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?!
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!
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.
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.
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
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 Young2017-09-21 11:10:532017-09-21 22:27:30BREAKING THE FASHION RULES
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:
Do you spend your mornings staring at a closet full of clothes with nothing to wear? Or perhaps you wish you still had the time to do that given your busy lifestyle and making everyone else but YOU a priority? Being a stylist, my goal is to make shopping {in your own closet or stores} effortless and fun!
So, I’ve found a way to make the process even easier. I am proud to introduce a new shopping service: Virtual Monthly Styling through the exclusive Hue and Stripe application!
This is a new shopping service that will allow me to create a set number of outfits using your existing wardrobe inventoried virtually and added items I choose each month. They will hit your inbox on the day you choose and be curated according to your lifestyle, body type and budget. The best part about it… everything happens online reducing your costs and saving you time while getting dressed in the morning!
You heard that right. Not only will your wardrobe be added to the online Hue and Stripe system, but the clothing I choose for you will be easy to purchase if any wardrobe gaps exist. The custom outfits I create will be organized in folders in your personal profile. We can also create visual style boards {like Pinterest} and interact to be inspired for the future.
“Excellent Service!! Virtually Shopping tailored to your needs! I am busy mom of 3 kids, PTO Board Member/Volunteer and work from home, which leaves little time to REALLY shop. I’m not talking Target shopping. ForeverStyled has saved me from picking up last minute items that don’t fit and hang in my closet taking up space. Having a closet in Hue and Stripe is awesome!! I can go through at a time convenient for me and shop. I just took of advantage of this great service during the Nordstrom 1/2 year sale, lifesaver!!! Highly recommend this service.” – Shannon G
This shopping service is great for keeping your wardrobe refreshed, wearing more of your clothing, and helping organize your closet without stress. And for ladies with a schedule full of work events or charity luncheons, we can set your yearly calendar so the outfits you receive include those options too! And if you need a seasonal purge, I can conduct a virtual assessment and encourage you to let those unlovely items go!
Here are the shopping service options:
9 outfits a month for $45
12 outfits a month for $60
Pre-pay twelve months for $600
There is a $50 one-time on-boarding fee to allow time for me to assess and familiarize myself with your closet. 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.
Are you ready to make this virtual style leap of faith?? Please submit this short form and let us begin! I will send you an invoice including the on-boarding fee and instructions on uploading your existing wardrobe!
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 Young2017-09-01 10:02:102017-12-06 16:25:54The New Shopping Service
When thinking of back to school shopping the same thing always comes to mind… me wanting the perfect Jeans! Even though it has been 101 in Texas this week —you still need the right pair.
From being a little girl begging for my high-waisted Gloria Vanderbilts, to watching my daughter do the same in her skinny Hudsons, jean shopping is a ritual I have both loved and hated my entire life. I’m sure a lot of you can say the same.
So today I’m going to let you in on some jean secrets for each body type and save you a few headaches! As well as throw in a tip or two like…if you are in a hurry and can’t try on, wrap the flat jeans waist band around your neck. If the two ends overlap just a tiny bit they will fit your waist.
Each body type has a very specific fit that best flatters it’s shape. You can learn more about each type by visiting my Style Tools page. And when it comes to dressing in a pinch, like we all do most mornings trying to get the kids out the door, here is a fast way to know what jeans will feel like pajamas in that carpool line. Also… please repeat to yourself now “I will no longer wear pajamas in the carpool line.” There is a time and place where we just have to kick old habits. This is it!
THE PEAR ((Best Jean Brand and Style)):NYDJ {Not Your Daughter’s Jeans} are absolutely my go to for the ladies who are curvier on the bottom half. Deny the inner voice that tells you these are mom jeans. There are several styles from Flared to Straight Leg that will work for any occasion. You may still have to take in the waist a little since your middle section is your narrowest point and typically your asset. For a more relaxed fit…try the Citizens of Humanity Boyfriend style.
THE APPLE ((Best Jean Brand and Style)): The So-Slimming straight leg style from Chicos is a total winner especially for you gals who have skinnier legs and a fuller mid-section. These jeans tuck in all the right places and give you the confidence to wear them with pride. The Curvy Slim Jeans from White House Black Market are also a fave if you want to accentuate your lean stance but struggle with a more generous section in the upper thigh.
STRING BEAN ((Best Jean Brand and Style)): My more athletic ladies who have little to no curves often need to create the illusion you have them. Feel fee to experiment with styles with embellishments like floral appliqués like these Kut from Kloth embroidered Catherine boyfriend jeans. I adore the Hudson Nico mid-rise jean as well as they shape shift with your body. I also like a AG Stilt if your budget isn’t a concern for super skinny gals.
