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Holiday Highlight: Raven and Lily

November 30, 2017/in Holidays, Other, Seasonal Trends, Shopping /by Jen Young

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)?

K- For fashion, I love the goat hair bucket bag and Simbi black dress with brass buckles. It’s the perfect LBD for year round wear. For the home, I love the wool pom blankets and pillows from Morocco. They are on my master bed and look perfect for the holidays though I use them year round!

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

Skip The Crazy This Black Friday

November 22, 2017/in Holidays, Other /by Jen Young

NATIONAL

LOCAL

Now, don’t let the title fool you, I know good and well most of us are doing some kind of shopping this Black Friday. However, I am trying to make it as easy and quick as possible so you can get back to laying on the couch with family and respecting your time to give thanks.

Above are tons of sales, both locally and nationally, and their links to guide you through your shopping experience. And to make things one step easier for you, I’ve added a SHOP tab to my site with easy to snag options for gifts under $100, for him, for you and for the family!

For those of you still needing to get out and face the crowds… Here are some tips on making your excursion a little less painful:

Do all the ONLINE shopping you can first, before trying to get out and about. And don’t forget to take advantage of free shipping and gift wrapping, it is such a time saver in the long run!

When going out to the stores make sure to prepare like a momma. Bring snacks and water to keep your pulse and blood sugar going with you!

Don’t feel like you need to do it all. Splurge on a nanny for the kids so you can shop child free.

Better yet, make it a girls day! Meet up with your friends and throw a relaxing lunch in between stores.

Always remember to dress for trying on! This sounds silly, and though you might not be shopping for yourself, it is always something to keep in mind. Wear a regular bra, not a sports bra, and cami so you can easily slip on and off tops. Think comfortable shoes and make sure to have on bottoms (not a dress).

Take advantage of curbside pickups at stores like Nordstrom’s. You can shop ahead of time and roll right up to snag your bags.

Be willing to valet park (or prepare for walking). It is a good way to shed those newly added turkey pounds!

Prioritize. Don’t think you will make it to every store on your list. Know the top things you want to score deals on and go for those first. Anything else is a bonus and a pat on your back!

Happy Thanksgiving to you all! And happy shopping to those brave souls out there.

Jen Young

Holiday Outfitting Done Fashionably Festive

November 17, 2017/in Events, Fall Trends, Holidays /by Jen Young

holiday outfitting one

BRACELET | CLUTCH | JEANS | SHOES

RING | BRACELET | CLUTCH | JEANS | SHOES

JEANS | SHOES

CLUTCH | EARRINGS

When it comes to the holidays we are all great at dressing the turkey for dinner or our trees with lights and garland. Somewhere we often don’t have the best of luck though, is with our holiday outfitting! If you are anything like me, you want to look put together for all those random photos your parents are sure to take and attempt to post on Facebook… But at the same time that means fighting the urge to throw on your grunge sweats after a long week of preparing food and gifts and table settings and so on and so fourth.

So this year, I’m letting you all in on a little secret of mine – the art of holiday outfitting!

The trick I have learned is that having the correct outfit for working hard in the kitchen (or pretending to nap on the couch) is in the shoes. I suggest going for a flat or wedge for extra support. Use this day as a time to go all out with the denim. I decked my holiday dress with a pair of funky frayed legged skinnies. They are super comfortable and still give off a done-up look. Lastly, and what I think elevates most looks, is going for a top that pops. This jewel toned top is a nice light fabric perfect for running around but also looks great when you are needing that extra touch!

Working with minimal jewelry is also a good way to keep your look simple yet sweet. I usually stick to gold, like my ring and bracelet, around the holidays as it always feels just a touch more festive to me for some reason.

Wishing you all a happy holiday full of love and family!

Stylishly yours,

Jen Young

Soul Care For My Soul Sisters

October 25, 2017/in Beauty, Education, Other /by Jen Young

We started this month talking about empowering the working woman and celebrating just how awesome she is! As the weeks have progressed {what the heck— it is already the last week of October???} I’ve noticed how empowering her also means we need to “treat” her. Much like in a plane, you are no good if you don’t put on your oxygen mask first. Without some soul care you are bound to fall flat on all the everyday demands of both work and family.

Here are my top ten routines/tips to keep your heart and body healthy and happy… and none of them take too long so no excuses!

