Friday, July 29, 2011

FANTASY CLOSET: Black and Gold

This is the first in my New Series entitled: "My Fantasy Closet". In this series I will share fashion pieces I've found that I would love to have in my personal closet but realistically can't at the moment (or perhaps ever). A girl can dream though can't she? :) This Black and Gold theme is my modern day Audrey Hepburn inspired look. Classic and classy.

Item Descriptions:

1. Kate Spade 'Pearl Street' Torsade Statement Necklace
2. ASOS Reiss Leah Frill Skirt Dress
3. Christian Louboutin Lace Up Patent Peep Toe Pumps
4. Tiffany&Co. Gold Somerset Knot Earrings
5. Michael Kors Glitz Chain Golden Watch
6. J.Crew Ice Cube Bracelet
7. Juicy Couture Riviera Wristlet

What's in YOUR Fantasy Closet?

Faux-Shopping and NEW Series...My Fantasy Closet


I enjoy what I liked to call "Faux Shopping" which is a lot like window shopping for the virtual world. Basically, I go to my favourite online boutiques and find items that I like and put them in the online shopping bag...but I never checkout. So I get my fix of feeling like I went shopping but I'm not spending the money. Which is great for your wallet. Some have said to me "How do you do it? I wouldn't be able to restrain myself from hitting the checkout button and buying things." To this I reply...it's "mind over matter." I enjoy shopping, but I'm not always in a place where I can spend money on luxury or non-essential items. When money is tight...I go Faux Shopping! And truth is...a few weeks after my "faux shopping spree"....I've forgotten about those items I thought were a "must have" at the time. That's why I avoid impulse buying.


So because of my love for fashion but lack of finances, I decided to start a special series for all of my ladies out there (like myself) who don't have an unlimited budget and begin blogging what I like to call my "Fantasy Closet". I will share beauty and fashion items that I'm loving and that aren't something I own but would love to. It will be mostly items I dream about. These outfits can inspire a search for affordable alternatives as well. I encourage you to start your own Fantasy Closet because there is nothing wrong with dreaming. Just as long as you remember that the things you now have were once among the things you only hoped for. In other words, don't get so caught up in what you DON'T have that you forget to be thankful for what you DO have. Keep a healthy perspective and dreams can be motivators.

Click HERE to see my first post of this New Series and take a peek inside my Fantasy Closet.

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

5 Hair Product Must Haves


These are the five hair care products that I loyally use. These products have worked so well that I see no reason to stray! :)

1. Garnier Fructis Sleek And Shine Anti-Humidity Hairspray - For those days when I want my hair to stay in place but not feel crunchy and stiff this is my go-to product. It gives me the hold I need, leaves my hair feeling soft and has a yummy fruity scent.

2. Lush Big Shampoo - First time users will probably raise their eyebrow at this shampoo. I know I did. I received my first bottle as a gift and wasn't quite sure what to make of it at first. It has a gritty texture because of the sea salt in it but that combined with the seaweed and citrus it contains makes your hair feel extra clean and super shiny! Not to mention it smells AH-mazing! You just have to get past the initial reaction of the sea salt texture. It actually lathers up nice and does wonders for the hair! All of Lush products are fresh and handmade quality products. Their Big shampoo is a definite fav!

3. Tresemmé Heat Tamer Spray - if you use any kind of heat tools on your hair like a hair dryer, curling iron, flat iron, etc. then this is a must have product. Spray it on before using your heat tools and it protects your hair from being damaged. It has a great scent too!

4. Head and Shoulders Smooth and Silky Conditioner - I have a relatively dry scalp but the dandruff conditioners I've tried all smell like a medicine cabinet....except for this one. Not only does it leave my hair feeling soft and smooth, but it smells so incredibly good and the scent stays in my hair ALL day! I'll catch whiffs of my hair throughout the day and night after using this conditioner and I love that clean hair smell!

5. Garnier Fructis Surf Hair Texture Paste - I have naturally wavy/curly hair and this product is perfect for giving me those defined curls and wavy texture without weighing down my hair. I like the fruity scent too. 

What are YOUR hair product must haves? Share them in the comments.


