Showing posts with label Femininity. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Femininity. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Upcoming Conference
I am delighted to announce that next month I travel to Dubuque, Iowa as a teen speaker for the Martha and Mary Women's Conference sponsored by "Springtime of Hope". Please pass along the word to anyone in the vicinity, visit their website for further details, and if you are from the area yourself I'd love to meet you!
Saturday, October 09, 2010
Women and Potential
I invite you to read my post at The Catholic Young Woman today. Have a blessed and beautiful weekend!
Friday, May 07, 2010
Thoughts on Beauty
I just found this, somehow still saved as a draft, though I wrote it back in January of last year. I know we are now in Spring, but I wanted to publish it because I think it's a meaningful reflection for any time!
My little brother and I ran an errand tonight...in a perfect wonderland. Snow, falling thickly yet gently, is blanketing the world. Such a sight never ceases to move me to joyous wonder.
Pausing to watch the millions of glittering flakes waft under street lights, I couldn't help but exclaim to David, "Oh, it's marvelously beautiful!".
He's 11, but has already heard enough drivers talking to know what comes along with this beauty. "Yes, but it's dangerous," he piped from the back seat.
And a response came to me, immediately and reflectively. "But all beauty comes with some danger, David."
...Particularly the beauty of femininity. One of the many quotes which struck me deeply from Dr. Alice von Hildebrand's The Privilege of Being a Woman was this:
“The power that women can wield over men is great indeed. If they pursue their own selfish aims, women are Satan’s slaves. If they put their charm at God’s service, they are God’s great allies.” (emphasis hers)
It is precisely because of the value, the power of beauty that it comes with danger. In my interactions with girls and ladies young and old, the bestowing of beauty as a gift on our sex is more and more apparent to me. But the world works it hardest to train us to misuse and abuse this gift. We are told to be beautiful for our own happiness, our own success, our own fullfillment, our own benefit. And yet, Dr. von Hildebrand warns us quite clearly about such selfishness and misuse of power.
The beauty itself is not the problem. Just as the snow itself is not the problem! The danger comes with our response. If I throw caution to the wind and drive without care on slippery roads, sure danger awaits — for me and for others. If I throw prudence to the wind and aspire for beauty without care for its essence, its Source and Giver, sure danger awaits — for me and for others.
Indeed, beauty it is both a gift and a calling from the Creater to His daughters. We are called to manifest to the world a glimpse of His perfect, radiant beauty. The physical should be only a mirror of the interior, timelessly captivating beauty of a pure, servant heart.
Pausing to watch the millions of glittering flakes waft under street lights, I couldn't help but exclaim to David, "Oh, it's marvelously beautiful!".
He's 11, but has already heard enough drivers talking to know what comes along with this beauty. "Yes, but it's dangerous," he piped from the back seat.
And a response came to me, immediately and reflectively. "But all beauty comes with some danger, David."
...Particularly the beauty of femininity. One of the many quotes which struck me deeply from Dr. Alice von Hildebrand's The Privilege of Being a Woman was this:
“The power that women can wield over men is great indeed. If they pursue their own selfish aims, women are Satan’s slaves. If they put their charm at God’s service, they are God’s great allies.” (emphasis hers)
It is precisely because of the value, the power of beauty that it comes with danger. In my interactions with girls and ladies young and old, the bestowing of beauty as a gift on our sex is more and more apparent to me. But the world works it hardest to train us to misuse and abuse this gift. We are told to be beautiful for our own happiness, our own success, our own fullfillment, our own benefit. And yet, Dr. von Hildebrand warns us quite clearly about such selfishness and misuse of power.
The beauty itself is not the problem. Just as the snow itself is not the problem! The danger comes with our response. If I throw caution to the wind and drive without care on slippery roads, sure danger awaits — for me and for others. If I throw prudence to the wind and aspire for beauty without care for its essence, its Source and Giver, sure danger awaits — for me and for others.
Indeed, beauty it is both a gift and a calling from the Creater to His daughters. We are called to manifest to the world a glimpse of His perfect, radiant beauty. The physical should be only a mirror of the interior, timelessly captivating beauty of a pure, servant heart.
Let us be ever-mindful of this marvelous gift and high calling, and careful of the danger that comes with it!
Tuesday, April 06, 2010
Modern "Feminism"
My dear friend Malori has authored a splendid article on The Negative Effects of Modern Feminism, and I was honored to be the editor. Do head over to her blog and check it out. Let us know what you think!
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Next Weekend in Wisconsin...
...I am thrilled to be speaking at the "Embracing Your Call to Holiness" Women's Conference in Altoona, WI on Saturday, March 6th. If you or a lady you know lives somewhere in that area, please take this as a personal invitation! :)
The online PDF brochure can be downloaded here. You can still register by calling
715-597-2268.
I will be presenting two talks...
Clothed with Grace: Feminine Modesty and the Call to Beauty
Society depends on our authenticity as women, and more than ever has need of our gifts and dignity. This feminine dignity is empowered by purity and protected by the virtue of modesty. What does the Church say about feminine dignity, and what does it teach about modesty? What is feminine mystique? What role does beauty play in the healing of society? While exploring the answers to these and other important questions, we will learn from the inspiring examples of Our Lady and heroic feminine saints to understand the noble call of womanhood.
Raising Marylike Maidens amidst a Culture of Death
In a culture that eschews virtue and encourages vice, powerful influences infiltrate from every direction to affect the formation of our young generation. The challenge is to train our children to be in the world, but not of it. How can we raise young women confident in their identity as daughters of God and filled with holy boldness to resist the darkness? Sharing from her homeschool upbringing and experiences as a teacher and Catechetical leader, Claire will offer wisdom relevant not only to mothers, but to all Catholic women.
