Runway Reviews

Fashion shows are as interesting as designers. Many designers create artwork to wear, so a fashion show is a lot like going to an art gallery in motion. Runway shows vary from high avant-garde fashion to the best trends for everyday women. 

Fashion shows are not foreign to Mrs. Debbie (Abby and Jacqueline's mom and Silk and Purple's editor extraordinaire). In her younger days, Mrs. Debbie was a model and modeling director of a school and agency in Atlanta, Georgia. The lessons she learned through this time in her life flow through this blog, and I am personally grateful for her transparency and guidance in leading me to know what true beauty really is.

Last evening, we had a fun time at the REAL Cover Girl runway show. The evening consisted of delicious hors d'oeuvres, a video of street interviews, a helpful message about what a REAL cover girl looks like, and a runway show. The emphasis that true beauty is not only exterior was very encouraging. The speaker personified REAL as Reflection, Essential, Ageless, and Lifestyle. The video was played of some interesting interviews of people on the street. One young man was asked if he was ever distracted during his church's worship service by women's dress choices, and with a firm head nod, he said yes.

The runway show was filled with bright, bold colors, and color-blocking styles. Many of the outfits were reflective of the model's lifestyle -- not over-the-top artistic, just fun and flattering to every woman's age and shape. A few outfits could have used a little more creativity in making them effortlessly modest. Most could be changed with a little extra layering. The models were exuding joy as classic, graceful music made for a fun atmosphere!

Here are some favorite photos and fashions of the evening.

       

F.S. ~ Texting

You may or may not have a texting plan, but we all can use some basic advice about communicating this way. The benefits of texting can be great, but the way we often use texting can be dangerous and rude.

The bad news about texting...
As we know, texting while driving can cause accidents that can cause our deaths or others on the road. Texting (along with any activity that diverts our focus from driving) is not as important as safety... and no, I don't say this just because my dad is in safety/environmental management. ;)

In any case, the question we need to ask ourselves, "Is texting more important than the things that are going on around me?" Sometimes the answer is yes! Sometimes no. Pleasure texting is generally considered rude at church; a class or lecture; a business meeting; or the dinner table.

Many times our priorities get off-kilter, but safety and spending time with the people in our lives and being willing to listen to them should be some of our top concerns!

I have to keep myself in check when my phone dings with a new message. Before I wrote this post, I was sitting with my grandmother at her doctor's appointment when I heard the ding, and I had a choice... do I look at my phone and answer, or do I spend the time talking with my grandmother? This time I chose to talk with her; I knew the text message could wait, but the moment with my grandmother could never be retrieved.

When I get into a situation where I know I must answer a text immediately, I try to excuse myself and politely apologize for being rude. People usually appreciate the gesture. I also try not to hide behind my phone when faced with a new group of people. (You know how easy it is to pretend you're texting if you're feeling awkward at a gathering. ;) Answering a text in a timely manner is important. I try not to put someone off when they really need something answered.

The good news about texting...
It can be a huge timesaver! I love the ability to text a quick question to someone rather than sitting down to write an email, or scheduling time to talk on the phone.

I also love being able to send a quick thank-you or a short "I'm thinking about you." I oftentimes send someone a message that I'm praying for her so she might be encouraged when I know she is having a hard day.

The balancing game never ends in life, even when it comes to properly communicating with the people the Lord has placed in our lives! So now that you have read this post, go text your friend to read it... :}

Buy of the Week

One of my very favorite things about warm weather is sandals! {And this doesn't mean you have to be in a flip-flop rut!} A great versatile sandal will go with everything in your spring/summer wardrobe! These strappy sandals won't break the bank for this season's budget.

$14.80

Find these sandals here!

Please note that not all items from this store are recommended by SnP. Happy Shopping, but be mindful of what you purchase as an ambassador of Christ!

Seeing Green Salad

Spring is the green season! Adding more green to your diet is very healthy and vitalizing. When you eat raw green foods, you will feel like you have been charged with energy! 

Below is a recipe that is very easy to assemble and makes a great lunch or dinner. Be creative, and adapt the recipe to suit your tastes!

