LadyMama: style

Showing posts with label style. Show all posts

Monday, December 3, 2012

CLOSET CASE: A Convert's Struggle With Dressing Modestly

BY KATE SAMPLE

Kate Sample decided to become an Orthodox Jew in early 2010 and prepared for her first Pesach by watching a Passover-themed episode of Gossip Girl. She has been trying to successfully balance modern life with observance ever since, and considers it her mission to dispel the idea that belief in G-d is unfashionable. You can check out her blog athttp://challahbackgirl.com

"The transformation didn’t happen overnight, but I have slowly

evolved into more of a person and less of a persona."

CLOSET CASE

A Convert's Struggle With Dressing Modestly

“You don’t look Orthodox.”

These are words I’ve heard often enough, from Jews and non-Jews alike. Although I had an Orthodox conversion, accept the Divine origins of the Written and Oral Torahs, and keep kosher and Shabbat, I have not yet mastered tzniut. It’s not for a lack of caring about or understanding this particular mitzvah. In fact, it has totally changed the way I look at clothes. For someone who’s been obsessed with fashion since childhood, that is no easy feat.

I can’t help but wonder if that’s part of my obstacle. As much as I love food, keeping kosher came easily to me, probably because I never attempted to define myself by cheeseburgers or shrimp cocktail. Cocktail attire, however, was another matter entirely. I never wanted to blend in; I always had to stand out. Green wasn’t really my color, unless my accessories were causing someone else to turn that shade. Looking back, it’s hard to believe these were my priorities. The term “slave for fashion” gets thrown around in the industry, and that’s exactly what it feels like. I can remember many a late night spent hunched over my laptop, determined to be the first to wear the next new thing and combing through shopping sites like a maniac in order to achieve it. When I read a Rabbi’s commentary on the modern forms of slavery to which we chain ourselves, these episodes popped into my mind. I didn’t want to be a slave for fashion anymore. I wanted to be known for something other than my shoes.

The transformation didn’t happen overnight, but I have slowly evolved into more of a person and less of a persona. I have gotten so far from my former self that I don’t say the blessing over new clothes often enough to have it memorized and I always have to look it up. It is because Judaism has helped me get to this point that I trust I will be totally tzniut someday, even if I’m wearing pants as I type this.

The hardest part, of course, is being accepted as a sincere Jew by my fellow Orthodox. I always dressed properly in the synagogue out of respect, and I was very open about my challenges with the people closest to me. So I never dreamed it would be a problem until I added some women from shul on facebook, where they could see photographic proof of my lack of modesty. To say there was a palpable shift in how I was treated would be an understatement, which is why I had to write this and push back a little bit. This isn’t Mean Girls; this is Judaism. I don’t want to be defined purely by what I wear, in any sense.

Finding Judaism is the best thing that ever happened to me. I’m grateful to have found a Rabbi who trusted that I would keep growing as a Jew and helped me to become one. My conversion wasn’t the end, it was just the beginning. Some mitzvot are more hidden and others are not. The challenge I’m currently working on happens to be really obvious, but it doesn’t mean I’m not trying. The bottom line is that I don’t want to perform the mitzvah of tzniut to be accepted or to prove I’m a good Jew. I want it to blossom in my soul and grow until it’s a part of me.

“I love how you wear your spirituality on your sleeve.” One of my closest Orthodox friends once said this to me. Little by little, I improve, and that sleeve is now both literal and figurative. At first glance, I may not always look Orthodox. But if you get past that and have a conversation with me, I hope you’ll see my sincerity. My friend’s kind words speak to what I really love to show: my love of G-d.

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Introducing MadeMod: One Stop Modesty + Fashion! [Win $100 giftcard!]

I am very excited to introduce my readers to a wonderful site featuring modest and trendy clothing. You see, LadyMamas, modest fashion is NOT an oxymoron—they DO go together. All you need to do is check out MadeMod (and like the MadeMod Facebook page!) to see some amazing curation of fashionable attire made for modern + modest femmes just like you and me.

The creator of MadeMod, Chaya Steinmetz, has a great eye for finding pieces that are in trend and wearable. A lot of sites come my way, asking me to help promote their business with the same theme. I am more often dissapointed than impressed (although I hope to feature some other awesome sites, soon, so there is hope!). The good thing is that we live in an era where there is heightened interest in modesty and therefore a significant increase in availability. No complaints there! But it's not often that I see people answering this need in the right way—with the eye on fashion just as true as the eye on modesty.

