Update On Life & Blog - What Have I Been Up To?

What an exciting time in my life!

During the last couple of months life has been interesting in a very good way. I took a break off of blogging to really prioritize the things that needed my attention the most. Blogging is a lot of fun, but I’ll be lying if I told you that I knew how to balance knew how to balance blogging as often as I wanted, along with managing my home and succeeding in school. Before I even started school I said see you soon to the blog and really focused on my first semester at my university. I needed to get some momentum going, you know? I believe that that focus helped me earn straight A’s after feeling like a high school and college FAILURE for so long. Looks like those days are far behind me now!

Nowadays, keeping God first, finishing school, keeping my home looking as clean and tidy as possible, taking care of my natural hair, keeping my skin acne free, naturally, style on a budget and being the best loving wife and mother I can be. Yes, you read that correctly. My husband and I are expecting our first baby and it’s a baby girl!

You can continue to expect lots of natural hair and skin talk as well thrifty style. With it also being a lifestyle blog, I want to share my other interests like family, faith, organization tips, budgeting etc. I’m not an expert, but I want to take you on my journey. You can get to know me as I grow more. We can learn and grow together.

-The Demure Lady

DIY Natural Hair- Rainy Day Hair Mask Idea

It rains so much here in Tampa. I don't complain about it too much though. I love days like these. I guess it’s because I love having a reason to stay home. And I don’t have to feel so guilty about having a laid back day.  Because it rains often, and on days like these I’ll probably stay in all day, why not whip up a natural hair mask?

A rainy day is the best day to relax and pamper yourself. 

Ideally, I suggest making a hair mask that can be left on for a few hours so, a protein mask is out of the question.

You’ll need: 

-A conditioning cap

-coconut oil

-Shea butter

- Lavender

This mask can stay on for at least an hour, but i prefer to go longer than that. After rinsing,  apply your favorite leave-in conditioner. My favorite is this one by African Pride

Lets Chat!

Do you have a favorite hair mask recipe?

what do you like to do on a rainy day?

hair mask by mykarenmaria featuring a bath & body

The Polished Look - Definition of Demure + 3 Style Ideas

What does the word Demure mean to you? According to Merriam-Webster, the definition of Demure is – "not attracting or demanding a lot of attention: not showy or flashy. 

Demure to me also means the words effortless, POLISHED, simple, intentional style. 

Dressing modestly is something that is done on purpose, which is why i chose the word intentional to describe Demure. When you're concerned about how you're dressed, you don't just grab things out of your closet and go, You consider length and the right fit when looking for the perfect skirt or dress. Can you relate?  I want you all to get to know my style, which is why I will soon be starting my own style segment posts featuring things from my closet, style hauls and thrifted finds..

In the meantime, here are a 4 looks that embody my definition of Chic.

I would love to hear from you!

What does the word demure mean to you?

What makes up a demure look?

DIY Natural Skin Care - Clear Skin Journey With Aloe Vera Part 2

Aloe Vera is my current go to plant for clear skin and the leading lady of this series. If you missed part 1 of the Clear Skin Series 

Click Here. As i was transitioning out of a different cleansing regime (the oil cleansing method), In search of something that was even simple and effective, I stumbled upon some of the great benefits of Aloe Vera. I have been using AV for about 6 months now and have nothing but great things to say about it. AV really cleans, moisturizes and leaves my skin feeling fresh after every use. Don't let the spikes intimidate you. This plant is packed with vitamins and nutrients that will not only benefit your skin, but also benefit digestion and your bodies detox process when taken internally.3 Benefits of Aloe Salicylic Acid, (used to help clear and prevent pimples and skin blemishes) found in many store bought acne products, is also found in Aloe Vera. 

2. Aloe Vera  contains zinc, vitamin E and C which helps reduce scars. 

3. Lastly, AV helps treat inflammation, cuts, burns and wounds.  

Because AV is a natural anti inflammatory, you will notice less redness, and less pain associated with Acne. 

Where can i find Aloe?

I buy Aloe Vera at my local stores produce department at $1.99 for a long leaf of Aloe.

My mom has a few plants in her backyard so when i visit, I try to remember to grab a few to bring home. 

Fun Facts About Aloe:

1. Aloe Vera is not a Cactus
2. It is known as a ''miracle plant''
3. Aloe Vera  is just one of the hundreds of Aloe species.

I would love to hear from you!!
If you find this post helpful, don't forget to share it with your friends.
Have you ever used Aloe on your skin? What's your fav skin remedy? Chat with me in the comment section.

   

       

My bowl of aloe ready to use for the week

What does your skin regimen look like? Have you tried Aloe? What was your experience like?