Seeing Green Salad

~3/4 cup fresh parsley sprigs

~1/3 cup mayonnaise (I used Vegenaise)

~1/3 cup plain yogurt

~1 green onion, chopped OR 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

~1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

~1/4 teaspoon dried basil

~1/8 teaspoon garlic powder

~1 tablespoon water

~your choice of dark green lettuce leaves, torn

~1 cucumber, thinly sliced

~1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped

1. Place the first eight ingredients in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.

2. Place the salad greens, cucumber, and mint on a plate. Pour dressing over greens.

3. Enjoy eating a totally green salad, and soon you will be seeing green! 

*This recipe was adapted from Publix Greenwise Market magazine, spring 2012.

Silk and Purple Promo Video

Here it is! Be sure to share this video with all your friends and family!

If you don't have a flash player on your device, be sure to check out our YouTube channel!
Just click YouTube on our sidebar  --->

Question and Answer

You ask, and we will try our best to answer! Don't forget to check out our QnA page in the tab bar.

Q: Where do you get inspiration for style ideas?

A: Blogs, design and beauty books, Etsy, art, and great photography... but really inspiration can come from anywhere -- whether it's rusty old garden tools or sleek modern architecture! Keeping a few files on your computer of great photography, fashion finds, crafting projects, and beloved works of art are great ways to develop a personal style. Pinterest is another new way to keep your inspirational ideas.

Q: How do you find such cute Buys of the Week?

A: Google is a mighty tool, and we use it to its fullest when searching for the Buy of the Week posts each Wednesday. We also have some favorite online shops that we definitely frequent. Our goal is not to always showcase shops that offer all modest clothing {though we do love it when we find them}, but rather to show truly lovely garments from everyday stores. Unfortunately, gone are the days when you could walk into a store, point to what is on the mannequin, and purchase the whole outfit. We have to dig and mix and match from many different shops. It's a lot like treasure hunting! 

Resurrection Sunday

It's just around the corner -- the Sunday we celebrate the resurrection of our Savior! Also known as Easter. It is true that we are not sure of the exact date of Christ's death and resurrection, yet remembering His goodness and mercy to sinners is something we should never lose sight of.

Ladies have been dressing up a bit more on the date for decades, and who can forget the Easter Parade in New York where ladies would walk or ride in carriages with their fine Easter bonnets on their heads? Let me preface by saying that buying a new dress for Easter is not a necessity. It's very easy to get caught up in the frenzy of last-minute shopping, trying to find the perfect Easter frock. The world would very much like to fill our heads with Easter dresses and bunnies with eggs. 

If you plan to purchase a new spring dress, here are a few inspirations:

Find these dresses here, here, and here!

*Add a cami to the third dress for modesty.

The Lily Lesson

"But I can't dress nicely. I don't have enough money to purchase clothing, let alone purchase things that are 'pretty.'"

Believe me -- I know what it's like to be empty-pocketed when it comes to purchasing what might be considered frivolous. My family was hit hard when the recession began. I was so blessed to have a dedicated father working two jobs at the time, and my mother, brother, and I all worked together in food service at our church. We learned gratitude as we never could have imagined. (And created some of the best recipes that we still use today.) Trusting our Heavenly Father for our daily needs can be a hard lesson to learn, but also very fulfilling!

So what is a girl to do when it comes to fashion and appearance when funds are low?

 ^"And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin,  yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these."

Matthew 6:28-29

 ^"Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.  But if God so clothes the grass, which is alive in the field today, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith!"

Luke 12:27-28

Is it not interesting that this account of Christ's comforting command to trust Him for how we are to be clothed is documented not only once in the gospels, but twice? This verse must be directed toward women, because I know very few men who worry about what they will wear ;)

In all seriousness, what a simple and profound truth. Flowers are adorned more beautifully than anything a great king could wear! Yet we are so much more precious than flowers. We are daughters of the greatest King of all! Worrying about what we wear will not bring us peace or confidence in the Lord. We will only gain a discontented heart, while playing the wearying game of want.

As I said above, trusting our Heavenly Father for our daily needs can be a hard lesson to learn, but oh-so fulfilling when we do! When we had very little extra to devote to purchasing clothing, the Lord provided for us through random sacks of clothes, birthday gift and rewards cards, piles of fabric scraps, and thrifty buys! We got creative, and we decided to have fun!

