Can you believe it’s that time of year again? ’Tis the seasonwhere you are full of holiday cheer {or not!} and your planner is full ofparties to attend and an endless shopping list to pursue.
But do I have the perfect gift solution for you~
Have you ever experienced a wardrobe malfunction at one of yourholiday events and just really needed a fashion emergency kit?
See if this scenario sounds familiar. You are at a Christmasparty with your boss and their cousin’s friend is just the person you have beenwanting to meet to secure a new client and you must make a powerful first impression. BUT youjust ran into a doorframe and ripped the very dress you bought to “wow” thisperson. You are panicking and do not have time to go home and change.
Well fear not, you brought your fashion emergency kit so there isno need to fear. All you need to do is whip out your mini sewing kit and patchthat baby right up. Then go out there and make your dreams come true!
So now that we have been over this super hypothetical situation,let’s talk about what goesinside this fashion emergency kit.
Here’s what youneed to grab:
1. Fashion Tape (link here!)
2. Mini Roll Brush (I love this one! It comes in the cutest colors!)
3. Mini Sewing Kit (Check out this fun one from Overstock! I love it because it has all thetools you need—even for first time sewers!)
4. Shoe Petals (This is my FAVE)
5. Breath mints (not really for fashion but you will thank me)
6. Sweater Stone {to remove those dreaded fur balls on your
garments}
7. Sole Serum: For those achy feet. Instant painreliever for high heels and more.
8. Tide to Go Instant Stain Remover! Touch up yourspots in a jiffy.
All you’ll needto do is gather all the things and put them in your favorite pouch (I love my Jon Hart Grande).No need to carry it with you…just leave it in your car!
I hope this fashion kit helps to make your holiday season evenmore bright and merry! Consider bringing this fun curation to your next giftexchange or reserve it for your fashion conscious friend.
And for more holiday fun, take a look at my pajama gift guidethrough the SHOP TABon my website!
Stylishly Yours This Holiday Season.
The past six months have really opened my eyes to some amazing new discoveries about myself. I started listening to the voice in my head saying to expand my horizons and push outside my comfort zone. I have learned that being uncomfortable is okay, it is even better than okay, it is amazing. For me, I see that the most personal and professional growth happens when I am uncomfortable.
Julia’s Final 5th Grade Walk
Some of you may know that I have been working alongside a new mentor in the Executive Coaching realm to add to my “first impressions tool-kit” … if you will. Balancing leading Forever Styled and training for this additional vocation has been mind-blowing. It has helped hone my critical thinking skills and allowed me to study a new vocabulary. Needless to say—my brain hurts. In a good way.
So it’s with excitement that I announce I am taking the summer to refocus on goals and expand my personal development {i.e. soul rest and recovery}. Plus, I just want to have some time with my kids to play. Closing out the year with a baseball championship on Mother’s Day from my son and a Middle School passage down the hall of my daughter’s 5th grade school were a refreshing reminder of just how fast they grow!
Please do not think that I am closing the doors of Forever Styled; I am only taking some much needed time away to prayerfully consider how all the new pieces of my life fit together in both the styling and executive coaching worlds. I will, however, continue working for existing clients and keep my virtual styling commitments to my subscribers as usual. Weekly blog posts and social media engagement will be put on hold as a part of my sabbatical.
Please do not hesitate to reach out and, as always, let me know if you have any questions, comments, or concerns! I look forward to our reunion in September.
Blessings to each of you this glorious summer season.
Jen Young
https://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpg00Jen Younghttps://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpgJen Young2018-05-31 13:20:152018-05-31 13:25:19A Season for Soul Rest and Recovery
When it comes to summer, you have to think about more than just fashion. I do not know about y’all, but here in Texas it gets hot… I mean like HOT. So when dressing for those scorching months it is about managing style while trying to hide sweat marks.