1. Massage: Maybe it isn’t a full hour at a nice spa for your price conscious ladies? Maybe it is just a foot rub you bribed your kids to give you? Either way, having that moment to relax and breath means more than most could know. The power of physical touch and working out all the kinks in our bodies is so important as we press onward to our goal to change history with our lives.

ONE | TWO | THREE | FOUR | FIVE

2. New Lip Color: Ever gotten a glance in the mirror around 4 pm and thought, “Yikes! Is that me??” A very simple way to combat this situation is by adding a new lipstick to your routine. Stop into a CVS or Walgreens for a quick fix. Or stop by the lip counter at your local Nordstrom or Sephora to test out the best shades for your pout.

3. Fresh Cut Flowers: You’re already at the store at least 3 times a week… Or is that just me?? Stop to smell the roses (literally) and bring a bundle home. I am convinced fresh flowers liven up a home and warm a heart. I shop Trader Joe’s for the most cost effective beauties, and love potted orchids which last up to three months with a simple ice cube to water each week and bright, indirect sunlight!

ONE | TWO | THREE | FOUR | FIVE

4. Shoes That Fit: Some days we just need to walk on clouds. Every woman should have one pair of sneakers that are the “go-to” on days when your feet just can’t take it. I adore these leopard sneakers with skinny jeans and a denim top for an easy kick around solution.

5. Lunch Date: Take the time to meet a life-giving friend for lunch or coffee. Your soul, heart, body, etc. will thank you. Explore a new part of town or eat Dim Sum style. Your palette needs as much stretching as your wardrobe.

SO LONG INSECURITY | LIONESS ARISING | THE SILENT WIFE

6. A Great New Book: I am face planted in two books right now that are both convicting and inspiring me to do better and be a better women. Check out So Long Insecurity by Beth Moore and Lioness Arising by Lisa Bevere to spur you on to greatness. Get lost in a fiction book like The Silent Wife to escape “adulting” on a daily basis.

7. Warm Beverage: Perfect for the shift in the weather! A stop at Starbucks or your favorite local coffee/tea shop in the morning is a great way to take a second for yourself. Hold the cup between your hands and breathe in the sweet smell of a seasonal pumpkin spice latte or chai tea. The pleasant aroma might be all you need to stay inspired!

ONE | TWO | THREE | FOUR

8. Mani / Pedi: This is a monthly “must do” activity if you ask me, and more importantly, one that relays the message of your first impression. Keeping up with your nails is not only a treat but necessary to suggest proper grooming is important to you—especially as a working professional.

9. Sweet Delight: Have 20 minutes between after school activities and meetings? Grab French fries or ice cream. And I dare you to not shame yourself for the treat afterwards! We are so hard on ourselves and the added pressure is just not needed. Be happy and eat those fries, ladies! Once a month won’t kill you.

10. Time Without the Phone: This is such a big one and maybe the most difficult. Try leaving your phone in the car during your yoga class or going on a short walk to take in nature uninterrupted. Give yourself some time to separate from the world; everything will still be there when you get back!

Finally, take a moment or two each morning to look in the mirror and remind yourself how great you truly are! Give yourself a compliment, we all know we deflect enough of them anyways. You matter. You are important. And you are created by a loving God who does not make junk!

Blessings and Style Peace,

Jen Young

TIME SAVING TIPS FOR THE WORKING WOMAN

October 19, 2017/in Education, Other /by Jen Young

As we continue our journey down the path of working women, let’s press pause for something I think every lady needs more of… SHOES {silent happy dance moment!}

#J.K.

Well, not kidding, but we are actually talking about something we all need more of—TIME. I wish I could tell you how Beyoncé does it, but I’ve yet to figure that out. Does she have a clone? So, until the secrets of Queen B are exposed, here are a few tips to make it feel like you actually have 48 hours in a day instead of 24 to get it all freaking done as a working professional, worker bee, mom, hat spinner,etc.:

1. Lay Out Your Outfits

It might seem like a feat to be proactive, but laying out your outfits beforehand {at night or the Sunday before your day/week begins} is always a good idea. Not only will you take away guessing each morning, but you will give yourself a little time to think of new and different ways to remix clothing in your closet.