Regardless of your proximity to La Crosse, WI, please keep me in your prayers this week as I prepare my presentations, and work to update and replenish my print resources. I also really need to update my website... Holy Spirit, grant me efficiency!
The online PDF brochure can be downloaded here. You can still register by calling
715-597-2268.
I will be presenting two talks...
Clothed with Grace: Feminine Modesty and the Call to Beauty
Society depends on our authenticity as women, and more than ever has need of our gifts and dignity. This feminine dignity is empowered by purity and protected by the virtue of modesty. What does the Church say about feminine dignity, and what does it teach about modesty? What is feminine mystique? What role does beauty play in the healing of society? While exploring the answers to these and other important questions, we will learn from the inspiring examples of Our Lady and heroic feminine saints to understand the noble call of womanhood.
Raising Marylike Maidens amidst a Culture of Death
In a culture that eschews virtue and encourages vice, powerful influences infiltrate from every direction to affect the formation of our young generation. The challenge is to train our children to be in the world, but not of it. How can we raise young women confident in their identity as daughters of God and filled with holy boldness to resist the darkness? Sharing from her homeschool upbringing and experiences as a teacher and Catechetical leader, Claire will offer wisdom relevant not only to mothers, but to all Catholic women.
Regardless of your proximity to La Crosse, WI, please keep me in your prayers this week as I prepare my presentations, and work to update and replenish my print resources. I also really need to update my website... Holy Spirit, grant me efficiency!
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Feminine Hairstyles, Day 7
Model: Miss Rachel
Style: "The Rachel Braid" :)
Done: Last July at Ave Cor Mariae Summer Camp
Time: 3o minutes (?)
Supplies: Comb, hairties, bobby pins
How: Rachel's hair is only a bit past her shoulders, but is thick and textured. It was also wavy from being previously braided, so that added even more volume! As is often the case when I "invent" a braid, this one is the combination of a few different things. :)
1. You will first need to know the "X & O braid", as explained here.
2. You will also need to experience doing an upside-down single french braid. This is the same concept as a regular french braid, only started at the neck going upward. It's explained here.
3. The first part of The Rachel Braid is a combination of the above two: an X braid down up-side down, but leaving some of the upper hair free.
4. After doing the X braid, I parted her upper hair down the center and made a small rolled bun on either side, placed so that the ending braids from the X could come up around the outside of each, and the braid ends tucked into the center.
I'm not sharing this one to intimidate anyone, just to provide an example of the kind of thing you can come up by creatively combining what you know. :)
Photos:
She was pleased, I think!
Style: "The Rachel Braid" :)
Done: Last July at Ave Cor Mariae Summer Camp
Time: 3o minutes (?)
Supplies: Comb, hairties, bobby pins
How: Rachel's hair is only a bit past her shoulders, but is thick and textured. It was also wavy from being previously braided, so that added even more volume! As is often the case when I "invent" a braid, this one is the combination of a few different things. :)
1. You will first need to know the "X & O braid", as explained here.
2. You will also need to experience doing an upside-down single french braid. This is the same concept as a regular french braid, only started at the neck going upward. It's explained here.
3. The first part of The Rachel Braid is a combination of the above two: an X braid down up-side down, but leaving some of the upper hair free.
4. After doing the X braid, I parted her upper hair down the center and made a small rolled bun on either side, placed so that the ending braids from the X could come up around the outside of each, and the braid ends tucked into the center.
I'm not sharing this one to intimidate anyone, just to provide an example of the kind of thing you can come up by creatively combining what you know. :)
Photos:
Top view
Back (see the X?)
Side (the hair above the slight part is what I used to make the rolled bun)
She was pleased, I think!
Friday, February 12, 2010
Feminine Hairstyles, Day 6
Model: Miss Mary Kate
Style: French herringbone/fishtail, tucked under
Done: Last summer (as you can see from all the foliage in the photos!)
Time: Maybe 15 minutes
Supplies: Comb, hairtie, few large bobby pins and/or small claw clips if you plan to tuck it under. *This braid is challenging on fine or slippery hair. Miss MK's hair is somewhat textured and was also just perfectly damp-dry at this time I did this, which is why it turned out best of any french herringbone I've tried! If you are going to try it with fine hair, I suggest using mouse or a volumizing product first.
How: Go to "Fishtail or Herringbone Braids" on this page. I generally recommend adding very small sections of hair for this braid. The hair should always be damp or wet for best results. I do recommend trying out the basic herringbone technique first with the hair in a ponytail, then without the pontail, then the french way.
Photos:
Style: French herringbone/fishtail, tucked under
Done: Last summer (as you can see from all the foliage in the photos!)
Time: Maybe 15 minutes
Supplies: Comb, hairtie, few large bobby pins and/or small claw clips if you plan to tuck it under. *This braid is challenging on fine or slippery hair. Miss MK's hair is somewhat textured and was also just perfectly damp-dry at this time I did this, which is why it turned out best of any french herringbone I've tried! If you are going to try it with fine hair, I suggest using mouse or a volumizing product first.
How: Go to "Fishtail or Herringbone Braids" on this page. I generally recommend adding very small sections of hair for this braid. The hair should always be damp or wet for best results. I do recommend trying out the basic herringbone technique first with the hair in a ponytail, then without the pontail, then the french way.
