It is that time of year again! Summer is winding down and everyone knows what comes next…the kids go back to school!
Along with getting back into school routines {cannot come soon enough, honestly}, I also enjoy shopping all the back to school sales!
Whether you are looking to save big on back to school items for the kiddos or if your goal is to get the best deals on summertime looks for yourself, I have gathered a few of my favorite sales:
For Back to School, Target is always my go-to. They always have the best prices on cute school gear and you can usually find some great discounts on wardrobe basics like t-shirts, shorts, jeans, etc. I know when my children were younger I always tried to get the best deals on clothing especially because they always seemed to outgrow their shoes and clothes faster that I could outfit them.
Another great sale for back to school clothes is going on right now at Old Navy. Right now they are having a sale that is up to 60% off! So don’t delay and load up on all your essentials.
If are looking to save big on summer styles just for YOU, I have a ton of other recommendations! H&M and Zara are having MAJOR sales up to 70% off! Run, don’t walk there, if you are needing items to take your work wardrobe up to the next level. On the local level, Julian Gold is having a sale on all of their summer merchandise!
Next up is one of my favorites…Neiman Marcusfeaturing high fashion up to 75% off. I love the selection of shoes they have at the amazing prices! Tory Burch is also having a sale that is up to 70% off! If you have had your eye on a special handbag– now is the time to treat yourself.
And last but not least… It is that time of year again!! The Nordstroms Saleis happening now, and boy do they have some of the BEST skin care and home-goods deals you will find all year! I know that sounds silly to think Nordstroms of all places for skincare and home-goods, but they by far have the best prices on candles and makeup during this sale.
Now these are just a few of my favorite sales going on right now so if you know of any you think I should mention drop me a comment below!
Best,
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 Young2019-07-18 17:26:102019-07-18 20:56:26Back to School Sale Shopping
I know I am not the only Austin-ite ready for summer. I am looking
forward to spending days on Lake Travis, picnics at Zilker Park, and indulging
over some patio dining.
Call me crazy, but despite the heat, I think Texas is a great place
to live in the summer months—Austin in particular. Given the diversity of the
city and all it has to offer, I often explore the outdoors sporting my more
casual fashion as a result embracing the laid-back lifestyle.
There are several trends highlighting “casual” play this
season, including my three favorite
colors of summer 2019.
1.} BEIGE – First up we celebrate our friend, Beige. Trend reports enlist “Down to Earth” shades as paramount, so I cannot think of a better color to represent this essential neutral palette. Monochromatic, beige on beige concepts or outfits including dominant earth tones are head to toe looks I personally adore!
2.} FUCHSIA – Next up we have the “Electric Avenue” trend which is all.about.neon! If I have to pick my favorite eye catching color, I am going to have to say, “Neon fuchsia!” I am not afraid of a bold pop of color and have loved pink since I can remember. Fuchsia is a great choice for ladies who are not afraid to stand out in a crowd and take charge. This color is also great for all my Winter Tone ladies out there!
3.} LEOPARD – Finally, we have the “Wild Side” trend. I am going to be completely honest here…I LOVE LEOPARD print. I wear this “trend turned neutral” year round as this print is one of my favorite ways to add a little spice to any outfit. I don’t necessarily recommend a full head-to-toe leopard print ensemble but a subtle printed scarf or fun shoes can take your outfit to the next level.
Now that I have bragged on my three favorite colors for summer 2019, what are your faves? Is there any colors you adore that aren’t on my list?
Comment below and let’s chat about it.
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 Young2019-05-16 11:54:372019-05-16 22:00:11The Three Colors of Summer
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.
With summer sun coming in fast, I want to get real about an accessory we often leave out of our daily dressing routine. It is one that works for every season of they year, and for those who need them every day too! Today, I want to address the most common accessory that we tend to think the least about…your glasses!
A lot of people overlook glasses as a key accessory since they are typically considered for function, not fashion. You have your one “go-to” pair that you whip out everyday without a second thought. They are usually ones we have had for years, and the prescription is probably completely out-of-date.
Let alone… are they even right for your face shape? Let’s dig a little deeper to learn more about what face shape works with the best frames.
There are 5 common face shapes: Oval, Round, Heart, Diamond, and Square. Each one has specific frames that fit and shape a face in the right ((AND WRONG)) way!
