The New Shopping Service

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Shopping Service

 

Do you spend your mornings staring at a closet full of clothes with nothing to wear? Or perhaps you wish you still had the time to do that given your busy lifestyle and making everyone else but YOU a priority? Being a stylist, my goal is to make shopping {in your own closet or stores} effortless and fun!

 

So, I’ve found a way to make the process even easier.  I am proud to introduce a new shopping service: Virtual Monthly Styling through the exclusive Hue and Stripe application!

 

This is a new shopping service that will allow me to create a set number of outfits using your existing wardrobe inventoried virtually and added items I choose each month. They will hit your inbox on the day you choose and be curated according to your lifestyle, body type and budget. The best part about it… everything happens online reducing your costs and saving you time while getting dressed in the morning!

 

You heard that right. Not only will your wardrobe be added to the online Hue and Stripe system, but the clothing I choose for you will be easy to purchase if any wardrobe gaps exist. The custom outfits I create will be organized in folders in your personal profile. We can also create visual style boards {like Pinterest} and interact to be inspired for the future.

 

“Excellent Service!!  Virtually Shopping tailored to your needs!  I am busy mom of 3 kids, PTO Board Member/Volunteer and work from home, which leaves little time to REALLY shop.  I’m not talking Target shopping.  ForeverStyled has saved me from picking up last minute items that don’t fit and hang in my closet taking up space.  Having a closet in Hue and Stripe is awesome!!  I can go through at a time convenient for me and shop. I just took of advantage of this great service during the Nordstrom 1/2 year sale, lifesaver!!!  Highly recommend this service.” – Shannon G

 

This shopping service is great for keeping your wardrobe refreshed, wearing more of your clothing, and helping organize your closet without stress. And for ladies with a schedule full of work events or charity luncheons, we can set your yearly calendar so the outfits you receive include those options too! And if you need a seasonal purge, I can conduct a virtual assessment and encourage you to let those unlovely items go!

 

 

Here are the shopping service options:

 

9 outfits a month for $45

12 outfits a month for $60

 

Pre-pay twelve months for $600

 

Shopping Service Hue and Stripe

 

There is a $50 one-time on-boarding fee to allow time for me to assess and familiarize myself with your closet. And if the task of inventorying your own closet makes you shake… No worries! Ask me to come to your home and do it for you at an additional cost.

Are you ready to make this virtual style leap of faith?? Please submit this short form and let us begin! I will send you an invoice including the on-boarding fee and instructions on uploading your existing wardrobe!

Stylishly yours,

Jen Young

Think Thin

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Think Thin

This is a message to all the ladies out there who need a little mid-week pick me up. I want to bring your attention to the difference in being thin and thinking thin. Often we force ourselves into crazy diets and monster juice cleanses. Just last week I fell victim to one of these in which I spent a full day hugging the toilet… and then some. I mean—I do feel better {sort of} but this girl has gotta chew SOMETHING ! Thank God for almonds—just saying.

 

So ladies, here is the deal. There is a big contrast in forcing yourself to be thin and thinking thin. We spend so much time getting kids and spouses ready, ourselves presentable, and working our tails off to support the dream. There really shouldn’t be any time reserved for running our self-esteem into the ground. But somehow that always seems to make the cut in our daily ritual.

 

Think Thin Thoughts

 

STEPS TO THINKING THIN

 

Throw away the fad diets. Chunk those pills in the trash. Start taking the time you once used to degrade your body and start THINKING THIN!

 

1.} Daily Affirmations:  I challenge you all to take some time in front of the mirror today telling yourself just how wonderful you are. Do it especially when it is hard to believe you are beautiful, inside and out. We cannot learn to like ourselves or celebrate the bodies we have by constantly talking ourselves down with negativity. I am convinced that we will never love and fully accept ourselves while simultaneously believing that we are less. Every time you call yourself “fat”, every time you call yourself “ugly”, every time you talk yourself down and refuse to believe in yourself, those words stick with your soul. And it changes us.

