Dressing Up

Okay, so before I finished packing for camp, I asked my youth pastor if I needed to bring any dresses for chapel. He said that T-Shirts and shorts were fine. So, that's what I packed. When I got there, I realized that there was a pizza bash which you dress up for, and that your not supposed to wear shorts to chapel. Shorts was all I had packed! So, I used a few of these tips to dress up a little bit where I didn't look like I just came from dodgeball.

Shoes~

I borrowed my friends floral sandals for probably three nights. They dressed up my outfit just enough. So, if you don't have any dressy clothes, go for some cute sandals or flats.

Necklaces~

I borrowed my friend's gold owl necklace one night. That worked out great because it gave my outfit a slightly more dressed up look than before. So, try a necklace that goes with your outfit.

Earrings~ 

Its simple, wearing any earrings will dress up your outfit. As long as they are not expanders or whatever they are called, your good. 

Hair~

For me, I just blew dry my hair after I brushed it. Then, I just ran my fingers through it if I wanted to fix it or something. Go natural, or a cute ponytail with a little piece in the front poofed up. Then, tease your ponytail where it looks bigger than it is.

Lips~

In all honesty, I mainly used chapstick. But, if you have more than that, try wearing some glossy lip gloss. It works great.

For the pizza bash thing, I borrowed my friend's dress and my other friend did my eye make-up. Even though I hated the make-up part, my friends did a great job! So, if your somewhere like camp, ask to borrow some of your friend's clothes and other things.

Well, I hope I helped you when it comes to dressing up in a place like camp!

Ta-ta for now!

~Pearl :)


P.S.
Thats basically what I wore, the only difference is my sandals were brown and braided, my hair is straight and just passes my shoulders (with side bangs), and I didn't have my diamond studs with me. The dress I wore also had pockets, and a collar.

The Nautical Look!

Hi girls! Today I wanted to talk about the new trend- Nautical! Before I begin, the outfit above isn't really the ideal nautical outfit, because you usually add red, but I just saw these and thought they made the perfect outfit! So, let's begin! One of the reasons why I like the trend is that it can be totally modest. For example, the other night I wore my new red shoes I told you all about, a navy and white striped thin sweater, some jean shorts (the shirt was tucked in), and a gold necklace and some gold hoops. It was completely modest too! Also, nautical outfits are easy to buy. You don't have to have red pants or the perfect navy and white striped tank, you can mix and match. Like above, I didn't include red because I liked the simplicity that the tan color added to it, don't you? Really all you need are some navy shirts, shorts, dresses, etc. and some gold accessories. Then, if you want to add some red, some shoes, accessories, pants, shorts, etc. would go great. 

Here are some tips~

• Try to add a pearl necklace or bracelet if you already have one or two gold accessories. If you don't have any gold accessories, then you could just wear pearls! It adds nautical to the outfit because pearls are from the sea, and nautical is based off the sea. 
• Tennis shoes are okay, but nautical is known for being chic and classy. Try to wear flats instead. 
• Paint your nails! Navy blue nail polish isn't the easiest to find, and it might not be the same color as your shirts, shorts, etc., but maybe try some red! You can just do the simple manicure if your in a rush. If you don't really want red, then a french manicure or just white polish is great too!
• You always want to add either gold or pearls, because the nautical colors are SO similar to patriotic that you need to make sure to change it up with those accessories. You can get pearl or gold jewelry for great prices are places like Charlotte Russe. 
• You can do a cute up-do if your going for a fancier look, but if your going out to lunch or shopping, keep it natural. Just blow dry your hair to make it fluffy, and your good! If you want a little more pizazz, then you can curl your hair and do a cute messy bun with a clip. 

I hope I helped you girls with your nautical outfits! I got a lot of my nautical clothes at Cotton-on, Old Navy, Walmart, Dollar General (shoes), and Charlotte Russe. Thanks for reading!

Ta-ta for now!

~Pearl :)

P.S. 

Just 2 more days until camp, can words even describe my excitement!?!?!? Also, the Dr. said that I am not sick anymore! Thank you Jesus!!!! 