I'm also really impressed with the cleanliness and usability of the site. You can shop by category or brand and all the images take you to the retailer's site.

MadeMod's slogan is "We do the work so you don't have to." If you check out the site you'll see that MadeMod tells you where you can find these pieces. It's not like Chaya started her own fashion line...but if you buy through her site, you can help support her work in helping us find trendy and modest clothing! Most of us know the task of scouring both online and in real stores for those pieces we can actually wear. How wonderful that someone is taking the headache away and presenting us with a site featuring options we don't have to question and sift through.

I perused her finds and was like "Wow, I can and would wear anything here!"

And here's even better news:

MadeMod is giving away a $100 gift certificate!

You can enter here:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

LadyMama readers get an exclusive bonus entry. All you need to do is comment on this blog post or on the LadyMama Facebook page with what you would buy at MadeMod if you won the giftcard! That's right -- go window shopping at MadeMod, tell us what you'd buy, and be entered!

Below are some of my favorite pieces
that MadeMod is currently featuring:

Thank you Chaya from MadeMod and all the other Ladies and Mamas out there who are using their talents and drive to honor our traditions in a

way that is modern and beautiful!

Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Coral + Turquoise: How To Wear This Trendy Makeup Melody

By Vera Tov

Vera is a certified makeup artist based in New York. A graduate of a protégées Make Up Designory school (MUD). Vera has all of the necessary skills and tools to create an unique and fresh look for any occasion. Vera’s ability to realize the client's vision, re-create a look from a photograph or film, or develop a unique look, camouflaging imperfections while enhancing the natural beauty is truly unsurpassed.

In Vera's words:

My makeup had been confiscated on more than one occasion in High School. How could the teachers not understand the fact that a mirror compact was an extension of my arm, and eyeliner – a wand, without which I felt powerless. Silly, of course, I know. Well, I was a teenager then, and now…I feel the same exact way now!

Coral + Turquoise

How To Wear This Trendy Makeup Melody

If you have had any interaction with the Planet Earth, you must know by now that two of the trendiest colors this season are turquoise and coral, as well as other variations of the blue and orange families. Worn with other colors or together, these colors complement any skin tone. Turquoise and coral are examples of natural materials that have are commonly used in jewelry. Historically, Coral has been associated with well-being and its “power” to relieve excessive worry. Similarly, turquoise has been fascinating people throughout millennia for evoking inner peace by absorbing negative energy. Although these may be myths, unique colors of these materials have transitioned into clothing and makeup more noticeably this season than ever before. I happen to find these colors, paired with yellow gold, completely irresistible.

The reason they create such an intriguing effect is the color theory. If you’ve ever taken an art class, there is likelihood that you’ve covered the basics, such as the primary and secondary colors. Perhaps, you’ve even created a color wheel as the one below.

Pairs of colors that appear opposite each other on the color wheel are complementary. When worn together, they have a very dramatic impact. Turquoise, which is closest to blue-green, would be exactly across coral, which is closest to red-orange. But unlike primary (red, yellow, and blue) and secondary colors (orange, green, and violet), turquoise and coral possess just the right amount of intensity to make enough of a statement without looking overwhelming.

When it comes to using makeup, I can’t seem to shake off certain stereotypes associated with blue/turquoise eye shadow and orange/coral lipstick (think real-life Russian nesting dolls!). Although it is not a look I would personally choose to wear myself, there are no real rules in makeup. So, if you bear no such associations, and it’s a look you find attractive, I’m truly envious!

Below are alternative ways of wearing both colors in close proximity:

Wear coral lipstick and turquois earrings or necklace. Keep eye makeup neutral (gray, cream, taupe, or brown).
Try the opposite – turquois accents on the eyes, paired with a nude lipstick or a light peachy gloss. Coral-toned jewelry will look beautiful.
In this Maybelline ad featuring their new(ish) Color Tattoo gel shadows, the model is wearing both colors, except the colors are more like teal and tangerine. Notice that with her eyes featured as the focus of the look, the lips are kept very natural. Also, keep in mind that this is an advertisement. To make these colors more wearable in real life, it is probably advisable to reduce the amount and/or intensity of the hues.

