The School Year Begins!

Modest Dressing

It’s Fall!

The School Year Begins!

All across America pencils are being sharpened. It’s back to school time! Another school year is upon us! Whether you are homeschooled or go to public or private school, new fashions for fall can excite you! Who doesn’t like a new outfit?

And yet a new outfit doesn’t make the person! God made you unique and perfect in His eyes. God looks straight past your new fall look and directly at the beautiful woman you are inside. Are you learning each day how to be a better daughter for Him? What can you do to let God’s love shine out of you and toward others?

I’m a pen-to-paper girl. So something that has really helped me keep my focus on my relationship with God has been a written reflection. I write down areas of my life that I feel I have improved and things that have brought me closer to my Father God. I then write down the areas in which I’d like to improve. Contemplate….am I all who God wants me to be? It only takes a little bit of time, but it can drastically change your whole outlook. When contemplating a new fall look, remember that attitude and personality show more of who you are than the clothes do! True beauty shines through in who you are, not in what you wear. If you recognize who you are in Christ, His joy will shine forth from you. You will have wrapped yourself in God’s love and you will begin to see yourself from His perspective: a well-loved daughter of the King.

“I will give thanks to You,

for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;

Wonderful are Your works,

And my soul knows it very well.”

Psalm 139:14

You are a unique creation.

It is so easy to get caught up in choosing how to look by the latest current trends. Although it is fun to incorporate what you have seen others wear or what popular media says is wonderful, you can make choices that are right for you! You are unique and special. Incorporate some new ideas into your already existing unique style to vary things and to make some changes.

A common misconception in women is that they have to look like the mannequins in the store window in order to look “fashionable.” Yet because you are unique and have your own style, you can incorporate some of the latest style ideas into your own style for a pleasant change. It will take your unique look to the next level without changing who you are.

“Looking good” doesn’t mean “costing a lot.” 

Reuse! I cannot emphasize enough the importance of accessorizing! Adding new accessories to an outfit can completely change the look and add a breath of fresh air to the style.

Experiment with your closet by combining new top and bottom combinations and by adding fun accessories to bring the whole outfit together. When I create a new look with the clothes in my closet, often my clothing combination doesn’t appear to match correctly. It’s not until I bring the outfit together with my jewelry and shoes that my look steps up to a whole new level.

When I moved to England, I only brought with me one suitcase of clothing. Yet, even with my limited amount of clothing that I brought with, I was able to make new combinations with my clothes and accessorize them in fun ways to create new looks. I was always asked how many trunks I brought with me to Britain. People couldn’t believe that I had only brought one suitcase!

Take the time to experiment with your wardrobe. You’ll be surprised at how amazing you look by just reusing your preexisting clothes and by adding new accessories! This fall, remember to be unique and true to yourself. But above all, remember that it truly is the inside that counts. You are His creation! He cares about you!

“And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?”

Matthew 6:28-30

Fancy Footwork

Modest Dressing

Fancy Footwork

I am spending some of my summer hours working in a little downtown bookstore. One afternoon, a lady walked into the store. She looked familiar, but I couldn’t place where I had seen her face before. Then, I saw her shoes. Aha! I never forget a face or a pair of shoes. I remembered where I had seen her before. We had previously had a lively conversation about shoes several weeks ago. She smiled at me then glanced at my feet (a classic behavioral move for any shoe-lover), “Those are cute too,” she nodded at my heels, “Last time we spoke, you had on a green pair. You must be a shoe girl.” “Yes, Ma’am!” I replied with a wink. I am most definitely a shoe girl.

Even if you are not a shoe-fanatic, you can appreciate a good pair of shoes. Each shoe personality is different. You might be a stiletto girl, a sandal girl, a boot girl, a tennis shoe girl, or a ballet flat girl. Whatever your shoe personality, your shoes can play a fashionable role in your wardrobe. A common mistake that most women make is the mentality that their shoes must match their outfit. Not necessarily true! While having a shoe design that matches the general flow and attitude of an outfit is important, the color, texture, and pattern of the shoe does not have to match. In fact, matching a totally different color shoe with a simplistically fashioned outfit can turn a “cute” outfit into a “chic” outfit.

In this outfit I’ve taken a delicate skirt and a simply tee and matched them with a flamboyant pair of wedges. The yellow in the shoes pull out the skirt and bring the whole outfit together.

Here I’ve taken a simplistic summer dress and added a pair of orange, forest green, and beige peep-toes. Note how the beige belt pulls out the beige in the shoes. Matching an accessory again will pull an outfit together.

This outfit is really fun. Because the sweater dress is a bit short, I added a pair of leggings. To give the basic black a bit of pizzazz, I matched it with stilettos that have a decorative, bright pattern.

This is a more work-oriented outfit. Wearing a basic black blouse and a professional skirt, this outfit was given a bit of life in the form of hunter green mary-janes.

Here is a nice, casual outfit. A tee, blue jeans and flats. The flats being worn are in a neutral color (brown), but have a playful, plaid pattern and are topped with a bow.

Another casual summer number! A lace tank-top has been layered with a light buttoned top. The gladiator sandals bring attention to the outfit while still keeping a casual summer look.

So go ahead, ladies! Buy those red heels or those yellow flats! You’ll be stepping out in style!

It’s not what you wear; it’s how you wear it.
~Twiggy

Modest Dressing- How Can I Tell What Is Modest?

Modest Dressing

Reader’s Question:

How Can I Tell What Is Modest?

An excellent question was asked by a reader last month that I’d like to discuss. This question couldn’t come at a better time. When the temperature goes up, we resort to cooler, more breathable clothing.
But how do we know when we have taken off too many layers? How can we know what is modest and what crosses the line?

Here is a good tip for distinguishing what is modest: stand in front of a mirror. Now ask yourself two questions:

• Would my outfit be pleasing to my Father God?
• Am I causing my brothers in the Lord to sin with this outfit?

After asking yourself these questions, consider what you are doing throughout the day. Some tops may be modest when you are looking at them straight on; however, when you bend over…. Oops! Your cute, modest top just became immodest. Think about what you will be doing throughout the day. If you are going to be working with little kids, which obviously involves a lot of bending over, it’s probably not a wise decision to wear modest cuts that turn immodest with a bending over movement. Does your outfit remain modest while you go about your day?

If you are still unsure if your outfit is modest, ask a trusted friend or family member. Keep note though, if an outfit has you in doubt, throw it out! On some level, we all know what is modest. It is just a matter of being honest with yourself.

Another helpful tip for finding modest outfits: bring a friend with you while shopping. Bringing a friend with that holds the same morals and values as you can be extraordinarily helpful. As the saying goes, “Iron sharpens iron.” You can both help and learn from each other by finding outfits that are cute and modest.

You can still be fashionable and have a style unique to match your personality. You are God’s precious daughter and He loves you more than you can fathom. Have fun dressing modestly; we are all in this together!

By Heather

Have any more questions like this one? Send them to: joyfilledgirls@hotmail.com

The Modesty Survey

Hey girls out there!

Do you ever have a hard time knowing if something is modest or not???

Well this Survey will help you know what is considered modest or not by guys of all ages!

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

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!

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

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!

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

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