The Polished Look- Modest Midi Skirt Style Inspiration

There isn't much to do on this rainy Saturday afternoon. It has been raining here in Tampa, Fl almost everyday for the past 2 weeks. On days like these, I like to relax, catch up on my fav shows, read my favorite blogs, or brainstorm beauty and modest style blog post ideas. Today, I am doing a little bit of everything plus putting together outfits like the ones below, on Polyvore. I loved these pink pumps so i put together looks i would pair them with. All of these outfits can quickly become more casual with a pair of sandals 

Untitled #64 by mykarenmaria featuring a midi skirt

12 things young women with acne only wish they could do.

1.         Fall sleep without washing our face every once in a while 

            without waking up to a breakout 

( I can't begin to explain how frustrating this is. I wanted to have normal skin for once, and not feel like i was dependent on store bought products for clear skin.) Want to learn how i have been able to get rid of my of cystic acne naturally? Stay tuned! Part 1 of our Healthy Skin Journey is up!!

     click here--> Healthy Skin Journey Trust me, it'll get better.

2.     Run late for work and being confident enough to skip your face painting routine

3.     Use products geared toward Normal skin versus ACNE PRONE SKIN

4.     Work out and sweat, without being concerned about clogging your pores

5.     Splash your face with cold water in the morning and be out the door

6.     Have a simple skin care routine involving a cleanser and moisturizer, not a 5 or  6 step acne regimen (I’ve been there)

7.     Greet someone with a kiss on the cheek without feeling self-conscious about  how your skin feels against theirs

8.     Avoid having to change pillow cases every 2 or 3 days as recommended for  people with acne

9.     Eat some of the foods you desire because they will no longer cause cystic acne (dairy did it for me)

10. Stop researching skin remedies and products day in and out. (This can really become overwhelming)

11. Be confident in your own skin

12. Be the first to jump in when it’s time to take a picture because you feel really good about yourself.

                  I think that if you had or have acne then you can definitely relate.

                  It’s easier said than done, but I challenge you to not let acne rule one more day.

                  I’ll get better, but first show it who’s boss.

          Let’s Chat!

      Which one do or stop doing the most? 

What is something you tell yourself

when you’re feeling not so good about yourself?

We are more alike than you think!

Don’t forget to Share, Comment & Follow

From the heart,

-Karen

DIY Natural Skin Care - Clear Skin Journey Part 1

Lovely Friday to you all,

I had this dream that i was washing my face with soap, scary, right? Well, it was nightmare really. Because anyone that knows me knows that soap irritates my skin. I have tried the ''gentle cleansers'' that people talk about all of the time and nothing. The list of products i have used to help get my acne under control goes on and on and on. Let me get to the point. About 3 years ago, i decided to take the natural approach to skin care. The first thing i had to do was come up with a way to transition out of the products i had been using at the time. Why was this transition period important ? Well, because anytime i tried to stop using a product my skin would react right away, can you relate? My skin easily became dependent on the products i used. I needed a substitute that was natural and effective, but also very gentle. So finding something natural for my skin that would calm and not stress it out was the key. What was the mission behind all of this? I wanted to be free from what had been holding me back since the 10^th grade, acne.  I wanted to forget to clean my face one night, and NOT wake up to a new breakout or in my case breakouts in the morning. I think this is something everyone with acne wishes they could do, am I right?

Stay tuned because next Friday I will share the one ingredient I used when I decided to dump my store bought products, but first, a few hints.

The product i was looking for needed to meet the following requirements:

Natural

Antibacterial

Inexpensive

Gentle

Lastly, this product has multiple purposes

Let’s Chat!

Can you guess what the natural product is? leave your guesses in the comment section below..

Do you have Acne? What has your experience been like so far? Have you found anything that works for you?

If this is your first time visiting the blog, i would love to hear from you! Introduce yourself, I don't bite!

Don’t forget to Share, Comment & Follow

From the heart,

-Karen

From The Heart - 5 Truths You Should KICKOFF your mornings with

It is very easy to tell yourself lies like, ''I'm not strong enough, beautiful enough, not smart enough, i can't handle this situation, i wasn't made to endure this.. etc. Whenever those thoughts come to your mind, fight them with what is absolutely true, and that's the WORD.
Here are 5 truths to kick off your mornings with!
-Karen

1. Psalm 28:7 “The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts''
2. Psalm 32:8  “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you”
3. Ephesians 6:11  “Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil”
4. Psalm 42:5   ''You feel hopeless because there’s so much despair in the world. Remember that you are in the world and not of the world. The Holy Spirit within you can stir up hope if you will believe in the sovereignty of God in spite of the wickedness of the world''
5. Proverbs 3:5 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding”

The Polished Look - Classroom Style Edition

Happy Friday Ladies,  

Today I have a post dedicated to working women all over the world, but specifically, teachers.