1.} Oval Face Shape Glasses:
Features: Lightly curved jawline that is a little narrower than the forehead; Cheekbones are high and angled
Most versatile face shape
Recommend: Any round or square shapes (Goal: give a nice contrast to facial curves)
Avoid: oversized styles (Tip: Don’t choose frames too large for facial features)
There are several different ways to go about finding out what face shape you may be. A fun method is to trace your face shape with a bar of soap, dry erase marker, or some lipstick in the mirror.
You can also measure the width of different parts of your face, and then deduce a shape based on the results. This is a bit more complicated, and something I suggest you do with the help of a professional… Someone like me : )
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 Young2018-03-28 11:04:122018-03-28 13:18:22Frame Your Face Right
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.
When it comes to jeans most of us know the basics: Length, shade, rise and in-seam. Did you know there is something more to the fit of a jean though? Something that has nothing to do with the denim pants themselves??
The deciding factor of pants being a do or a don’t resides in the shoe. That’s right ladies! Shoes once again are the thing that matters most.
Ever put on a pant and thought to yourself, “These just don’t look right…”? You’ve worn them a million times before and never had a problem. It is the holidays and all, but you got them buttoned so it isn’t your waistline being the problem.
Even if the fit is just right, wearing the wrong shoe with an ill matched hem line can make all the difference in an outfit. Here are a few of my fashion do’s when it comes to hem line / shoes type matches:
Frayed Hem & Heel: The jean that started it all. I recently purchased a pair of frayed jeans like the ones in the photo above. Upon trying them on I had a long conversation with all the sales reps about why they didn’t look just right (but were still something I HAD to buy). They informed me that swapping my flats out for a higher heel would do the trick.
Sure enough, all I needed was to balance the frayed edges with a little pop of height.
Cropped Hem & A Strap: I am honestly not the biggest fan of a cropped hem. Maybe it is PTSD from my pedal pusher days, or perhaps just something I don’t think looks right. Though, if you are going to do a cropped hem jean, the way to do it is by breaking up the lines with more lines!
Pair with a strappy heel to keep the eye going in the right direction.
Flare Legged Hem & Platform: When it comes to flare legged jeans, the whole point is to elongate. My rule of thumb is to keep the length going as long as you can. Max out on the height with a pair of platform heels or booties.
Stay away from flatter shoes or a lesser heel, it usually gives off a stumpy look.
Skinny Leg Hem & Flat: Not so much that it is how you have to wear them, but how you get to wear them! Skinny legged jeans are on the list of those which can be dawned with flats. Since the tailored leg allows for a slender path, it is great for making into a more casual look with a flat.
Cuffed Jean & Bootie: A cuff of some sort is always in style. May the cuffs of your jeans be skinny and rolled like the ones shown above, or thick and singular how they are being worm now. The problem with a cuffed jean is that they can easily cut your height in half. The harsh stop often times becomes a distraction, and when not paired with the right shoe can be detrimental (not to be dramatic) to an outfit.
I always suggest wearing a bootie of some sort. It keeps in line with the cut of the cuff but still gives an elongated look when turned to the side.
So before the next time you slap on a pair of jeans and shoes, take a moment to think, what would your little jean angel do?
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 Young2017-12-20 12:15:542017-12-20 22:03:46How To Wear A Hem
The holidays are indeed upon us… And getting back to my original plan this month, I am honored to feature amazing businesses in the coming weeks that deserve high praise for not only the “beauties” they sell but also to celebrate the mission behind their brand.
This Christmas has taken on a whole new meaning for me as a single mom, so I am excited to share about a thoughtful company that empowers the working woman to experience financial reward and personal freedom as a result of unique international partnerships.
Kirsten Dickerson {the tall blond} alongside her beautiful artisan partners
It is a joy to talk with my dear friend Kirsten Dickerson, Co-Founder of Raven and Lily, for this post.
We have known each other for over 20 years from our Pi Beta Phi sorority days, so it a blessing to watch her business thrive as she changes lives everyday. Her vision to offer trend-forward fair trade fashion, accessories, and home furnishings to empower women on a global scale truly inspires me.
Here is a little Q and A with Kirsten.
J- What was your inspiration behind Raven and Lily?