Photos:
Braid down
Tuck end under and secure with hidden pins/clips
One more view...
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Feminine Hairstyles, Day 5
Models: Elyse and Sarah
Style: The no-iron curled updo
Supplies: Comb, plenty of bobby pins, hairspray, accessories or flowers if desired
Time: Between 15-45 minutes, depending on thickness and type of hair
How: I just started doing this one in the past few months after seeing the basic concept. It's been well-received every time, and would be ideal for any formal event or a wedding! Here are the fundamental steps:
1. Do something — either small twists or braids or a "poof" using bobby pins — with the upper hair so that is frames the face and is drawn securely to the middle of the head with criss-cross bobby pins. On both the models below I did a side part and two small french ropes using the same braiding technique used here.
2. The updo is achieved by taking a small to medium strand of hair (the thinner the hair, the smaller the section), combing it through and coating it with hairspray, then using two of your fingers as a "roller" to roll it toward the head. Do this as neatly as possible, making the roll somewhat wide and thin. When you have rolled all the way to the scalp, carefully remove your fingers from inside, smooth the "curl" and position it whichever direction you would like, and fasten it in place with a bobby pin or two in each side (underneath the roll so that you can't see it).
3. The key is thickness and placement of the "curls". You don't want them all going the same direction, but there should be some order to it. Depending on the length, texture, and thickness of the hair, you will make probably 10-30 rolls for the entire updo.
4. When finished, hairspray your masterpiece and add any desire accessories, flowers, or hair sparkle dust. :) For our December orchestra concert, I did this on three of us, and we added red roses for a beautiful effect. Alas, somehow there aren't any pictures of those...
I have done this one on myself with the aid of a mirror, and then had my sister secure a few out-of-place strands when finished. This style can be done nicely on shoulder-length to waist-length hair, whether layered or not.
Photos:
Style: The no-iron curled updo
Supplies: Comb, plenty of bobby pins, hairspray, accessories or flowers if desired
Time: Between 15-45 minutes, depending on thickness and type of hair
How: I just started doing this one in the past few months after seeing the basic concept. It's been well-received every time, and would be ideal for any formal event or a wedding! Here are the fundamental steps:
1. Do something — either small twists or braids or a "poof" using bobby pins — with the upper hair so that is frames the face and is drawn securely to the middle of the head with criss-cross bobby pins. On both the models below I did a side part and two small french ropes using the same braiding technique used here.
2. The updo is achieved by taking a small to medium strand of hair (the thinner the hair, the smaller the section), combing it through and coating it with hairspray, then using two of your fingers as a "roller" to roll it toward the head. Do this as neatly as possible, making the roll somewhat wide and thin. When you have rolled all the way to the scalp, carefully remove your fingers from inside, smooth the "curl" and position it whichever direction you would like, and fasten it in place with a bobby pin or two in each side (underneath the roll so that you can't see it).
3. The key is thickness and placement of the "curls". You don't want them all going the same direction, but there should be some order to it. Depending on the length, texture, and thickness of the hair, you will make probably 10-30 rolls for the entire updo.
4. When finished, hairspray your masterpiece and add any desire accessories, flowers, or hair sparkle dust. :) For our December orchestra concert, I did this on three of us, and we added red roses for a beautiful effect. Alas, somehow there aren't any pictures of those...
I have done this one on myself with the aid of a mirror, and then had my sister secure a few out-of-place strands when finished. This style can be done nicely on shoulder-length to waist-length hair, whether layered or not.
Photos:
Elyse from choir — her hair is fairly thick,
about 6" below her shoulders, and has a lot of layers
Different lighting and angle
The sparkly flower clips made by Veronica and I
ended up being featured a lot in this series —
I suppose because they are so versatile!
My sister Sarah at this year's Father-Daughter Snow Ball
Accented with peach-tone roses and babies breath
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Feminine Hairstyles, Day 4
Model: "Miss Flora"
Style: The heart braid (I learned this one from Vicki!)
Done: About two months ago
How: Seat her so that her face is looking at you. Part hair down the center and about halfway down the scalp. Take a very small section of hair from the middle of her head, next to the part, and start braiding toward yourself. Use the french "lace braid" technique by only adding sections from the part. As you come towards her forehead, curve the braid into a J shape for the left side, or a backwards J for the right side. Finish the end of the braid and secure it while you do the other side. Join the braids together in the middle and add a barette or accessory, if desired.
Style: The heart braid (I learned this one from Vicki!)
Done: About two months ago
How: Seat her so that her face is looking at you. Part hair down the center and about halfway down the scalp. Take a very small section of hair from the middle of her head, next to the part, and start braiding toward yourself. Use the french "lace braid" technique by only adding sections from the part. As you come towards her forehead, curve the braid into a J shape for the left side, or a backwards J for the right side. Finish the end of the braid and secure it while you do the other side. Join the braids together in the middle and add a barette or accessory, if desired.
Supplies: Comb, small hairties. *If the hair is fine or slippery, you will need to wet the top down with a spray bottle of water before braiding.*
Time: About 10 minutes
Photos:
Time: About 10 minutes
Photos:
Back (see the heart?)
As you can see, this braid is adorable with short hair, but it can be done easily on longer hair as well.
Tuesday, February 09, 2010
Feminine Hairstyles, Day 3
Model: "Miss Eve" (Miss Nacia's sister!)
Style: Two-into-one french rope
Done: About a month ago
How: For this style, part the hair down the middle and clip one half of it while you do the other. The french rope is done using two sections of hair (not three until the end). Do the right side first following these steps:
1. Take two small sections of hair from the top. Twist the outer piece clockwise before crossing it to the left over the other section.
