Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year my faithful fashionista friends!

Yes, it's late on Wednesday, yet still, it's Wednesday, right?

I have so much to be grateful for this past year and am excited about what 2012 will bring.  Did you make a New Year's resolution? If so, I pray it will be a REVOLUTION for you.

As for me, I have opted to live life simply in 2012. When I say 'simply' I mean to live without so many goals and such, and to live each day knowing that first, I belong to God and He is in charge, and second, to not be overwhelmed with the goings-on of my life. I want to let God order each day and not over-plan and forget that HE is ultimately in charge and if I let Him take care of my day, each day, it will be so much better. I know I say that He's first, but this year, I really want to mean it and make sure each day begins and ends with Him as I ask Him to lead the day for me.

I've decided the word "BUSY" will not be in my vocabulary anymore. 

I'm just not gonna say it.

 I find that when I said that word, I get a little depressed and I'm just not a depressed kinda girl, ya know? So, for me, if 2012 brings nothing more than the absence of that word, then it will be a very good thing.

As you can see, I have a new Blog header, thanks to

We're still not all done with it but I didn't want to wait any longer so I asked her to get it up to kick off the new year. So you'll see some changes continue as I am opting for a more high style, fashion-forward look. I hope you like it...would love to hear your thoughts. Just know it's not all done yet, but a work in progress. As for me, I love it...I think it shows style; yet is warm and inviting, all of which I hope I am.

As your go-to Fashion Blogger, I pray this year I am able to bring you information that is timely and desired by you. I've been collecting your emails all year and will be writing about the most popular topics. If there is anything you'd love to hear about, please comment this week, or email me personally and let me know what it is. I will tell you that the most popular request I receive is to write blog posts for women to help with dressing age-appropriate, and for lifestyle.

So for today, I leave you with this little bit of beauty advice:

Remember that you are pretty just the way you are.

Even with the diet you are on (because so many of you are), even with the wrinkles on your face, or the extra fluff on your body,
you are pretty just as you are.

My job and desire this year is to bring you fashion and beauty blog posts that will help you grow in your attitude of seeing yourself in a more healthy way and teach you to dress for your age and lifestyle.

So for now, Happy New Year, and thank you for allowing me to breathe fashion and beauty advice into your world; I pray you will not only see yourself as beautiful, but you will see those around you as beautiful too.

If you choose to comment today, I'm collecting data on your AGE and LIFESTYLE. So simply tell me something like this:

  • I am 50 and I work from home and love high style clothes.
  •  OR I am 30 and I'm a mom who works outside the home in an office and I wear casual business attire.
  • OR I am 65 and I'm an active volunteer who loves to shop in vintage stores and dress creatively.

Get the picture?

Just tell me something like that to help know how best to serve your needs.


Love you much,

Shari 

 Beauty Boot Camp Makeover Retreat registration is
NOW OPEN
for the Pigeon Forge Location.
40 women maximum

73 comments:

Ruthie Joy said...

I am 16, an online high school student, and I love to be laid back around the house but when I go out, prefer a somewhat classy style (I really like plaid shirts & scarves) completed with Converse! :)

Trish D said...

I am 38, a wife/mom whose time is divided mostly among school and church activities, volunteering at a local museum, and crafting. I gravitate toward classic pieces, but then like to mix them with funky jewelry or purple shoes :)

Anonymous said...

I am 47 - a mom who works outside the home in an office and I wear casual business attire there and to church. I'm a natural. Monica

Teri said...

LOVE the new blog look!!

I am a (wife/mom/gma) and will be 50 in June. I love cute clothes that allow me to sit on the floor (or tiny chairs), as I serve my pediatric speech clients, in homes and schools and centers.

Stevie Nicks one day, retired Miami socialite the next. You never know what I'll wear, since most of my clothes come from thrift stores. :D

Sara said...

I am Sara, a 36 year old stay-at-home mom. I homeschool, teach flute and piano lessons from home, serve in several areas of our local church, am a Mary Kay consultant, help with 4-H activities and love to entertain in our home. I LOVE clothes and fashion. Right now, adding flowers and scarves to outfits to dress up a solid jacket, sweater or top, is my favorite thing to do. I am also 5 months pregnant. There aren't many cute maternity clothes out there. It has been a challenge to look cute as I grow larger. Accessories have helped a lot.

