austin Archives - Forever Styled

A Trip into Virtual Styling with Forever Styled

October 11, 2018/in Closets, Outfit Inspiration, Seasonal Trends /by Jen Young

A Trip into Virtual Styling with Forever Styled

With Fall in full swing (hello low of 40’s this weekend!!), we want to discuss with you a little something called Fall transition fashion. Dressing can be a tough thing on its own. But now throw in a morning breeze followed by an afternoon sweat, and you are just asking for a mess!

There is a solution to your daily dressing woes. As you may ((or may not)) know, Forever Styled offers Virtual Styling services that are customized just for you. It is okay to admit you have trouble getting dressed, don’t know how to use your own clothes, or are sometimes so busy and caught up in the day-to-day rumble of life that you neglect your wardrobe and your “look.”

Here is a little peep at the Virtual Styling services:

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

To begin, Forever Styled charges a $50 one-time on-boarding fee. Which then will allow me time to assess and familiarize myself with your closet. It is important to note: we do not charge the fee if I virtually inventory your closet for you. And if the task of inventorying your own closet makes you shake… No worries! I can come to come to your home and do it for you at an additional cost.

As an example, here is a taste of what a full outfit board will look like once we combine a head to toe looks for you!

REQUEST THIS SERVICE

To conclude, if you have any questions about the Virtual Styling Services just ask! Please always feel free to reach out and a member of the Forever Styled Team will happily answer any questions you may have!

Stylishly yours,

Jen Young

A Season for Soul Rest and Recovery

May 31, 2018/in Education /by Jen Young

Jackson’s Championship on Mother’s Day

Dearest Friends and Clients,

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 5^th 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

Summer Dressing

May 24, 2018/in Other /by Jen Young

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!

Glasses:

Stay cool and cute, my friends!

Jen Young

My Favorite Things

April 25, 2018/in Body Types, Closets, Education, Seasonal Trends, Wardrobe Essentials /by Jen Young

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!

TOPS

BLAZERS

And when it comes to staple purses, don’t always think bland! One pop of print {leopard in particular makes me one happy camper} paired with the perfect work bag and a fun clutch for a night out, is a great way to gussy up your wardrobe yet still be practical.

HANDBAGS

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

Frame Your Face Right

March 28, 2018/2 Comments/in Education, Shopping, Wardrobe Essentials /by Jen Young

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)

GUCCI

EYEBOBS

2.} Round Face Shape Glasses:

Features: Full cheeks; A wide forehead and a rounded chin
Recommend: Square or strong, angular frame shapes (Goal: provide contrast to face)
Avoid: too small or too short of frames, round styles (Tip: Frames that are wider than they are tall give the illusion of a slimmer face)

TOM FORD EYEBOBS

3.} Heart Face Shape Glasses:

Features: Broad forehead that extends down to a small chin; High and angled cheekbones
Recommend: Oval and round shaped glasses, Thin, light-colored frames to balance narrow chins (Goal: Balance the width of your face)
Avoid: Top-heavy styles or decorative designs (Tip: Don’t draw too much attention to upper face)

EYE BOB

KATE SPADE

4.} Diamond Face Shape Glasses:

Features: Wide cheekbones and a narrow forehead; Angular jaw lines
Recommend: Oval and rimless frames, Glasses with strong brow lines (Goal: Balance and enhance facial features)
Avoid: Very narrow or thin frames (Tip: Don’t draw unnecessary attention to your narrow eye line)

TOM FORD

CORINNE MCCORMACK

5.} Square Face Shape Glasses:

Proportional in width and length; Broad forehead with a strong, horizontal jawline
Recommend: round or oval eyeglasses in dark or bold-colored frames (Goal: divert away from and add contrast to strong facial features)
Avoid: most geometric and square shapes and light-colored frames (Tip: don’t give your face too much angles)

Glasses JACQUES MARIE

JACQUES MARIE

KATE SPADE

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 : )

Email me if you want to find your perfect glasses frame: jen@foreverstyled.com

Stylishly Yours,

Jen

SXSW Style Made Glam

March 13, 2018/2 Comments/in Events, Outfit Inspiration /by Jen Young

JACKET | EARRINGS | SHIRT

I wish I was this cool. Pouty Face!