One of my favorite outfit options in the summer time is, drumroll please, The Summer Dress! I know, I know, what a predictable idea, but really it is the best option. When going with a Summer Dress you can always find a fit that is flattering for any body type and you can play them up or down with accessories. (Bonus: Summer dresses can double as special event dresses – simply swap out accessories to match the occasion!)
Summer Dresses:
Here are my suggestions for switching up the summer dress: You can layer on jewelry, or add pops of color with bold shoes without adding layers of clothing that can be extremely hot.
Jewelry:
Shoes:
Another look I love for summer is the two-piece set. You can find two-piece sets in fun prints and different cuts, which helps to make them wearable for an occasion. The are particularly great for String Bean body types!
Two-Piece Sets:
One last thing to complete your summer look: Sunglasses! Sunnies are not only a fun way to jazz up your look, but they also protect your eyes against harmful UV rays and add some polarization to block out pesky glares from Texas heat mirages!
When it comes to wardrobes, my goal is to help others feel confident in the clothing they own. I want my clients to be proud of the closet they step into, and fill the gaps mindfully. And most of all I want each of YOU, my precious readers, to say “This is a place full of my Favorite Things!”
I think one of the best ways to accomplish this, is by starting with my favorite things. In order to give a more general idea of what I consider essentials, I will share the “must-haves” for your wardrobe no matter your body type or lifestyle.
Being mindful of sleeve length, fit and functionality I have added items including button down tops, the best basic tees, and a single printed blouse. Having a classic white and black blazer is a great way to round out a professional look.
Below are all looks you can SHOP just by clicking on the image!
When it comes to belts, I think having a mix of metallics, a neutral shade {black or nude}, and a printed option is important! I encourage an inch in width for a “skinny” belt so it doesn’t disappear into your outfit. You can opt for a thicker variety if your waist is an asset {PEAR and HOURGLASS shapes for sure}.
BELTS
Last but not least… Something many forget to consider–a natural nail polish! I always have a go-to shade on hand. Or better yet, having your nails properly manicured once a month is something that pulls any look together.
NAIL POLISH
For shoes– think a combo of comfort and class. I encourage clients to purchase one perfect heel and a fun run around shoe.
SHOES
When it comes to jewelry and your core wardrobe, remember to keep your key pieces visible and untangled for easy styling. A long but simple necklace and a dainty option are always a good idea! Or layer the two. Add a diamond stud and basic hoop if your ears are pierced.
NECKLACES
Hope my list of favorites things encourage a mindful shopping experience.
Styled and Smiling,
Jen
https://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpg00Jen Younghttps://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpgJen Young2018-04-25 07:08:192018-04-26 12:08:46My Favorite Things
South By South West is here and with it comes SXSW Style! Every year, for two weeks, our city is covered in interactive badges and people from all over. With this crowd comes a whole new truckload of FASHION. So while I love seeing what other cities have to offer when it comes to dress, there is something about staying a little Austin Weird that I can’t help but sport.
Welcome to my version of SXSW Glam!
I’ve paired a light weight shaggy fur jacket with a camo button-down and jeans. This partnership helps balance out the frill of the jacket and keeps the look more modern. Matched with over-the-knee boots to keep in line with this odd weather we have been experiencing and you are ready for a day at the film festival or by night stalking new bands! I finished my look with a blush statement earring and sunnies that could turn a billion heads.
Something to note is that when choosing an outfit with a subtle mix of pop and flair, it is best to keep in mind the balance to get your SXSW Style right. Having the sunglasses and jacket be over-the-top works because I am lessening the effect with the more neutral shades in the top and boots.
When it comes to career wear I think of one of two things: “I don’t want to wear pantyhose and an oversized suit skirt” or “It’s time to get certified in yoga, so I can wear stretchy pants and tanks forever.”
Either way, it’s difficult to get excited about career wear. From women who remember the days those shoulder padded suits {I am dating myself} were actually IN, to young ladies trying to make their college party wardrobe work for their new 9 to 5, dressing for a job can be hard. I have been grateful to work in the world of fashion where my relaxed jeans and on trend sneakers don’t have CEO’s turning their heads. But I have also been in your shoes too, ladies, and I know the challenges that come with it!
