Makeup Bag Essentials

BAG // CONCEALER // BLUSH PALLET // EYESHADOW // FACE PRIMER // LIPSTICK // FOUNDATION // POWDER // LIPGLOSS // MASCARA // EYELINER

Hey Beautiful!

When is the last time you gave your makeup bag a “refresh?” Just this week I was digging out a half-crumbled face powder from the bottom of my purse and it reminded me that it is just as important to have the basic makeup essentials as it is the proper wardrobe. If you are a make-up curator like my mom {who just gave me like 15 tubes of lip sticks she never wears and several other goodies…EEK!} or perhaps you never wear makeup at all…this post features the key essentials every woman should have in her makeup bag.

My morning makeup routine normally takes about 10 minutes, so here is the approach I take as I apply each core component:

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1.} Start with a dime size of Face Primer- There are many brands for all different skin types, but the Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer is The BEST. Using a primer sets your foundation so it won’t melt off during the day and produces a more even application.

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2.} Next, squirt a quarter size of your favorite liquid foundation into your hand and spread evenly on your face with a flat head brush.  This Nars Luminous Weightless Foundation goes on naturally yet with plenty of coverage.  I also dab a little on my upper eye area to ready my lids for eyeshadow. You can always dust your face with powder if you want more of a matte finish. Check out this post on Summer Foundations for other ideas as you explore what will work best for your skin tone and budget.

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3.} Then, apply NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer under the eyes to reduce dark circles or puffiness, and around the nose area in the folds by the mouth. You can also touch up any acne spots as well. Blend with your index finger. If you don’t have time for a full liquid foundation application, stick to concealer touch ups and then top with your favorite powder.

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4.} Set your foundation and concealer with powder...my favorite is Chanel Healthy Glow Sheer Colour. Like I mentioned earlier, it is imperative to set the liquid makeup so it won’t run off or be sticky on your face throughout the day.

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5.} Contour your cheek bones and the perimeter of your face with the perfect Bronzer/Blush/ Highlighter combo. This Smashbox Triple Pallet is easy to throw in your purse and is a space saver for your makeup bag. Weather you want to add a bronzed glow for the summer or in the dead of winter, this trio pallet has everything you need.

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6.} I adore this neutral eye shadow pallet from Chanel. These four shadows give you’re eyes a pop of color from day to night. If you are more low maintenance…you can opt out of this step and simply apply mascara and be on your way. I do a layer of the lightest shade right under my brow line followed by the next darkest shade directly on the lid. I then take a brow brush and do a windshield wiper effect with warmest tone in the crease of my eye. You can blend the black shade lightly over your liner to get the smoky eye effect.

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7.} Rim your lids with Bobbi Brown’s Perfectly Defined Gel Eyeliner. This will open up the eye area and make you look rested. What I love about this particular product is that NO sharpener is required and the dark brown shade goes great with every skin tone.

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8.} Chanel Le Volume Mascara is the one beauty essential I cannot walk out of the house without whether heading to the gym or for work. Check out this recent post on other fabulous mascaras to consider depending on your lifestyle, budget, or eye effect you want to accomplish.

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9/10.} Finish off your lips with a nuetral lipstick, gloss or BOTH. I adore both YSL’s Mauve Taupe shade topped with Chanel’s Wild Rose gloss. You can wear each shade together or separate depending on how you feel. I opt for gloss during the day for casual looks and the lipstick/gloss combo for evening attire.

Here are some more fun and cute makeup bags I’ve picked out as well to keep your goodies in. Take a look!

I hope this post motivated you to go through your makeup bag and make sure you have the core ingredients to make your face sparkle.

Let me know some of your favorite products!

Stylishly Yours,

Jen Young

Professional Wardrobe Essentials Under $100

DRESS // COAT //  BLOUSE // PENCIL SKIRT // MIDI SKIRT // PANTS // TOTE // BLAZER // POINTY TOE PUMPS // LOAFERS // SANDALS // BLACK WATCH // BELT // EARRINGS

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is still going on {until August 8th}, and this is a great time to stock up on professional wardrobe essentials under $100. While you might already have several core pieces for your “going out” attire and weekend loungewear, have you really considered how you want to present yourself at the office?  It is imperative that you make sure your essentials are covered first as you prioritize your shopping dollars.

I have selected a few core pieces to consider that won’t break the bank, but will also give you incredible flexility as you round our your professional wardrobe.

Being the best dressed doesn’t have to cost you an arm and leg either. Take advantage of this incredible sale featuring some of my favorite pencil skirts, blazers, staple heels, accessories, and more.

