Sew What’s Up Presents
The Sew What’s New Archive
This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and
quilting message board “Sew What’s New,” which was
retired in August 2007. It is being provided by
“Sew What’s Up,”
which serves as the new home for many members of “Sew What’s New.”
From: MaryW
Date: 04-19-2006, 10:25 AM (1 of 37)
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I have decided to take the plunge! I am going to re-do my wardrobe. This is because of a few reasons. 1. I don't like how I look when I glance in the full length mirror.  2. This is a dreary, damp time of year in the Maritimes, makes me depressed. 3. Why not, I'm worth it. Anyway, I have had a little time and want to share what I have learned so far. Everyone should find their own style. To some, this comes naturally. You should wear what you like and feel comfortable with. This also means deciding on colours that will make you look more attractive in clothing that fits your lifestyle. It's not easy. I want to look as nice as I can without appearing dowdy or dressing too young either. I am 56 with grandkids. But I don't want to dress like an old granny. I want something casual and pretty without going overboard. I don't wear lace or ruffles. See what I mean, everyone has their own individual preferences. I found this was good for me. It forced me to think about myself and what I wanted and needed. I never do this. Every day I do a little more on this and I have come away each time with a smile on my face. I talked to hubby about it and he said it was about time. Anyway, this is what I have been looking at. http://www.seeitsewit.com/store/stores_app/class.asp?Store_id=130&page_id=16&came_from=SWN - Personal Style Development MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542 
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From: MaryW
Date: 04-19-2006, 10:36 AM (2 of 37)
What a time I had posting that URL.  Anyway, there is just a ton of information there FREE for the asking. I like some of the tips and if you go thru the lessons a bit at a time like I am doing, please post and we can chat about it all. It will definitely give you a new perspective on yourself and your outward appearance. MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Carmela
Date: 04-19-2006, 11:35 AM (3 of 37)
| I have been doing this all winter Trying for a new look I am 71 Mother of 5 grandmother of 9 My oldest grandson is starting college I am young looking feel young Wearing my gray hair longer Keeping up with the styles Also keeping up with my age Another words no belly showing skirts on or a little below my knees Using a shampoo and conditioner to keep my gray glowing I look and feel D(*&% good Carrie from NJ Hey stop and smell the roses Cause life is toooooooooo short I am on my way to Kohl's for some summer clothes Capris and sandals |
User: Carmela
Member since: 10-21-2001 Total posts: 38 |
From: MaryW
Date: 04-19-2006, 12:01 PM (4 of 37)
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Carmela, thanks so much for posting. I think it is a great time to try on a new "me" as well. It gives me such a lift and I need it. Ladies, I want you to join me when you feel it is your time to present a new image. It's work, it's going to make you think and you won't be sorry. MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Carmela
Date: 04-19-2006, 03:06 PM (5 of 37)
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Carmela, thanks so much for posting. I think it is a great time to try on a new "me" as well. It gives me such a lift and I need it. Ladies, I want you to join me when you feel it is your time to present a new image. It's work, it's going to make you think and you won't be sorry. I bought some NEW clothes some tops with the collars and layered look A faded gold summer bag and 2 pairs of slides Open sandals Am going to North Carolina this Saturday will be there for a week Going to visit my daughter My grandson is being confirmed Gonna look pretty D*&&()&^ good Carrie .... Stop and smell the roses cause life is to short 
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User: Carmela
Member since: 10-21-2001 Total posts: 38 |
From: plrlegal
Date: 04-19-2006, 03:25 PM (6 of 37)
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That is one of the things on the plus side of being employed in an office, you tend to stay on your toes, or at least it has for me, about your personal appearance and your clothes. However, when I'm at home, I tend to go for the comfy denim shorts, t's, etc. I've already done my summer pedicure that I will keep up all during the summer and as long as I'm wearing open toed shoes of any kind. I think it is so gross looking to see someone in sandals with ugly toenails, callouses, etc. Ladies, be good to yourselves and take the time to take care of you. I know it's hard to have that kind of time when you have small children, but it will be worth it in the long run. Don't wait until your children are grown and gone to start taking care of yourself. Do it now and be the best you you can be as you get older. Patsy Patsy