Melinda said...

Shari - I am a 5-foot 2-inch, 52-year-old cool creative original/Fashionista. I work at home as a medical transcriptionist and my uniforms consist of PJ's!! When I need new uniforms for work, I go buy another pair of pajamas. I love style and try to follow your rules. I do love to look stylist but sometimes wonder how to do it and not look like I am trying to be 20 or 30 again! I am looking forward to your blogs about age appropriate styling.

Anonymous said...

I'm a 33 year old stay at home momma with three boys under the age of four. I wear a lot of sweatpants to the point my husband is under the impression I don't change my clothes regularly. :) He would love me to wear something else...Here are my excuses: I don't have time to shop. If I put on something nice I'm afraid the boys or I will just ruin it. My weight seems to be constantly fluctuating due to pregnancy. I can't find comfortable clothes that look good. I really struggle with clothing...Love your blog and your book. Thank you SO much for what you do.

Doris said...

I'm a 57 (almost 58) Mom to 6 and Nana to 6. I'm mostly at home, babysit 2 Grands several times a week and sit with an elderly couple 2 times a week. I wear jeans most of the time now that I'm not employed. Struggling to figure out my style!

Cindy Finley said...

I'm a 45 yo mom of seven kids who homeschools and works from home and I wear up-to-date classic clothes.

Anonymous said...

I am 70, Mom to 5, Grandma to 15, still working part-time so my wardrobe continues to evolve following Shari's guidelines. Over the past 6 months of following "the rules" I've received compliments every day. One day I wore an old outfit I thought I liked and didn't get one compliment -- the next day it went to the local Thrift Shop. I love scarfs and have been knitting lacy scarfs in my pop colors!

KathyH said...

Love the new look and attitude! I'm 31 years old and work in an office setting. I also conduct employee training so spend a fair amount of time in front of audiences. My style is Pure Natural. I love the Lands End and Eddie Bauer look. I wish I could wear a uniform to work every day so I didn't have to pick out clothes.

Danette said...

I'm a 48 year old who works outside the home where business casual is the dress code. Thanks for all you do Shari!

Monica said...

Hey Shari!
Happy New Year and what a great new look!
I am 51, a full-time seminary student, developing my own image and life coaching business/ministry. I wear professional attire to my part-time job and jeans or sweats the rest of the time.

Wishing you a blessed 2012.

Love,
Your mentee and friend,
Monica

Anonymous said...

Happy New Year Shari! I'm a 29 year old Minister of Youth & Young Adults. I wear alot of professional clothing but also like to be hip and trendy for the youth. :)

One More Equals Four said...

I am a 39 year old, home schooling mom. I have no fashion sense whatsoever. About a year ago, I cleaned out my closet based on things I was reading here and my DCC. However, I am completely paralyzed when I go into a store, so my fashion now consists mostly of hand me downs from my sister in law and niece. I think I'm hopeless, but I enjoy reading the blog, seeing the make overs and dreaming! Can't wait to see what the next year has in store!

Jenny said...

I am a 48 year old ministry assistant/youth director. I love old fashioned clothes and those that are comfortable. When I dress up - I like to be chic. I need to have clothes that go from hanging with youth, being at church and time with my family

Annie said...

I am 41, and a stay at home Mama. I wear whatever I can find in my size (1X or 18-20)mostly from 2nd hand stores. I buy that way for 2 reasons: 1- it affords me the brands I know and love at a one income price and 2-my son goes to private school(DD used to but it graduated) with a strict dress code and DH works a corporate job, they need the clothes more than I do since I am home most of my days and nights.

Annie said...

P.S. Stay at home YIKES is not the style I prefer :-) I prefer, sweaters, slacks, dresses, classy. Just FYI.

mrslaw90 said...

I'm a 39 year old (40 in August) wife & momma to 3! I've been a stay at home momma until the past 6 months. I opened my own bakery last June. I love clothes & love to shop. That's the hardest thing about the bakery for me bc I wear jeans, t-shirts & tennis shoes everyday. So when I'm going somewhere outside of the bakery I like to dress nicely. I'm like classic clothes, but will throw in trendy pieces occasionally. I have to confess I LOVE SHOES! The most important thing to me is to dress fashionably but MODESTLY! I want to be a good example to my girls & my son (as he chooses a girlfriend & spouse).

Melanie Shannon said...

I am a 41 year young wife and mother. I work outside of the home and our dress is business casual. I like clothes that are comfortable yet stylish. I want to dress age appropriate and not either look like my preteen daughter or my grandmother.

seesawfaith said...

I am 35, recently moved to being a full time stay at home mom, a leader in women's ministry and I like a more classic look, with trendy or fun pieces thrown in for fun.

Anonymous said...

I am 39 yr old (40 in Feb.) stay at home/homeschooling mom. I am tired of frumpy t-shirts everyday. I would like a pulled together look that is comfortable for everyday and a classy look to wear when I lead ladies Bible study and for church.

Tasha
momofsbandeg@yahoo.com

Emily B (emleepc@yahoo.com) said...

I'm 30, work at a law office (casual, thank goodness!) love to dress up in funky fashionable clothes and high heels to work, church, and anywhere else I might go (which works rather well since my husband is 6'5")! I also like to lay low in loung-y pants and collect college t-shirts! I'm a Thirty-One Gifts independent consultant also, and I love working for such a wonderful company that celebrates, encourages and rewards women!(find out more at my website: www.mythirtyone.com/65591)

Anonymous said...

I am 45 work at home and with my Husband in his office - very casual. Love your blogs new look!!! Really enjoy what to wear Wednesday.

Janelle said...

I'm nearly 42. I'm a wife and a mother of 3 (all in school now, yay!). Aside from taking care of my family, I volunteer at school, church and camp. I like easy to care for clothes. And since I live in a colder climate, layers are a must.

Anonymous said...

I am 41 and a SAHM of two. I dress casual for volunteer outings and Bible studies. I love pretty clothes and great color, but have zero fashion sense! Even when I learn concepts that make sense to me, I still find myself buying the "wrong" clothes! I'm so glad you are there to help!!!

Unknown said...

Awwww.... I LOVE the new look!!! :) Fits you to a "t"! I wanna go to the Pigeon Forge Camp sooo bad.
I am a 33 year old SAHM of three boys. I usually dress slouchy at home and dress casually when I go out. I love to wear scarves and hats! :)

Anonymous said...

Hi Shari -

I like the new look!
Isn't change FUN?!?!

I am 51 and a first grade teacher.
I enjoy dressing up for school and church. Jeans are my pants of choice. A kind of creative original on a monthly budget - I have been keeping my outfits interesting with a growing variety of tights.

Happy New Year!!!

Diana C.

Erin said...

I'm 38 and I work at a medical clinc. So it's scrubs for most of the week. Weekends are usually jeans, t-shirt & a sweatshirt. No high style here. Just comfort. I try to look fashionable, but it still ends up being jeans & a nice shirt when I go out.

Happy New Year, looking forward for what's in store for 2012!

Gutierrez In Ecuador said...

I am a 39 year old missionary living in town at the edge of the jungle. I split my time between teaching & administrating a Christian preschool in the morning and being home with the boys in the afternoon. At school I wear a uniform and like to dress it up with pretty gold or colorful jewelry. In the afternoon I love casual feminine clothes and my style has become more Latin here.

Anonymous said...

Hi Shari, I'm 49, work in an office setting where business casual is the norm. I'm a mom of 2 boys - one in hockey & baseball, the other a Cub Scout. I also have a part time job with Premier Designs Jewelry, so want to be a fashionista for those events. Always appreciate your words of wisdome! Karen G

Megan C said...

Hi. I'm 28, married, and an RN supervisor. I mostly wear scrubs, but get dressed up for church and social events. At home it is jeans and a comfy shirt. I'm always cold, so I often dress in layers. The 16 point accessory tip has been most helpful from your book. Still no clue my DCC.
Glad your back!

Tammy said...

I'm 53,haven't worked outside of the home in 10 years, volunteer at a CPC and been married for 25 years. I love to look hip but not "she to old for that!"

~Tammy

Rebecca M said...

I'm a 47 year old, Pure Natural "O". Love capris and t-shirts and jeans in winter. My feet have lots of pains so I'm in "walking shoes" for support. Single mom of 3-15,12,&8. My only DD is 15 and she & I read book together. We loved it. I sell Avon, work & volunteer at church, and voluteer with schools & marching band. Thanks so much for what you and your team do.

baseballmama said...

I am 32 and a mom who works outside the home. I dress business casual/professional for work and then run to karate practice or baseball games. I have lots of work clothes and really casual stuff (i.e. great workout outfits to wear to kids' sporting events or shirts from our favorite MLB team that we wear to their games) but I need help with the in-between outfits.

RuthintheDesert said...

I'm 37, a stay-at-home homeschool mom, and I refuse to dress in a stereotypical homeschool mom way. :) I love paisley and skinny jeans and big earrings. I'm an author who is beginning to do a little speaking, and I need to learn how to dress in a professional way while still being me.

Anonymous said...

I'm 25 and work in the healthcare profession, which means scrubs all week. At home I like to change into nice loungewear in the evening. On the weekends, it's mostly preppy casual. I would like to "dress up" more, but my laid-back Southern lifestyle just doesn't call for it!

Southern Sue said...

I'm 78,Grandma of 6 and an active musician and teacher. Have a private studio for Flute and Piano in my home. I teach all ages including adults. Also play with the Community Band and in church. My wardrobe needs updating - everything from Lounging to Sunday Dress. At 5'4 and 93# I need to look heavier than I am. Help! All I hear is how to look thinner!:)

Stephanie's Mommy Brain said...

I'm 37. Homeschool mom of 4 (3-8 yrs). I like to be comfortable but when it public I want to look put together. I've discovered Pinterest is really helping me see outfits I like and why.

Anonymous said...

I'm 47 and teach in a public high school. (7th-12th graders). I am a classic modern who works with teachers who are VERY casual (jeans everyday), I love your site and also use missus smartypants website.

Kori said...

Hi! I will be turning 30 this summer and so I am needing to get out of the 20 something look but still want be stylish and hip! I am a mommy of 3 little ones and just recently went back to work as a high school secretary. I want to have a business casual style to wear to work and that I can carry over into the weekend since my budget is tight. I love scarves, shoes and accessories!!

Cindy H. said...

Hello,

I will be 40 next week!! I am a wife of 19 years to my sweetheart, and a mother of our 11 year old daughter; who is into high fashion. She and I both read your book and have enjoyed figuring out what works for each of us. I am only 5 foot and I'm probably stretching it a bit by saying that... I'm a little afraid that my short stature restricts me on some of the fashion looks that I adore (knee high boots, etc). I work in an office and usually dress business casual.

I'm so ready to hear where you will be hosting the beauty boot camp in Texas!!!

Thank you and have a blessed 2012!!!

B. said...

I am 42 year old attorney, wife, high school girls Sunday school teacher. I have to look really pulled together most days.

Cheryl said...

I will be 45 in February. I'm a homeschooling mom. Most every place I go (homeschool events, church, shopping) is casual. I'd like to dress better for those everyday events, but I'd also like to be prepared for that occasional wedding, funeral, and office party.

Daphne said...

I'm a 37-yr-old homeschool mom of 2. I love comfy clothes and bright pink :-) I took up running about 9 months ago but still own some "fluff" :-) I like to dress up occasionally, but mostly prefer casual clothes. I'd LOVE a great pair of jeans but can't afford to spend much on them. Thanks for all you do, Shari!

Jolene said...

I am a 44-year old Mom who works part-time as a secretary at the high school. Two kids (Ages 12 and 8). I love to be comfortable at home but also stylist in a dressy casual way at work and when going out and about.

Michelle Angelique said...

Happy New Year Shari! :)
I am so glad that you are back, I have been missing your posts and advice. I wanted to comment on your being "busy". Years ago in a bible study, a wise woman stated that "busy" is an acronym for "Being Under Satan's Yoke." I vowed to never be "busy" again. :) I pray this year brings a greater dependence to let Jesus direct all of our steps. :)

Ok, now for my data. I am a 43 working single Mom. I work in an office away from home and the dress code is business casual. I hate to be uncomfortable so my clothing has to look good on me and make me feel good. I cleaned my closet out last year of all the colors that were not in my palate and styles that were not right for my figure. While I enjoy pretty things, I want to be beautiful on the inside first and always let the beauty of God's love radiate thru me and mask any of my physical flaws.
God bless you and your family! Can't wait to see what this year holds for us!

