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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

 

 

 

VIRUAL STYLING MADE SIMPLE

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Virtual Styling

 

If there is one thing I have learned from the start of this year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale it has been figuring out how to effectively inform my busy clients about shopping the lowest prices with over 3500 options to consider. To accomplish this mission, Virtual Styling has become a crucial, more affordable part of my styling services. Let’s face it, the days of in-store shopping are becoming less desirable with the on-set of the Amazon’s of the world.

 

Virtual Styling Hue and Stripe

 

Over the past week I have been introducing my clients to a new system called Hue & Stripe. With my exclusive invitation, you can enter the world of virtual styling, your chance to save time and money.

 

You heard me right—from this single mom in needing a third arm to keep things going, to the professional gal looking for five spare seconds. Working with me, your personal stylist, no longer HAS to be done in person!

 

Virtual Styling outfits

Virtual Styling Favorites

 

Don’t get me wrong, nothing replaces the advantages of working together in the flesh, but sometimes it isn’t possible given limited time and budget constraints.

 

More details will follow with additional features I will be offering using this application including a “virtual outfit subscription” service! Stay tuned…

 

This whole process begins with your entire closet being inventoried with photographs and added to your custom profile. I can also make head to toe virtual outfits and fill in your wardrobe gaps all with a few clicks. This allows my clients to have easy access for purchasing new items and a simple reference point for outfit ideas.

 

I can’t wait to show you just how fabulous this addition in styling can be!

 

If you want to learn more about Hue & Stripe, or how my new virtual services can aid in bringing peace to your daily dressing routine, email me: jen@foreverstyled.com

 

Shop Smarter not Harder,

 

Jen Young

Nordstrom’s Sale Must Haves

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TOP  |  GLASSES | PERFUME | UNDERWEAR | SNEAKERS | SKIRT | BOOTIES | TOTE  | FLATS | DRESS | PAJAMAS | MAKEUP | TONING KIT | HOODIE | SWEATER

 

The time is FINALLY here! The Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale Pre-sale has begun and I am all kinds of excited about it. To celebrate this joyous occasion I am giving you my top picks from the sale, and a little more info on why I think you all might need these items in your wardrobe.

 

  1. Chelsea28 Bell Sleeve Poplin Top

This top is all that is right with the dramatic sleeve! Paired with skinny jeans or a pencil skirt, you can take it from work to play in a matter of stylish seconds.

 

  1. Sonix Parker 55mm Sungalsses

In the heat of the summer would there be anything more perfect to purchase at this blowout sale than a fabulous pair of sunnies? Some-times paying a pretty penny for accessories is hard to do. But this tortious shell pattern is great for pairing with both black and brown for a versatile option.

 

  1. Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb

There is little to say about this perfume except that it is one of my favorites! The smell is not overbearing and lasts all day long.

 

  1. Hanky Panky Underwear

I’ve said it before, and will say it again… Undergarments are the core to any wardrobe. Having the right items is crucial for making an outfit work. These Hanky Panky underwear are great for seamless lines and a comfortable fit.

 

  1. Vince Corbin Slip-On

The athleisure wear trend seems to be here to stay for quite some time, and I can’t complain! These slip-ons are great for running to the market or pairing with a dress.

 

  1. Hinge Barris Block Heel Bootie

In this summer heat it may be hard to picture yourself in booties, but these are an amazing pair I would suggest considering! They are stylish yet classic and will be great for the fall and winter season.

 

  1. Halogen Corbin Genuine Calf Hair Slide Loafer

Leopard is a neutral and my signature item. These flats are great for getting around town and perfect for throwing into your purse or luggage for extra-long walking days. Cute and comfort is no longer as hard to find, but it is always nice to have a few staples of it in your closet.

 

  1. Halogen A-Line Leather Skirt

Good leather is hard to come by and great to have. Halogen is a brand I love, and one I use for staple items for many of my clients. Having a skirt that can be dressed up or dressed down is great for your staple wardrobe.

 

  1. Halogen Flounce Back Shift Dress

Perfect for summer and great with a light jacket for all other times! I have really gotten into the shift dress this year and this one is not only adorable but the vertical lines are flatter on almost every body type.

 

  1. PJ Salvage Jersey Chemise

A place I see many clients ignore is their sleepwear. It is easy to throw on an old torn up tee or those oversized sweats you’ve had for years. I challenge you to step out of what is comfortable when it comes to pajamas. This little nighty is soft, and will make you feel fabulous when hitting the pillow.

