching high and low for a great top ten list for you, I’ve found it! Here are the must-haves for this winter!

10. Stockings
(These are great! You can get cheap, cute pairs of stockings at Target to mix and match great outfits)
9. Bigelow and Co. chap stick from Bath and Body Works
(Minty and shimmery, it’s good for your lips too!)
8. Listerine Whitening Mouthwash
This mouthwash not only kills germs, but it whitens your teeth with foaming action.
7. Suave hair products
Want to have amazing hair without spending a lot? Try Suave! Their products work amazingly well and are insanely cheap.
6. Ballet Flats
These look great with a pair of tights or jeans! They are a comfortable option for dressy, cute shoes.
5. Purses from Target
It’s always nice to have a cute handbag now and then. Best place to hit the sales? Try Target!
4. Vintage Jewelry
Vintage jewelry looks great with most outfits. Plus, you can adjust the look of the jewelry to your personal style, depending on your outfit. I’ve found that Maurices and Target have good sales. Otherwise, check to see if you have a mom, aunt, or grandmother that has unwanted jewelry. The jewelry styles of their eras are coming back!
3. Cardigans
Cardigans are a great way to layer and mix and match your outfits. They can create endless possibilities for your wardrobe.
2. Boots
Boots come in at number two on our list! There are tons of amazing boot styles out there. There is a boot that fits your unique personality and fashion style. I suggest checking out DSW and Payless.
1. Scarves
Oh, yes, Ladies! Coming in at number one is SCARVES!!! WOO HOO!!! I’m not talking your normal winter scarf. I’m talking cute, sassy scarves for your outfit! You can find scarves in lace, cotton, and most fabrics. I encourage you to find expressive scarves that show who you are as an individual! For these, it’s sometimes worth checking out the little boutiques downtown.

Hopefully this list helps guide your thinking during the snowy season!
By Heather Engh


Be wise. Be thrifty! Check your own closet to see what you have that you haven’t used in a while. Maybe your mom or your sister has something that will work for you! But don’t forget to ask their permission to use their things… Thrift stores or second hand stores may yield treasures you don’t expect, too!

Freshen Up, French Style!

Natural Glow
Freshen Up, French Style!
How do the French stay beautiful? Would you believe me if I told you that their make-up tip was to wear barely-there makeup? It’s true! French style makeup consists of fresh, clean skin. Smoothen out your skin with a touch of foundation and powder. Then add on a peach coat of lip-gloss. Voila! Instant natural beauty! If you insist on eye-makeup, add a bit of mascara to make your eyes pop.

According to Laura Mercier, a French creator of a line of cosmetics and skin care, “It really astonishes me the way American women wear so much makeup. In America, even teenage girls are overly made-up. And when you are overly made-up, you send out the message that you are overly sexual, that you want to be visible to attract men.” What does this mean for JOY girls? It means that you are, and always have been, beautiful just the way you are! Make-up doesn’t make you beautiful. It is your shinning personality! Let your natural, God-given beauty show!

Expect Respect

Guy Talk
Expect Respect
In that search for Mr. Right, it’s important to remember one thing: expect respect. I know that we all say that we expect to be respected from guys, but how often do we find ourselves settling for second or even third best? In the end, we all want to be loved and accepted for who we are. It’s human nature. But let’s not forget that we are true princesses under God our King and Father. We already are loved and accepted through Jesus! Don’t settle for half best when God has someone just for you that will give you all of the respect, love, acceptance, and admiration you crave.
To help set your standards, make a list of the things you love in a man. In the separate column, make a list of the characteristics you will not tolerate. Set your standards high! Next time you find yourself at a relationship crossroads where you could settle for less than the best, pull out your list and remind yourself of your standards. God knows your heart’s desires even before you do! He’s got Mr. Right all lined up for you. Never settle and trust God to put Mr. Right in your path!

Of Snow and Sunblock

The snow clings thick to the tree branches in my home-state of Minnesota. Ice twinkles on the tops of mailboxes and trees. Stepping outside, I can see my breath when I breathe out. I’m all bundled up for a day of skiing! I grab my skis, my poles, an extra pair of gloves, and the sunblock. Oh yes! Sunblock!

Now, you may be thinking, “What? Sunblock in the winter? I thought that was summer item!” Yes, it is, but it is also a very commonly forgotten about winter item. When the sun reflects off of the snow, it intensifies the light. Because it is cold, we don’t often notice the sunshine our skin is receiving. Remember to add some sunblock to your beautiful face before heading outside! Your skin will remain fresh and naturally glowing.