Pick One Handbag A Week

Before pre-planning outfits, pick one handbag to use all week. Make it something that works for all of your appointments. Keeping your handbag organized makes your life feel a little more tidy as well. A weekly rotation keeps you on task to get rid of all the gum wrappers and receipts {and old banana peels or nasty junk that falls to the bottomless pit!}

3. Keep A Day To Night Kit

You should always have a day-to-night kit in your car. A change of shoes, a different jacket or shrug, and make up for touchups. This helps with going straight from appointments to dinners or events.

4. Sort Out Your Laundry Beforehand

Think twice before throwing all your dirty laundry in one basket. Have a divider for whites, darks and colors so throwing loads into the wash are easy and simple to keep up with.

5. Give The Kids Responsibility

Something I started doing last year that has saved my life and a bunch of hair pulling is offloading annoying tasks to my kids. When laundry is folded, it is their job to put it up. They each have a basket that is designated for them and it goes upstairs right away! I have to let go of control when it comes to making sure it is all put away in the perfect spots. Done is better than perfect my friends. Marie Kondo has some amazing folding techniques that my son does enjoy {my daughter on the other hand is a tazmanian devil for organization… God bless her}! Who doesn’t love a sushi rolled pair of socks?

6. Love Your 5 Minute Makeup

Do you know what the 5 Minute Makeup routine is?? If you don’t, I need to fill you in. The 5 Minute Makeup {love this one from Harper’s Bazaar} is a way to look full-faced without taking the time. Always make enough time to apply powder, blush, eyeliner, mascara and lips at minimum.

7. Let Your Dry Cleaners Help

Did you know that you can bring your own non-wire hangers to the dry cleaners and they will reuse them for your clothes?? This sounds like a very simple thing, but not having to move over your clothes to a different hangers once your clothes are home helps save time, resources, and energy. Invest in a good hanger if you don’t already have one! W.I.R.E. is a four letter word as par as I am concerned!

8. Keep A Clutch In Your Purse

Running around all day and having to lug your larger work bag from place to place is honestly a daunting feeling all its own. Carry a clutch within your bigger bag holding your cards, a little lipstick and your phone. That way you are ready for night, or even a quick stop at the store.

What is your favorite time saving tip? Comment below!!

Stylishly yours,

Jen young

Women Entrepreneurs – A Talk With Tricia Hall

October 12, 2017/in Beauty, Education /by Jen Young

Ever gone 90 miles a minute for a full day? Or feel the stress of getting kids ready, keeping yourself hydrated and everyone happy? In preparation for her fabulous event tonight, I sat down with Tricia Hall from Hall Plastic Surgery to talk about being Women Entrepreneurs!

Help us continue October’s theme of empowering women in business by getting an inside look at our secrets and struggles.

Join us both tonight at the Hall Plastic Surgery Center for thier 10 year anniversary party!! From 4 PM to 8:30 PM everything will be 20% off.

WORKING WOMEN AND THEIR WARDROBE

October 5, 2017/in Closets, Education, Fall Trends, Outfit Inspiration, Professional Wear, Wardrobe Essentials /by Jen Young

October is a month of celebration. It’s the start of Fall, the beginning of the holiday season, and a month full of great causes like Breast Cancer Awareness. Considering all the greatness that October holds, I want to add to the fun! This month I will be focusing on working women entrepreneurs and their inspiring attitudes towards business and life!

I usually don’t limit my styling ideas to a capsule wardrobe… But when it comes to being a busy working woman, sometimes simple and fool-proof is necessary. So instead of saying my entrepreneur ladies need to stick to a 30-something piece wardrobe, I want to show you a few key pieces from each category I think help the working professional’s life go round!

OXFORD | TANK TOP | DENIM | TEE SHIRT

Talking about tops can really only lead to one thing… or in this case four! Every woman needs a white oxford in her wardrobe that she can pair with any pant or skirt. Add in a denim for a more casual look or to mix up your slack game, and end with the best two basics, a tee and a tank, for the PERFECT combination.

BLAZER | DENIM | LEATHER | CARDIGAN

Though I do live in Texas, I find a great need for outerwear. It is good for mixing up an outfit and ideal for going from meeting to meeting as a busy professional. Add a little spunk to your wardrobe with an embroidered leather jacket or a longer cardigan!

TEE SHIRT | PROFESSIONAL | CASUAL | COCKTAIL

Dresses are a great way to create an outfit without having to do too much thinking and compiling. I love a basic tee-shirt dress paired with heels or something a little more frilly like this lace number for your dinner meetings. As a working woman running her own business there is no telling where my day-to-day will start or finish. Having these classic options with such a wide range is key to your style success.

JEANS | SKINNY LEG | WIDE LEG | SKIRT

When it comes to pants, I always tell clients a few things. First off, don’t shy away from skirts! It is a garment I don’t feel we go to often, but is an essential that really can dress up a look when needing something fresh and being on a time crunch. Jeans are also a thoughtful option considering the audience you are working with. Being an entrepreneur means we don’t always have to stick to the work office rules! You can dress jeans up and have an approachable look for new client meetings or more casual events. Hallelujah for that. Wink.

HEELS | PURSE | CLUTCH | NECKLACE | STUDS

Accessories are of course the most important part of any outfit. They are considered the finishing touches for your daily dressing routine. First things first, find a comfortable black heel. It partners with every outfit and will save your feet! Understated jewelry like this necklace and earrings are great for keeping your look fresh yet put together. Ladies, always carry a clutch in your work bag to transition quickly from day to night!

To tie it all in, here are a few looks made from all the fabulous items above!

Stylishly yours,

Jen Young

Elaine Turner Fall 2017 MUST SEES!

September 26, 2017/in Fall Trends, Gift Giving Guide, Outfit Inspiration, Seasonal Trends, Shopping /by Jen Young

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 (coming soon) | SHIRT | JEWELRY (coming soon)

SHOES

SHOES | CLUTCH | DRESS

JACKET (coming soon) | SKIRT (limited edition) | BAG (coming soon)

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

BREAKING THE FASHION RULES

September 21, 2017/1 Comment/in Closets, Education, Outfit Inspiration, Seasonal Trends /by Jen Young

Sometimes we do it on purpose, and sometimes we don’t even realize it. But breaking fashion rules is now a GREAT IDEA! I don’t know about you, but taking time to follow fashion rules can get kind of tedious… And between car pool line and shuffling between clients, it is one of the last things on my mind.

So what better way than to kick these worries to the curb than by taking a stand and forging our own style street?!

TOP | JEANS | SHOES

This White Top and Jean combo is the perfect example of wearing white AFTER Labor Day! How fabulous will this clean slate look with brown knee high boots? I’ll tell you how fabulous… Enough to make me say yes to a long-standing fashion no-no!

BOOTS | BAG

Mixing and matching is a thing, so why can’t mixing and NOT matching be one?? Pair a Cognac Ankle Bootie with a black bucket purse for contrast. This is a great way to add flair to a simple pair of jeans and tee.

HEELS | TOP | SKIRT

DRESS | HEELS

Combining Pink and Red or Black and Blue is no longer something to turn your nose up at. These Pink and Red Heels are the perfect way to mix the two colors in a sophisticated way. It is also lovely when paired with a simple black dress for a pop of color! Or try a pink top and red skirt. Then you must try a simple black and navy dress with a black heel for your everyday work look.

JACKET | SHOES | DRESS

Eventually us Texas girls just have to come to terms with the fact that there is no such thing as winter in our neck of the woods… We also need to stand up and support suede! Instead of staring at the packed full closet of coats we will never wear, let’s start doing it anyways! Dawn a lighter colored jacket, like this Suede one, that will also work for your Spring or Summer wardrobe.

Tell me what your favorite fashion rule is to break in the comments below!

Stylishly yours,

Jen Young

VIRTUAL MONTHLY STYLING STEP-BY-STEP

September 14, 2017/in Closets, Shopping /by Jen Young

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!

Stylishly yours,

Jen Young

Posts

Holiday Highlight: Raven and Lily

Skip The Crazy This Black Friday

Holiday Outfitting Done Fashionably Festive

Soul Care For My Soul Sisters

TIME SAVING TIPS FOR THE WORKING WOMAN

Women Entrepreneurs – A Talk With Tricia Hall

WORKING WOMEN AND THEIR WARDROBE

Elaine Turner Fall 2017 MUST SEES!

BREAKING THE FASHION RULES

VIRTUAL MONTHLY STYLING STEP-BY-STEP

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