K- My inspiration behind Raven + Lily is the value of women. I believe in dignity oriented opportunity for women, and I know that when women are empowered, they will invest in their families and communities. I created a lifestyle brand that would provide the Western women with products that reflect the beauty and culture of the women who made them. We think about the impact on people and the planet at every stage of production and follow fair trade standards. Our customers are part of the beautiful redemptive stories of hope unfolding in the lives of the women who make our designs.
J- Can you explain your signature look / describe the brand behind Raven and Lily?
K- We are modern, yet organic. I love neutrals, texture, minimalism and a little bling. I believe in designing things for fashion and the home you can love for years and aren’t dictated by trends. All materials used in Raven + Lily designs are natural and sustainably sourced.
J- Could you tell us a bit about your heart for philanthropy and vision for sustainable fashion?
K– With every purchase, our customers are helping to provide fair trade employment for at risk women. With every purchase, our customers are also helping to donate back to help provide micro loans for HIV+ women who have graduated from a business skills training program. At every stage of our production process, we think through the impact on people and the planet…as far back as the buttons and where cotton is sourced. We want to know the story behind our designs so that our customer can be confident they are having a positive and not negative impact with their purchase.
Statistically, fashion is the second largest polluter, 1 in 6 people are employed in the industry, less than 3% earn a livable wage, and 80% are women. These stats are heart-breaking, but I’m in the business of breaking that negative impact and proving that it is possible to produce beautiful products that empower women and protect our beautiful world.
J- What tips would give others to keep in mind this holiday season when shopping?
K- Slow down, and look for opportunities to gift, dress, and decorate thoughtfully this holiday season. It takes time, but its possible to do this. There are so many wonderful companies and products that do good in the world now. If you don’t know where to start, try this excellent of social good companies http://www.thegoodtrade.com
J- What is your favorite piece in the store right now (if you had to choose one)?
J- Talent runs in your family. Tell us a little about your husbands movie premiere and background?
K- Well, my husband, Brandon Dickerson, is a film-maker and current director at Laity Lodge. His most recent movie, “Amanda and Jack Go Glamping” was filmed at our former glamping retreat, Green Acres, outside Austin and was just released. You can download and watch it this week! Our son is also an aspiring film-maker and my daughter wants to be a culinary artist. So I guess its safe to say we are a family of artists who really love movies and nature.
Learn More About Raven and Lily by visiting them ONLINE or on INSTAGRAM
I hope your holidays are filled with happiness and peace. It always pays royally when you shop with purpose and with brands who gives back a hundred-fold like Raven + Lilly.
Blessings to You and Yours this Holiday Season.
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 Young2017-11-30 14:43:122017-11-30 14:43:12Holiday Highlight: Raven and Lily
London is calling and so is color with this AMAZING Elaine Turner Fall Collection! I’m excited to share with you all the latest in ET, and show how vibrant colors can be worn year round. Inspired by all that is shining and lovely, the mix of enhanced fall and dulled romantic colors makes for the perfect pair.
From dresses to bags, jackets and shoes, here are some of my favorite items from the latest collection:
CLUTCH (coming soon) | JEANS (online this week) | TOP (online this week)
BAG (coming soon) | VEST (coming soon) | JEANS (coming soon) | SHIRT (online this week)
JACKET (online this week) | SKIRT (coming soon) | BAG (coming soon) | SHIRT (online this week)
BOOTS (online this week) | CLUTCH (coming soon) | DRESS
For those of you loving this new line as much as I am… book a FREE one-on-one styling session to see more! Be one of the FIRST FOUR to book an appointment, and spend $100+ or $150+ with me to get an Elaine Turner gift card. Sign up by emailing me: jen@foreverstyled.com
This is the perfect time to kick start your Fall wardrobe and replace some of those over loved items you’ve been hanging on too.
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 Young2017-09-26 16:08:592017-09-27 16:12:23Elaine Turner Fall 2017 MUST SEES!
A few weeks ago I introduced my new virtual shopping service in hopes to assist each and every one of you to have a more simple and fun experience with defining your personal style! This service will allow me to create a set number of outfits using your existing wardrobe inventoried virtually and added items I choose each month.
Shopping Service Options:
1) A one time fee for 12 outfits
2) 12 outfits each month for 3 months
3) 12 outfits each month for 6 months
There is a $50 one-time on-boarding fee to allow time for me to assess and familiarize myself with your closet, fee is waived if we virtually inventory. And if the task of inventorying your own closet makes you shake… No worries! Ask me to come to your home and do it for you at an additional cost.