THE PEANUT ((Best Jean Brand and Style)): A slightly flared or boot cut option is best for you as you strut your perfectly proportioned self. You can really get a way with any jean style but do be cautious as skinny jeans can often make you look short and stout. Frame denim flared jeans are an investment but worth every penny. I also like the mid-rise Perfect Boot Jean from Gap. The darker wash is a good option for you.
THE CARROT ((Best Jean Brand and Style)): Lucky one—you have a really wide choice of pants and jeans that look absolutely great on you! Go for any style that will accentuate your hips and bottom such as pockets and embellishments to balance out your wider upper body. The best styles for you are baggy pants, wide leg and palazzo! Colorful and bright pants and jeans will look great, as will patterns and bold prints. Whiskering {refers to thin fading lines formed from creases that are usually found on the front pocket area of jeans} at the hips and flap pockets will add curves to your lower half. I am a big fan of the Isabel Embroidered Flare by Free People as it hits many of the criteria listed.
So, pack up the kids with a little more excitement this year, because you now only have to stress over one parties’ pair of pants.
Your Carpool Companion,
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 Young2017-08-16 12:07:172017-08-17 09:23:34Back To School Means Back To Jeans
In last week’s post I shared about the personal challenges I faced in the last six months and what I learned after my marriage of 20 years came unraveled. Your comments and encouragement warmed my heart inside out, and for that, I am so humbled and grateful. Let’s keep the honest conversation going, shall we?
On the wings of your responses, today we begin the series called, “I Feel Fat and I Have Nothing to Wear.” Our focus will cover the how to’s for effectively styling the spare tire {a.k.a LOVE HANDLES}.
Before we begin I will politely ask you to stop saying the “F” word. Saying you are FAT doesn’t serve you well as you rally to get dressed every day. Even if you are not at your ideal weight, using that intense word to describe your body, is demeaning and normally not even true. I understand the struggle is real for some of you, but seriously, let’s reign in the body shaming.
Love handles. Pretty much everyone has them, unless you are a stick figure, so the trick to love handles isn’t necessarily getting rid of them… It’s learning to live with them and style them appropriately.
You put on pants and they hang over the top like the muffin tin you filled too full. You change into a dress and can see them make an odd shape where only your hip bones should be. Some days they are hardly visible, but some days they are brighter than the sun.
So how does the every day gal feel better about things with the snap of a finger? She gets the right under garments and plays the game of hide and never seek. That’s right my friends, all it takes is a simple change of your bottom layers. Otherwise known as the proper under-pinnings. We will talk more next week about the bras and taming that back spillage, but in the meantime let’s focus where the love handles live, the mid section.
Rule #1: Invest in a proper body shaper. I love this amazing option by Spanx that tucks in all the right places. It smooths the bumps and trouble spots all the while toning your six pack. Well not really, but at least it makes me feel like I have a 2 pack. Wink.
Rule #2: Wear a stretchy camisole in support underneath if a full blown body shaper makes you feel like you need to lease a mini van. I adore this two-way seamless option that comes in multiple colors. The front side has a v neck and the reverse side a flat line so you can wear it either way depending on your outer layer.
Rule #4: Add a lightweight cardigan which gives you more of a waist {less of a tire} with the built in tassel that covers your mid section. Or add a vest instead if the heat is overwhelming. Top a romper, dress or tank with trousers for work. If you are more petite or carry your weight on your bottom half, look for shorter cardigan styles that sit closer to your waistline.
Rule #5: Opt for fuss free swing dresses that is loose around the waist partnered with a wedge, especially if you have great legs. Draw the eye to your assets I always say. Or if you have issues with your legs, wear a great necklace and draw the eye up to your pretty face.
Hope these ideas have inspired you to feel fabulous even if the margaritas have been going to your waistline this summer. I am personally hitting the gym tomorrow since Rose’ has become my middle name. Dreaming of my 6 pack..but until then I will own my love handles with the mom-girdle!
From my two pack to yours,
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 Young2017-08-02 16:16:492017-08-02 19:06:32How To Style Your Love Handles
I am not sure where you are sitting or perhaps standing as you take in these words. Know I am grateful for your kindness in reading my weekly posts and trusting me with fashion tips. I want to get REAL and share, in a letter, some things I have discovered during the hardest six months of my life that are evolving my mission with Forever Styled.
Let’s do this.
A major event happened last year which was instrumental in waking me up to my reality and the changes I needed to make for myself to reclaim my truth. I have been talking for years about how to align one’s inner longings/values with the way an individual presents themselves on the outside with their wardrobe. Honestly, I have been a hypocrite to that end.