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User: plrlegal
Member since: 05-19-2001 Total posts: 318 |
From: Ronda Sews
Date: 04-19-2006, 03:43 PM (7 of 37)
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I've started doing this, too! I recently lost 25 lbs and am down to my 'wedding day' size. It's been so much fun making new clothing for myself and buying some 'hoochie mama' (daughter's words) jeans. I couldn't get into that site. It kept locking up my computer. Maybe I'll try later. Thanks for sharing, Ronda Bernina Aurora 440QE
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User: Ronda Sews
Member since: 04-07-2006 Total posts: 25 |
From: Carmela
Date: 04-19-2006, 03:55 PM (8 of 37)
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I've started doing this, too! I recently lost 25 lbs and am down to my 'wedding day' size. It's been so much fun making new clothing for myself and buying some 'hoochie mama' (daughter's words) jeans. I couldn't get into that site. It kept locking up my computer. Maybe I'll try later. Thanks for sharing, Ronda I resently went to the Dr [a knew one] When I told him I was 71 He said I didn't look it That made my day I make sure I look my best before I leave the House When all of my children were little Itwas a sweat suit [tooooo big] And out the door That was not good A little time for make up Nice pants and a simple top would have made me LOOK GOOD and F EEL BETTER Carrie |
User: Carmela
Member since: 10-21-2001 Total posts: 38 |
From: Magot
Date: 04-19-2006, 04:58 PM (9 of 37)
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Just found a photo at work today of when I first started as a teaching assistant. God I looked bad! Old growing out hairstyle - big glasses, big shirt (to hide lumps), bad fitting trousers - eesh! I look far better now - 8 years older, sharp haircut, contacts - same size but fitted suits so I look 2 sizes smaller. I think the fact that I feel a lot better about myself also has a lot to do with it! Low self esteem is a killer ladies - that and the classic mummy's clothing of leggings and big t-shirt which do NOBODY any favours. If Madonna can keep reinventing herself Mary, so can we! love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us Cells a Speciality DNA to order. |
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002 Total posts: 3626 
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From: Carmela
Date: 04-19-2006, 05:04 PM (10 of 37)
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Just found a photo at work today of when I first started as a teaching assistant. God I looked bad! Old growing out hairstyle - big glasses, big shirt (to hide lumps), bad fitting trousers - eesh! I look far better now - 8 years older, sharp haircut, contacts - same size but fitted suits so I look 2 sizes smaller. I think the fact that I feel a lot better about myself also has a lot to do with it! Low self esteem is a killer ladies - that and the classic mummy's clothing of leggings and big t-shirt which do NOBODY any favours. If Madonna can keep reinventing herself Mary, so can we! My daughter Is a greay help She is no "SPRING CHICKEN" she is 43 She'll guide me to clothes that are sharp "IN" and yet not childish Carrie |
User: Carmela
Member since: 10-21-2001 Total posts: 38 |
From: bridesmom
Date: 04-20-2006, 01:56 AM (11 of 37)
Since I wear uniforms to work, and jeans or casual stuff the rest of the time I was finding all I was wearing were sweats/workout pants at home, with t-shirts and jeans with t-shirts or sweaters. Now that I've lost 25 pounds, nothing was fitting and I decided it was also time for me to make some changes. I cashed in a bunch of airmiles for store coupons and went shopping. Then I started looking at my fabric and deciding what I want to make for ME. I signed up for the newsletter on the site Mary, to see what it's like. I need to find a style as well. My mom, even at 80 years of age dressed beautifully and stylish, when she passed away I took some of her clothes, they were so beautiful. I don't want to be a dowdy old grandma either, and I also don't want to look like a 50 yr old dressed in 20 somthing outfits  . This will be a good thing Mary! Thanks for the link!!
Laura
Tickled pink with my Innovis 4000D |
User: bridesmom
Member since: 01-21-2004 Total posts: 2026 |
From: MaryW
Date: 04-20-2006, 06:41 AM (12 of 37)
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Laura, I'm so glad to see you joining in. I am deciding on colours and styles, putting ideas in an album so I can narrow down what I really want and need.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: MaryW
Date: 04-20-2006, 06:49 AM (13 of 37)
Carmela, you are an inspiration! I want to look as good as I can without going overboard. I bought some nice cotton prints for summer tops. One is white with fuschia roses, one is black with blue floral and one is white with blue/green print. I now wish I hadn't bought the ones with the white background, they don't do much for me. However, I am determined. I will make them up and maybe put a solid color with them. 