If you need a little more inspiration for additional ideas to enhance your professional wardrobe, check out Nordstrom’s advice  HERE! Filling in these prized pieces that are under $100 is the worth your shopping dollars and will ultimately enhance your personal brand and overall image.

Here are a few other goodies to consider as you build a core base for your professional wardrobe: 

Stylishly Yours,

Jen Young

Top Six Summer Fragrances

CHLOÉ // BEACH // DAISY // POP // JO MALONE // BONBON

Hello Gorgeous!

Let’s face it…the best way to complete any outfit is with one of my lovely top six summer fragrances. Either it’s the same scent you’ve bought for years or perhaps you like to change up your perfume once a month or once a week like me. Regardless,  it’s something that pervades as a first impression of yourself. I’ve picked some of my favorite summer fragrances that will hopefully be your daily “go-to’s” or become a seasonal favorite!

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Beach by Bobbi Brown is a light and happy scent made from jasmine, sea spray, and mandarin. This fragrance brings warm sunshine as well as the sea breeze to your day; it can be worn anytime, anywhere. Its subtle aroma works well from day to night and is great for sensitive skin.

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Chloé is a classic and feminine scent. Its fresh and floral flair accenting pink peony {my fave}, freesia, lychee, magnolia flower, lily of the valley, rose, cedar wood, amber, and honey is perfect for your destination beach vacation or daily wear. I love the roll on style as it is easy to throw in your purse in case you need a quick fix for your underarm “yuck!”

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Daisy by Marc Jacobs {among intern, Hanna’s, favorites} is a very popular and edgy scent. Its floral appeal with a vintage hint of violet is stunning. Strawberry, violet leaves, ruby red grapefruit, gardenia, violet petals, jasmine petals, musk, vanilla, and white woods articulate the fragrance.

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Pop by Stella McCartney is a woodsy and bright fragrance. With tomato leaves, violet leaves, green mandarin, violet, tuberose, plumeria, sandalwood, cedar wood, and musks, it’s a very contemporary and sophisticated scent.

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Jo Malone is a classic “must have” despite its price point.  This multiple variety incentive box will please everyone’s pallet. Check out the recent Nordstrom Anniversary Sale blog post where I talked about the fabulous deal for this amazing set. Jo Malone London scents can be worn individually or layered for truly complex effects.

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BONBON by Viktor & Rolf is my current summer ESSENTIAL scent, and I cannot leave the house without a few sprits. This timeless and delicious aromatic dessert has hints of  juicy fruits, sun drenched flowers in the sweet creamy woods that create a delightful and irresistible smell. And seriously… the bottle is absolutely adorable!

I hope these picks have made you want to go try one of my favorite summer fragrances this summer!! Honestly, I love partnering aromas to each of my outfits because the right fragrance can truly make or break a good first impression.

What are your favorite scents? I would love to hear more about what you are wearing.

Stylishly Yours,

Jen Young

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale: Fall Essentials

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PANTS // BROWN BOOTS // BLACK BOOTS // BLACK BOOTIES // TEE // SCARF // FLATS // JACKET // CARDIGAN // PLAID SHIRT // DRESS

Fall is just around the corner and this is the perfect time to get your cold weather essentials at a really great price. The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale event opens TODAY to the public until August 7th, so everyone will be able to shop these great #NSale products.

During this amazing sale, I typically purchase my seasonal must-haves and gifts including riding boots, jackets, scarves, and cocktail dresses that won’t break my bank.  Don’t miss out on some of my favorite jackets from Patagonia, Micheal Kors, Ralph Lauren, and many more. Also don’t forget about the beautiful riding boots from Tory Burch, UGG, and Steve Madden.

Happy Shopping as you search for high-in brands and products for a steal!

Check out more of my favorite fall deals HERE!

And here are Hanna’s {my awesome intern!} picks for her favorite coats and jackets!

Stylishly Yours,

Jen Young

Off The Shoulder Trend

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DRESS // SHOES {similar} // NECKLACE {similar} // c/o EARRINGS {similar} // c/o CLUTCH // NAIL POLISH // WATCH

Summer is here and I am sporting the off the shoulder trend AGAIN….{check my last  Fourth of July Holiday Fashion post for another off the shoulder idea!}

While you are reading this post, I am unwinding with my kids and parents in the sunny land of Florida. This new chambray dress from J.Crew came in tow with me on my vacation that I was dying to share with y’all! I adore this fuss free and versatile dress this is perfect not only for the beach while sipping a pina colada, but also for brunch with your girlfriends or a date night out.

I chose to pair this dress with some chunky floral heels from JustFab which a lot of people might pass up if they see in stores because they would have no idea how to wear them. Unfortunately, the shoes sold out online in like 2 days, but I found a few other shoe options listed below that are very similar! To draw the eye up and down, I chose to a long, colorful pendent necklace which I found at one of my favorite stores, fab’rik. My accessories also include custom made gold earrings care of Five Star Jewelry Brokers and a clutch gifted to me from my good friend and talented designer of Chesley Mae designs.

Investing in a wardrobe staple like this denim frock is a good idea. While it is considered a more trendy item, it will stay in rotation for several years given there are many different ways you can bring out your own personality as you style this adorable off the shoulder gem.

Check out some more options to create the look I’m wearing:

Stylishly Yours,

Jen Young

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale #Nsale

Vince Camuto Abril Should Bag // Rebecca Minkoff Bryn Double Zip Hobo // BP Tasse Faux Leather Crossbody // Kendra Scott Jake Lariat Necklace // Diamond Stud Earrings // Bony Levy Crossover Three Row Diamond Ring // Lana Jewelry Nude Remix Y-Necklace // Frieda Rothman Two Tone Baguette Crystal Bracelet // Rebecca Minkoff Vanity Saddle Bag // Sole Society ‘Ravin’ Tote

Jo Malone Cologne Set // Nest Candle Duo // MAC Advanced Brush Kit // Smashbox Photo Bombshell Color Palette // T3 Featherweight Dryer // CLARISONIC Mia Sonic Skin Care System // Kiehl’s Jumbo Creme De Corps // Bobby Brown Sutlry Eye Set

Hi everyone!

It’s finally here. The sale of the summer we all have been waiting for– The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale of 2016! Early access for cardholders began yesterday, July 14th and opens to the public July 21st. If you’re not a cardholder, you can still preview the sale HERE and then continue your shopping through August 8th!

In today’s post, I’ve gathered some of favorite items Nordstrom is offering from the beauty bar and accessories so you can shop more easily. Take a look at some of these gorgeous handbags I’ve picked out from Vince Camuto and Rebecca Minkoff. And I cannot get enough of the jewelry from Bony Levy, Frieda Rothman, and Kendra Scott.

But the fun doesn’t stop there as I found more beauty products that have caught my attention like the Jo Malone Colone Set, Smashbox Photo Bombshell Color Palette, also the Nest Candle Set.

Intern Hanna’s #Nsale Picks:

So please go check out the purses, beauty items, and home goods that are great quality products for a bargain!! I promise it will be worth the shopping spree. Stay tuned for next week’s clothing picks!

Stylishly Yours,

Jen Young

The Top 5 Must Have Hats

MUST HAVE-2Baseball Cap // Floppy Felt // Panama // Woven Straw // Cowboy

Hey Beautiful Friend!

I hope you are having a great hair day this glorious Monday, but if not…this is the right post for you! I always say–the key to rectify a bad “do” is the perfect hat. Perhaps you prefer dry shampoo or another solution to tame your wild mane, but a stylish hat really is a smart alternative.

I created my “Top 5” must have hats list every woman should considering adding to her closet. If you are a first timer when it comes to hat wearing, I recommend starting with the classic baseball cap from Urban Outfitters that easily forms to your head for a comfortable fit.  For fun in the sun options, I prefer a woven straw hat, or the too chic look with the black banded Panama hat from J. Crew. The floppy felt hat is super cute for music festivals or getting lunch with your girl friends, but I will say it’s not as breathable in 110 degree heat. Of course, if you live in Texas–a non-negotiable is a cowboy hat so you can get your YEE HAW on!

OUTFIT INSIPRATION: 

Your Truly..Wink!

Yours Truly..Wink!

Miranda Kerr

Miranda Kerr

Little Miss Modest

Little Miss Modest

 

Chic Darling

Chic Darling

 

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Tag Hats

Here are some other fabulous options to consider as you round out your hat collection:

Stylishly yours,

Jen Young

What’s in my Pool Bag?!

 

 

BAG // SUNSCREEN // TOWEL // FLIP FLOPS // FLAMINGO // WATER BOTTLE // EVIAN // HAIR SPRAY // LIP BALM // FACE SUNSCREEN // SUNGLASSES // BANGLES // HAT // TUMBLER // COVERUP

Hey Y’all!

Summer has officially arrived and given the Texas heat I have been lounging by the pool just about everyday to cool off. There is nothing better than bagging some rays {Did I just say that–I am totally dating myself?} with a good read to relax and unwind.

My “fun in the sun” tote always includes a colorful towel, stylish shades, and my favorite sunscreen. My go-to spots for the best swimwear can be found at Nordstroms and Everything But Water. Don’t forget your woven hat that provides a stylish way to protect you from harmful sun rays but also to perfectly disguise a bad hair day from sweat and being wet!