— HERE IS HOW IT WORKS —
First and foremost, you will need to sign up for the service through this SIMPLE FORM. It will ask which package you would like to have, what kind of events you have coming up so we can plan ahead, and what day you would like the outfits to hit your inbox each month! I will then send you an invitation to engage with Hue & Stripe.
This is where things get fun! After creating your account, I will guide you through the process of taking and uploading photos of your current wardrobe; everything from accessories to shoes, bags and outfits. I can also do this for you at an extra charge!
Once I familiarize myself with your existing wardrobe and the events you have coming up, I will begin working my fashion magic.
By taking items already in your virtual closet and adding things I see fit from other stores and boutiques, I will create a bulk of outfits specified for your lifestyle, body type and budget. The great thing about Hue and Stripe is it makes purchasing the items you may be lacking SUPER easy!
You can see that the necklace and jeans are from a client’s closet, but the top and shoes are not. If she wanted to purchase them to complete the outfit— all she would need to do is click through on the image which will direct her to purchase!
“Jen’s Virtual Shopping Service has already saved me time and patience! It is nice knowing what items I need to buy to complete my wardrobe and to not have to stare blindly at my closet each morning debating what to wear. Life saver is an understatement!” – Shelby C
Yes… It is that simple! Having the wardrobe you always wanted is literally a few clicks away! Are you ready to take the plunge into a happier and more fun shopping experience? Can’t wait for you all to check it out!
Ever used a tube of mascara and stopped to think, “Have I really had this for over a year?!” A good thing to know when it comes to fashion and beauty routines is how often we need to replace things {p.s.—it is every three months for mascara}!
There are no hard and fast rules but these are merely some tips and guidelines I use:
1.} I always tell clients to adopt the practice of buying the best quality you can afford and take care of the items you purchase. Consider your price per wear–the amount you spend on an item divided by the number of times you wear/use it over the life cycle it lives in your wardrobe. For example, I recently spent $195 on Tory Burch sandals which I have already worn them 3 times a week since purchasing them in June. My price per wear is considerably lower due to how often I am putting that investment piece on rotation in my wardrobe. That is the goal!
So besides investing in this summer’s (and every other season in Texas) top sandal, what else should be on your list?
2.} Invest in classic pieces like fun oxford tops, good jeans, and a staple dress. Defining your core style will help with this. Along with basics, always consider the proper undergarments as noted in my recent blog post, When Bad Bras Happen to Good People. By adopting an essentials based wardrobe, you will be less likely to spend money on trendy things that go out of style and more on things that have staying power in your every day rotation.
3.} A little tip I like to share to maximize your wardrobe is to get things altered as your body and the trends evolve. When you consider reinventing hemlines and changing out buttons on older jackets, sometimes you can salvage key pieces without breaking the bank. Don’t spend more than 20% of what the garment originally cost to make it work for you.
4.} When it comes to replacing shoes, like a classic pump, consider how many times you wear them? You should be wearing your shoes enough that you can see the change but not so long everyone else can too. No more walking around on missing heel caps and putting up with broken buckles. Wear shoes until they show physical wear and tear and then consider replacing them. There is also no shame in rehabbing “loved shoes.” Take them to your local Shoe Hospital and see what can be done to save a torn heel or worn out foot pad.
5.} We all love workout gear, but we don’t always love the price tag. While investing in Lululemon or Outdoor Voices, you will gain a better shelf life than going somewhere like Target. I like to shop places like Marshalls or T.J. Maxx for name brands at a lower price. Remember, you don’t want to look homeless when you are working out, and please COVER YOUR REAR. I ain’t got time to view your whale tail. It is hard enough to get myself to a gym, much less be greeted by your hiney.
6.} Last but never least… Handbags! To keep handbags fresh and extending their lifespan, change and clean them out on a weekly rotation. Know if you buy good quality bags you can always re-sell them later. Rebagg is a great resource I provide to consign high end items if you are interested! I also adore my local resource Fashion Reloved.
Don’t just stop at Rebagg, there are so many options for letting go of the things you are replacing or recycling. Here is a list of my top picks for resale, consignment and donations:
