Nordstrom’s Sale Must Haves

/in , , , , , /by

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

Best Bronzers for Pale Skin

/in , , , /by

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

 

Happy Labor Day!!

/in , , , , /by

Labor Day!Happy Labor Day!!

I hope you have a fun and relaxing Labor Day weekend. This is a great time to catch up on sleep, chores, family time, and Forever Styled blog posts!

With this Monday off, perhaps grab yourself a good cup of coffee, wine, or tea, a cozy spot, and go back and check out a few blog posts you might have missed like…

1.} Must Have Makeup Brushes

2.} 7 Simple Questions to Help Declutter Your Wardrobe, Makeup Bag Essentials, and also some fun wardrobe ideas!

Enjoy prioritizing a little YOU TIME and let me know some of your ideas of blog posts you’d like to see in the near future. Have a safe weekend!

Stylishly Yours,

Jen Young

Must-Have Makeup Brushes

/in , /by

Must-Have Makeup Brushes-2

Hello my Beauties!

Just two weeks ago I did a blog post on Makeup Bag Essentials, so I figured it would be helpful to supplement that post with a special feature on “Must-Have Makeup Brushes.”  Of course, you can’t successfully apply your makeup if you don’t have the right tools!

So let’s explore what brushes never leave my makeup bag–call them my holy grail of applicators. I’ve picked several basic necessities below I consider the best of the best featuring a few from the Sephora Collection, but you can find other substitutes and lookalikes brushes for a lesser cost elsewhere. I will say I NEVER skimp on brushes and consider them an investment. As long as you clean them on a regular basis with appropriate cleansing wipes or liquid cleaners, you can keep them on rotation for at least two to three years.

For all you DIY’ers, here is a recipe for making your own cleanser for your brushes as well: {Featured on Popsugar}

Step 1: Mix two parts antibacterial dish soap to one part of the extra-virgin olive oil on a clean plate (don’t use paper plate, as the oil will seep through).

Step 2: Grab your first brush and wet it slightly with lukewarm water. Make sure the brush stays bristle-side down throughout the entire process. If water gets into the ferrule (the middle tube part that holds everything together) of the brush, it can loosen the glue, causing the bristles to fall out.

Step 3: Dip the damp brush into the soap mixture and coat it thoroughly. Next, work the mixture into the bristles using the palm of your hand and fingers. Continue until the soapy residue is makeup free.

Step 4: Rinse the brushes under lukewarm water until no soap runs from the bristles.

Step 5: Roll a dish towel like you would a yoga mat, and drape a paper towel over it so that most of the paper towel hangs off. (The paper towel should look like a slide coming down from the dish towel). Next, arrange the brush so the top of the handle sits on top of the towel, pitching the rest of the brush down onto the paper towel. This will allow your brushes to dry on a slant, while keeping moisture away from the ferrule.

Repeat with remaining brushes. Some make take two washings to get completely clean, depending on the amount of residue left behind. Allow them to dry overnight, and repeat about once a month.

Here are my MUST HAVES:

Foundation Brush: To achieve that airbrushed and flawless face, you must use a foundation brush. I love the Sephora Collection but Bobbi Brown makes one that I also love. Apply a small amount of liquid foundation to the back of your hand; dip your brush into the foundation you squeezed out and then buff in circular strokes onto the face until you find the amount of coverage you want. Remember to start small and then build up gradually!

Powder Brush: To set all your foundation and concealer in place, use a fluffier brush to cover your whole face with powder. Apply the powder in broad, sweeping strokes all over the face to set coverage on the face. There are so many brands that make powder brushes so pursue your local beauty store to find one that feels good on your face. Take a look at some of the Chanel collection brushes that I adore!

Bronzer Brush: Another essential includes a Bronzer brush. Starting with the perimeter of the face, apply bronzing powder and blend inwards from the temple, the contour of the cheek, and the jawline. Bronzers can be temperamental in achieving the coverage you want so make sure you find a brush that is soft, dense, and fluffy. I love the IT Brushes from ULTA because of how soft the are!

Blush Brush: This staple brush is my favorite because it includes an angled shape making it easier to brighten and sculpt your facial features in a single gesture. Again you have to start light handed and then build your blush to your liking.

Eye Shadow Brush: If I had one brush I couldn’t live without it would be my Bobbi Brown Eye Sweep Brush. It makes putting on eyeshadow so easy and effortless and gives a beautiful result. This brush has soft bristles and a full, rounded shape to it. It’s really great for anyone looking to create a variety of eye makeup looks, from a dramatic smoky eye to subtle daytime shadow.

I trust and love everything about the Sephora Collection brushes as well as some gems from Chanel and Bobbi Brown. They make applying my makeup so easy and flawless!

What are your favorite brushes? Please share in the comments section below. Check out below some more great picks to have in your makeup bag!

Fashionably Yours,

Jen Young

Makeup Bag Essentials

/in , , , /by

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:

Screen Shot 2016-08-06 at 12.48.25 AM

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.

Screen Shot 2016-08-05 at 5.06.38 PM

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.

Screen Shot 2016-08-06 at 1.57.46 AM

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.

Screen Shot 2016-08-06 at 1.03.25 AM

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.

Screen Shot 2016-08-06 at 1.15.42 AM

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.

Screen Shot 2016-08-06 at 1.00.34 AM

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.

Screen Shot 2016-08-05 at 5.03.46 PM

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.

Screen Shot 2016-08-06 at 12.59.21 AM

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.

Screen Shot 2016-08-06 at 12.51.38 AM Screen Shot 2016-08-06 at 1.06.27 AM

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

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale #Nsale

/in , , , /by

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

Must Try Summer Foundations

/in , , /by

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.

 

Screen Shot 2016-06-18 at 3.51.06 PM

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.

Screen Shot 2016-06-16 at 11.49.52 PM

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