DIY Facials

Hi girls! Today I wanted to give you some recipes for wonderful facials. I have tried one, and it works great! Some are for certain skin types so make sure that it works for your skin type. Also, make sure that you have permission to use these ingredients around your house. 

Before I begin, I just want you to know the difference between a facial mask and a facial scrub. A facial mask is like a paste that you spread all over your face and it usually hardens. Then, you wash it off with a warm wash cloth. A facial scrub almost feels like sand. You actually scrub your face with this, but be sure to be gentle because it can irritate your skin if you rub to hard. 

On each facial I do, I will say whether or not it seems like a facial mask, or a facial scrub. 

All Skin Types

Egg White Mask~

All you need is about 1-2 egg whites. Then, whisk until its thinner. After that, gently spread it evenly across your face. This is a facial mask. It dries, and becomes like cracked and stuff. Its actually very hydrating to your skin. I have done this, and I totally recommend it. I have dry skin, and my friend has oily skin, and it worked great on both of us. 

Oatmeal and Yogurt Facial Mask~

Pour one tablespoon of oatmeal into a bowl, make sure its finely ground, then add one tablespoon of organic yogurt. Then, stir a few drops of warm honey into the oatmeal and yogurt. Leave it on for about ten minutes, then take off with a warm wash cloth and put on some light moisturizer. 

Sugar Facial Mask~

Stir together two tablespoons of sugar, and three tablespoons of warm water until it makes a paste-like consistency. Leave it on for about 10-15 minutes and wash off with a warm washcloth.

If you want to see the instructions for a homemade clay mask, then go here.

Oily Skin Types

Banana Facial Mask~

Take one ripe banana, and mix it with a tablespoon of honey. Then, add a few orange or lemon juice drops. Let it sit on your face for about 15 minutes, then wash off with a warm wash cloth.

Aspirin Facial Mask~

Before doing this, be sure that you have your parent's permission because you are going to be handling medicine. Maybe you should ask one of your parents to help you. Depending on how much of your face your going to put it on, you should use around 1-3 aspirin. Roll over aspirin with coffee cup or glass cup to crush it, then put it in a shallow dish. After that you need to stir in a few drops of water to make it into an actual paste. Add some warm honey, and any kind of oil of your choice (almond, olive, etc.). Then, apply to face and leave it until it dries. Then, wash it off with a warm wash cloth. 

Juice Facial Mask~

Mash and blend one teaspoon of lemon juice, 2 egg whites, 3 teaspoons of honey, 1 cup of strawberries, and if you want a few drops of any oil or your choice. Then, apply it to face and wash off after about ten minutes. 

Dry Skin Types

Avocado and Honey Facial Mask~

Take half an avocado, and mash it, then add 1/4 cup of honey. Leave it on for however long, and wash off with a warm wash cloth.

Milk Mask~

Mix together one teaspoon of powdered milk, one teaspoon of aloe vera gel, one tablespoon of warm honey, and 2 drops of essential oil. Leave it on for however long, and wash off with a warm wash cloth.

Sensitive Skin Types

Yogurt Face Mask~

Take one cup of natural yogurt, out of the fridge, and mix it together with 1/2 a cup of ground oatmeal. Leave on for 10-15 minutes, and take off with a washcloth heated in the microwave. 

If you want to brighten your skin, then mix a tablespoon of turmeric powder and 1 cup of yogurt together. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes and rinse off with warm washcloth. (You need your parents permission)

I hope I helped you! I will be posting more spa treatments, like pedicures, and other cool stuff soon!

Ta-ta!

~Pearl :)

Hoop Earrings

Hi Girls! Okay, so today, I was actually inspired to do this post because while I was getting ready, I wanted to add a little something extra to my outfit so I got all my hoop earrings out. I have four total, two gold, one silver, and one black. Three of them are medium-to large, and the other gold one is smaller. Hoop earrings are great, and I LOVE them. They can really make your outfit the complete ensemble. But, be warned, there is a size warning I would like to discuss. Have you ever been to an accessory store called Icing? Well, I went there recently with my friends shopping, and they had hoop earrings as big as a necklace. Yikes! That's what you DON'T want. So, before I get ahead of myself, here are some warnings and no-no's when it comes to hoop earrings. 