Monday, July 25, 2011

Heart to Heart: Respond Rather Than React

Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Philippians 1:27

Notice this verse doesn't say when good things happen, but in whatever happens. In other words, no matter what comes about in our lives we need to remember that we are representing Christ and therefor are held to a different set of standards. It's like that old saying "actions speak louder than words." The way we conduct ourselves speaks more about our hearts than the words that come out of our mouths. Scripture also says; As water reflects the face, so one’s life reflects the heart.    —Proverbs 27:19 When the world looks at us, we should desire for them to see Christ shining through.

So even if we don't "get our way", we should still act like Christ would want us too. Even when the whole world seems to be against us, we will still act like a Christian. Even if our family and friends let us down, we will conduct ourselves in a way that is appropriate for a believer. That's hard! It's so much easier to react emotionally when faced with challenges, but Christ wants us to respond with the same love and grace that He has shown us. When Christ was ridiculed, He looked the other way. When He was faced with animosity, He responded with control and compassion. When He was hanging on the cross, He prayed for those who were crucifying Him. We should strive to mirror Christ's conduct. 

Reflection:
Are you conducting yourself in a manner that is worthy of the gospel of Christ? Does your life positively reflect your heart?
Application:
Today, watch the way you act. Make a mindful effort to respond like Christ rather than react like the world.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for loving me enough to show me where I need to improve. Thank you for giving me the Bible to help guide me. Please help me to act in a way that would bring honor to you. Keep me from reacting emotionally, and help me to respond as Christ would in every aspect of my life. In Your holy name, Amen.

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

What Do Guys Think About Modesty?

I stumbled upon this testimony from a young man that gives us a better understanding about a guy's thoughts on modesty. I think you'll find the following video eye-opening and convicting. I personally did.



Ladies, 1 Corinthians 8:9 says: Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak. Dressing immodestly provokes lust within men whether it is our intent or not. We must be aware that the clothing we wear can either help or hurt guys in their own struggle to be pure.


Our desire should be to help men in their walk with Christ...not to be the reason they stumble. We should desire for our relationship with guys to be centered around God and for our fellowship with them to be unhindered. Dressing modestly displays our respect not only for ourselves, but also our respect for the men who are striving to live by God's standards in a world that typically does not make it easy for them to do so. Guys appreciate modesty! They don't expect women to cover every inch of their skin but they are asking for our help in guarding themselves from sexual lust.


Outward modesty proclaims that we know what is on the inside is far more treasured than what is on the outside. Guys ARE attracted to a modest woman. Why? Because the heart is far more attractive than the body can ever be. And if we're honest with ourselves we acknowledge that we would much rather have someone attracted to our heart, than our body. But beyond that, we should desire to honor God above all else. One way we can honor God is by honoring His teachings about modesty and purity in our own life and in turn helping men to honor God without distraction. 


Modesty matters. Do you dress to lure....or to be pure?

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Top 5 Perfume Picks




1. Breathless by Victoria's Secret
Notes: Sandalwood, Musk, Tangerine, Neroli Petals


Breathless is my #1 favourite perfume. I was so disappointed when they discontinued it. They did bring it back for awhile but unfortunately I think it has been discontinued again. It has a sensual yet sophisticated scent that isn't overpowering and lasts all day. I love the the hourglass shaped rosey pink bottle also. Very feminine                                                 and chic.





2. Daisy by Marc Jacobs
Notes: Strawberry, Violet Leaves, Ruby Red Grapefruit, Gardenia, Violet Petals, Jasmine Petals, Musk, Vanilla, White Woods.


One word: Daisy-licious! Surprisingly it doesn't smell like daisy's at all. It is fresh and feminine with a touch of vintage elegance but it's not too sophisticated. My only complaint is that the scent is not very long-lasting. But the bottle is precious.






3. In Bloom by Reese Witherspoon
Notes: Peach Tea Leaves, Gardenia, Jasmine Petals, Amber Wood


I received this as a gift about a year ago and it quickly became a favourite. It has all the class and elegance you would expect from actress Reese Witherspoon. Even the bottle is stunning with the crystal rose design. It has a very floral, romantic scent.






4. Lovely by Sarah Jessica Parker
Notes: Lavender, Patchouli, Orchid, White Amber, Sultry Woods, Musk


This is one of those timeless scents that is perfect for women of all ages. Very light, feminine, and whimsical. It's simplicity is what makes it such a fabulous perfume.






5. Love Spell by Victoria's Secret
Notes: Cherry Blossom, Red Apple, Peach, Blondewood


Love Spell is one of their most popular scents so it is very recognizable but guaranteed to get compliments. It has that irresistible blend of cherry blossom and sweet peach that makes it the perfect fruity floral scent.




What are YOUR favourite scents? Share them in the comments below!

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Fashion Fix: Go Boho!

Boho is the way to go this summer! I’m really loving bohemian fashion right now. The relaxed feel is perfect for warmer weather and long, lazy summer days.

If you’re not sure how to shop this trend, try to incorporate the following things into your wardrobe: crochet and hand-made items, lace, stone or beaded accessories, florals, tribal prints, fringe, feathers, braided accents and baggy, flowy pieces. Look for maxi skirts, tunics, scarves, peasant tops and big floppy hats.



What do you think of this trend? Tweet a photo of your style to @HeartOverHeels_ on twitter! :)



Monday, July 11, 2011

Heart to Heart: Priceless Treasure

Despair can paralyze and weaken even the strongest of souls. Everyday pressures can be overwhelming; criticism and cruelty from the world can make us feel as though we've been defeated. When life is filled with despair, we must not give up. For even in our darkest moments we can have hope. Psalm 112:4 tells us that; Even in darkness light dawns for the upright. Hope conquers despair. So where does hope come from? How can we overcome despair?

In 2 Corinthians 4:7 we read about a treasure, but the treasure is kept in a jar made of clay. Seems like an odd place for a treasure, right? A clay jar is fragile, and easily broken. Usually we would keep our valuables - our most prized possession - in a vault, in a safety deposit box, or in a strong, protected place. When we look closer, this jar of clay reveals flaws, defects, and cracks. It's not a vessel of great monetary value, but rather a common, ordinary vessel.

We are that vessel, that fragile jar of clay! Our bodies, our outward appearance, our physical imperfections, our human errors, these are all elements of our jar of clay. None of these things can bring meaning or a sense of value to our lives. If we focus on our human qualities, despair is bound to set in.

But the solution to overcoming despair is revealed in the following verses. Kept inside that broken, fragile, ordinary jar of clay is a priceless treasure of immeasurable worth!

2 Corinthians 4:7-12; 16-18 
    But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body. So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you. 
     Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.


Let God's truth reveal the treasure that dwells within you. This treasure can fill the emptiest of vessels; after all, a jar is designed to hold something! That treasure is God himself, living within us, bringing His abundant life. In our own humanity, we are simply an empty jar. But when we recieve God's gift of salvation, we become filled with what we were created to hold, the spirit of Christ. He is our treasure!

When we look only at the fragile clay jar, despair is the natural response, but when we look at the glorious treasure we hold within, we are inwardly restored and revitalized by God's grace. And those imperfections and cracks in our clay jar are no longer to be despised, for they now serve a purpose! They allow the grace of God, our cherished treasure, to pour out for all those around us to see.

photo credit: google images


Friday, July 8, 2011

Heart to Heart: Unfading Beauty

Does your beauty come from your outward appearance, 
or from Christ in you?

Your beauty should not come from outward adornment. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight.
1 Peter 3:3-4

The Bible tells us that true beauty comes not from our outward physical beauty, but from our inner beauty; the beauty of Christ living in our hearts and shining out through us. I want to ask you two questions today:

Question 1: How much time do you spend on your outward appearance? This could be time spent doing your hair, dieting, putting on makeup, choosing what clothes to wear today, accessorizing, even shopping for new clothes or jewelry or getting a new hair cut. Statistics show that the average woman spends 2 ½ years of her life washing, styling, cutting, coloring, crimping, and straitening her hair at home or in a salon. That's just time spent on hair!

Question 2: How much time do you spend on your inner beauty? This could be time spent in prayer, reading or studying your Bible, time in church or youth group, or time spent in devotions.