So get creative! Wear a skirt as a scarf, make a fancy flower appliqué from fabric scraps, or turn an old pair of tights into a headband. Read craft fashion blogs, draw inspiration from friends and etsy, and purchase out-of-season clothing to get extra savings! Here is a post we wrote a few months back about thrifty shopping.

But don't worry. Our Heavenly Father will provide what is best for each of us, and we will learn that simple and profound truth.

Ladybird Ln

Buy of the Week

Would you say you are a bit more curvy than some girls? Having curves and a larger frame is nothing to lament about. It's all about how you dress your form! I found a beautiful dress that can work for everyday wear or a special occasion -- it just needs a black cami added for modesty. A black dress is a staple to any girl's closet, but just because something is black does not make it slimming. Black must fit well in order for it to take attention away from areas of the body you don't wish to publicize.

Adding a fitted cardigan and some long pearls would be very elegant with this dress!

$35.00

Find the dress here!

Please note that not all items from this store are recommended by SnP. Happy Shopping, but be mindful of what you purchase as an ambassador of Christ! 

Skin Care - Recommended Face Washes

It is very important to establish a routine of washing your face every day, preferably morning and evening. Unfortunately, most face washes at the drugstores today contain a host of chemicals and dyes that are very bad for our skin.

Below are some of the face washes and scrubs that I have used or are using that do not contain chemicals or dyes and are very gentle on the skin.

Nelson's Pure and Clear 

Find this face wash here!


Burt's Bees Clarifying Facial Cleanser

Find this face wash here!

Giovanni Detox Facial Cleanser

Find this face wash here!


Happy scrubbing!

100 Years of Fashion

This video went viral a couple of years ago, and you will see why. Fashion has been changing since after the fall of man! It is a very good presentation of how it has progressed from bustles to skinny jeans. = P

**Please note as the fashion and dancing progress to our current time, the few moves at the end are not the most virtuous. For younger eyes, please ask your parent to watch along with you.**

F.S. ~ Hello Future, Part 2

You are scrolling through your facebook feed and then you hear that sound. Bling! You forgot to click offline! And now someone wants to chat. Let's be real. Google+ or facebook chat, and now video chat, offer some of the greatest features of social media -- or the most awkward. 

So what do you do to be polite, yet shorten the conversation to a 5-minute chat instead of a 40-minute one? And what if you just don't have any time at all?

Be honest. If you don't have the appropriate time to chat with a friend or family member, then let them know, but ask them if they would be available at another time. You can always ask if they have a quick question that they need answered or if they just want to chat. Set up a time where you both could be online and be sure to be true to your word. Just because we are using technological advances doesn't mean we have the excuse to be rude. Also, don't put someone off, then continue to linger on facebook. If you have work to do, then do it quickly, close chat, and sign out.

When you want to initiate chat with someone, ask them if they have the time. Or be up front and let them know you have a quick question.

Having etiquette of 2012 will personify an ageless, polished demeanor and help others to feel you are putting them first!

Happy Chatting!

Irish-Inspired

When you look at my family, you can definitely see our Irish descent. We have a lot of redheads walking around! So because of St. Patrick's day tomorrow, here is some inspiration in honor of the Irish!

(Also, your family will not pinch you all day ;)

Find the slacks here!

Find the scarf here!

Find the tee here!

Find the skirt here!

Practically Fashionable

Practically speaking, is fashion practical?

Well, I believe it can be, and here is why.

Fashion allows you to show your personal style. Good fashion complements not only your style, but what your tasks are for the day. You don't wear pumps to the tennis court, nor sneakers to a political dinner. So what is personal style? 

Well, do you like blue, or maybe you prefer red?

Do you like lace, or do you prefer fur? 

What about patterns? 

What about shape?

Personal style is as diverse as people are, because it is usually a reflection of their personalities. I love watching people express their thoughts and outlook of life through their clothing. If you don't think this is true, then look again. Many times people are showing you the depths of their hearts through their appearance. Watch closely and you may see someone's heart.