Anonymous said...

Hi Shari,

I am 42 and I teach music at 2 schools and private piano lessons in my home. I like the pure natural look but sometimes struggle to look dressed up enough for work. I also teach students from age 4- grade 8 so the activities of my day are very different. Sometimes I'm sitting on a tiny chair or the floor, other times I'm dancing.
Thanks for all your great tips.

Rebecca Ann

MT said...

I am a 36-year-old stay-at-home mom with an infant and preschooler. I love the modern-classic look. Right now I need easy-to-maintain clothes that are sturdy enough to endure playtime on the floor with my kids and attractive enough to go out for coffee with friends.

Krista Ritskes said...

I am a 35-year-old, work at home mom of 2. I wear casual clothing most of the time, but when I have an event I like a more business casual look. It needs to be comfortable. I'm still dealing with leftover baby belly (Grr!). I LOVE scarves and accessories. I'm a warm, and I love that about me!

Ladybug said...

Hi, my name is Becki and I'm 58 and work full time. I've never figured out what my style is, but I like comfortable and office casual. I'm overweight and clothes never look on me like they do the models. I love your blog; keep it up!

Pam said...

I just now received your post in my inbox. I don't know why I keep getting them a week late??

Anyway, I love, love, love your new blog header and can't wait to see the other changes as they come along. FYI - the new blog header didn't show up on the email, though. I had to go to your blog to see it.

I am so inspired and empowered by your fashion advice. I do desire to be the most beautiful me and you have given me the tools to do that through your post and your book. Thank you, Shari.

In case you still want this information a week later, I'm a 41 year old homeschooling mama who wears clothes that are stylish and classy. (or at least that's what I think I'm doing - LOL : )

Julia-grace said...

I'm a 16 year old high school student and aspiring fashion journalist. I dress classy and modern while keeping up with trends. Every once in a while I throw a little boho-chic in there. :)

If you have the time, please check out my fashion/beauty blog and let me know what you think!!
http://inseasonstyle.wordpress.com/
Julia-Grace

Laura said...

I am a 35-year-old stay-at-home mom of 2 active boys, 3 1/2 and 1 1/2. I like to be Classic Modern but can't always achieve that at home getting into messes with my boys. For church or for rare dates with my husband I like to dress up in something I can't wear with the boys, like fancy blouses or sweaters and necklaces.

As a side note, I am from Canada and have been waiting many months for a chance to shop in the American stores you recommended in your book. My husband and I were finally able to leave the kids with the grandparents and spend 3 days shopping in Washington state. We planned the stores we wanted to shop in, had detailed lists of what items we wanted, had my color swatches handy, and went during all the Boxing week sales. We had the most fun, profitable shopping trip ever! Thanks for showing me what to look for and how to plan so the frustrated shopper I once was didn't show up at all during this shopping trip. Now if only those great stores would be available in Canada...

Daisha said...

Hi Shari, first of all I would like to say I LOVE the new blog header. Hopefully, I will be upgrading mine this year as well. I REALLY missed you the last couple of months of 2011. I'm glad to have you back! Anyway, I just turned the big 4-0 on New Year's Day. I work outside the home for a non-profit charitable organization as an Administrative Assistant. I like classy but comfortable clothing and I absolutely love thrifting, so I guess I'm a low-budget kinda girl.

~Brenda said...

I too received your blog post in my inbox a week late. I googled your blog and said, "WOW this is a fantastic header"!

I'm 53 and a stay at home wife; a classic modern who loves to wear dressy casual and accessories when I'm running errands and going to church.

Thanks for all you do to help us look great and for reminding me that I'm pretty even with wrinkles!

Anonymous said...

I am a 42 year-old wife, mom of 3 school-age kids, and elementary school teacher. My style challenges are being in transition with my weight (10 pounds down, 50 to go), living in south Florida (layers are too hot 10 months out of the year), and being on a very tight budget. The last time I was happy and comfortable with the way I looked in clothes was about 9 years ago, as a classic modern.

Anonymous said...

I am a 55 year old mom and wife with a busy husband and an even busier college student. I am the secretary at our church- and live on a very tight budget and wear casual business attire . I am a Soft and like classic lines in clothing but LOVE to wear lots of color (within my range)

Rhoda said...

Hi Shari, thanks for all your great advice! I'm a 31 year old homeschooling mum and pastor's wife who lives in the UK (=cold!) and I think from reading your book that I lean toward the pure natural style, and like to dress casually but also attractively for my husband.

Anonymous said...

Thank you so much Shari for what you do! I work in business very casual atmosphere also a sports mom on a budget who is soon to be 50. I like for my clothes to be able to multi-task.

Anonymous said...

Hi Shari: I am 48 years old. I am the only person in the office where I work, so I could show up in pjs and no one would know. Hubby works out of state and my kids are grown. I have no style and look frumpy most days. I would like to dress better, but just can't seem to figure out what my style is.

Anonymous said...

Hi Shari. We're still talking about your great visit to RFA! I'm a 38 year old pastor's wife, homeschool mom to three, women's ministry leader who wants to look nice even when I'm home. I find it's hardest to be comfortable at home without looking sloppy! I like to wear stylish casual clothes when out (I hope I'm stylish!) and dressy casual clothes to church. I buy clothes anywhere from thrift/consignment stores to the mall.
~Darla

Anonymous said...

I am a 38 year old teacher who likes to dress comfortable, yet classic.

Anonymous said...

I'm 42 and like classic styles with a creative touch. I work in a business casual setting.

Trish said...

I am 49, a missionary in Senegal, West Africa. I live in a modern city, so I can wear Western clothes (pants)as long as I'm wearing a longish shirt which covers my bottom. I often wear skirts and dresses, but I wear pants when I ride our scooter.

Anonymous said...

I will be 38 this year and am a mom who works full-time. I pretty much live in jeans and t-shirts, although I've been trying to find nice (modest) tops for the days when I'm in the office. I hate shopping for clothes because none of it seems to fit the way I'd like. Thanks!

Anonymous said...

I'm an 18 year old college student trying to dress nice for class and not fall back into the habit of wearing just jeans and a t-shirt or even....sweats. I like to be comfortable, I like vintage, classy looks without being too girly.

Faith said...

I am a 31 year old work at home mom to a 3 year old and very active 6 year old. I love to be sylish, but it must be quick, easy, and comfortable style. I have to be able to move and go without being uncomfortable, and I love to be able to be relaxed in what I am wearing at home but still be able to wear it when I leave and not feel frumpy. This comment is kind of late I know. Maybe you will get it anyway:)

Tabitha said...

Hi there! You already know me as a 34-year-old mother of two sons, ages 6 and 2.5. BUT, I did just start working as a Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant (not as a hobby like I've done in the past--it's my JOB and I love it!) so my fashion needs HAVE changed. Now I need skirts/dresses to wear to Mary Kay-related events (including my facial appointments, making deliveries, meetings, networking, etc.) so it has to look professional but be comfortable enough for me to move around in. I also need NON-pajama/lounge-wear clothes for home on my work-from-home days because I have people coming over and/or I'm going out and need to look the part of a beauty consultant at all times to "advertise" my business. Yikes! :)

Anonymous said...

I'm an 18-year-old college student who loves fashion, but doesn't have much time to be creative with her wardrobe. I like bright colors and wearing a stylish top with comfy jeans. I would like to accessorize more, but just don't know how to find the inexpensive, stylish accessories.

Lauri said...

I'm a 43 year old, mother of three beautiful daughters...ages 14, 10, and 4. I work from home, go to the gym, dabble with yoga, and I am a runner (I'm up to 10 miles!). I am trying to love myself and my aging body for myself AND for my daughters! I admit that I am in sweats right now...albeit showered...

Anonymous said...

I'm 29, and a stay-at-home mom. I mostly wear jeans and tees in the winter, some cute skirts in the summer. I'd love advice on hair accessories for this spring as well as dresses! Thanks for all you do!

Sarah Marie said...

I'm a 30-year-old SAHM and I'm tired of dressing like one! I haven't bought much since my 1-year-old was born, but I don't fit into most of my pre-baby clothes and likely won't (got a bit busty and am still breastfeeding...). Anyway, before baby I didn't love my wardrobe anyway. Now I'm trying to figure out what I DO love!