 

So for every negative thought you have about yourself…come up with at least three positive things to undo that degrading statement to edify and restore. Do it today. You matter and deserve this practice. Here are some examples. You can also start by simply saying to yourself, “Hello, beautiful friend, I think you are lovely.”

 

 

2.} Know your Body Type and How to Dress to Your Assets:

 

If you missed the “I Feel Fat and I Have Nothing to Wear” series last month, read more about styling your love handles and recognizing the importance of proper underpinnings. These quick tips are a great way to jumpstart how to celebrate your body type and make it work for you! Just because you aren’t a size 2 {or maybe you are}, you can still look and feel great about yourself.

 

 

3.} Take Care of YOU! How often do we put everyone else before ourselves? If you have a family, I know you have experienced this phenomenon that suggests we are to slay ourselves and put our “people” {kid crew and life partners} at the top of the priority list! Nonsense…I always love the reminder from our trusted advocates who fly the friendly skies to put the oxygen mask on ourselves FIRST before our children so we can be more effective to offer proper care as a result. So —that means suck some air in your nostrils as soon as humanly possible so you can give your all for what you were created for! And if it involves storing a paper bag in your car….there is no judgement. Been there. Done that.

 

 

4.} Have Accountability: The best way to make physical or mental changes is to involve others in your journey. Lord knows I have a therapist and a new health coach to challenge me on the kinds of thoughts and foods I expose my mind and body to. With that kind of regular support, with a friend, coach or counselor, you will be amazed at how quickly you can heal from old patterns and wounds. Make a list of your personal goals as it relates to self care and align your partners in crime to move the needle forward.

 

 

5.}  Start today: Adopt a “Blast off” and get her done mentality. Stop pressing snooze and commit to a life filled with gratitude for yourself and in turn live a more peace filled life as a result. I am enjoying this book by Allisan Maslan that speaks to this very topic.

 

Think Thin Kiss

 

May these quick tips inspire and challenge you in your personal Think Thin campaign. What first step will you take today to adopt this important philosophy? We’d love to hear all about it!

 

Acknowledging the Struggle is Real,

 

Jen Young

Back To School Means Back To Jeans

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When thinking of back to school shopping the same thing always comes to mind… me wanting the perfect Jeans! Even though it has been 101 in Texas this week —you still need the right pair.

 

From being a little girl begging for my high-waisted Gloria Vanderbilts, to watching my daughter do the same in her skinny Hudsons, jean shopping is a ritual I have both loved and hated my entire life. I’m sure a lot of you can say the same.

 

So today I’m going to let you in on some jean secrets for each body type and save you a few headaches! As well as throw in a tip or two like…if you are in a hurry and can’t try on, wrap the flat jeans waist band around your neck. If the two ends overlap just a tiny bit they will fit your waist.

 

 

Each body type has a very specific fit that best flatters it’s shape. You can learn more about each type by visiting my Style Tools page. And when it comes to dressing in a pinch, like we all do most mornings trying to get the kids out the door, here is a fast way to know what jeans will feel like pajamas in that carpool line. Also… please repeat to yourself now “I will no longer wear pajamas in the carpool line.” There is a time and place where we just have to kick old habits. This is it!

 

 

 

  1. THE PEAR ((Best Jean Brand and Style)): NYDJ {Not Your Daughter’s Jeans} are absolutely my go to for the ladies who are curvier on the bottom half. Deny the inner voice that tells you these are mom jeans. There are several styles from Flared to Straight Leg that will work for any occasion. You may still have to take in the waist a little since your middle section is your narrowest point and typically your asset. For a more relaxed fit…try the Citizens of Humanity Boyfriend style.

 

 

 

  1. THE APPLE ((Best Jean Brand and Style)): The So-Slimming straight leg style from Chicos is a total winner especially for you gals who have skinnier legs and a fuller mid-section. These jeans tuck in all the right places and give you the confidence to wear them with pride. The Curvy Slim Jeans from White House Black Market are also a fave if you want to accentuate your lean stance but struggle with a more generous section in the upper thigh.