 

  1. MAC Hooked On Nude Eye Kit

Every girl needs a little makeup in her life! This kit is perfect for staying natural but looking fabulous. I have always given kudos to MAC for their long lasting products, this kit is no different.

 

  1. NuFace White Trinity Facial Toning Kit

I will be the first to say that doing things to keep yourself feeling fresh and maintained is well worth it. If you haven’t used the NuFace Toning Kit this is a great time to test it out.

 

  1. Paint Stripe Transporter Leather Tote

The tote that can hold it all but doesn’t look like it! You can bring this to work, pack it for play or even use it as your carry-on. It is fabulous for the working woman!

 

  1. Adidas Original Trefoil Hoodie

Hello athletic staple item. I have to say; Adidas is a brand I am so happy to still see around. It is a classic look that you don’t have to feel bad about dressing down for.

 

  1. Nordstrom’s Signature Cashmere Pullover Sweater

Who doesn’t love cashmere?? Better yet, who doesn’t love it on sale! This is one of the Anniversary items that makes everything worth it. To have a piece of clothing with a usually steep price tag for just a pretty penny (almost but not really!) is why I love promoting this sale!

 

 

And for all my lovely clients who are wanting some help shopping through the sale, I have just a few spots left for virtual and in-person styling appointments! Email me to book: jen@foreverstyled.com

 

 

Stylishly yours,

 

Jen Young

Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale

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Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale

 

It’s that time of year again… Dare I say some of the best shopping weeks of the summer?? Welcome the Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale! The sale is packed full of brand-new styles at seriously discounted prices, which is enough to make anyone grin ear to ear. This is the perfect time to stock your 2017/2018 wardrobe with core items you might be missing and a few trends too.

This year Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale has gone all out, offering some amazing pieces, a ton of free samples, and prices that will make you think you didn’t even go shopping! Check our their Look Book for a little sneak peek.

 

Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale

 

Is all of this fashion talk feeling a little overwhelming? Like walking into a store full of all the best shoes… and having no idea what to buy? To make the whole process a little easier, I am offering in store appointments at Nordstrom and virtual appointments online. Set up a time for me to assist you with navigating the sale to be sure you are getting the very best deals. Or if you are out of town, set up a virtual tour to ensure the same personal care. This will be done through a new online system where I can choose the best pieces for you, upload them to a personal profile that allows you to purchase!

Either option is great to help you maneuver the 2017 Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale!

And stay tuned for my top picks from the pre-sale inventory. Follow the blog over the next two weeks to see sale items I think all of my clients shouldn’t live without. From shoes to tops and all that is in between, this sale is going to be one for the books.

 

Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale Appointments

 

Can’t wait to have some fun shopping and to help being peace to your daily dressing routine!

 

Stylishly Yours,

Jen Young

 

ELAINE TURNER – TAKE TWO

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Hello gals! It is just a few days until my Elaine Turner Launch Party and I’m thrilled to show you all one more outfit that will be available during the sip and shop! In case you missed last weeks post, click here.

 

Today we are bringing out the comfortable side of things with a fabulous top and wristlet pairing.

 

 SHOES | TOP | BRACELETS | PURSE | JEANS

TOP | BRACELETS | PURSE | EARRINGS

PURSE | TOP | BRACELETS | JEANS | SHOES

BRACELETS | PURSE | JEANS | SHOES

This Cold Shoulder top is perfect for weekend wear or even work attire. I’ve paired it with white jeans for a summer feel. The classic “v” neck is a great touch as this small accent softens the upper body and adds a nice detail.

 

As you can see, I’ve added a pop of color in the earrings and the shoes, but a big bold statement necklace would look just as amazing!

 

And can we take a moment to talk about this clutch? Something I have truly come to love in the Elaine Turner line are her darling bags. They are perfect for every occasion: from full to the brim totes to sleek little clutches for your night-time outing!

 

Elaine Turner Trunk Show

 

Want to join me this Friday for the launch party?? The more the merrier! Bring your friends, have some fun, and add some AMAZING pieces to your summer wardrobe.

 

Finally, have you entered our fabulous giveaway? You probably should! Be sure to visit Facebook and IG to learn more about how to enter. Come to the party for another two entries. I will  announce the winner on Saturday, July 1st.