Style is something we usually develop without thinking. A girl that keeps her hair curly versus a girl that straightens her hair usually doesn't make some theological decision about it. She simply likes or dislikes her hair a particular way, or she might admire the style on someone else and try to mimic it. 

Many times fashion wants to dictate our styles -- "wear this color this season!" This is called fad. I suggest you devote some thought to your style and wear it confidently. Fads will go in and out. Try not to look dated. Fashion does change, so when buying clothing, I like to keep with the classics, then add a few inexpensive faddish pieces to mix in. That way, I don't base my wardrobe on what is "in" only for it to be "out" next month.

Developing your style should be fun! Fashion is the tool to make this happen. Being a practical person doesn't exclude you from the pretty things of life. It didn't with the Proverbs 31 woman. She kept a balance between luxury and practicality.

So practically speaking, we can express our personality through style and that can be done through fashion. Our first goal should always be to express Christ within us. After you've grasped a true understanding of the basics -- modesty, biblical femininity, and ambassadorship -- have fun with fashion! 

Buy of the Week

Spring into stripes this season! These items are some beautiful examples of stripes that you can incorporate into your wardrobe! 

$24.90

Check out this dress here!

$32.99

Check out this skirt here!

$18.99 {On Sale}

Check out this blouse here!

How to Make Peanut Butter

You will need:

~a food processor

~a glass jar

~3 cups dry roasted, unsalted peanuts

~4 tablespoons grape seed oil (or canola oil)

~1/4-1/2 teaspoons sea salt

~1 or 2 tablespoons maple syrup, honey, or agave

Step 1: Place peanuts and oil in a food processor. Process until smooth and buttery. 

Step 2: Add sea salt and maple syrup. Process until well-blended.

Step 3: Place peanut butter in a glass jar.

Peanut butter will keep for 2 weeks in a cool, dry place.

100% delicious!

F.S. ~ Hello Future

Ring Ring!!!
Buzzz!!
Bling
You've Got Mail

We've come a long way since the Pony Express, taking mail across the U.S. on a few strong horses. We've come a long way since Andy Taylor and Barney Fife, calling their sweethearts using an operator to dial the number.

We've come a long way since hearing that sound of a fuzzy dial tone over our home computers with a voice saying, "You've got mail"!

From telegraph to text, phone calls to video chat, letters to IM, and newspapers to tweets! Yes, we've come a long way, but maybe not as far as we think. The common thread between all of these inventions and more is that we want to connect and communicate with people, whether they live in our homes or on the moon!

"So hello, Future! I'm Communication and I think we'll make a great team."

Futuristic inventions may go well with communication (I can't wait for teleportation), but how do manners, civility, and chivalry stand in this mix? Emily Post never wrote a book on how to politely chat on facebook! In this and upcoming Finishing School posts, let's dig into balancing the communication of 2012 with timeless etiquette. Before we dive in, though, let's talk about what we must first not forget.

Don't Forget Reality

Relationships have been complicated even before we started updating our statuses every hour. A good relationship usually can be traced back to good communication! Living in 2012, you might think that would be easier than ever, but remember we are complicated people with complicated relationships with complex varieties of ways to communicate.

We may chat, like, share, and comment all day, but are we really creating a good relationship? Social networking has flipped our young futures upside down. No time in history could we instantly know that Jane is eating oatmeal this morning or John is walking into his new job. If you think social networking is just a fad, then think again. The number of people daily joining this revolution is staggering.

My concern about social networking is people's loss of true reality, that is, the reality of developing true relationships. Relationships are about giving of your time to listen, learn, and grow with the people God has placed in our lives. Blogs, facebook profiles, and tweets can easily make us focus on ourselves. (Check out this post for more about self-centered vanity.) Real relationship is not talking only about subjects we like or about making ourselves happy. If we focus only on our wants, a cold computer screen can satisfy us, but if we place others before ourselves and cherish their companionship, then we will find the blessings and warmth of real life community!

So go get some coffee with your friends. Start a new sewing project with your grandmother. Go shopping with your mother and sister(s) and cook a French dinner. Volunteer at conferences and seminars. Ask your grandfather and father to go fishing. The things to do are limitless! Just get up, stop reading this blog post, go live in reality, and meet people! Then use the communication of 2012 to supplement your relationships -- not overtake them!