 

 

  1. STRING BEAN ((Best Jean Brand and Style)): My more athletic ladies who have little to no curves often need to create the illusion you have them. Feel fee to experiment with styles with embellishments like floral appliqués like these Kut from Kloth embroidered Catherine boyfriend jeans. I adore the Hudson Nico mid-rise jean as well as they shape shift with your body. I also like a AG Stilt if your budget isn’t a concern for super skinny gals.

 

 

  1. THE PEANUT ((Best Jean Brand and Style)): A slightly flared or boot cut option is best for you as you strut your perfectly proportioned self. You can really get a way with any jean style but do be cautious as skinny jeans can often make you look short and stout. Frame denim flared jeans are an investment but worth every penny. I also like the mid-rise Perfect Boot Jean from Gap. The darker wash is a good option for you.

 

 

  1. THE CARROT ((Best Jean Brand and Style)): Lucky one—you have a really wide choice of pants and jeans that look absolutely great on you! Go for any style that will accentuate your hips and bottom such as pockets and embellishments to balance out your wider upper body. The best styles for you are baggy pants, wide leg and palazzo! Colorful and bright pants and jeans will look great, as will patterns and bold prints. Whiskering {refers to thin fading lines formed from creases that are usually found on the front pocket area of jeans} at the hips and flap pockets will add curves to your lower half. I am a big fan of the Isabel Embroidered Flare by Free People as it hits many of the criteria listed.

 

 

So, pack up the kids with a little more excitement this year, because you now only have to stress over one parties’ pair of pants.

 

 

Your Carpool Companion,

 

Jen Young

WHEN BAD BRAS HAPPEN TO GOOD PEOPLE

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Bras Header

 

Welcome to part two of the “I Feel Fat and I Have Nothing to Wear,” series. If you missed out on part one, “How to Style Your Love Handles,” you can read it too! Today we are going to get even more personal and talk about bras. That’s right… We are talking about “the girls” and how to best fit them {or tuck them in-HA!} for any outfit.

Side note, have y’all seen the new Ta Ta Towel {a.k.a the world has gone mad for a towel bra}? I have no words to describe how I feel about this new invention nor do I know why I have a major urge to purchase one every time they come across my feed. Someone help a sister out here. Maybe it is because my boob sweat often outweighs my clothing. Sorry, TMI.

But seriously…

When thinking about bras we can all easily point out the major problems. Back fat being our number one enemy, maybe even worse than all other fashion problems combined. Then you have the cup catastrophe. Is there not enough to fill them all the way up leaving that unwanted gap very visible under your tees? Or is there so much happening, it’s spilling over? Neither scenario is a look to love.

And then there are those things called straps. Too lose or too tight. To thick or too thin. The problem goes much deeper than just if you are wearing a bra that fits. It is if you are wearing the RIGHT bra for your body type.

When used in the correct way, your bra can actually be your best friend, and the thing that takes your outfit to the next level!

 

Bras On Woman

 

Here are some of my solutions for fixing your bra situation before it’s too far gone:

 

1.} Get a professional bra-fitting every six months. Yes, you heard me correctly, especially for us hormonal ladies who are in the 40 plus category.  As our bodies ebb and flow and succumb to that dad-gum gravity, it is crucial to keep the twin towers upright and ready for every party. From the office to a night on the town, having the right bra is key. I recommend trusting the ladies in intimates at Austin’s Nordstrom Barton Creek Square or your local Soma Store associates to guide you!

 

2.} Make sure you have the right bras on hand for every outfit. The must-haves on my essentials list include the following:

  1. Sports Bra {here is a link to a recent post of my favorite place to shop for those at Outdoor Voices.} Don’t forget to protect the ta-ta’s even when you are working out. Some of my chestier clients even opt to wear these in leu of a traditional bra on a daily basis.
  2. Razor Back Bra: for those unusual styled tops that help you avoid annoying peekaboo straps.
  3. Strapless Bra: this red carpet strapless bra is a best-seller and super comfy too. You can also opt for a wireless option commando bandeau style if you don’t need tons of support.
  4. Traditional Bras in both nude and black shades. Here are several everyday strappy options for daily wear.