Where we spend the most time tells us what we care the most about. Today's verse tells us that our inner self should be more important to us. After all, 1 Corinthians 4:18 tells us that what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. So while the world is telling us that beauty is on the outside, the Bible tells us that true beauty is on the inside. True beauty comes from Christ in us.

Reflection:
Do I spend more time on my outward appearance, or on my inner beauty?
Application:
Every time you look in a mirror today, say a prayer asking God to help you work on your inner beauty.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, Thank you for all you do for me. Thank you for teaching me what is important in your sight. Help me to put the value of my inner beauty above that of my outward appearance. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.





*source

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Top Summer Nail Polish Picks


 Summer is the perfect time to wear brighter, bolder nail polish shades. Here are a few of my current favs...

(Left to Right)
1. Essie Jam N' Jelly  — it's a pretty bright pink with purple iridescence
2. Essie Cute As A Button  — lovely coral shade
3. Essie Turquoise and Caicos  — the perfect turquoise polish
4. Quirius Lavendar Bouquet  — this is such a gorgeous vibrant purple
5. Deborah Lippmann Yellow Brick Road  — more of a creamy yellow as opposed to neon yellow, which I prefer
6. Essie Barefoot and Topless  — the perfect nude shade
7. OPI Cozu-Melted In The Sun  — gorgeous rose gold with subtle shimmer, would look great with a summer tan
8. Essie Meet Me At Sunset — a deep orange shade, I love the name of this one
9. OPI Jade Is The New Black from the Hong Kong collection  — beautiful true green
10. Essie Aruba Blue  — lovely ocean blue with an iridescent shine
11. OPI Strawberry Margarita  — the perfect hot pink with an adorably fitting name for summer
12. OPI Glitzerland from the Swiss collection — gorgeous gold shade and another cute nail polish name

I just love the names they come up with for nail polishes. They are always so fun and cute. A lot of these polishes have summer-inspired names also. :) What are YOUR favourite summer polishes? 

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

True Beauty Challenge

Part of being beautiful is making other people feel beautiful and also helping them to see the beauty in others.  Make the world a more beautiful place by taking the true beauty challenge.



My challenge to you this week......

  • Tell a friend that she is beautiful.
  • Tell a stranger that she is beautiful.
  • Tell yourself that you are beautiful. (and believe it!)
  • Smile more!
  • Go an entire day without complaining. Be thankful instead.
  • Volunteer at a local women's shelter or donate your time and/or treasures to another Christian non-for-profit group.
  • Do something nice for someone and don't let them know it was you.
  • Share the Good News of Christ with someone.


If you do at least one of these things each day this week the world will certainly be more beautiful. Committed to the challenge? Make this a weekly goal for yourself and receive the reward of countless lives touched by your efforts.

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Fashion Fix: JCLU Forever

JCLU Forever was created by three girls who love Jesus Christ FOR girls who love Jesus Christ. Their T-shirts have simple faith based statements that preach the gospel while being fun and fashionable. This is a great way to be a supermodel for Christ!

Check out their threads by visiting their online store:  www.jcluforever.com

Here are a few of my favourite T-shirt designs by JCLU Forever....






Which of their T-shirts is YOUR favourite?

Monday, July 4, 2011

How Do YOU Red, White and Blue?

Sometimes I'm very festive and wear red, white, and blue from head to toe for the 4th of July. And sometimes I stick to a solid color and just accessorize with red or blue. It all depends on my mood, but I don't think I can go completely without a hint of patriotism or festiveness.


How do YOU do red, white and blue for Independence Day? Here are a few fun and stylish ideas.








Happy 4th Of July! Have fun, stay safe and be thankful!





*all photos found on google images

Sunday, July 3, 2011

Heart to Heart: Modest Is Hottest

It seems that with warmer weather comes smaller clothes. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying you have to dress like a nun or anything, but this excuse of "It's too hot to dress modest" is not a good excuse at all. Do we see men running around in belly shirts and booty shorts? Absolutely not. I guarantee they are just as hot as we are in the summer sun but they don't use that as an excuse to show all kinds of skin, and neither should we.