Sadly, my soul grieved for years in a difficult marriage, and I became an expert in adorning my outer shell to cover up all the falsehoods of my reality. I was living a lie shielded behind “perfect appearances”. Always thinking, if I could get my outsides to look the part —then maybe no one would notice what was going on.
Here is what I know now.
Lesson # 1: Life is messy and imperfect. So am I and that’s ok!
On December 20th, 2016, when my relationship officially fell apart, I realized that sometimes life is MEH {a.k.a. freaking messy and imperfect} and there are days a girl just needs to sit on the couch in baggy sweatpants, look disheveled and cry. It’s important to allow yourself to grieve and fall apart {and even look like poo} when life is seemingly shattered. Goodness knows I pray you aren’t in a solemn place like this, but if you are—know there is hope.
The silver lining I found through the tears was recognizing that I didn’t have to hold it all together with my attire or my reality to be loved or accepted…that I could show up in, God forbid—yoga pants and a mis-matched T to my girlfriend’s house and feel totally cherished. In fact, it made her more at ease to not feel she had to posture around the annoyingly accessorized stylist.
Lesson #2: There is no need to hide anymore!
From over spending to accomplish the perfect outfit to wearing a baggy shirt because of body hatred, let’s surrender to the fact that you are beautiful inside and out. You and I don’t have to cover up all that is happening in this jacked-up life. And if you say you have no mess…I don’t believe you. No mess. No message. Part of the human story is speaking authentically to the challenges we face. So let it all hang out. You might even be hiding behind a closet full of clothes that don’t make you feel genuine.
Come up with three words that trigger the most profound description of how you want to be perceived. Hang those words on your closet wall. My three are: APPROACHABLE, THOUGHTFUL, FLATTERING. These words will be a foundation for rebuilding something more appropriate for the things you keep, the things you purge, and things that come into your life.
Lesson #3: I Matter. YOU Matter.
Silence that self-condemning inner critic that says you aren’t enough. You aren’t pretty enough. Smart enough. Tough enough. Strong enough. Fit enough. Rich enough. Perfect enough. Start making the changes you need to align your truth with the notion that you were uniquely created by God for a significant purpose. Remind yourself that God doesn’t make junk even if you are standing knee deep in it. Dare to accomplish great things knowing that what you believe about yourself shapes every decision you make. Acknowledging that you cannot build a personal brand based on other people’s opinions. The one that matters most is yours.
What can you expect from Forever Styled moving forward?
Now that I’m awakened to all the crazy, messy stuff that exists in my life and yours {wink}, it is time to focus on educating you how to get your clothes on everyday verses just pushing product.
While I will continue to make recommendations on things I really do value, love and wear, my posts will be centered on how to empower the change that needs to happen within, to live with less. I want to make sure you know how to be the most informed about your wardrobe and be more responsible with your hard earned shopping dollars.
From here on out I will be sharing more about my story and would love to know more about yours. This space should be for dialogue about the challenges and joys you are experiencing in your life and daily dressing routine…not just about having the latest and greatest trend.
Sound good?
This is my truth. What is yours?
I would love to hear it and how this post might have inspired you this week. How have you taken a difficult situation and turned it around for the better? Your story matters to me.
Bless you from head to your stylish toes,
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 Young2017-07-26 11:46:392017-07-26 11:48:57A Letter To You
If there is one thing I have learned from the start of this year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale it has been figuring out how to effectively inform my busy clients about shopping the lowest prices with over 3500 options to consider. To accomplish this mission, Virtual Styling has become a crucial, more affordable part of my styling services. Let’s face it, the days of in-store shopping are becoming less desirable with the on-set of the Amazon’s of the world.
Over the past week I have been introducing my clients to a new system called Hue & Stripe. With my exclusive invitation, you can enter the world of virtual styling, your chance to save time and money.
You heard me right—from this single mom in needing a third arm to keep things going, to the professional gal looking for five spare seconds. Working with me, your personal stylist, no longer HAS to be done in person!
Don’t get me wrong, nothing replaces the advantages of working together in the flesh, but sometimes it isn’t possible given limited time and budget constraints.
More details will follow with additional features I will be offering using this application including a “virtual outfit subscription” service! Stay tuned…
This whole process begins with your entire closet being inventoried with photographs and added to your custom profile. I can also make head to toe virtual outfits and fill in your wardrobe gaps all with a few clicks. This allows my clients to have easy access for purchasing new items and a simple reference point for outfit ideas.
I can’t wait to show you just how fabulous this addition in styling can be!