 

 

3.} Quick Q & A for your Boobies: {Care of our friends and experts at Nordstrom}

DOES THE BAND RIDE UP YOUR BACK?

If yes, your bra is either too large or needs to be tightened. If it’s still too loose after you’ve adjusted the band, it’s time to go down a band size (and possibly up a cup).

DO YOUR BREASTS SPILL OVER OR BULGE UNDER THE CUP?

If yes, your cups are too small and you need to go up a cup size.

And here is a quick tip–get hair extensions to cover the spillage or the unwanted bulge. I am not ashamed of my quick fix solutions for the overhang. I adore my amazing hair fairy, Tamara Segura, at Luca Salon in Austin. She can be reached by phone or email for magical locks: tamarashairstudio@gmail.com; (512) 626-8649.

DO THE CUPS PUCKER OR GAP?

If your breasts don’t fill out the cups, your bra is too large.

DO YOUR STRAPS SLIP AND SLIDE?

If you’ve adjusted your straps and they still fall off, either the band is too big or your bra has lost its elasticity. If you have sloped shoulders, opt for a racerback bra or a style with convertible straps.

DO YOUR STRAPS DIG INTO YOUR SHOULDERS?

If so, try loosening the straps. If that doesn’t solve the problem, it’s likely the cups are too small and you need to go up a cup size.

DOES THE WIRE POKE AND PROD?

If so, you’re wearing a cup size that’s too small.

 

I hope these bra tips and tricks will help you feel more confident in your daily dressing experience.

Where do you shop for the best bras? Have any favorites you want to share? Let us highlight your comment !!

Many thanks to Forever Styled friend and supporter, Magan, for her recommendations below from our post last week. I wanted to make sure you heard about this great alternative given her recent recovery story from breast cancer.

“This is a nice shape-wear option.  (I find the shape-wear with legs to roll up.)  Maidenform is breaking into this market at half the price of Spanx.  And Target is convenient. (I had to buy these after breast reconstruction surgery after my mastectomy. Final operation needed just a little filler, so surgeon pulled a bit from my tum. Had to wear this shapewear every day for a long time!) -Magan

 

 

Defying Gravity Together,

 

Jen Young

How To Style Your Love Handles

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love Handles

In last week’s post I shared about the personal challenges I faced in the last six months and what I learned after my marriage of 20 years came unraveled. Your comments and encouragement warmed my heart inside out, and for that, I am so humbled and grateful. Let’s keep the honest conversation going, shall we?

 

On the wings of your responses, today we begin the series called, “I Feel Fat and I Have Nothing to Wear.” Our focus will cover the how to’s for effectively styling the spare tire {a.k.a LOVE HANDLES}.

 

Before we begin I will politely ask you to stop saying the “F” word. Saying you are FAT doesn’t serve you well as you rally to get dressed every day. Even if you are not at your ideal weight, using that intense word to describe your body, is demeaning and normally not even true. I understand the struggle is real for some of you, but seriously, let’s reign in the body shaming.

 

Love handles. Pretty much everyone has them, unless you are a stick figure, so the trick to love handles isn’t necessarily getting rid of them… It’s learning to live with them and style them appropriately.

 

You put on pants and they hang over the top like the muffin tin you filled too full. You change into a dress and can see them make an odd shape where only your hip bones should be. Some days they are hardly visible, but some days they are brighter than the sun.

 

So how does the every day gal feel better about things with the snap of a finger? She gets the right under garments and plays the game of hide and never seek. That’s right my friends, all it takes is a simple change of your bottom layers. Otherwise known as the proper under-pinnings. We will talk more next week about the bras and taming that back spillage, but in the meantime let’s focus where the love handles live, the mid section.