Have a wonderful day, and tell me what you did ;)

*Please note we believe that the use of social networking or any Internet use should be monitored by parental authority. If you don't have a social networking account, always get your parents' consent and guidance. Also, if you have any account(s), your parents should have your password(s). By them having your passwords, it will protect your safety and help guard you from the temptation of hiding things.

Sugar and Spice

Sugar and spice and all things nice

That's what little girls are made of!

I think this is a pretty true observation. Being a girl myself, having two adorable nieces, and many little girls in art classes, girls are sweetly flavorful! :) 

So what should a gal wear when she is wanting to start on the right path to guarding her purity and representing Christ and her family in a radiantly beautiful way? If you are young, and tired of designers pushing you into clothing with pop-culture stars' faces plastered across them, or you simply want to truly embrace your age (not looking like you are 16), then this is the post for you!

Fitting in girls' sizes doesn't mean you can't have a personal style! Nor does it mean you must dress in glitzy, skinny pants or Hannah Montana tops. Here are some feminine and stylish clothing options for the girl made of sugar and spice and all things nice!

1. Find the slacks here!

2. Find the purple tee here!

3. Find the cardigan here!

4. Find the navy dress here!

5. Find the polka dot skirt here!

6. Find the yellow top here!

7. Find the striped tee here!

8. Find the dress here!

AuNaturel

This tutorial is not for every skin type and tone, but it will show a few easy steps in applying makeup oh-so-simply! This method is perfect for everyday use and for younger ladies who don't need to hide any of their natural beauty.

Please remember to consult with your parents if you don't wear makeup on a regular basis. If you respect and honor their judgment, you will gain favor in the Lord!

Buy of the Week!

Shabby Apple is possibly the best dress shop you'll find online! Modest, tasteful, and something for every style, you'll love Shabby Apple's selection of dresses and skirts. Please note that garments are of great quality and custom-design. I consider them investment pieces, so save your bucks before purchasing the dress that suits you!

Till the end of March, Shabby Apple is giving 15% off any purchase if you follow our link!

Find the link here!

100!!

Today we celebrate our 100th post!!

We thank our Lord, for He has withheld no good thing, and we thank Him for His guiding light.

A big shout out to our editing master, Mrs. Debbie! Without her grammar-rocking, dictionary-defying brain, we would be oh-so-very lost. 

We can't wait to see what the next 100 posts will bring. We hope to hear more from you and thank you for stopping by and visiting with us :) Be sure to spread the word about Silk and Purple! Grab our button or share us on facebook -- together we can reach young ladies across the country and around the world!

Of Sunshine and Green Thumbs...

Spring is in the air, flowers are blooming, and gardening is on my mind! Gardening has been around for thousands of years, the first garden being the Garden of Eden. This was the garden God planted, and it was more magnificent than any of us could ever imagine. I can't wait to see the Tree of Life in heaven one day! (Revelation 22:2)

Gardening is wonderful for every person, even if you don't have a green thumb. ;) It is therapeutic to smell fresh herbs, feel dirt between your toes, and hear birds singing. It is very important to be self-sufficient and provide fresh, organic foods for your family.

Below are two of my favorite seed websites, where you can order certified organic, non-GMO seeds for great prices.

www.abundantlifeseeds.com

www.highmowingseeds.com 

So whether you have 20 acres or a sunny balcony, I encourage you to start a garden. It will be well worth the effort!

Post Poll

We have looked over some of our more beloved thought-provoking blog posts and want to know which are your favorites!

Here are the posts again!

Celebrate Your Season
Why Modesty?
Because it really does matter...
Define Pink
From mud pies to bubble baths...

What are your favorite posts?

Celebrate Your Season Why Modesty? Because it really does matter.. Define Pink From mud pies to bubble baths...

October Baby

Everyone seems to be a movie critic these days. I do not pretend to be one, but whenever an exceptional film comes along, I have to share it with others! If you have never heard of October Baby, then be educated. :) October Baby is a film by the award-winning Erwin Brother. These guys are not new to the filming world, but this is their first full-length feature film. My brother and many friends had the privilege of working on it...  so I might be a little biased ;) Regardless of who worked on this film, it is one of the best faith-based movies I've ever seen.