2. Add a small section of hair to both pieces and repeat the above action. It is important to twist the outer section clockwise (or to the right) every time you cross it to the left. This is what makes the twist pattern show up.
3. Continue until nearly half the hair is included. Leave a small section — about half the thickness of what you just braided — undone at the bottom. Add a few extra twists to the rope for security and place one or two claw clips to hold it while you do the other side.
5. The left side is done exactly as a mirror of the right. You cross the outer section over the inner, but this time you will be twisting it counterclockwise, or to the left, before crossing it to the right.
6. Leave a section of hair at the bottom, the same thickness as the other, and join these two together. For the hanging down rope braid, three sections are needed, and this has just become your third section.
Side close-up
Such a sweetheart!
Style: Two-into-one french rope
Done: About a month ago
How: For this style, part the hair down the middle and clip one half of it while you do the other. The french rope is done using two sections of hair (not three until the end). Do the right side first following these steps:
1. Take two small sections of hair from the top. Twist the outer piece clockwise before crossing it to the left over the other section.
2. Add a small section of hair to both pieces and repeat the above action. It is important to twist the outer section clockwise (or to the right) every time you cross it to the left. This is what makes the twist pattern show up.
3. Continue until nearly half the hair is included. Leave a small section — about half the thickness of what you just braided — undone at the bottom. Add a few extra twists to the rope for security and place one or two claw clips to hold it while you do the other side.
5. The left side is done exactly as a mirror of the right. You cross the outer section over the inner, but this time you will be twisting it counterclockwise, or to the left, before crossing it to the right.
6. Leave a section of hair at the bottom, the same thickness as the other, and join these two together. For the hanging down rope braid, three sections are needed, and this has just become your third section.
7. The joining together of the three parts into one rope braid must be done carefully so as not to loosen your french ropes. This transition is the most difficult part and comes with practice to perfect the method that works best for you.
8. The three-strand rope is achieved by holding the pieces firmly in your fingers throughout this action: twist the far left piece counterclockwise (to the left), then cross it over both the other pieces. The entire braid rotates a bit. This action is repeated constantly from left to right, always taking the (new) lefthand piece, twisting it counterclockwise, and crossing it over the other two.
9. It would be a good idea for you to practice the three-strand rope (step 8) by itself before trying this style. Initially try it with your hair in a ponytail, which is easier, then progress to starting it without a ponytail. Once you have perfected these, you will be ready to try the two-into-one french rope. :)
10. For this braid, I left the very bottom looped up into the scrunchie (optional).
Supplies: Comb, hairtie or scrunchie, and maybe a few tiny clips or bobby pins to secure loose strands after you are done. *If the hair is fine or slippery, you will need to wet it down with a spray bottle before trying this style.*
Time: About 15-20 minutes (but allow more if you are just trying it out)
Photos:
Supplies: Comb, hairtie or scrunchie, and maybe a few tiny clips or bobby pins to secure loose strands after you are done. *If the hair is fine or slippery, you will need to wet it down with a spray bottle before trying this style.*
Time: About 15-20 minutes (but allow more if you are just trying it out)
Photos:
Side close-up
View II
Such a sweetheart!
Monday, February 08, 2010
Feminine Hairstyles, Day 2
Model: "Miss Nacia"
Style: A combination of five princess crowns, named after this young lady since I invented it for her. :)
Done: About a month ago
How: The "princess crown" is what I call a small, horizontal, curved french braid which pulls hair only from the front. This combination is explained in more detail with the photos below...
Supplies: Comb, small hairties (and I actually styled her bangs with hand lotion because it was nearby — it worked!)
Time: I redid parts of this one while deciding how I wanted it to look, so it was probably about 30-45 minutes.
Photos:
Style: A combination of five princess crowns, named after this young lady since I invented it for her. :)
Done: About a month ago
How: The "princess crown" is what I call a small, horizontal, curved french braid which pulls hair only from the front. This combination is explained in more detail with the photos below...
Supplies: Comb, small hairties (and I actually styled her bangs with hand lotion because it was nearby — it worked!)
Time: I redid parts of this one while deciding how I wanted it to look, so it was probably about 30-45 minutes.
Photos:
Finished "masterpiece". She was so patient while I experimented, but by her expression upon looking in the mirror, I think she was satisfied. :)
The first two braids go from right to left, the middle braid from left to right, and the bottom two from right to left.
The other side...
The front gives an unique "pigtail" appearance with two braids on one side and two on the other
Saturday, February 06, 2010
And for next week...
...My friend Victoria Rose has lauched this project. I will participate to the best of my ability (availability!) and with my own twist: featuring various hairstyles I've done on others over the past several months. Stay tuned!
(I'm honored to be featured on her official banner.)
Explanation here.
Instructions here.
Bonus: A Winter Week in Feminine Dress, Day 8
Today's schedule: 8:00am Mass, accompanied flutist and bass player for their school contest, met with friends from Iowa to celebrate their baby's baptism, and after hitting "post" I must be off to catch up on deskwork and cleanup for a few solid hours. There's talk of a family movie for tonight. :)
Today's outfit #1... I wanted to post the "bonus" Day 8 to highlight a casual feminine outfit: a dark denim gored skirt with cotton tights, snowflake/snowman-print turtleneck, and sky blue zip-up sweatshirt. A combination ideal for housecleaning, chores, or "loungewear".