For a variations on applying both colors on the eyes, I suggest the following:

If you have blue eyes, use an orange/golden shadow on the eyelids, and teal eyeliner along the bottom lash line. Wear black or dark brown eyeliner to define the upper lash line.
If your eyes are brown, like mine, try teal or another color in the blue range on your eyelids, accented with a bit of gold in the inner corners and/or along the lower lash line.

These beautiful colors look more dramatic against tanned skin, so a little bit of bronzer could be a plus. Just, please, try not to overindulge…
One more tip: just about all eye shadows tend to crease, especially in the summer. The brighter the colors you wear, the more pronounced the creasing will appear. You can lessen, if not avoid altogether, the creasing by applying an eyelid primer prior to your eye makeup.

In this photo, Taylor is wearing both colors on her face. However, the colors

are muted and the emphasis on both the lips and the eyes are well balanced.

Here is another option: turquois liner, neutral shadow and nude lips.

This is the way I would most likely incorporate turquoise into my

make up, being that my eyes are of similar shape and color.

Final thought: I absolutely love turquois and coral (just not in the way described above) because it reminds me of tropical vacations—Caribbean Sea, snorkeling, and sipping cocktails—as well as snacking on papayas mango, and watermelon. Just sitting in my backyard typing this makes my skin feel a little bit warmer on this breezy day and my heart full of anticipation of where this summer will take me.

Monday, June 18, 2012

Makeup: Stop! In the name of red lips!

By Vera Tov

In Vera's words:

In the Name of Red Lips!

You may have heard that every woman should own a well-fitting black dress and a red lipstick. However, classic red lips can be as tricky to pull off as fighting a red light ticket. The truth is, every woman can wear some type of red on her lips. Still, several factors contribute to what will work best for you.

Some guidelines and suggestions:

It helps to know your skin undertone. While doing some research, I’ve come across many articles that talk about skin undertone being the determining factor in choosing red lipstick. In fact, the general rule is that if you have a fair/rosy complexion, you should choose blue-based reds (no, they’re not actually blue!) and if you have yellow undertones, orange-based/warm reds will suit you better. What I’ve learned is that you can do the exact opposite to create a more dramatic/unexpected effect.

Top – orange-based/warm red

Bottom – blue-based/cool red

Think texture. Some of the textures include matte (no shine), creamy (some shine), and sheer (usually quite shiny). If you already own a matte lipstick, you can add some shine to it by patting on some gloss on top. Conversely, to mattify a creamy lipstick, blot your lips with a plain tissue (not the soft kind). You can even pat a little powder over the lips.

Banish bleeding. Bleeding of the lipstick that is. While we talk, laugh, or eat, lipsticks try to creep out through the tiny lines around our lips. Lip liner helps prevent that when applied before the lipstick. I actually prefer lining lips with a light neutral lip liner instead of red.

Don’t fear – go sheer! Sheer lipsticks and colored glosses aren’t as pigmented as creamy and matte ones. Therefore, they’re neither as intense nor long-lasting. They are great for those who want to wear the classic color without the drama. You may need to keep it with you to reapply as the color fades. If you already have a bright red lipstick that you’re not comfortable wearing, there is a great trick you might like: rub some lipstick on your finger, then apply it all over your lips, staining them. Don’t worry about trying to get a crisp line; the edges should be soft. Then apply some gloss, lip balm, or even just some Vaseline. The effect is headturningly (not a word, according to MicrosoftWord) gorgeous, in a more natural, nonthreatening way.

Stunningly simple. If you choose to make your red lipstick the focal point, keep the rest of the makeup more natural. As seen on many runways during this spring's Fashion Week, models wearing red lipstick seemed to be almost free of eye makeup. I recommend the following simple steps (Steps 1 and 2 are optional): 1) Apply a matte eyeshadow closest to your own skin color all over the lids, up to the eyebrows, 2) Define the creases and the bottom lash line with a shadow slightly darker than your skin color, 3) Define your upper lash line with a black or brown eyeliner, and 4) Apply mascara to top and bottom lashes

Products you may like:

MAC's Ruby Woo Matte Lipstick

Recommended by makeup artists as one that complements every complexion

(I do not own this lipstick, therefore cannot comment)

L'Oreal Infallible Never Fail Lipgloss, Rebel Red 315
This can be applied very sheer or layered to look more dramatic. It has excellent staying power for a gloss. What I like to do is apply one layer, then blot my lips with a tissue, then apply another layer.