Listen ladies, we can always come up with some kind of justification for doing the wrong thing, "it's too hot" OR "it's the trend", the excuses go on and on....but if we want to represent Christ and display the beauty of womanhood then we need to cover up our body and put our true valuables, which is our heart and humility on display. 

Women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control. - 1 Timothy  2:9

There are plenty of cute clothes out there that can keep you cool AND keep you classy. Show the world that modest is hottest!

Need a few ideas? Check out some suggestions HERE.




Summer Style Guide

You don't have to sacrifice style in order to dress modestly in the hot summer months. Here are a few ideas for staying cool and staying classy for summer.


One piece swimsuits keep you covered and classy by the pool or beach
This one is from southbeachswimsuits.com

Looking for something slightly more youthful? Try the tankini style swimsuit
This one is from macys.com


Wide-strap, sleeveless dresses that hit just above the knee will keep you cool and classy for summer. This one is from forever21.com

This pretty floral print sundress is from The Loft

You don't have to sacrifice style in order to wear shorts
This bohemian style is from calypsostbarth.com

This is another fashionable pair of shorts for summer.
Photo credit here: chictopia.com

Skirts are a great choice for keeping cool and feeling feminine
This one is from target.com


This tailored skirt is from gap.com

Tank tops with wider straps are more flattering than skinny straps 
(also you don't have to worry about bra straps showing)
This one is by Lauren Conrad and is available at kohls.com


These simple tanks are available just about everywhere.
They can be layered and paired with most outfits.


Hope this was helpful! Stay classy! :)


Friday, July 1, 2011

20 Simple Style Secrets

1.  Understand your body type and the best styles for your shape. Dressing for your body type is key. What body shape are you? Find out HERE.

2.  If you are wearing skinny jeans or leggings on bottom wear a baggy flowy top.  If you are wearing bigger boyfriend jeans or wide legs, stick to something more tailored on top.

3.  Try synching in oversized tops or blouses with a waist belt or throw a fitted jacket over the top to accentuate your waist and give a more slimming effect.

4. Understand the colors that suit you best. Some people look best in cool, blue-based colors, some people look best in warm, yellow based-colors, others can wear some of each. Not sure which colors best suit you? Check out this more in depth Seasonal Color Chart.

5.  
 If you are going to do a pop of color, don't do it with every accessory you are wearing.  For example: If you have a black dress...don't wear yellow heels, a yellow purse, yellow bracelets etc. 

6. 
 If you are having trouble accessorizing an outfit decide if its black based or brown based!  Choose either black or brown shoes and purse... then accessorize from there!  Browns tend to go great with golds, and blacks go great with silver (but don't limit yourself.)


7.  Bright colors bring attention to an area.  Place them carefully on the body to extenuate your features.

8.  
V-necks will lengthen the neck and give the illusion of a longer leaner body. But make sure it isn't too low cut.

9.  
Dark denim also gives the long lean effect...and can make an outfit appear more dressy.

10.  If you want to make yourself look taller and slimmer, try vertical stripes...stay away from horizontal stripes.

11.  
If you want to combine brown and black together into an outfit easily... pick a piece that has both colors in it. (A scarf for example)

12.  
Wide sleeved tank tops are actually more slimming and flattering. Avoid thin straps.

13.  Do a sit and reach test to determine if your outfit is modest. If you sit down and your skirt reveals the majority of your thigh...it's too short. If you reach your arms up and your stomach shows...your shirt is too short. If you bend down and you can see down your top you should wear a more close fitting undershirt or cami that will be less revealing.

14.  Nude heels make your legs look long and can be paired with just about any color outfit.

15.  Dress age appropriate. Dressing too young for your age can actually make you appear much older.

16.  Earrings are a great way to frame your face...especially when you wear your hair pulled back.

17.  Always layer sheer tops and wear a slip underneath skirts and dresses to prevent revealing undergarments.

18. Never compromise on fit. If an item can't be altered or you're not prepared to spend the money on an alteration, don't buy it.

19. One statement piece of jewelry can completely transform the simplest outfit!  Incorporate long necklaces, big intricate bracelets, and funky earrings.

20. Dress to honor your Creator. This is the most important item on the list. Be mindful of what you are putting on your body. Our bodies are holy sanctuaries and should be treated as such.





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