Today's outfit #2... For the baptism celebration and student contests, a more dressy ensemble: floral polyester skirt by "Southern Lady" (from a boutique), dark purple turtleneck, and lavender zip-up suede jacket.
I do want to share a picture of my necklace today because it's very special...my dear sister Sarah, who is a freshman at Christendom college, gave one to both Veronica and I (as well as herself) before going from Christmas break. The back reads, The best thing about having a sister is that I always have a friend. It's nice having the reminder close by even though she's 12 hours away. Love and miss you, Sarah!
Veronica's outfit... Black stretch-lace skirt — it also has a touch of velvet — from Burlington Coat Factory (as you can tell by the number of times I've mentioned them, there is more there than just coats!), wool sweater, and black dress ankle boots from Famous Footwear. Her spandex turtleneck shell was ordered from Boscov's: she has blue and black and really likes them for layering under sweaters and other tops. They fill in low necklines perfectly, as well as add warmth and style.
This snapshot offers a nice view of her miraculous medal from The Catholic Company (my Confirmation gift as her sponsor), as well as the way her turtleneck is gathered across the front, and her chastity ring.
And that, my friends, officially concludes our Winter Week in Feminine Dress. The comment boxes have been rather quiet... if you have been encouraged or inspired this week, please let me know! I really appreciate your thoughts and feedback. My purpose in hosting this is not to see my own face in print, but hopefully to offer a glimpse of how skirts and dresses can be implemented effectively into daily life.
Today's outfit #1... I wanted to post the "bonus" Day 8 to highlight a casual feminine outfit: a dark denim gored skirt with cotton tights, snowflake/snowman-print turtleneck, and sky blue zip-up sweatshirt. A combination ideal for housecleaning, chores, or "loungewear".
Today's outfit #2... For the baptism celebration and student contests, a more dressy ensemble: floral polyester skirt by "Southern Lady" (from a boutique), dark purple turtleneck, and lavender zip-up suede jacket.
I do want to share a picture of my necklace today because it's very special...my dear sister Sarah, who is a freshman at Christendom college, gave one to both Veronica and I (as well as herself) before going from Christmas break. The back reads, The best thing about having a sister is that I always have a friend. It's nice having the reminder close by even though she's 12 hours away. Love and miss you, Sarah!
Veronica's outfit... Black stretch-lace skirt — it also has a touch of velvet — from Burlington Coat Factory (as you can tell by the number of times I've mentioned them, there is more there than just coats!), wool sweater, and black dress ankle boots from Famous Footwear. Her spandex turtleneck shell was ordered from Boscov's: she has blue and black and really likes them for layering under sweaters and other tops. They fill in low necklines perfectly, as well as add warmth and style.
This snapshot offers a nice view of her miraculous medal from The Catholic Company (my Confirmation gift as her sponsor), as well as the way her turtleneck is gathered across the front, and her chastity ring.
“The power that women can wield over men is great indeed. If they pursue their own selfish aims, women are Satan’s slaves. If they put their charm at God’s service, they are God’s great allies.”
~Dr. Alice von Hildebrand
One last fun picture...my 12-year-old brother can be sweet when he decides to be! Yes, this was his own initiative. Never mind that he took the opportunity to try and tickle my face with his smack. ;)
And that, my friends, officially concludes our Winter Week in Feminine Dress. The comment boxes have been rather quiet... if you have been encouraged or inspired this week, please let me know! I really appreciate your thoughts and feedback. My purpose in hosting this is not to see my own face in print, but hopefully to offer a glimpse of how skirts and dresses can be implemented effectively into daily life.
Gentlemen, if you are grateful for the girls in your life who make the effort and priority to dress with dignity, let them know! After all, the wisdom of the world tells us modesty is unattractive...even though we know better, it's helpful and encouraging to hear the the truth from our brothers in Christ.
Ladies, I've heard one Catholic author descibe modesty as "a ministry of beauty". Our goal must be to offer in our dress and presentation a mirror of the perfect beauty of God, and a reflection of His presence in our hearts. The virtue of modesty is an important weapon to defeat the culture of death and transform it into a culture of life. As Colleen Hammond so wisely says...
"We can change the world: one outfit at a time!"
Friday, February 05, 2010
A Winter Week in Feminine Dress, Day 7
Today's schedule: 7:30am Mass, various morning deskwork, University choir practice, few afternoon lessons, some R.E. work, a nap (I needed it!), another evening coaching session for a student playing their contest tomorrow.
Today's outfit:
Skirt: The brand is Liz Claiborne, but I'm not sure where I got it. It's a dark grey with tan and red plaid.
Shawl: Self-explanitory. Cream, knit, and cozy. :)
Top: Venetian red according to this page (color charts are such fun!), with a lace-up front and small collar. I really like that the lace-up has its own insert.
Necklace: My "Friends in Christ" necklace that I share with my dear friend Malori (who, by the way, just started her own Week in Feminine Dress. Do go and visit!). We've known each other for 14 years and we've only had reunions about six times, living many states from one another...so we started this tradition early on. Each time we are able to see each other, we exchange necklaces. One has a filled-in cross, and the other a cut-out cross. As you can see, I currently have the former.
Today's femininity quote:
Today's outfit:
Skirt: The brand is Liz Claiborne, but I'm not sure where I got it. It's a dark grey with tan and red plaid.
Shawl: Self-explanitory. Cream, knit, and cozy. :)
Top: Venetian red according to this page (color charts are such fun!), with a lace-up front and small collar. I really like that the lace-up has its own insert.
Necklace: My "Friends in Christ" necklace that I share with my dear friend Malori (who, by the way, just started her own Week in Feminine Dress. Do go and visit!). We've known each other for 14 years and we've only had reunions about six times, living many states from one another...so we started this tradition early on. Each time we are able to see each other, we exchange necklaces. One has a filled-in cross, and the other a cut-out cross. As you can see, I currently have the former.
Hair: Two-frenchbraids-into-one, which has been named "The Sarah" after my sister. :) It's called "High Combo" here.
Today's femininity quote:
“When women are pure, men will respect, nay, venerate them; they will also hear the call challenging them to chastity.”
~Dr. Alice von Hildebrand
Today's feminine website: www.saintmariasmessenger.com
"An interactive website for teen girls, under the patronage of St. Maria Goretti"
Thursday, February 04, 2010
A Winter Week in Feminine Dress, Day 6
Today's schedule: Noon Mass and adoration, meeting with a friend, Suzuki violin group (concert rehearsal), and more music coaching sessions (I've had a few extra this week because some middle school students playing their instruments for "contest" this weekend have me as their accompanist). Normally I work on Religious Ed. things in my home office on Thursdays, but didn't get to that today! That means more things stacked up for upcoming days...Friday, Saturday, and Monday usually have a lot of RE work in preparation for classes meeting on Tuesday. It is a mixed challenge/benefit to do much of the work from my home office and to set my own hours. :)
Today's outfit:
Bonus outfits... 
Veronica's top is from Burlington Coat Factory, and she layers a black tank underneath to remedy the low v-neckline. Her pashmina/scarf is from Wal-Mart, and her grey skirt I gave her from Christmas (a Goodwill find). She often gets compliments on its trio of side pleats.
Today's femininity quote:
Today's feminine website: www.endowonline.com
Today's outfit:
Skirt: Deep green corderoy makes for a seasonal standby. The five gores give it a great width and drape.
Top: Dusty lavendar sweater with attached tie-collar, found at a boutique. There is a rhinestone button sewn through both ties. Most of the time I wear a close-fitting short sleeve top underneath my pullover sweaters. No only does this aid in warmth, but in keeping the sweater fresh enough to wear a few times between washings. My favorite undershirts are soft organic cotton tops by Seed Supply Co. — which, believe it or not, are sold at Wal-Mart in a variety of colors. They aren't bulky, and the long length keeps them tucked in well. This company makes leggings and such, too.
Legwear: Maggie's lightweight cotton tights in black.
Hair: Nothing extraordinary today — just the "bangs" pulled back with a flat silver barrette.
Outerwear: I've had my main winter coat — suede-type in deep plum with thick, soft inside — for about three winters already. A coat that probably costs $50-$100 or more new is usually about $10-$20 at Unique. I also found this pretty aqua scarf there recently. It's super long, which means I can wrap it several times around.
Top: Dusty lavendar sweater with attached tie-collar, found at a boutique. There is a rhinestone button sewn through both ties. Most of the time I wear a close-fitting short sleeve top underneath my pullover sweaters. No only does this aid in warmth, but in keeping the sweater fresh enough to wear a few times between washings. My favorite undershirts are soft organic cotton tops by Seed Supply Co. — which, believe it or not, are sold at Wal-Mart in a variety of colors. They aren't bulky, and the long length keeps them tucked in well. This company makes leggings and such, too.
Legwear: Maggie's lightweight cotton tights in black.
Hair: Nothing extraordinary today — just the "bangs" pulled back with a flat silver barrette.
Outerwear: I've had my main winter coat — suede-type in deep plum with thick, soft inside — for about three winters already. A coat that probably costs $50-$100 or more new is usually about $10-$20 at Unique. I also found this pretty aqua scarf there recently. It's super long, which means I can wrap it several times around.
Bonus outfits...
Mrs. H (aka Mom) enjoys a plum suede skirt with some small pleats near the hemline, coupled with black Maryjane shoes and her Maggie's cotton tights (no, they didn't pay me for advertising!). Her cotton sweater has yarn-embroidered flowers and large cream buttons, and she's wearing a blouse with a scalloped round collar that lays over the sweater. Her necklace is actually a medal of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
Veronica's top is from Burlington Coat Factory, and she layers a black tank underneath to remedy the low v-neckline. Her pashmina/scarf is from Wal-Mart, and her grey skirt I gave her from Christmas (a Goodwill find). She often gets compliments on its trio of side pleats.
Today's femininity quote:
"All human society is increasingly enriched by the gifts proper to masculinity and femininity."
~Pope John Paul the Great
Today's feminine website: www.endowonline.com
"As a Catholic educational program, ENDOW (Educating on the Nature and Dignity of Women" brings women together to discover their God-given dignity and to understand their role in humanizing and transforming society."
Wednesday, February 03, 2010
A Winter Week in Feminine Dress, Day 5
Today's schedule: Mass and music lessons in the morning, University choir, afternoon lessons, took my brother to cello, evening orchestra practice. Yes, Wednesday is a big music day. :)
Today's oufit:
Skirt: Mock-suede Chadwicks that I found secondhand for probably 1/10 of the new price. Yet another winter favorite.
Top: A deep violet turtleneck underneath a soft, warm sweater with flower/bead decor. Maybe at this point I should just stop mentioning thrift stores and say only when I got it somewhere else!) :)
Shoes: Same boots as yesterday, with nylons.