DON'T~

Don't get big-big hoop earrings. They should never be bigger around than a small orange. Don't get colored hoops. They give a bad vibe to your outfit, if you know what I mean. You can wear colored earrings if your doing a costume though, and it has to be colorful or 80's or anything else like that. Don't get studded hoops unless they are like the diamond ones above. 

Here are some tips for wearing hoop earrings.

TIPS~

Wear your hoops with simpler outfits. Hoops are meant to be the loudest part of your look. For example, today I am wearing jean shorts, black flats, a white peasant shirt with a black undershirt, and a silver and pearl ring with my silver hoops. Keep it simple if your wearing hoop earrings. If your going to be around babies, DO NOT wear hoop earrings. They think they are shiny and sparkly and cool looking, and the next thing you know, your head is sideways and your in pain as the baby is pulling on your hoops. Keep your hair simple. If your going to make a loud statement, as with hoop earrings, you need to balance out your outfit. Your upper part is taken by the hoop earrings. Just do a simple hair style. Braids are good, really any simple hair style.

I hope I helped you with hoop earring knowledge!

Ta-ta!

~Pearl :)

Toms and Bobs

I just want to say, before I begin, that I am not against Toms or Bobs at all. If you think they are cute, then that's great! This post is mainly for people that don't really feel like forking out $35-$60.00 on a pair of flats. For me, I would only use those shoes to walk around in like twice a week or more. They wouldn't really be my everyday shoes, that I could wear all the time, because they wouldn't really match my clothes. If you want an everyday shoe in this style, and you want different colors, for a cheaper price, then I am going to give you a big tip that you'll thank me for. Before I say that though, Toms is known for the very wide variety of styles. It has glitter, solids, patterns, even crochet. So, if you want them more like that, then you might want to go somewhere like Payless or Target and look for those patterns there. If you want more solid colors though, like reds, grays, blacks, white, and navy blues that you can switch around for different outfits, then here is the secret.

GO TO YOUR LOCAL DOLLAR GENERAL

I went into mine yesterday looking for some cough drops, and I saw navy blue, black white, and RED bob/tom look alikes! And the best part is: they were only $6.00. I got a red pair, because I don't have any red shoes, and so I thought they would be great. I don't expect them to last more than a  1 1/2 years (they will last longer for me because I won't wear them all the time) but what a great deal! Now, I know that its better to have something of quality than to have a bunch of things that aren't that great, but I figured that I could get FIVE different colors of the shoe style for only $30.00. Since I would switch them out, they would actually last. That's five different colored pairs of shoes for under the price of Bobs. 

If you want something to last you everyday, then maybe you should fork out more to get Toms or Bobs. They aren't amazing quality or value, but they would last a little longer. Try getting a solid color, unless zebra will match every outfit you own. Also, they go towards a good cause, helping kids in need. So, I guess that because your buying two pairs of shoes, your paying like 26 dollars for shoes. The quality kind of makes sense then, doesn't it?

I hope I helped you! Basically, if you want just some slip-on shoes you can change out, go for the Dollar Store. If you want something that will be your "everyday" shoe, then shoot for Toms. I hope I helped!!

Ta-ta

~Pearl :)

Short Types

Hi everyone! I am sorry about not posting yesterday, it was just to busy. Plus, I found out that I most likely have the VERY beginning of walking pneumonia. As long as I get rest and lots of water, and am smart about not over-exerting myself, I will be good for camp! So, before I talk about summers most beloved bottoms, please pray for my family to STOP being sick! We have been sick for over 9 weeks. We are actually a healthy family too! 

Okay, time for shorts! In the picture above, I showed you the basic shorts, mostly length. BUT, if you want to know all the different types of shorts, then go here. 