So how do you dress for success without sticking out like a sore thumb?
Well my fashion friends, let me spill a secret of my own: Think Smart! Plan ahead, and be ready from day to night!
That is really all there is to it! We carry monster sized bags with everything under the sun for our kids, but can’t take a moment to plan for ourselves. Thinking smart can be easy if you just try! Show up well {see a little tip from last week’s blog} remember your style, and embrace the fact that we live in a world where dressing from day to night at work is socially acceptable ((with exceptions))! If you work for a more relaxed professional environment like a tech company or a startup, you might have the option of going a little more casual in your dress. My suggestion is to always go with dark jeans so they look a little more like work pants. And still make sure your toes and shoulders are covered.
And here are just a few other tips to remember on you modern career wear journey:
First things FIRST… When I say tanks, I do not mean your workout tops or your undershirts. I mean fresh, silk or cotton blend tank tops that can be styled multiple ways or those you wear when trying to escape the summer heat in Texas (Option 1 / Option 2 / Option 3). These tops can be worn under a blazer or jacket, paired with and tucked into a skirt, or even with a long sleeve top underneath to become work appropriate.
Adding color is a great way to modernize your career wear. Know what colors are on trend for the season and don’t be afraid to pile on the layers! Emerald green is huge this year, so having a dress with a slightly darker toned jacket to throw on-top is the perfect way to make this trend all your own.
But what if we changed things up a bit? Try a more flowing skirt or one with volume and add a cropped jacket to the mix with a tunic top layered underneath. You are still following the dress code, and having fun while doing so!
In our modern work wear world, remember there are still some companies that mean BUSINESS when it comes to dress. It’s not always appropriate to go more casual, but for the most part, this is the new norm in offices!
Stylishly yours,
Jen Young
https://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpg00Jen Younghttps://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpgJen Young2018-03-05 22:37:422018-03-08 11:05:48The Secret To Modern Career Wear
Ever been stuck in a dressing rut? It might be shocking to hear coming from a stylist’s lips, but I feel ya! That is right friends, I sometimes have just as much trouble pulling polished and complete looks out of my own closet ((even if it is newly cleaned and organized). So what do I do when it comes to getting over the fashion hump?? I steer clear of boring basics and go straight for the finishing touches! I hit the accessories hard and get creative with what once felt dull.
Here are my top tips using accessories to turn your style frown upside-down:
HATS
A great way to spice up your jeans, tees or simple denim jacket is by throwing on a hat. You can make it fancy, or keep it simple, like this floppy felt brim option. Either way you turn it, hats are a great way to add that extra “oomph” that ties everything together from head to toe. Oh, and did I mention hats cover up your overdue for a shampoo hair?? Don’t make a face! We’ve all be there one time or another…
GLASSES
Sunnies cover up a long night and an early morning. I also like to think that my final look in the mirror after leaving the house is more complete with matching sunglasses. The nice thing about a good pair of shades as a finishing accessory is that you can have one simple pair that works for most every look. My rose gold aviator ray bans are my favorite.
JACKETS
Jackets used as accessories are an uncommon twist on what is so traditional. So I ask you to step outside your usual fashion box, and work with me. Look past the functional aspect of a jacket. Yes, they are there to keep you warm…But what if you simply throw it over your shoulders and wear it like a cape? Or even better, take a denim jacket and wrap it around your waist? Jackets can also be a way to add color or pattern to your wardrobe.
BAGS
Purses are the perfect way to complete and transform an outfit. No one can afford to buy something new to wear for each day of the year, or if you can, I would LOVE a peek inside your closet. For us normal folks though, finding ways to reuse clothing and revamp items is key. I find throwing a different bag with a staple piece is perfect for jazzing up its basic purpose. Clutches for evening wear are preferred. A unique classic professional tote for work is also appropriate.