If you want to learn more about Hue & Stripe, or how my new virtual services can aid in bringing peace to your daily dressing routine, email me: jen@foreverstyled.com
Shop Smarter not Harder,
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 Young2017-07-21 14:40:182017-07-21 14:41:54VIRUAL STYLING MADE SIMPLE
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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
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 Young2017-07-13 14:43:522017-07-14 14:57:27Nordstrom’s Sale Must Haves
It’s that time of year again… Dare I say some of the best shopping weeks of the summer?? Welcome the Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale! The sale is packed full of brand-new styles at seriously discounted prices, which is enough to make anyone grin ear to ear. This is the perfect time to stock your 2017/2018 wardrobe with core items you might be missing and a few trends too.
This year Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale has gone all out, offering some amazing pieces, a ton of free samples, and prices that will make you think you didn’t even go shopping! Check our their Look Book for a little sneak peek.
Is all of this fashion talk feeling a little overwhelming? Like walking into a store full of all the best shoes… and having no idea what to buy? To make the whole process a little easier, I am offering in store appointments at Nordstrom and virtual appointments online. Set up a time for me to assist you with navigating the sale to be sure you are getting the very best deals. Or if you are out of town, set up a virtual tour to ensure the same personal care. This will be done through a new online system where I can choose the best pieces for you, upload them to a personal profile that allows you to purchase!
Either option is great to help you maneuver the 2017 Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale!
And stay tuned for my top picks from the pre-sale inventory. Follow the blog over the next two weeks to see sale items I think all of my clients shouldn’t live without. From shoes to tops and all that is in between, this sale is going to be one for the books.
Can’t wait to have some fun shopping and to help being peace to your daily dressing routine!
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 Young2017-07-03 14:49:302017-07-13 14:49:04Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale
Let’s address something we all likely struggle with… Strategic packing for International Travel! How many of you have loaded down four bags for a week-long trip only to arrive with nothing to wear? Even worse is when you pack just a carry on and then freeze/burn your booty off your entire trip because you were ill-prepared.
Packing can be TOUGH, this is no secret. But packing with purpose can give you peace of mind and zero stress when you are on your trip, but you must make a plan! For a few logistical packing strategies, here is a link to a blog I did several months ago.
Here are also some visual aids to make the physical aspect of packing easier: VIDEO ONE | VIDEO TWO
My goal for today’s post is to give you specific tips on actually WHAT TO PACK for a 7 day trip even up to a month’s worth of outfits {if you have access to a washing machine} with a few simple essentials from your wardrobe!
The inspiration for this post came from a recent client session who is taking a seven-day trip to Israel in October. My advice to her was simple, pack with sense and with items that make you already feel confident. Let me expand….
Pack with sense: I cannot stress enough how important paying attention to the weather and the culture is. Knowing the background on the places you plan to go is one of the most helpful things for not only packing right, but also feeling right in your temporary environment. Is it going to be cold? Pack a coat. Does it seem like the weather is warm or seasonably unpredictable? Still bring a light jacket or a simple sweater for layering.
Don’t overdo the shoes {even if you are a collector/addict like me} since they are your heaviest items; also avoid acting like it’s your time to wear everything in your closet. There is no shame in re-wearing outfits in a fresh way every day. This is not only smart, but no one is going to be judging you in photos if they see a “repeater.” They will be too busy thinking how you were awesome enough to get everything in one bag without paying those overage fees. Keep in mind that there is a 50 pound weight limit even for international travel.
And when it comes to packing what makes you feel confident, do just that: Don’t leave home without your favorite jeans. On the flip side, don’t make your trip the time to “try out” that funky outfit you’ve been looking at for weeks and never actually pulled out of your closet. Packing for a trip is a time to play it safe, because that is what will help you play it smart!
Let’s talk specifics on accessories: think minimalistic. You don’t need to pack every scarf and necklace you own, but you do need to pack your accessories with intention. Wear heavier items on the plane including jackets and shoes, and if you plan to pack a hat, wear it on the plane or pack upside down in the center of your bag. Stuff with knits. Bring a pashmina wrap which can also serve as a scarf later.
With re-used basics, and pops of jewelry we were able to make this trip one of stand-out outfits and save her major room for SHOPPING while in Israel.
Feel free to print out this list of essentials we came up with and share with friends.
Here is the gallery of examples of how we mixed and matched for the perfect outcome:
In case you need some items off our Packing List to complete your look:
So as you start to get ready for your next trip, take time to make a plan, and then enjoy your time away as a result!
But if you start to fret, Contact me and we can tackle this packing thing together!
Bon Voyage,
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 Young2017-03-27 15:00:212017-03-27 22:10:04Strategic Packing for International Travel