 

Rule #1: Invest in a proper body shaper. I love this amazing option by Spanx that tucks in all the right places.  It smooths the bumps and trouble spots all the while toning your six pack. Well not really, but at least it makes me feel like I have a 2 pack. Wink.

 

 

Rule #2: Wear a stretchy camisole in support underneath if a full blown body shaper makes you feel like you need to lease a mini van. I adore this two-way seamless option that comes in multiple colors. The front side has a v neck and the reverse side a flat line so you can wear it either way depending on your outer layer.

 

 

Rule #3: Partner a tailored tunic top with some higher waisted shape-shifting leggings. This Splendid top gives you plenty of coverage in the mid section yet balanced with tighter fitting pants for any body type. I sub out my leather jeggings to dress up the look with strappy heels for a night on the town.

 

 

Rule #4: Add a lightweight cardigan which gives you more of a waist {less of a tire} with the built in tassel that covers your mid section. Or add a vest instead if the heat is overwhelming. Top a romper, dress or tank with trousers for work. If you are more petite or carry your weight on your bottom half, look for shorter cardigan styles that sit closer to your waistline.

 

 

Rule #5: Opt for fuss free swing dresses that is loose around the waist partnered with a wedge, especially if you have great legs. Draw the eye to your assets I always say. Or if you have issues with your legs, wear a great necklace and draw the eye up to your pretty face.

 

 

 

Hope these ideas have inspired you to feel fabulous even if the margaritas have been going to your waistline this summer. I am personally hitting the gym tomorrow since Rose’ has become my middle name. Dreaming of my 6 pack..but until then I will own my love handles with the mom-girdle!

 

From my two pack to yours,

 

Jen

 

 

A Letter To You

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Letter To You Header

 

 

Faithful Forever Styled Readers and Clients,

 

I am not sure where you are sitting or perhaps standing as you take in these words. Know I am grateful for your kindness in reading my weekly posts and trusting me with fashion tips.  I want to get REAL and share, in a letter, some things I have discovered during the hardest six months of my life that are evolving my mission with Forever Styled.

 

Let’s do this.

 

A major event happened last year which was instrumental in waking me up to my reality and the changes I needed to make for myself to reclaim my truth. I have been talking for years about how to align one’s inner longings/values with the way an individual presents themselves on the outside with their wardrobe.  Honestly, I have been a hypocrite to that end.

 

Sadly, my soul grieved for years in a difficult marriage, and I became an expert in adorning my outer shell to cover up all the falsehoods of my reality. I was living a lie shielded behind “perfect appearances”. Always thinking, if I could get my outsides to look the part —then maybe no one would notice what was going on.

 

Here is what I know now.

 

Lesson # 1:  Life is messy and imperfect. So am I and that’s ok!

 

On December 20th, 2016, when my relationship officially fell apart, I realized that sometimes life is MEH {a.k.a. freaking messy and imperfect}  and there are days a girl just needs to sit on the couch in baggy sweatpants, look disheveled and cry. It’s important to allow yourself to grieve and fall apart {and even look like poo} when life is seemingly shattered. Goodness knows I pray you aren’t in a solemn place like this, but if you are—know there is hope.

 

The silver lining I found through the tears was recognizing that I didn’t have to hold it all together with my attire or my reality to be loved or accepted…that I could show up in, God forbid—yoga pants and a mis-matched T to my girlfriend’s house and feel totally cherished. In fact, it made her more at ease to not feel she had to posture around the annoyingly accessorized stylist.

 

Lesson #2: There is no need to hide anymore!

 

From over spending to accomplish the perfect outfit to wearing a baggy shirt because of body hatred, let’s surrender to the fact that you are beautiful inside and out. You and I don’t have to cover up all that is happening in this jacked-up life. And if you say you have no mess…I don’t believe you. No mess. No message. Part of the human story is speaking authentically to the challenges we face. So let it all hang out. You might even be hiding behind a closet full of clothes that don’t make you feel genuine.