 

 

For questions or to RSVP email me: jen@foreverstyled.com

 

 

Stylishly yours,

 

Jen Young

 

 

JUST IN TIME FOR MEMORIAL DAY

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Memorial Day Outfit

DRESS // EARRINGS (Similar HERE) // PURSE // SHOES (similar HERE)

Many of you asked about the dress I wore to the Lake Travis Education Foundation’s Butterfly Brunch so I am here to give you a little insiders look – just in time to be inspired by red, white and blue for Memorial Day.

 

This Derek Lam off-the-shoulder dress is perhaps my FAVORITE I have purchased in a long time. Its light weight fabric is breezy for the already hot summer days, and it works great for day to night wear. In the images above, I paired it with a pair of thick heeled sandals (similar HERE) and a fabulous cork Elaine Turner bag. Add a pop of red color in the earrings and your all set for Memorial Day on the boat or out in the town!

 

Memorial Day is one of honor, and though it might sound silly to some, I feel appriciation can be shown in the things you wear. I know I’ll be dawning my red, white and blue loud and proud, will you??

 

Shop this look and similar ones throughout the post! And for those of you wanting a little gift, use discount code JYOUNG for 20% VIP access on all things Elaine Turner.

 

 

Stylishly yours,

 

Jen Young

Beauty Trend: Bold Lip

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We are back at it with the next summer beauty trend and it is all about lips. This season it’s about being bold, but knowing the right way to do so. Today Shirley will show us how to do a bright lip with a classic twist:

 

Beauty Trend Lips

LIPSTICK  //  LINER  //  BRUSH

Start your bold summer lip by applying a lip gloss all over the upper and lower lip. This helps soften the color before it is even applied. The gloss should be close to the color you are using as your pop, Shirley is using the Jentry Kelley line for all of th3e products in this tutorial!

 

The next step is to add your bright color over the gloss. I suggest a pretty pink during the day and a rosy red at night. You can’t go wrong adding a blast of color to a little black dress after all!

 

An important tip to remember is to ALWAYS line the lips once you have added your bright color. Lining them after helps lock in the lipstick, and makes sure the bold color is contained to your lips and kept in check. Doing the liner afterwards also keeps the boldness a little more muted.

 

Finish the look by smudging in the color one last time.

 

Beauty Trend Bold Lip

 

 

And there you have your summer lip! Like Shirley mentioned in the video, pink is a hot color this season, but branching out to an orange could also be fun. This is a time to experiment with your comfort zone, and see what all your summer lip can bring.

 

I will be dropping one more video this Friday to show you how to contour, something I personally have trouble with!

 

And to have your makeup done by Shirley, or to set up a makeup class, visit her at Adore Boutique in Austin. Call Shirley to book your appointment: 512-524-0208

 

Stylishly yours,

Jen Young

Beauty Trends: The Bronze Eye

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This summer is all about the shimmer and shine! I’ve paired up with my lovely friend, Shirley Cox, from Adore Boutique to give you tips and tricks on the latest beauty trends. Here is how to create the perfect summer eye:

 

Beauty Trends Makeup

Brushes  // Eye Base //  Eyeshadow Kit

 

Begin by prepping your eye with an eye base, or concealer if you prefer. Then sweep a light color all over the eye lid. Using a cream or light pink is perfect for this step. Shirley used The Balm pallet for this application. Do this first step with a Large Shadow brush to make sure and cover the full lid area.

 

Next add a bronze color over the lower lid, stopping at the crease. For an added glow, sweep a small stroke of the same color underneath the eye, next to the lash line, much like where you would apply lower eye liner. For the lower liner color it is suggested to use a smudge brush.

 

Most importantly is the final step, adding a blend of rose pink to the outer crease of your eye. To do this use a blending brush and make back and forth movements like a windshield wiper.

 

Finalize the look with one last touch of your lightest color to make sure everything is blended in to perfection, and you are good to go!

 

Beauty Trends Makeup Application

 

This eye is great for going on vacation, heading out with the gals, or just zipping into the store. Even for the simplest of makeup regimes, this eye is easy to obtain and doesn’t take hours to apply.

 

 

Learn more about the latest summer trends by following the blog this week! I will be dropping two more videos showing you the secrets behind a pop of color lip and the thing I have most trouble with, contouring…

 

And to have your makeup done by Shirley, or to set up a makeup class, visit her at Adore Boutique in Austin. Call Shirley to book your appointment: 512-524-0208

 

 

Stylishly yours,

Jen young