Hair: I must admit that for most of the day, I didn't have time to do anything with my hair, but before going to orchestra tonight I snagged a few minutes to freshen up. I twisted the sides using small clips, and tried something new with the back. It came out being what I always imagined a chignon to look like (you know, the hairdo they always mention in civil war books?). Although now that I've looked it up, it seems like perhaps the term just meant a bun or knot. Oh well...maybe I'll have to give it a new name.
Today's femininity quote:
Today's oufit:
Skirt: Mock-suede Chadwicks that I found secondhand for probably 1/10 of the new price. Yet another winter favorite.
Top: A deep violet turtleneck underneath a soft, warm sweater with flower/bead decor. Maybe at this point I should just stop mentioning thrift stores and say only when I got it somewhere else!) :)
Shoes: Same boots as yesterday, with nylons.
Hair: I must admit that for most of the day, I didn't have time to do anything with my hair, but before going to orchestra tonight I snagged a few minutes to freshen up. I twisted the sides using small clips, and tried something new with the back. It came out being what I always imagined a chignon to look like (you know, the hairdo they always mention in civil war books?). Although now that I've looked it up, it seems like perhaps the term just meant a bun or knot. Oh well...maybe I'll have to give it a new name.
View 2:
Today's femininity quote:
"Either we must speak as we dress, or dress as we speak. Why do we profess one thing and display another? The tongue talks of chastity, but the whole body reveals impurity."
~St. Jerome
Today's feminine website: www.womenofgrace.com
Tuesday, February 02, 2010
A Winter Week in Feminine Dress, Day 4
Today's schedule: Religious Education work from 8am-8pm (home and school offices), with a few hours break in the afternoon for noon Mass and voting in the IL Primary Elections. At the end of the day, a non-regular music lesson and writing my bulletin article for this weekend.
Today's inspiration: This has nothing to do with the rest, but I have to mention it because I was so blessed when a lady came up to me after noon Mass thanking me for starting "O Salutaris" at the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament...expressing how moved she was by my singing. You never know when the littlest thing will touch someone!
Today's outfit:
Skirt: My favorite secondhand find this season. A conviently practical length and width, and homemade by my observation of the seams and absence of a tag. Heavier material and lining attached = nice and warm!
Top: Teal ribbed cotton turtleneck/sweater from Burlington Coat Factory. $4.99, I think. I enjoy this color a lot.
Scarf: Worn the same way as Day 1, this was a Christmas gift from Veronica — I happen to know that she found it at Wal-Mart, where pashmina-style scarves are only about $5.
Legwear: Probably the only thing I own that was from a "Juniors" section! These lace-edged leggings are only $5 or $6 at Wal-Mart. They'd be better if "Miley Cirus" wasn't printed inside the tag area (ugh), but the price can't be beat and they go great under skirts! For you ladies that don't like tights/pantyhose, leggings are the perfect thing to keep your legs warm with a winter skirt or dress. They're all over the place this season, anyway, so you won't have a hard time finding some! I wore a pair of black knee-high nylons underneath this pair since they are "capri" length.
Footwear: Winter boots by Khombu. Trim and pretty and totally wearable (an awful lot of boots these days are not!). I couldn't decide whether to get black or brown when getting these in the Fall, but ended up going with the latter, and they match pretty well with all my winter skirts.
Necklace: My miraculous medal, peeking out the center between the ends of my scarf.
Hair: I washed it this morning and it dries wavy, so I just parted it to the side and gently clipped back the sides with some turquoise-flowered bobby pins (to match the top and scarf). A couple of crossways brown bobby pins underneath the decorative ones helped it stay secure.
Veronica's outfit...
...a cranberry wool skirt and off-white rabbit-hair sweater with sparkles in it over a purple top. Actually, I think I may have found both those pieces...when thrift shopping I'm always finding nice things that fit my sisters. :) Her necklace was made by and older gentleman we know who makes jewelry as a hobby and gave us each a piece one year for Christmas. She actually wore her purple scarf from Day 2 much of the day with this outfit, which looked great also.
Today's inspiration: This has nothing to do with the rest, but I have to mention it because I was so blessed when a lady came up to me after noon Mass thanking me for starting "O Salutaris" at the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament...expressing how moved she was by my singing. You never know when the littlest thing will touch someone!
Today's outfit:
Skirt: My favorite secondhand find this season. A conviently practical length and width, and homemade by my observation of the seams and absence of a tag. Heavier material and lining attached = nice and warm!
Top: Teal ribbed cotton turtleneck/sweater from Burlington Coat Factory. $4.99, I think. I enjoy this color a lot.
Scarf: Worn the same way as Day 1, this was a Christmas gift from Veronica — I happen to know that she found it at Wal-Mart, where pashmina-style scarves are only about $5.
Legwear: Probably the only thing I own that was from a "Juniors" section! These lace-edged leggings are only $5 or $6 at Wal-Mart. They'd be better if "Miley Cirus" wasn't printed inside the tag area (ugh), but the price can't be beat and they go great under skirts! For you ladies that don't like tights/pantyhose, leggings are the perfect thing to keep your legs warm with a winter skirt or dress. They're all over the place this season, anyway, so you won't have a hard time finding some! I wore a pair of black knee-high nylons underneath this pair since they are "capri" length.
Footwear: Winter boots by Khombu. Trim and pretty and totally wearable (an awful lot of boots these days are not!). I couldn't decide whether to get black or brown when getting these in the Fall, but ended up going with the latter, and they match pretty well with all my winter skirts.
Necklace: My miraculous medal, peeking out the center between the ends of my scarf.
Hair: I washed it this morning and it dries wavy, so I just parted it to the side and gently clipped back the sides with some turquoise-flowered bobby pins (to match the top and scarf). A couple of crossways brown bobby pins underneath the decorative ones helped it stay secure.