To all of the Demure future teachers (like myself), and current teachers, you can look ultra-chic yet classy while being the best educator you can be.

I love this look put together on Polyvore. The main things I would keep in mind while in the classroom, are length, style & comfort.

You absolutely have to be comfortable in what you are wearing whether in a classroom or at the office. Always have a pair of cute flats on deck for those long days…we’ve all been there.

The Look

Blush pink midi skirt, white collared top & nude heels. Feeling BOLD? Seal the deal with nice bag with a POP of color..

Let’s Chat!

What pop of color would you incorporate into this look?

Are you a teacher? If so, I would love to hear about some of your style ideas while In the classroom!!

Comment below with your thoughts.

 Share, Comment & Follow

From the heart,

-Karen

Untitled #53 by mykarenmaria featuring hydrangea fake flowers

DIY Natural Hair - Memories of My Very First Relaxer

When I was about seven & still living in the Bronx, I got my first relaxer. It wasn't by choice, and my mom didn't know about it.

My aunt took me to a Dominican salon off of Sheridan Ave (just down the block from our apartment building )and a few hours later, I was a new girl.

I don’t remember the process, how it felt or if I cried, but being that I was and still am tender headed I’m positive I did. I only remember how I felt after the fact.

I wish you could've seen my confidence that day. I couldn't stop looking at myself in the mirror. I wanted the wind to blow through my strands as ran down the block just because. There was no need to run , but I ran because i wanted my hair to look like Winnie’s  from the Wonder Years J.  I felt like a Disney princess. Needless to say, my mom was upset. I didn't get another relaxer until I was about 14 . It wasn't until the  10^th grade that I started embracing my natural hair.  Since then, I have been loving what God has blessed me with and I wouldn't have it any other way. Now, let’s focus on the good stuff ….

Hair product reviews, Homemade mask recipes, Tips on repairing damaged hair, and Moisturizing dry brittle hair. Stay tuned for these posts.

Lets Chat!

What’s your fondest hair memory?

 Have you always love your hair?

 Are you a natural?

<3 Karen

DIY Natural Skin Care- Oil Cleansing Method + 5 Tips To Finding the Perfect Oil For Your Skin.

The OCM method.

I might have mentioned in the past that I had been using the oil cleansing method on and off for a few years. Although I no longer use this method, I want to share a little bit about it for anyone who is considering changing up their skincare routine. The OCM method is a method in which you’ll use oil or a blend of oils to cleanse the skin and breakdown sebum ( oily substance your skin naturally creates).  I first learned about the OCM through a medical spa that specializes in acne prone skin.

The facials were beneficial and the products were amazing, but as a way to save money I let go of a few luxuries, one of them being those treatments and products.

Fast forward a few years later my skin is continuing to make progress, but I am always  looking for the best natural ingredients that’ll give me the best results.

Like many people considering the oil cleansing method I researched and researched until I was able to find the best oils for my skin type .

Here are 5 tips to keep in mind while finding the perfect oil or oils for your skin.

1. Make sure the oil or oils you select are non comedogenic ( in other words an oil that will not clog your pores ) Typically a comedogenic rate of 2 or less with 5 being extremely comedogenic will work well, but It all depends on your skin and how it receives the oil.
2. Keep in mind that what may work for someone else might not work for you. For example: coconut oil has a comedogenic rating of 5( very likely to clog pores)  yet, it works wonders  for some people. Not a risk I am willing to take. This oil is not recommended for the OCM method. It is a great body moisturizer and hair treatment (read here)
3. Consistency is key. When you start seeing results keep at it. You want to make sure you cleanse daily, Morning & Night. Some people only use the OCM at night and do a cold water splash in the morning. In the beginning however, I suggest using this method twice a day.
4. Trial and error. I know most of us dislike this part. The truth is, there is no guarantee this method or any routine will work for you, but you’ll never know until you try, right? Try out the oil on your forehead or chin area for a few days before using it all over your face. From there you can determine if the oil is right for you.
5.  Lastly, you must be patient. So, you’re skin has broken out horribly and now you’re desperate for any solution. You use an oil or product for three days and wish to try something else because you haven’t seen any results.  Take a deep breath. You have to give it time. In some cases you’ll see results within a week , but you want to give it at least 1 month before kicking it to the curb.

Lets chat below!

What cleansing method do you use?

Have you tried the OCM ? What are your thoughts?

<3

The Style Watch: The Pantone color of the year

The Pantone Color Institute is known for their authority on all things color. 

This year the Pantone color of the year is Marsala. The first thing that came to mind was chicken Marsala ,yummy. I then thought of wine, deep reds and strangely enough, rust?