By Heather Engh

The Wardrobe Shuffle

Holly opened up her closet door. Groaning, she moved around the hanging clothes. “What to wear? What. To. Wear…,”she mumbled. Oh, indecisiveness. It should be a crime! All of those clothes and yet we still have trouble finding that perfect outfit! All too often, I find myself in Holly’s situation. Just pushing around the clothes hanging in my closet. Maybe trying on a couple of outfits (only to fling them across my bed in dismay and frustration).

Here is a tip for those wardrobe shuffle blues! Research has shown that our personality and mood are affected by color. Which makes sense. If you are around only grey colors for a substantial amount of time, you may start to feel gloomy, depressing, and grey! For me, my mood affects how I dress. Sometimes I feel very sassy and ready to take on the day: my outfit reflects that. Sometimes I feel quite down-to-earth: my outfit definitely shows that. And, dare I say it, sometimes I feel lazy! My outfit will reveal how lazy I am feeling!

To combine these two concepts (moods and colors) I organize my wardrobe according to color. For example, all of my blue clothes are in one part of my closet; all of my red clothes in another; my yellow clothes in another, etc. When I get dressed for that perfect outfit, I stop and think about my mood, then I just go to the colored clothing section in my closet that best fits how I am feeling! Easy as that! This saves time and frustration. No more wardrobe shuffling and more time enjoying the day God gave!

By Heather Engh

Letting Go: A Note on Forgiving Guys

Have you ever wondered to yourself, “What was he thinking?!?! What would possibly possess him to say that?! Why would he do that?”
Oh my, if I had a nickel for every time I’ve asked myself that question, I would be rich! Sometimes it can be more than difficult to understand men. Even more difficult when they do something that hurts us. The blur of being hurt, especially by someone that we care about, can blind us to an important concept: forgiveness.
Forgiveness can be the most trying thing. It is important to remember that the men who have hurt you in the past need to be forgiven. Until you can forgive, how can your heart be open? God has amazing guy-friendships lined up for you! Even more, God has an incredible man/husband for you! Forgive and open your heart up to the friendships around you. It can be a difficult mountain to overcome, but once you are at the top, you’ll be amazed at who was waiting for you the entire time.

By Heather Engh

Gasp! He's Looking At Me!

Gasp! He's Looking At Me!

Quick! That cute guy at the Christmas party is looking at YOU! What do you do? What should you say? How do you look? Good grief! Girls go through a lot of work to impress guys. Is it really necessary? Do they even notice how much time you've taken to look nice? To be honest, probably not. What's going to make more of an impression on them is being yourself. Life has taught me, time and time again, that your personality is more outstandingly beautiful than any flamboyant imitation and approach you can take to impress a guy. They'll notice your kindness, smile, joy, and inner beauty long before how perfectly your eyelashes are. Be yourself because God made you uniquely and perfectly you. Who could ask for a better gift? Let the joy of the Lord be your strength and let it shine through to others.

By Heather Engh

Break Out Your Jingle Bell Socks!

Break Out Your Jingle Bell Socks!

Ok, so maybe I'm the only one who owns jingle bell socks. But who can't help but get festive outfits for the Christmas season! You don't have to spend a lot of money on holiday outfits to look amazing though. Remember that cute red tank you have in your "summer" closet? Match that with a black skirt and a black v-neck sweater and you have yourself an in-style holiday fashion statement! What is going to make all of your creative outfits stand out are two items: jewelry and shoes. Branch out and be bold with a pair of chandelier earrings and stilettos. Shine in ballet flats and a pearl drop necklace. Holiday outfits are easy with a pinch of creativity and fun accessories. Have fun this holiday!

By Heather Engh

Is That a Sparkle In Your Eye?

Is That a Sparkle In Your Eye?

Tis the holiday season! A time for celebrating our King's birth; gathering with family and friends; wrapping Christmas gifts; and baking goodies. With all of the get-together's that approach during this time of the year, it's also time to freshen your natural beauty with some make-up tips!

The thing to remember is: a little goes a long ways! Use your make-up lightly and apply it in areas that will enhance your lovely features. Tip: If you have lightly colored eyelashes, pop your eye color with a light splash of mascara and a hint of eye shadow. Apply lip gloss to your lips to make them appear more prominent.

A little goes a long ways! And most importantly, wash your face daily to keep your skin looking fresh and the life of the party! Merry Christmas and embrace the beauty God gave you! You are His princess!
By Heather Engh