Short Shorts~

These are a big no no. Even if you wear it with panty-hose, your still showing too much legs. Also, they aren't becoming on anyone, no matter what figure. If your average weight, they make you look huge, even though your not! If your on the skinnier side, then make you look like a stick. They are just not a very flattering short. The ONLY time they are okay is too the beach. Not jean ones, but more like board shorts and exercise shorts.

1/2 Thigh Shorts~

Half thigh shorts are one of my personal faves. They are modest, cool, breezy, and can be seriously dressed up or down! Wear it with a ruffled tank top and cardigan to the mall, wear it with a chiffon-styled blouse tucked in with a solid colored belt for somewhere dressier! If your going to wear these shorts, you either want the 1 inch flip flops, wedged flip flops MAYBE, or flats (they look the best with them actually). The only time I have worn anything besides those three types of shoes is when it was raining terribly where I lived. I wore these super cute rain boots that are black and have silver buckles, with 1/2 jean shorts, a white peasant top, and a breezy black cardigan. Plus some 70's styles glasses and a straw hat (its gray, and not beachy). Try not to make the shorts tight, because that can ruin the outfit. You want shorts that either have a teeny-tiny bit of flare at the end (extremely minimal), or straight but where you can move your legs around. 

High Waisted Shorts~

I didn't show that in the picture, but they are very popular right now. I think they are cute, but can get a little immodest. Mainly because they can get way to short. Make sure they are 1/2 thigh length at the shortest, or a little longer.

Bermuda Shorts~

These are great for the summer! You can get these practically anywhere! Jean Bermuda style shorts are very enduring too. They can be dressed up or down.

Khaki Shorts~

Khaki's are great shorts for things like picnics or camp (which is why I got a beige and gray pair from ross). You should have at least one pair because they have various uses. 

Sports Shorts~

These can border too short, so try some 1/2 length sports shorts. Also, knee length ones are great for things like dodgeball or kickball or practically any of other sport that doesn't require certain bottoms. 

Straight Shorts~

These shorts stop at 1/2 your knee, and are straight. These are great for walking around somewhere. They can be dressed up or down.

Well, I hope I helped you with the short-types!

Ta-ta!

~Pearl :)

Warm Weather

Since I live where its really hot, I thought I could post some tips, advice, and outfit ideas for warm weather. 

Casual~

For casual, you want to wear either flip flops, flats, or some airy sneakers. Try to lean towards flip flops or flats because sneakers can get really hot. Wear breezy and airy shirts that won't suffocate you. Since any shirt that is thick enough to wear without an undershirt is too hot where I live, I just get thin undershirts and breezy shirts. Peasant tops are great, like the green one above. For shorts, wear either bermuda, khaki, or 1/2 thigh or 2/3 thigh shorts. If you want to wear something like capris, go for cream colored chino-style. They are thinner, so they breathe. Try to not wear jean capris that are tight because those practically suffocate your legs on a sunny day. If you want to wear jean something, then try knee-length jean shorts. For purses, backpack purses are your best option. Cute, convenient, plus they stay on your back and don't hit your legs like cross-bodies. Oversized sunglasses are cute and protect your eyes. Try to go light on jewelry. Earrings should be what your focused on. Bracelets and necklaces can get uncomfortable if they are too thick or big. A simple chain necklace is great and maybe a little watch. 

Fancy~

You don't have to wear a dress for fancy, but if you do, then try to get a sundress-style dress. It needs to be flowy, airy, but still modest. I almost did wedges on the picture, but if your 12-16, then wedges to a picnic aren't really going to be that comfy. So, flats like those are great. Cross body purses like the one above is still cute, but not over doing it. Earrings and a simple bracelet or necklace are great. 

Tips~

Don't wear dark colors, because they attract the sun. Even though tight shirts may seem better, then don't really let you breathe if its really hot. Go with an airy shirt thats breezy. The flip flops that aren't wedged, but have like a 1 inch sole are great because they are still cute and can be dressed up or down. If you want your hair up, then do a side french braid or side ponytail. Messy buns are great. 