I’m not one to follow trends, but in comparison to the color selections in the past , this one is unusually beautiful . Now that I’m starting to get into sewing (still a beginner), I’m starting to think about how certain colors would look on certain fabrics. For Marsala, I prefer heavier fabrics like wool or a little lighter with tweed versus on  silky materials . I picture hints of  Marsala in the bedroom as a comforter , a rug , a curtain, lamp shade or in a nice pair of flats like the ones below..

What do you think?

How do you feel about marsala? 

How do you see yourself incorporating this color?

What other colors would you pair it up with? 

I would love to hear from you in the comment section below!

Image: Pantone.com

Image :detroitduchess.com

Image: apartmenttherapy.com

              Image: anthropology.com             

From The Heart - 1 Thing You Can Do To Keep Your Dreams ALIVE!

There are lots of things I hope to accomplish , and as much as I find myself doubting sometimes , I refuse to give up.

I don’t want to be one of those people that grow up to be everything they NEVER wanted . They talked themselves into believing that they didn't care anymore, that it was a dumb dream, an unattainable dream. They allowed people’s doubts to become distractions & allowed one failure to become a sign (every failure isn't a sign that you should quit).  Maybe your dreams are a little out of the ordinary or "unrealistic" even.

Maybe you don’t have the finances to get things going just yet. Regardless, you have to keep things moving, that’s the only way to keep those dreams alive. If you have dreams of one day being an Author, but your finances won’t allow you to publish just yet, the least you can do is keep on writing. If you would like to be a singer but you've yet to find to find the right people to work with, keep on singing. If your dream is to start a photography business, but your ducks aren't in a row just yet, keep taking pictures, keep learning, keep getting better. The keyword is KEEP. You have to KEEP on keeping on. You have to keep that thing going.

“If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.” -MLK

Style Blogger Spotlight - Feat. Lauren From Modern Modesty

Ahhhhhhh!!
Our very first Style Blogger Spotlight interview features Lauren from the blog Modern Modesty.
I am excited about sharing this post because she and i share the same passion for modesty. I've been waiting to post this for a while and thought that the beginning of the year would be the perfect time. Don't worry, you will be seeing more of Lauren on the blog very soon, but today i'm sharing a Q&A that'll hopefully inspire your next outfit and encourage you in some way. Its been great getting to know you, Lauren!


 Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am married to the most amazing, handsome man in the world, Stephen.  He is my best friend, soul mate, and shopping buddy! We have been married for 4 years. I am also a new Mommy to Luke Daniel. I never thought I could love someone so much, until I saw our sweet baby boy for the first time. He is our whole world. I am high school Math teacher, that LOVES fashion! 

1.    What inspired you to start your blog, Modern Modesty?

I have a burden for women who've chosen to dress modestly. It is very easy to get get into the "jean skirt, t-shirt" routine! But, I started this blog to help ladies dress more modern and modest! Modern Modesty is a ministry to me. I love to help ladies feel more confident and beautiful.

2.    Who is your target market, and how would you describe the ladies that follow your blog?

Most of my followers are ladies who have the desire to dress modestly, yet want to still be trendy and modern. It is easy to find modest clothes, but it's a little more challenging to find trendy modest clothes!

3.  Describe your style in 3 words.

          Classic, Preppy, and Feminine!

4.  For a long time Spring was my favorite season, but I’m starting to love Fall. What is your favorite season       to dress for?

My favorite season to dress for is spring! I love bright color combos! :)

5. What inspires you embrace a modest lifestyle?

As a Christian, I am a walking, talking representative of Christ. I don't always get to talk to everyone I see, but I hope that they are inspired by my modest and modern clothes!

6. What are your favorite places to shop?

My favorite places to shop are TJMaxx, Ross, thrift stores, and JCPenney.

7.  In your opinion, what are some characteristics of a polished/ modest look?

Classic pieces, with a twist of modern & trendy accessories!

8.   I believe in looking polished without breaking the bank!  What are some of your on a budget styling              tips?

 First of all, I always hit the thrift stores before going to the mall, then I only shop the clearance & sale racks. I never spend more than $20 on any item. The most important thing is to only buy clothes that can be re-mixed with many different outfits!

9.  What is your favorite quote for encouragement? 

Wherever you are going, God has already been there and paved the way for you,

10.  If anyone wants to contact you or engage with you on social media, where can they find you? (Twitter,         Facebook, bloglovin, interest, etc.)

Facebook Modern Modesty

Twitter (@llambert89)

Instagram (@lauren_modernmodesty)

Bloglovin (http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/10432289)

Pinterest (http://www.pinterest.com/llambert89/boards/)