 

Come up with three words that trigger the most profound description of how you want to be perceived. Hang those words on your closet wall. My three are: APPROACHABLE, THOUGHTFUL, FLATTERING. These words will be a foundation for rebuilding something more appropriate for the things you keep, the things you purge, and things that come into your life.

 

Lesson #3: I Matter. YOU Matter.

 

Silence that self-condemning inner critic that says you aren’t enough. You aren’t pretty enough. Smart enough. Tough enough. Strong enough. Fit enough. Rich enough. Perfect enough. Start making the changes you need to align your truth with the notion that you were uniquely created by God for a significant purpose. Remind yourself that God doesn’t make junk even if you are standing knee deep in it. Dare to accomplish great things knowing that what you believe about yourself shapes every decision you make. Acknowledging that you cannot build a personal brand based on other people’s opinions. The one that matters most is yours.

 

What can you expect from Forever Styled moving forward?

 

Now that I’m awakened to all the crazy, messy stuff that exists in my life and yours {wink}, it is time to focus on educating you how to get your clothes on everyday verses just pushing product.

 

While I will continue to make recommendations on things I really do value, love and wear, my posts will be centered on how to empower the change that needs to happen within, to live with less. I want to make sure you know how to be the most informed about your wardrobe and be more responsible with your hard earned shopping dollars.

 

From here on out I will be sharing more about my story and would love to know more about yours. This space should be for dialogue about the challenges and joys you are experiencing in your life and daily dressing routine…not just about having the latest and greatest trend.

 

Sound good?

 

This is my truth. What is yours?

 

I would love to hear it and how this post might have inspired you this week. How have you taken a difficult situation and turned it around for the better? Your story matters to me.

 

Bless you from head to your stylish toes,

 

Jen

 

 

 

JEWELRY WITH A MISSION (Giveaway Included)

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Noonday Collection

I’ve got something awesome to share… a company with jewelry that is changing lives one bracelet or earring at a time!  Noonday partners with talented artisan entrepreneurs to make a difference in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities. By developing artisan businesses through fair trade, they empower them to grow sustainably and to create dignified jobs for people who need them.

Noonday works to break the chain of poverty which inspires me to support this incredible mission and vision though my influence as a stylist.

I recently purchased a few pieces from Noonday representative, Laura Choy, and could not be more excited to rally around such a profound and fashionable company. The recent collection for spring/summer is so beautiful, I had a hard time choosing just a few.

Noonday Necklace

NECKLACE / EARRINGS

Noonday Flat Lay

CHOKER NECKLACE / CURVED EARRINGS / STRAIGHT EARRINGS / DAUNTLESS NECKLACE

Noonday Jewelry

EARRINGS / BRACELET

Lucky for all of my readers though, one of you will get a free necklace! Just go to my Instagram page @stylistjenyoung, Like the photo, and comment #ForeverStyledLovesNoonday to be entered to win! Consider it a Mother’s Day Gift to yourself, or just a fabulous addition to your personal collection. Contest ends Thursday at midnight and the winner will be announced Friday morning.

Noonday Giveaway

 

_ _ _ _

Laura Choy Noonday

MORE ABOUT LAURA CHOY

My business with Noonday started shortly after my husband and I brought our third child into our home via adoption.  Through travel and exposure to poverty,  I was drawn not only to the beautiful hand made accessories but to the power that they held.  Power to provide a meal, or an education, or to lift a head that has been downcast after years of abuse, domestic violence, or trafficking.  The dignity of good work and a fair wage is truly empowering!

 

Visit Laura’s site to shop: www.LauraChoy.NoondayCollection.com

To receive items before Mother’s Day you must order before May 1st!

 

 

Stylishly Yours,

Jen Young

Strategic Packing for International Travel

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Strategic Packing Made Perfect

 

Happy Monday!