I hope I helped you and gave you some ideas for warm weather outfits!

Ta-ta for now!

~Pearl :)

Camp Tips and Advice!

Hi Girls! Okay, so I thought I would share some tips and advice on camp preparation. On June 25th, my youth group and I are leaving for a 5-day and 4-night camp. And trust me, it is one of the few things that keeps me going when my brothers start to drive me to my wits end! Here are some tips on camp preparation. If you have any advice, then please comment!

PACKING~

Packing can be stressful. A one-nighter is easy, but a longer trip requires a little more than a change of clothes. If your like me, then you want to be prepared. My goal at the moment is to not over pack. I have a very big packing list, and I am trying to shrink it. It can be very confusing on whether or not your prepared, or bringing to much. I try to see what I use in a day, then add a couple of things because there will be different situations and scenarios. Here are some essentials that you need to pack for camp.

- Extra clothes (If its in the summer time, then you will most likely be getting wet. Plus, camps have a lot of messy games), mini first aid kit, cheap flip flops (I have heard the shower floors can be gross, so PLEASE bring flip flops for getting up at night and for taking showers), an old bathing suit (if your not comfortable with the shower arrangement, then you can always wear a 2-piece bathing suit that you wouldn't normally wear. They are really inexpensive and you can get them anywhere), bathing suit, a picture of your family (you never know when home-sickness might strike, and even if you hardly ever get it, its still good to have some reminders of the people that made it possible for you to go to camp), nail polish, a little box or container (to keep random things like hair clips or sunglasses if you don't want to loose them), a small backpack purse (you won't need it all the time, but if your going on a sort of hike, then you want to be prepared.), some extra large ziploc bags (its great if you want to put your clothes for the next day in, or a bathing suit if you don't want to ruin your other clothes), and anything else that you think you might need. 

Those are the essentials for any camp. If your going to a church camp like me, bring your bible, a notebook, and 1-2 pencils/pens. 

PREPARATION~

Okay, so you need to have all the paperwork and transportation things all confirmed a month before camp. That is an essential because in order to start getting ready, you have to know if your going and how your going to get there. If your going in a bus, PLEASE don't wear something like white shorts and an animal print top. Your just asking for stained shorts. For the shirts, go simple. Something like a breezy red top with a white undershirt is great. I am going to wear a lot of plain Aeropostale T-Shirts, with just the name Aeropostale'. Mine are a year old, and so stains aren't that big of a worry for me. Try not to wear white.

Once all of the arrangements are made, you need to plan your To-Buy list. That is where you list all of the things you have to buy. Try to list it by the importance levels. For example: Bathing Suit would go first, and purple hair clips would be on the lower part of the list. 

RULES~

If your camp doesn't allow electronics or food, don't come with an Ipod Touch and some granola bars. Your asking for a call home. If you really want to bring something like gum, then ask your leader or instructor of the camp. If you ask a counselor, make sure that they have the liberty to make decisions like that. Also, if they say no, don't beg. Rules are rules and if they don't set them somewhere, then none of their rules will be followed.

TO-BUY LIST~

I am in the process of the To-Buy List. Remember, list by importance. Also, try to put how much money you think your going to spend on it so it won't be a surprise at the cash register. If you buy stuff online, then make sure you know the measurements and shipping prices. I just bought an awesome Duffel Bag And Tote for $15.00. Ask a parent's permission before buying anything online. The duffel and tote were HUGE by the way! Also, if you want have a lot to carry, and don't really have all that much money for several duffel bags, then try to look for a military duffel bag. They are gigantic, and hold a LOT. You can get them at a thrift store or second-hand store. Look around :)

Some tips on your to buy list are:

Try to get the most important things in the beginning.

You should have absolutely everything that you need a week before your camp starts.

Try to save $25.00 for spending money for the camp.

If you can't find something, ask your friends where they got theirs. 

The most important thing is to stay optimistic. If you run into a problem, like if you don't have enough money to buy something.If you don't have enough money for something, ask an older cousin/sibling if they have an old one you could borrow or have. If you have any other problems, then you can ask them by commenting or emailing me. :)

Ta-ta!

