Assalaamu alaikum Carrie!
(smile) Welcome to this Forum, and welcome to Islam!
Regarding clothing, you might look at this thread:
http://www.islamicboard.com/general/...ml#post2846966
(smile) When I first was looking into how to dress, there were very few Muslims, and virtually no one who wore a headscarf. So I experimented with different styles. (smile) I suggest you do the same. You can find clothing that covers you; you just need to be a little creative, sometimes. You
don't have to wear an abaya. That is clothing adapted to a different place. You have to think of your local climate and needs. (smile) I usually wear a long skirt (with leggings in winter), a long sleeve T-shirt, with a sleeveless dress over, and a cardigan or sweater when necessary. These are all items you can find in the stores, including second hand stores. You just need to shop around a bit. (smile) But you need to adapt to your circumstances. For instance, when I have to work on the roof, or climb up and down a ladder to harvest apples, I don't wear a long skirt, as this is dangerous. I wear loose pants and a knee-length tunic.
As for headscarves: there is no
one way to do this. I remember experimenting with a wrap-around turban style, an old European kerchief style, folding a squarish cloth into a sort of triangle, and folding it to frame my face, and then using a safety pin to attach it under my chin. You could also try tucking your hair into a beret or a peaked cap...(smile) Now I can easily find inexpensive (really, they are $5-7) cotton headscarves in two pieces that are easy and comfortable to wear. (smile) If you can't find them now, just keep your eyes open. If God so Wills, they will cross your path sooner or later.
You might also try googling "Islamic Wear". This can give you some clothing ideas. (smile) Enjoy yourself, my dear. Take your time, and develop your own style. The most important thing is that you slowly deepen your relationship with God. You don't have to destroy all your identity and come out a clone the next day. (smile) Developing that relationship with God takes a lifetime. (smile) Just take it one step at a time, and your faith will grow stronger and deeper roots than if you try for impossible perfection in one leap.
May Allah, the Forbearing, Help us to find the Middle Path that leads to Him.