JACKET | EARRINGS | SHIRT

GLASSES | JACKET | EARRINGS

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.

OTHER OVER-THE-KNEE BOOTS:

SHOP HERE SHOP HERE SHOP HERE

OTHER STATEMENT GLASSES:

SHOP HERE SHOP HERE SHOP HERE

So have fun, and have flare while rocking the streets of our SXSW filled city!

Stylishly yours,

Jen Young

The Secret To Modern Career Wear

March 5, 2018/in Education, Professional Wear, Wardrobe Essentials /by Jen Young

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:

TOP TOP TOP

Re-Purpose Tanks

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.

TOP DRESS JACKET

2. Keep Color In Mind

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.

SKIRT JACKET SKIRT

3.Update Your Skirt & Jacket Look

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

Showing up Well

February 26, 2018/in Education, Professional Wear /by Jen Young

As the third installation of our “We asked you answered” series, we are going to talk about the importance of showing up well!

Now, what exactly does that mean?

I say it’s putting your best foot forward and being ready with your intension set to take on the world for an interview, presentation, networking event, carpool line or whatever situation you might encounter!

When it comes to showing up well, here are the rules I strongly suggest:

1. Proper Grooming

Dare I say it… Good basic hygiene and proper grooming is crucial as you assert your first impression. Taking one last look in the mirror before making your exit in the morning is a BIG deal! Please run a brush through your hair, keep mints in your bag, check your teeth for spinach and pluck your lingering nose hairs. Another little trick to consider is to keep a travel-size perfume bottle and powder compact in your car for last minute touchups. Neutrogena Makeup Wipes also do the trick for shirt stains and sweaty face blotting. Manicured nails also suggest you care about the details of your life. If you struggle with nail biting, consider a good top-coat that is nasty to taste. Bitten to the quick nail beds infer you are stressed out and lack self-control. Never let these simple details get in the way of your success and declaring your confident visual voice.

2. Dressing for the Occasion

Ever arrive at a party or work event and immediately wish you would have asked your friend what he/she was wearing beforehand? Dressing for the occasion is a key part to showing up well. Going to a job interview in a tight mini-skirt and tank top isn’t okay, just like going on a first date in an all white evening gown might send the wrong signals. As professional women, or perhaps you are re-entering the workforce, it might be hard to know just what is acceptable. If you are questioning your top, wear a jacket. Keep your shoulders covered and be mindful of your hemlines. If you want to give off a little spark of power, wear a fashionable pair of pants with a strong colorful top. Elongate your legs with the perfect pump and remember to hold your shoulders back with an upright posture.

3. Doing your Homework

This tip is meant for those showing up to a job interview, but can easily be used for all walks of life. It’s like when I try to help my kids with their math homework. Is anyone else lost 50% of the time?? When it comes to being interviewed, starting a new position,or walking into a new social situation– you should be prepared. Beyond knowing what to wear, you should also do the research on the background of the company with whom you are interviewing and have thought through why you want to be a part of their team. Make sure your wardrobe matches the integrity of the audience you will meet in the office and beyond.

So before you go… Stop. Check. And Show Up Well!

Stylishly Yours,

Jen Young

Completing an Outfit with Accessories

February 19, 2018/1 Comment/in Education, Other, Wardrobe Essentials /by Jen Young

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

Galentine’s Day By Forever Styled!

February 4, 2018/in Gift Giving Guide, Holidays /by Jen Young

Party Bundle | Wine Glasses | Cookies | LOVE Clutch | Pajamas

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

UNDER $100: foreverstyled.com/under-100/

HER: foreverstyled.com/for-her/

HIM: foreverstyled.com/for-him/

THE FAMILY: foreverstyled.com/for-the-family/

Stylishly yours,

Jen Young

Posts

A Trip into Virtual Styling with Forever Styled

Shopping Service Options

REQUEST THIS SERVICE

A Season for Soul Rest and Recovery

Summer Dressing

My Favorite Things

Frame Your Face Right

SXSW Style Made Glam

The Secret To Modern Career Wear

LOOK FOR DAY

LOOK FOR BOTH

LOOK FOR NIGHT

Showing up Well

Completing an Outfit with Accessories

Galentine’s Day By Forever Styled!

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