~Pearl :)

Rompers and Jumpsuits

So, today I thought I would talk about rompers and jumpsuits. They have come back around, and are now the new "Trend" of the season. I am a fan, of the modest ones! When your shopping for these, you have to be super careful. Here are some reasons.

1)

They can be VERY immodest. Some are too sheer, some are to low in the chest, MOST of the shorts are to short for modesty, a lot are strapless (you don't want to go there) which can be pulled down just by walking! Jumpsuits can be too sheer, like where it looks like your wearing a bathing suit under thin fabric. You can see a little of that in the blue jumpsuit. 

2)

Rompers and jumpsuits look good on only a couple figures. Those are either thin, or a boyish body (I found that out thanks to an awesome blog called Girls-4-God). If your curvier, and have hips, then you might want to steer away or get one that has a belt. It can sometimes make you look bigger than you are.

Above I showed you guys the good and bad ones. For clarification:

Good Romper- The belt is great, because it gives it a cleaner look, the color is also good because its simple (patterns are fine though), plus the chest area is modest, and the straps are thicker which are more comfortable when concerning rompers. 

Good Jumpsuit- Modest top, flare legs but not obnoxiously flared, the color is good, and the waist is good.

Bad Romper- Strapless fall as you walk, it's a known fact. Also, the pattern isn't that good, its a little overwhelming with the brown belt and black bottom. 

Bad Jumpsuit- Its actually not that bad, the only bad parts is that its strapless (spaghetti strap is also bad) and that the legs are a little too straight. But, the pattern and belt are good. 

The strapless rompers and jumpsuits seem to be more inexpensive than the ones with sleeves. For modest rompers and jumpsuits, try to look around Old Navy, JCPenny, Target, Walmart, and maybe Dillards. If you have any store suggestions, let me know!

Ta-ta,

~Pearl :)

Swimsuit Types

I imagine your dreading this, because you think I am going to show you a $50.00 one piece that is still to low for comfort on girls around 13-15, and I am going to say "What a great deal!". Well, your wrong! That is just not me. Recently my friend and I have had the same problems. We were texting earlier today and I put:

"A one-piece swimsuit thats modest and doesn't end with kini is so hard to find!".

Now, there are plenty types of swimsuits/bathing suits. I am going to give you the different types, just to kind of inform you guys.

One-piece-

Oh the classic one-piece! Chic, modest, and of course adorable. But, lately they have taken how low it is waay to far, by making it comes to like your belly button. That's right, to much showing for comfort!  (By the way, the swimsuit above isn't the most stylish, but a good example of the way a modest one-piece should look in general). The pattern on the swimsuit above is just an idea of a pattern, but there are TONS of different patterns. 

Monokini- 

This is where there are huge holes in the front, and on the hips/waist/stomach. Not modest, at all.

Bikini-

Do I even have to go there? Immodest, to showy, and not what a Christ-Like girl should have. BUT, if you wear it with a tank top and gym shorts in the water, they are fine. If all else fails in me finding a swimsuit, I might just have to resort to that possibility! (Lets hope not!)

Tankini-

My best friend is in love with this style, while I like the athletic (there are athletic styles) one-piece. This is basically a shirt, with swimsuit bottoms. You can also get boyshorts if you prefer. (They may not match, the tankini I am showing, but I had to do two different things so)

Some shops that are good for finding swimsuits are:

JCPenny

Old Navy

Macy's

Target

Walmart

Ross (Their website only has the outline of what the stores carry, but you can't see because its like an outlet store)

For me, I am going shopping this week or next week. Some things that I would make sure your swimsuit has are:

A high top. It doesn't go low or anything like that.

The bottoms don't look like a t, they are actually normal and modest.

No holes.

Bend-Proof material.

And most of all, they have to be cute! 

I hope I helped you with your swimsuit dilemma, or gave you an outline at the least!

Ta-ta,

~Pearl :)