Veronica's outfit...
...a cranberry wool skirt and off-white rabbit-hair sweater with sparkles in it over a purple top. Actually, I think I may have found both those pieces...when thrift shopping I'm always finding nice things that fit my sisters. :) Her necklace was made by and older gentleman we know who makes jewelry as a hobby and gave us each a piece one year for Christmas. She actually wore her purple scarf from Day 2 much of the day with this outfit, which looked great also.
Today's femininity quote:
"True feminine beauty has a way of transforming and purifying and ennobling a man. This beauty carries with it a quiet confidence.”
~A holy priest I know
Monday, February 01, 2010
A Winter Week in Feminine Dress, Day 3
Today's schedule: A lot! 7:30am Mass, University choir practice, presentations for a nearby Catholic School (see outfit #2), a few music lessons, my Cherubim Catholic Children's Choir practice, a few more lessons, and various tasks in between. :)
Today's outfit #1...
This one is pretty straightforward... my favorite black linen skirt — which I needed for outfit #2, so I kept it simple by using it all day — with a pastel pink turtleneck underneath a coral/pink cotton sweater (both hand-me-downs). Black tights, and my pick slippers above...when outside, I had black Maryjanes. Necklace is my large miraculous medal which I wear almost all the time, either above or underneath my top. I had no time for elaborate hair, so it's only a simple bun with clips (it should have had a few more, because the three shown actually didn't hold it well).
Outfit #2...
Today's outfit #1...
This one is pretty straightforward... my favorite black linen skirt — which I needed for outfit #2, so I kept it simple by using it all day — with a pastel pink turtleneck underneath a coral/pink cotton sweater (both hand-me-downs). Black tights, and my pick slippers above...when outside, I had black Maryjanes. Necklace is my large miraculous medal which I wear almost all the time, either above or underneath my top. I had no time for elaborate hair, so it's only a simple bun with clips (it should have had a few more, because the three shown actually didn't hold it well).
Outfit #2...
In honor of Catholic Schools Week, I was asked to do a first-person portrayal of a relevant saint for a nearby parochial school. I won't say anything more...can you guess who she is?
Today's femininity quote:
"You have a good many little gifts and virtues, but there is no need of parading them, for conceit spoils the finest genius. There is not much danger that real talent or goodness will be overlooked long, and the great charm of all power is modesty."
~Louisa May Alcott
Today's feminine website: www.setapartgirl.com (Though I do not necessarily agree with everything on her site, Leslie Ludy's work is very inspiring!)
Sunday, January 31, 2010
A Winter Week in Feminine Dress, Day 2
Today’s schedule: A Family Day! Last year, Dad and David went to the University of IL-Champaign for something called an “E-Fest” – basically a large, regional gathering of model airplanes and helicopters. They enjoyed it so much that Dad really wanted to take us all to see it this year. I can see how someone with an engineering mind would be totally enthralled, because I found it interesting and enjoyable even though I am not at all scientifically-bent. :)
Following the E-Fest, we went to a very well-attended and vibrant Mass at St. John’s Newman Center, and then to Panera Bread for dinner.
Today’s outfit…
Skirt: Wool and pleated with a pattern of colored lines peeking from the pleats...so comfortable and warm! It’s another thrift-store find from several winters ago. I like to pair it with a red or green top during the Christmas season, but it works nicely throughout the rest of the winter, too.
Top: A sky-blue Worthington pullover I got this Fall from Unique Thrift Store. (You are detecting a pattern here, right? They are usually the best places to find quality modest clothing!). I’m wearing the same black tank underneath that I wore yesterday. The sweater’s dark neckline edge ties in well with the skirt, and there are actually blue lines in the skirt pattern (though you can’t see that in the photo). The black crocheted sweater is my mom’s, which she kindly lets me borrow since I don’t have one. :)
Shoes: Same as yesterday, but with Maggie’s lightweight cotton tights. These are the nicest cotton tights I’ve found: unlike many other brands, this particular Maggie’s design is warm and comfortable, and doesn’t slip down easily. They are trim and classy: a staple ready to pair with any winter skirt! Today I’m wearing charcoal gray, which ties together my black skirt and brown shoes. It’s actually just the right neutral shade against both the black and the brown.
Necklace: My dressy miraculous medal, and on my sweater a “Precious Feet” pin. (You can see the blue top’s cute neckline bow in this photo, too).
Hairstyle: A diagonal/curved French braid, spiraled up into a braided bun and secured with small claw clips (probably my favorite hair invention ever). The flower is of sparkly ribbon and was made by Veronica and I – we designed them for the ladies to wear in our December choir concert. It’s hot-glued to a standard, brown, flat clip which makes it a snap to put in. This do took me about 10-12 minutes this morning.
View 1:
View 2:
Bonus…my sister Veronica’s outfit:
Unbeknownst to one another, we chose similar pleated wool skirts today! She paired hers with what she describes as a “dull plum” colored top (yes, from a thrift store), layered a lighter purple cami underneath, and added a brown shell/stone necklace lent from Mom.
Her paisley-print purple pashmina scarf is worn the same way mine was yesterday, but pulled tighter and tied in the front. She's also enjoying Maggie’s lightweight cotton tights in brown...a perfect color match. Charming, isn't she?
Today’s femininity quote:
"Unaffected modesty is the sweetest charm of female excellence, the richest gem in the diadem of her honor."
~Webster's Dictionary 1828
Today’s feminine website:
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