Let’s address something we all likely struggle with… Strategic packing for International Travel! How many of you have loaded down four bags for a week-long trip only to arrive with nothing to wear? Even worse is when you pack just a carry on and then freeze/burn your booty off your entire trip because you were ill-prepared.

Packing can be TOUGH, this is no secret. But packing with purpose can give you peace of mind and zero stress when you are on your trip, but you must make a plan! For a few logistical packing strategies, here is a link to a blog I did several months ago.

Here are also some visual aids to make the physical aspect of packing easier: VIDEO ONE   |   VIDEO TWO

My goal for today’s post is to give you specific tips on actually WHAT TO PACK for a 7 day trip even up to a month’s worth of outfits {if you have access to a washing machine} with a few simple essentials from your wardrobe!

The inspiration for this post came from a recent client session who is taking a seven-day trip to Israel in October. My advice to her was simple, pack with sense and with items that make you already feel confident. Let me expand….

Pack with sense: I cannot stress enough how important paying attention to the weather and the culture is. Knowing the background on the places you plan to go is one of the most helpful things for not only packing right, but also feeling right in your temporary environment. Is it going to be cold? Pack a coat. Does it seem like the weather is warm or seasonably unpredictable? Still bring a light jacket or a simple sweater for layering.

Don’t overdo the shoes {even if you are a collector/addict like me} since they are your heaviest items; also avoid acting like it’s your time to wear everything in your closet. There is no shame in re-wearing outfits in a fresh way every day. This is  not only smart, but no one is going to be judging you in photos if they see a “repeater.” They will be too busy thinking how you were awesome enough to get everything in one bag without paying those overage fees. Keep in mind that there is a 50 pound weight limit even for international travel.

And when it comes to packing what makes you feel confident, do just that: Don’t leave home without your favorite jeans. On the flip side, don’t make your trip the time to “try out” that funky outfit you’ve been looking at for weeks and never actually pulled out of your closet. Packing for a trip is a time to play it safe, because that is what will help you play it smart!

Let’s talk specifics on accessories: think minimalistic. You don’t need to pack every scarf and necklace you own, but you do need to pack your accessories with intention. Wear heavier items on the plane including jackets and shoes, and if you plan to pack a hat, wear it on the plane or pack upside down in the center of your bag. Stuff with knits. Bring a pashmina wrap which can also serve as a scarf later.

With re-used basics, and pops of jewelry we were able to make this trip one of stand-out outfits and save her major room for SHOPPING while in Israel.

Feel free to print out this list of essentials we came up with and share with friends.

 

Here is the gallery of examples of how we mixed and matched for the perfect outcome:

 

In case you need some items off our Packing List to complete your look:

So as you start to get ready for your next trip, take time to make a plan, and then enjoy your time away as a result!

But if you start to fret, Contact me and we can tackle this packing thing together!

 

Bon Voyage,

 

Jen Young

 

Best Bronzers for Pale Skin

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Hello Ladies!

Let’s be honest, my “porcelain winter skin” often looks as though I have a major illness. Sometimes I am almost transparent especially in photographs, so I am thankful for a good bronzer to add the extra color I need when I’m my palest self.

So for you fair skinned ladies who need a change in your makeup routine, I’m about to make your dreams come true with some amazing bronzers for your skin. Believe me– it can be hard to find the perfect one! Until NOW!

For the perfect application, glide your brush over the temples of your forehead, to under the cheek bones, back up to the top of your ear, and then under your jaw line. Drawing a “3” with bronzer will help slim your face as well as add the illusion of a healthy sun-kissed glow. You can also dust the bronzer on the both sides of the nose to make it look a smaller.

There are many bronzers to pick from, but finding ones for the fairer skin tone can be challenging. So I’ve picked out some of my favorite ones to use when you need to add an extra pop of color to your face. I would, however, definitely recommend going to my favorite beauty stores like Sephora or Ulta and try a tester so you can buy an option that is perfect for your skin tone.