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Dear Mimi: Where can I get skirts that cover my knees?

Hi Mimi,

Hope you doing well.. Once again i'm really inspired by your blog.The article about the miscarriage was so true and cheered me up.. Umm just wanted to know if you know some online shops for Long Skirts?! Searching long skirts here in Germany is really annoying..maybe you know some shops online where I can get some more skirts for over the knee.

Shipping doesn't matter.. Im only tired of searching here in every Single store for just one skirt with a horrible colour for old ladies

Thank you!

Sara

Hey Sara,

So glad you wrote, and sorry for your frustration. Finding modest skirts can be such a challenge, especially come summer!

Below are a few places you can begin your search! I'm not sure you're particular style, but I've included images of skirts you can currently find at these stores online.

I could have included a lot more but these are all reasonably priced (you'll be paying a lot for shipping as it is!) and perfect for summer!

Let me know how it goes :)

Mimi

UrbanOutfitters.com

Nordstroms.com

Asos.com

OldNavy.com

ModCloth.com

Good luck in your search to be smart, STYLISH, spiritual and sane!

Thursday, May 17, 2012

Makeup: Looking Good On Camera [Tips n' tricks!]

By Vera Tov

In Vera's words:

Win a FREE MAKEOVER!

Welcome Vera by commenting on our Facebook post

and be included in a drawing to get your makeup

done—for an event, for fun...for free!

Looking Good on Camera

Here are some of the tips to help you look your best in photos!

First of all, and this is from personal experience, regardless of how the photographer tells you to pose, make sure you take photos in your most flattering pose. Practice in front of the mirror to find whether you look best facing forward, with your face slightly to the side, with chin raised…you get the idea. It’s also a good idea to have someone take multiple snap shots, because it’s sometimes difficult to judge how you’re going to come out on camera based on your reflection in the mirror. Also, as your mother has told you – Don’t slouch!

Say “Cheese!"— NONSENSE! You don’t need to bare your teeth if you don’t feel it makes you look your best. It’s up to you. If you prefer the mysterious Mona Lisa half-smile, then that’s how you should be photographed.

Keep your hair away from your eyes. It is not a flattering look on anyone. Enough said.

And now – the makeup!

Because bright lights and flash can make you look washed out, go for shades slightly darker and more saturated than you normally would. That means foundation that’s just a bit darker (make sure it’s blended well into your neck), brighter blush, and lip color.

Foundation is such a broad topic that I will have to dedicate a separate post to choosing the correct match, coverage, finish, as well as proper application techniques.

Shiny t-zone is not pretty. Make sure to keep your face matte with a light application of powder. But if you feel that your face is getting oily or sweaty, take a plain tissue (not the soft, lotion kind), and hold it to your forehead, nose, and chin. Don’t press, because you want the tissue to absorb the moisture, not the makeup)

You want your eyes to look well defined in photos, so make sure to wear black eyeliner and an extra coat of mascara. And false lashes are a plus. But if you’ve never used them, don’t try to apply them for the first time before being photographed.
Don’t use your eyeliner on the waterline, or the inner rim of your eyes, because it will make them look smaller.
Stay away from shimmer as much as possible. When used incorrectly, shimmery makeup will age you. The only place you can use shimmer is just a touch of it in the inner corners of your eyes.

Example of a shiny t-zone. It’s even more visible on camera than in person.

I have to admit that Natalie looks perfect in any makeup and in any pose. However, few tips that we can take from this photo are that her face is neither shiny nor shimmery. Her makeup is quite natural, and yet her features appear defined. Finally, her cheeks are rosy enough to look healthy but not overpowering.

Thursday, April 5, 2012

Quick Flower Ideas for the Seder Table

Most of us have been too busy with the more laborious Passover prep to have given some time to how we're going to decorate our tables. Well, for those of us who want to add a touch of spring with a royal spin for their seder table, I found these simple yet impactful (and budget friendly!) flower ideas!

All of these ideas won't take up too much space. But most importantly, these ideas all show flowers short enough that everyone can see each other and discuss and learn and ask questions —something so central to the Passover journey.

My favorite is the disco vase!

Note: Some people don't buy fresh flowers for Passover, so not to risk bringing chametz into their homes. What a great opportunity to purchase some cheap fake flowers! They can be just as beautiful!