October Baby tells the story of a young woman, Hannah, who discovers she was adopted after a failed abortion. Her story unfolds as she grapples with her identity and seeks to find her birth mother. As she goes on a journey to discover more than she could ever imagine, Hannah is faced with a decision. Will she choose forgiveness and life?

I was able to see this film several times during its pre-release screenings, and yes, I cried every time. The story, acting, and overall artistic quality are magnificent. October Baby has also opened a ministry to promote life as we fight against a culture of death, called Every Life {Is} Beautiful.

Be sure to find a theater near you as it opens across the nation in 18 days! Let's tell the world we support life!

Find out about the film October Baby here!

Find out about Every Life {Is} Beautiful here!

**********************************
Hey October Baby Fans,

Silk and Purple is a blog for young ladies by young ladies!
We take on issues like modesty, identity, beauty, femininity, style, and how to live according to Christ's calling!

If you like what you see, "like" our facebook page and follow this blog! You'll find inspiring posts, practical ideas, and great giveaways! Hope to see you around Silk and Purple!

The Tiffany Syndrome

Do you like jewelry? Do you keep things simple or are you a walking jewelry box?

Accessories can make an outfit look totally different. Whether you are sporting plastic beads or rubies and diamonds, there is a way to be tasteful when wearing jewelry. Jewelry is the cherry on top of the sundae -- it is the way we can express our personal style preferences.

I really enjoy adding fun pieces to enhance the look of my apparel. My personal style in accessorizing --
keep it bold, yet simple :)

"When accessorizing always take off the last thing you put on." ~ Coco Chanel

Now I don't follow this rule all the time, but it is an interesting thought to help achieve simplicity! Before I walk out the door, I take a final quick mirror check, and an accessory is oftentimes left behind. Too much bling can be very distracting. One or two appropriate items can be great focal and conversation pieces. Be selective and tasteful, not overdone and "gaudy."

Here are a few of my favorite selections of clothing and how I might accessorize the outfit! Some outfits have two choices.

Your style may be completely different than mine, but that's what makes us unique. Play with colors, sizes, and variety to discover your own personal style. Here is a favorite shop with great items at reasonable prices. ~ http://charmingcharlie.com/cc/

REAL Girl ~ Runway Show

Thursday, March 29

6:30 — 8:30 p.m.

Hors d'oeuvres & Free Admission

Spring fashions provided by

®

What a great event! Be sure to mark your calender for this event at Briarwood PCA in Birmingham, AL. The team of Silk and Purple is sure to be there! More information to come.

Visit Briarwood's site here!

F.S. ~ Apples of Gold

A couple of weeks ago we talked about how to perfect the art of conversation, whether you are shy or talkative! You can find that post here!

So why is it so very important to master this art of conversation? Why should we tame our tongues?

The Word of our Lord has a lot to say about the tongue. The tongue can be the means we use to bring glory to Christ and gain a reputable reputation with others, or it can lead the way to pain and destruction.

Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble.

Proverbs 21:23

Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue is but for a moment.

Proverbs 12:19

As discussed in our previous post, conversation oftentimes leads to relationships that are more meaningful. Deeper relationships open up the deeper subjects in life (more than just the weather). If you are pursuing a friendship with another fellow Christian, then the discussion of deeper subjects can sharpen each individual and encourage a deeper walk with Christ. If you are having conversations with the unsaved, then your words might be leading them to Christ!

This week my church has been hosting its annual missions conference. It is such a blessing to talk with the missionaries about how the Lord is working to build His kingdom! The common thread between missionaries around the globe is building relationships. These relationships between people oftentimes turn into relationships with our Heavenly maker! I once heard a woman say, I may not have a Doctorate in Theology, but I long to make people hunger for Christ. That is what we want to do with Silk and Purple! Words and good communication will open limitless opportunities to share the light of Christ. 

She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.

Proverbs 31:26

A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.

Proverbs 25:11

The Bible talks about words and the tongue a great deal. What we say really does matter; how and when we say things matters even more! Learn to speak truth in love and rest in the Lord that His Words will be in your mouth, like apples of gold in a setting of silver.