JEWELRY
The most obvious ((and maybe best?)) of them all! Jewelry is great when left simple or layered to perfection. I encourage clients to mix metals, use vintage with new, and go bold when it comes to this accessory. Make any dress or shirt look refined and fresh with a statement necklace, or turn up the arm candy party by layering tons of bangles with your daily watch. And NEVER forger the power of a bold earring! Be cautious, however, of adding too much bling if you are planning to speak to an audience with a headset or present to camera. Those larger pieces can often interfere with your first impression !
I hope these tips give you greater style confidence ! Please do share how you plan to integrate these styling ideas into your wardrobe this week, loves!
Stylishly yours,
Jen Young
https://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpg00Jen Younghttps://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpgJen Young2018-02-19 18:00:122018-02-21 11:47:26Completing an Outfit with Accessories
February is a time of love, and what better way to share it than with the gals in your life?? I’m not saying you have to block off February 14th for a Girl’s Only day… But take a night or a weekend and celebrate Valentine’s with the ladies who lift you up!
Go to a hotel or even better, send the kids to grandmas and have the sleepover at your own home. And when you have this awesome night of girl talk and sweet fun, here are a few of my favorite things that MUST be present:
FOR THE LOVE OF WINE: What better way to start the party than with a cute decanter and matching glasses?? Have more than 4 friends? Simply add in plain stemless wine glasses to fill in the gaps. And using a deep red makes for a great splash if Valentines Day color in your party place.
DESSERTS FOR THE WIN: We all have a little sweet tooth when we get to the bottom of it. These cookies in a can are not only delicious, but great for bringing to a destination. It is an easy way to not show up empty handed and also a good idea for a late night bite.
PARTY BUNDLE: There is no better party in a box for your Galentine’s celebration that this Meri Meri bundle! Especially for those doing their party at home, this has all the paper wear, sweet accessories, and favors you gals would ever need.
PRETTY IN PINK PAJAMAS: We all want our best foot forward when it comes to looking adorable for group photos. Keep the cute going all night with a romper set for sleeping. If you are like me and enjoy a coordinating these, tell the gals to all grab something pink or red for night attire!
THE SIGNATURE LEAVE BEHIND: Something I always like to do is leave a little something once I’m gone. These clutches are an amazing party favor for the ladies you love, and something that you can all rock year round! It will remind them of your love and give them a cute new evening bags for their future girls-night-out’s!
And for any final ideas, both for your Galentine’s and the guys in your life, see my
https://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpg00Jen Younghttps://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpgJen Young2018-02-04 15:23:452018-02-07 07:29:59Galentine's Day By Forever Styled!
In true closet clean out fashion… This is taking MUCH longer than I initially thought. Where we were hoping to have an awesome array of images from my own closet, there are still a few finishing touches missing from the album. Not to get all “busy working mom” on you, but I think there is a great lesson to be learned in all of this.
Perfection is never reachable, and some things just take longer than you anticipate. Despite the time I DO NOT have to finish cleaning out my own closet, let me show you some of the ones I have completed and give a little insight on what happens during the process of closet clean out. Each space poses its own set of trials and tribulations, as no two closets are alike!
Small Space, Big Wardrobe
This closet is actually a combination of two coat closets and one smaller walk-in. The goal was to maximize space and give a flow to the placement of items. We accomplished this by designating closets to specific items of clothing (i.e. shoes, coats, everyday items). This way every like minded thing lives together.
Move In And Un Pack
I love a clean slate like I love a good piece of chocolate! Being able to work with clients as they move into their new homes is a great way to make a fresh start in the space. It can be a daunting task to unload and sort all of your crap, but the results are life-giving when it’s all said and done.
Sophistication Is Just One Step Away
When it comes to matching your closet to your lifestyle, it’s all about the sophistication! A very easy way to accomplish this is just by turning your hangers! I have said it once and will say it a million times more, using matching felt hangers makes a world of difference. Don’t believe me… Look at the photos above! Everything lines up and the same eye level making it easier to discern what item to select each day. Added touches like displaying beautiful handbags and other treasures styles the space in boutique fashion. And look at those striped hat boxes…to die for!