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Carmela
Date: 04-20-2006, 10:11 AM (14 of 37)
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Carmela, you are an inspiration! I want to look as good as I can without going overboard. I bought some nice cotton prints for summer tops. One is white with fuschia roses, one is black with blue floral and one is white with blue/green print. I now wish I hadn't bought the ones with the white background, they don't do much for me. However, I am determined. I will make them up and maybe put a solid color with them. Go bright Pick a color you look good in A color that's your favorite Then just tone it down with pants skirts capris etc etc Always always have hair combed make up on even just lipstick AND EARRINGS... Girl we are gonna look sharp in style Carrie Hey stop and smell the roses cause life is tooooooo short |
User: Carmela
Member since: 10-21-2001 Total posts: 38 |
From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 04-20-2006, 07:09 PM (15 of 37)
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Mary, Years ago, I was at a convention and we had a chance to get our "colors" done for free.. I took the time and let me tell you , that was a 45 minute interlude that changed my life.. She not only did my colors, she diagnosed my style also and made me feel good about myself and what I liked and wanted to wear.. My dear Mother loved lace, ruffles, and all the frilly stuff.. I hated all that for me.. (but had always felt guilty for feeling that way).. But , no more.. I learned that all the colors that I loved were my best colors to wear.. Bright , Jewel tones... Clear true colors, no muddy tones.. I have been so happy with my wardrobe ever since.. I am a classic type, so I never followed fads anyway, but now I do it in a confident way.. It even gives you better posture when you feel good about your choices... I love wearing my favorite colors whether or not they are the 'in' colors this year or not.. If you do not like the color, don't buy it.. Ever since I made that my motto, I have been much happier, and do not have any 'dogs' in my closet.. Everything there is worn.. Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022 
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From: Carmela
Date: 04-20-2006, 07:27 PM (16 of 37)
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Yes I also had my "COLORS" done THe browns were autumn I was the brights Don't remember what they were called MY daughter and I went to have this done We carried color charts in our purse Still use those colors Bright reds blues purples They were my favorites and still are Carrie from Nj Hey stop and smell the roses cause life is tooooooooo short |
User: Carmela
Member since: 10-21-2001 Total posts: 38 |
From: SummersEchos
Date: 04-20-2006, 09:26 PM (17 of 37)
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I signed up for the newletter. Next Wed I am starting a 6 week class on fitting for me. So with me being able to fit me better and learning my new style. hey who knows.
Summer
FREE FALLIN |
User: SummersEchos
Member since: 09-29-2004 Total posts: 884 |
From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 04-21-2006, 06:24 PM (18 of 37)
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Carmela, The Bright, jewel tones are for Winter.. I still have my little swatches of color they gave me way back when... I had a leather folder like a checkbook cover that I put them in and they are very well preserved.. I think what helped me also was learning about my style.. Classic romantic.. Pearls, soft collars and lapels, soft draping , No fancy trims, just classics that never go out of style.. 
Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022
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From: Sancin
Date: 04-22-2006, 03:19 AM (19 of 37)
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I had forgotten about colours, though I have always been particular about them and have a good colour memory - rarely have to take samples to match thread and I always seem to get the right ones. I had a friend who was the fashion guru here in PG for awhile. She got into colours and charged a lot for consultations, but she did my colours for my birthday one year. She draped big swags all over me in different lights and then gave me a sample envelope. Funny thing was that I only had one thing in my then wardrobe which was a brown sweater that I never wore. In spite of having brown eyes I had never felt comfortable in brown. The other surprise was how well I looked in grey which my friend really didn't like yet I wore and still wear a great deal of. I look even better in it now that my hair is silver and very shiny. I have all my gold jewellry in my safety deposit box. I have never felt very comfortable in yellow and actually don't find many people do look good in it. But this year, for some reason, I got a yearning for the colour, considering painting my bedroom in it. I got out my colour swatches and wouldn't you know the only colour yellow in my palet was exactly what I have been looking at for a summer dress..... my bedroom, I don't know - swatches everywhere. I also am classic, but live in a casual environment!! I signed up for the newletters, but won't do too much now as I am not displeased with what I have, have oodles of new summer fabric to sew (and lots of weight to lose), and lots of quilting to do. I am simply interesting in what Heather has to say. *~*~*~* Nancy*~*~*~* " I try to take one day at a time - but sometimes several days attack me at once."
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User: Sancin
Member since: 02-13-2005 Total posts: 895 
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From: DorothyL
Date: 04-22-2006, 08:42 AM (20 of 37)
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Wow -- I never really thought about it. I remember back when having your colors read was the fad. I could never see paying someone to tell me what I should wear. Since high school I've worn clothes that are a bit different (you can read that "fun to make"). I've never been much of a jeans and T-shirt type. To me that seems a little unimaginative. What I really hate are T-shirts that proclaim your social status -- Old Navy says "I'm poor (or cheap)" and Banana Republic says "I'm affluent (and bragging)." But the ones that really get me are the ones with the brand name from the fat ladies store printed across an all to ample chest. Those just say "I'm fat" and people can tell without it printed on your shirt. I'm fat too, but I let people figure that out for themselves. I don't have but a few, very old pieces that I didn't make for myself. So I figure if I made clothes for me they must be my style. As for colors, I tend to gravitate toward one color for a while then another. It's not something I do on purpose, though. It just kind of happens. Dorothy |
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002 Total posts: 3883 |
From: Kaitlinnegan
Date: 04-22-2006, 11:33 AM (21 of 37)
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Hi ladies! This is an interesting thread! I had my colors done a couple years ago -- my sister had gotten me a gift certificate to go do it, otherwise I never would have. It was kind of fun -- the lady insisted I was an "autumn" and that all my cool-toned makeup which I had picked out to go with my fair, pink/blue-toned coloring, was all wrong. Not that I really wear makeup much.. She also thought the foundation I was using was too light, so I bought some from her makeup line to the tune of $20 -- I got it home and realized it was much too dark! You could always see the line where I stopped putting it on, no matter how well I blended it. Also, they seem to just not make the "autumn" colors in clothes much. I have a lot of red, which I guess is a good color for me, but otherwise pretty much all my clothes are "spring" rather than "autumn." Go figure.
http://www.sew-whats-up.com - the new home for Sew What's New
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User: Kaitlinnegan
Member since: 03-20-2006 Total posts: 222 
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From: Carmela
Date: 04-22-2006, 01:32 PM (22 of 37)
| Got a hair cut yesterday I am gray But I DON"T want to look old I want to look 71 which I am There is a big difference I watch what I wear Make everything go together NO sweat shirts or sneakers Wear a lot of silver or white gold I am active and feel good about myself Oh must wear make up not much but enough Carrie from Cold miserable NJ |
User: Carmela
Member since: 10-21-2001 Total posts: 38 |
From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 04-22-2006, 03:58 PM (23 of 37)
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I guess the first rule of "colors" should be mentioned here for those who have not had theirs done.. "Anyone can wear any color, so long as you wear one of 'your' colors next to your face." In other words, (God Forbid) if I decided to wear yellow, I could wear a yellow skirt or pair of slacks.. I always liked the clear brights the best and had never had anything yellow or yellow green or orange.. They are not flattering to me at all..Basically if your skin has pink undertones you areeither summer or winter.. If your skin has yellow undertones, you are spring or autumn..Other factors come into play such as eye and hair color, but I never learned all of it.. What amazed me was the fact that I had never liked to wear the colors that were bad for me..
Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022
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From: Carmela
Date: 04-22-2006, 04:29 PM (24 of 37)
| True I like the bright colors and I am winter However I was told to keep with those colors even when my hair color changes I was a dark blonde Now am gray Carrie |
User: Carmela
Member since: 10-21-2001 Total posts: 38 |
From: mamagoose
Date: 04-24-2006, 05:02 PM (25 of 37)
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Good luck, Mary, I'll be watching... I haven't had a chance to look at that site yet, but one thing I've found is that I can wear one piece in a trendy, "young" style while keeping the rest of the outfit classic and conservative, so I don't look too much either way. For instance, I love the ruffles on all the new clothes, but I would go with either ruffles on the top or skirt, but not both. I might wear a new sheer top and tank/cami, but with my conservative skirt or pants. I might go a little snug with one item, but not all the way. Most people my age and older that I come in contact with (pop 10k in the midwest) are pretty frumpy, even at their work place. Even if I wear jeans to work one day, I'll wear a very nice top. I committed when my kids were young not to embarrass them at school, etc. I stuck to that pretty much. prlegal, I've never had a manicure or pedicure, but would love to learn how to DIY! It just seems like it would be like laundry and dishes, CONSTANT upkeep and too much time. I don't wear makeup, other than a tad bit of eyeliner. I curl my eyelashes and if I get enough sun/wind (or a dash of red pepper in the diet will do it) then my lips and cheeks have enough color. I definitely look my best when I get ready for work 3 days a week or when DH and I make a date night out, but I know I should try to look nicer all the time. This past winter I made funky housepants out of cotton/lycra blend animal prints to get away from the sweats. They get DH's attention and they are comfy! I'm sure the kids thought I must have been going through some mid-life "crisis". I can't wait to get hold of some more of that type fabric. I've already got 10+ garment projects in the works, so I'd better get going too. mamagoose |
User: mamagoose
Member since: 01-26-2002 Total posts: 168 |
From: weezie
Date: 04-26-2006, 08:24 PM (26 of 37)
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Talk of time warps Mary,, I just read your scraps recovery tip of cutting the strips to get every possible inch usable....Echoes of my past heard that tip first from Gram letting me use the untouchable shears first time ever and catching scraps falling off a grainsack so none went unused. Remarkable to recall her "perfect we need to overlap this at least an inch to make sure the thread lasts too"... Thanks for helping me remember using shears with both hands as they seemed heavy in my hand oh if she ever saw a rotery cutter back then....lol Weezie
weezie
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User: weezie
Member since: 01-01-2002 Total posts: 34 |
From: MaryW
Date: 05-02-2006, 08:16 AM (27 of 37)
I made myself a stone colored linen jacket. I want to put some nice jewel tone tops with it. Blues and greens look better on me, also some of the autumn colors. I don't know what season that is. 