Bronzers come in matte and shimmery finishes. Others have a duo blush combo built in while some come in super dark shades or for uber fair skin. So go try some of these brands and find your shade you feel happy in.

These products will make a huge difference in your makeup game.

Let me know of some of your favorite brands and bronzers if you have pale skin like me! Place your comments in the section below.

Stylishly Yours,

Jen Young

 

Frump Free Winter Style Essentials

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Greetings Friends!

By now, the Christmas tree is likely put away and perhaps you might be experiencing some post-holiday fashion blues like me?  Sometimes these feelings, heaven forbid, even translate to a bit of frumpiness in my style. Wait, did I just admit that out loud? I am a wardrobe consultant for goodness sake! This proves that even clothing experts can have a bad outfit day. Preposterous.

In an attempt to get my fashion mojo back, I have been perusing the sales racks of my favorite stores and sorting through my closet only to realize that I purged many of my winter essentials in my recent move; this reality has clearly made it a daily challenge to get dressed.

Here are the essentials I uncovered that I was missing– all contributing to my recent frump in my winter style. There is hope for us all yet!

PURSE // CARDIGAN // BOOTS // NECKLACE // SUNGLASSES // COAT // SCARF // JEANS // LOAFERS // SWEATER

1.} Denim Skinny Jeans- This is an important essential for any casual daily routine. Dressed with a tunic style top and tall riding boots for curvier gals or styled with a nice stand alone top and blazer for professionals–this key ingredient is versatile for every shape and lifestyle.

2.} Sweaters- I adore this important staple when you want to look somewhat dressed up but still comfortable! I recommend a more tailored option for String Bean, Peanut, and Pear shaped bodies and a more lose fitted concept for Apples and Carrots. Click here to learn more about dressing for your shape.

3.} Knee-High Boots or Ankle Booties- I wear  my knee high boots and ankle booties on repeat throughout the year which is probably why I had to replace them both this season. If you are scared of buying the knee high options worrying they will go out of style in the near future…that is NOT happening. If you don’t have either of these options…start with the ankle bootie.

4.} Colorful Flats or Loafers- Texas winters look and feel a little different than the more northern parts of the country. For our seasonal footwear, flats and loafers are still acceptable for everyday wear. These look great with skinny jeans or a pair of leggings styled with an oversized sweater or longer top. I also love loafers styled with tapered ankle pants and a sharp oxford style shirt and jacket.

5.} Button-Up Coat- Perfect for after work networking or something to keep you warm at work when the thermostat goes wonky cold and you have no control over the temp. These jackets always look more sophisticated than a boring Patagonia jacket. Looking like a lumberjack is never the goal. Just saying.

6.} Poncho or Oversized Cardigan- This is another one of my favorites for those lazy days of running errands. It is something to throw on with a simple tee, jeans and some tall boots.

7.} Statement Jewelry- The right statement necklace and/or earrings are what I call the finishing touches of a great outfit. These essentials transition easily from day to night. If you ever buy these items in a coordinating set…by all means please break the party up. I am appalled by matchy matchy sets. Can you say cringe in two seconds?

8.} Top-Handle Bag- Something about the cold weather makes me love carrying my coffee in one hand with my top-handle bag in the other. It’s also a great accessory to hold close and easily get things out of when in the cold weather.

9.} Scarves- Infinity or straight designs are a charming addition to any winter outfit. This essential not only can add a pop of color to any neutral palette, but also keep you warm. Check out this amazing video to style a scarf 25 ways in 4.5 minutes! ADORE.

10.} Sunglasses- This crucial accessory can add high style to a simple outfit and can also hide those tired eyes on the hard days. Austin cedar is about to kill me and my allergic self. I woke up this morning looking like a bee stung my eyelids. Future so bright..gotta wear shades even in the rain.

Hope my little tricks and tips can help you avoid the frump in your winter style.  What are your favorite winter essentials that keep you feeling confident? Do share in the comments section below.

 

Stylishly Yours,

Jen Young