For all the stylish moms out there, I know going to the pool or beach can be such a hassle especially if you have kids so hopefully my list of pool bag essentials will inspire you to plan ahead and feel more equipped for your next outing.

What is in your pool bag? We would love to hear from you.

Check out even more great poolside grabs down below!

 

Styled and Smiling,

jen young

 

Must Try Summer Foundations

TGIS {Thank God It’s Summer!} 

I’ve been running around town the last week taking care of the kids with their end of school activities, getting prepped for summer camps and also my son’s upcoming trip to Omaha with his baseball team. Let’s just say that I’ve forgotten about prioritizing some “me time” with all the hustle and bustle…  as most other working moms would agree.

Luckily, my favorite shorts and sandals are in full rotation, but lately I have been trying out some new foundations to boost my summer mood.  If you have those dreaded sun spots like me{sigh…..}, I am always on mission to conceal those age-revealing stinkers with appropriate coverage and a bronzed glow so I don’t cause additional damage to my skin.

I know everyone has different personal tastes when it comes to how much makeup they wear whether an individual prefers no makeup to just mascara with a pale gloss or even the full done up look everyday. A non-negotiable for me until I get my face lasered one day {Hall Plastic Surgery Center here I come!} is a proper foundation.

Especially in this June heat, I don’t like to mix my foundation with powder AND additional sunscreen. It just makes my face feel gross. So I’ve been making it a priority to get a foundation with sunscreen built in! This is a great way to keep wearing the makeup you love but still be protected…although my friend and beauty expert stylist, Shirley Cox, {Shirley.E.Cox2@nordstrom.com}of Nordstrom at Austin’s Barton Creek Mall, does recommend adding additional sunscreen like Kiel’s to fully protect your skin as built in sunscreens aren’t entirely effective.  Follow her lead! Her face is flawless {brat!}

Here are my top picks for summer foundations including diverse price points and overall benefits.

 

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I will start with my personal favorite, Nars All Day Luminous Foundation. A little goes a long way with this small bottle. There are over 20 colors to pick from and easy enough to match to your skin tone. I prefer a more natural looking coverage and something I never have to reapply {this works for 16 hours of wear}. Sometimes I dust it with my favorite Chanel Powder, to achieve a more matte look but still leaving my skin feeling light and airy.

 

Screen Shot 2016-06-17 at 12.00.06 AMYou can never go wrong with Clinique! This dermatologist-developed liquid foundation immediately brightens and evens out the skintone with luminous minerals. It goes with many different skin tones and contains an SPF 15.

Screen Shot 2016-06-17 at 12.05.54 AMAlmay True Lasting Color foundation is a great drugstore find. It has a SPF 15 and delivers up to 16 hours of flawless coverage {much like the NARS brand} that won’t rub off-even with high heat and sticky humidity.

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Tarte has launched a summer makeup line to get you ready for the heat and glowing summer looks. This product includes a lightweight yet full-coverage, hydrating foundation infused with Tarte’s Rainforest of the Sea complex and non-chemical SPF 15 sunscreen.

Screen Shot 2016-06-17 at 12.02.04 AMRevlon Colorstay foundation goes on evenly for an unblemished look. It features SoftFlex technology that will not rub off with normal wear and also includes an SPF 15.

Screen Shot 2016-06-16 at 11.56.58 PMFinally, Yves Saint Laurent (YSL) Touche Éclat sits at a much higher price point but includes an SPF 22.  This is definitely a more robust product that not only offers perfect coverage but also reduces the look of fatigue and aids with brown spots. Worth the splurge!

Remember not every foundation works for every skin type. Especially for foundation first timers….go to a local department store like Nordstrom and consult with a beauty expert for their advice on what brand best matches your skin.

Here are some other amazing options to consider:

What other beauty tips or favorites would you like to read about? Leave your comments below!

Stylishly Yours,

jen young

 

Father’s Day Gift Guide

WATCH // SUNGLASSES // SHOES // GRAPHIC TEE // SOCKS // SHAVING KIT // MUG // HAMMOCK // BBQ KIT // HEADPHONES

 

Happy Monday Y’all!

Father’s Day is just around the corner {June 19th}. and I wanted to share some cool and unique gifts I found for that special man in your life. Instead of going for the common ties or gift cards you might have given him in the past, checkout Nordstroms for their huge selection of sports wear, dress clothes, and even accessories; or my new favorite: Urban Outfitters with their awesome graphic tees and swanky socks –even handy gadgets. Even some fun outdoor toys for the grill or to go camping with will be a great way to start off his summer.

Hope this helps with your shopping and let me know what else you found!

Here are a few more ideas to shop before you go:

Stylishly Yours,

jen young