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: DorothyL
Date: 05-02-2006, 09:14 AM (28 of 37)
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also some of the autumn colors. I don't know what season that is. Mary???? Dorothy |
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002 Total posts: 3883 |
From: MaryW
Date: 05-02-2006, 09:24 AM (29 of 37)
what? I can't help it, copper and some browns look fairly nice too. What season has blues, greens and browns? I thought they were two separate ones. Educate me if you are so smart. 
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: DorothyL
Date: 05-02-2006, 10:43 AM (30 of 37)
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I was just surprised you didn't know what season Autumn was! And picking on you. If you are wearing colors you like and that look good on you I wouldn't be too concerned how they fit into some marketing gimmick. If you like them you will feel good and therefor look good. Especially if you made the clothing yourself. Don'tca think Dorothy |
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002 Total posts: 3883 |
From: MaryW
Date: 05-02-2006, 10:46 AM (31 of 37)
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I know what season autumn is, I just meant I don't fit into any one category. What can I say, just an oddball. I should be done the jacket today if I can get off the computer. MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Kaitlinnegan
Date: 05-02-2006, 12:54 PM (32 of 37)
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Well..when I had my colors done, the lady said I was an "autumn," but also that blues and greens would look good on me because of my green eyes. Also reds.. She also said pink was a terrible color for me, but I think I look ok in pink! I'm not going to be throwing out all of my pink clothes anyway. Anyway, I think the seasons kind of make sense as a general rule, but most people have a lot of colors that look good on them..not just one "season."
http://www.sew-whats-up.com - the new home for Sew What's New
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User: Kaitlinnegan
Member since: 03-20-2006 Total posts: 222
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From: crazy4quilting
Date: 07-09-2006, 11:48 PM (33 of 37)
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Great Idea Mary! I would love to do the same thing later as I build up my sewing "momentum". Please be sure to share with us some of your pattern ideas or inspirations. Good luck & Happy Sewing! Libby A Girl Can Never Have Too Much Fabric!
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User: crazy4quilting
Member since: 03-14-2002 Total posts: 51 
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From: Butterflyrf71
Date: 07-10-2006, 07:50 PM (34 of 37)
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I've always wanted my colors done - how does one go about finding someone local to do this? I had a boss that did that once, and she threw out every last thing not in her color chart
You Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm, and place their trust in you. Isaiah 26:3, AV
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User: Butterflyrf71
Member since: 05-02-2006 Total posts: 257 
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From: plrlegal
Date: 07-10-2006, 11:42 PM (35 of 37)
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If you know anyone who sells Mary Kay they should be able to do it for you Butterfly. I had mine done by a Mary Kay rep quite a few years ago and probably need it up dated. Patsy Patsy
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User: plrlegal
Member since: 05-19-2001 Total posts: 318 |
From: Butterflyrf71
Date: 07-11-2006, 06:55 AM (36 of 37)
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I used to sell Mary Kay when I was an At-Home-Mom, I never did that. LOL, that was of course 13 years ago . . . .
You Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm, and place their trust in you. Isaiah 26:3, AV
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User: Butterflyrf71
Member since: 05-02-2006 Total posts: 257
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From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 07-11-2006, 06:55 PM (37 of 37)
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Mary, Blues and greens fit into all the 4 seasons.. I am winter, I wear clear blues and greens only.. Autumns can wear greens with yellow in them best.. Such as apple green, spring green, ..etc.. And reds oranges, yellows, golds , all just like the glorious leaf colors in the Fall.. Note to Carmela, you said about wearing same color after hair turned grey.. Hair color does not determine which color you can wear, only depth of color.. Now that I'm grey, I wear Purple better than Lavender, but Its still in the same family and my favorite color.. Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022
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