Another Before And After
Here is another example of why turning hangers and reducing clutter is SO IMPORTANT! We got rid of a 1/4 of these clothes my client will never miss. Adding a matching hanger also gave her added space and more peace of mind!
Dry Cleaner Bag Hell
These images reveal the power of removing those dreaded plastic dry cleaner bags and letting your clothes breathe for a change. If you are concerned about something getting soiled or dusty, consider purchasing reusable clear zip up bags. Here is another quick tip: Ask your dry cleaners to turn your hangers and cover your garments with your personal zip up bags so you never bring wire or plastic bags back into your life. This practice is environmentally responsible and makes the practice of daily dressing much easier.
A Full Overhaul
This closet was one where I got to add an extra spin. For me a space is all about looking past the clothing and finding a way to design to its full potential. I love adding in little flares to hang jewelry or store smaller items. Adding a touch of your personal style to the decor of your closet is a great way to finish the look and make your clothing stand out even more.
If you are planning to clean out your closet and need help, email me: jen@foreverstyled.com. And stay tuned for a fully finished look at my own closet this coming week!
Stylishly Yours,
Jen Young
https://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpg00Jen Younghttps://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpgJen Young2018-01-24 16:30:382018-01-24 16:30:38Closet Clean Out - Before & Afters
If you have been keeping up with this new series, in the last blog you saw that our closet cleanout started with purging and sorting, dropping off and letting go. The closet cleanout is WELL on its way! Now you are thinking, where do we go from here? Don’t you worry ladies and gents, there is plenty more to be done in this journey to a visually pleasing new start.
Though, I would like to take a moment to point out some of the things I think are most important when it comes to rebuilding your wardrobe. Hanger Help, Identifying Gaps and a little thing I like to call my Signature S.T.Y.L.E. System!
Hangers might just be the most important thing to upgrade your closet. I am such a stickler for matching and clean hangers. Not only does it help preserve your clothing, but visually it is pleasing, and technically it is more organized. I suggest using black or cream felt hangers. The more evenly spaced your closet is the easier it is to find what you are looking for.
Another tip is to color code your clothing. I section clothing off by type {i.e. shirts, pants, dresses, etc.}, sleeve length {sleeveless, short, long, non-collard, collard} and then color coordinate with the ROYGBIV {Red. Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, Violet, bookended with whites and blacks} system in each section. This way your eye easily moves to the type of item you need and then to the color you want to select.
Secondly, I use this newly spaced and organized wardrobe as my guideline for what you might be missing! You MUST identify the gaps in your wardrobe. This is my favorite part of the process and where I pull out my styling hat. A wardrobe is weak if you don’t have your core pieces. The ones that go with anything, and complete all the outfits my fashionista heart can dream of! By going through and pointing out these gaps, I can decide the best way to begin styling and have a path of where to begin.
Here is an example of an inventory sheet for the ladies I use to identify your gaps.
We can also completely inventory your closet virtually with my new Virtual Styling Service. Subscribe to the blog here and receive my inventory sheets for both men and women.
The final step to part two is integrating my Signature S.T.Y.L.E System ! This refers to my stylish yet less is more philosophy. I don’t look at a wardrobe as needing to be limited to 30 things like the age old Capsule Wardrobes from the 90’s, but rather refined and made with purpose. In fact, most robust wardrobes have around 100 items including tops, bottoms, shoes, accessories and intimates.
Now stay tuned for a little “before and after” action in next week’s conclusion of the Closet Cleanout series! If you still have any doubt of why cleaning out your crap makes all the difference you won’t after seeing these images…
Stylishly yours,
Jen Young
https://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpg00Jen Younghttps://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpgJen Young2018-01-17 20:16:332018-01-17 21:08:11Closet Clean Out - Hanger Help, Gaps, and S.T.Y.L.E.
DESSERTS FOR THE WIN:
