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A Trip into Virtual Styling with Forever Styled

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, dont 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

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 5th 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

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

Favorite Things

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

Favorite Things Top Favorite Things Tee Favorite Things Tee Two Favorite Things Shirt

 

BLAZERS

Favorite Things Jacket Black Favorite Things Jacket White  

 

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

 Favorite Things Bag Leopard Favorite Things Purse Favorite Things Clutch 

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

Favorite Things Belt Four Favorite Things Belt Three Favorite Things Belt Two Favorite Things Belt One

 

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

Favorite Things Polish Two Favorite Things Polish One

For shoes– think a combo of comfort and class. I encourage clients to purchase one perfect heel and a fun run around shoe.

SHOES

Favorite Things Heels Favorite Things 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

Favorite Things Necklace Favorite Things Jewelry   

 

Hope my list of favorites things encourage a mindful shopping experience.

Styled and Smiling,

Jen

Frame Your Face Right

Glasses

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)

Glasses Gucci

GUCCI

Glasses EyeBobs

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)

Glasses Tom Ford

TOM FORDGlasses Eye BobEYEBOBS

 

 

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)

Glasses Eye BobsEYE BOB
Glasses Kate Spade

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)

Glasses Tom Ford

TOM FORD

Glasses CORINNE MCCORMACK

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

Glasses Kate Spade

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

GLASSES  |  JACKET  |  EARRINGS  |  JEANS  |  BOOTS  |  SHIRT

SXSW Style Close Up

JACKET  |  EARRINGS  |   SHIRT

 

SXSW Style Glasses

I wish I was this cool. Pouty Face!

GLASSES  |  JACKET  |  EARRINGS  |  JEANS  |  BOOTS  |  SHIRT

 

SXSW Style Jacket

JACKET  |  EARRINGS  |  SHIRT

 

SXSW Style Details

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

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!

LOOK FOR DAY

 

NECKLACE (ALTERNATIVE)  |  SHIRT (ALTERNATIVE)  |  PURSE  |  JEANS  |  SHOES  |  JACKET

Career Wear Up Close

NECKLACE (ALTERNATIVE)  |  SHIRT (ALTERNATIVE)   |  PURSE  |  JEANS  |  JACKET

 

LOOK FOR BOTH

Career Wear Shoes

JEANS  |  SHOES (LEFT / RIGHT ALTERNATIVE)

 

LOOK FOR NIGHT
Career Wear Night Full

NECKLACE  |  SHIRT (ALTERNATIVE)   |  PURSE  |  JEANS  |  SHOES (ALTERNATIVE)  |  SUNGLASSES

Career Wear Up Close

NECKLACE (ALTERNATIVE)  |  SHIRT (ALTERNATIVE)   |  PURSE  |  POLISH

 

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

  1. 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

 

 

 

Completing an Outfit with Accessories

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

Staying True to Yourself Through Style

This is the first of my SEVEN part blog series from all the topics you (my wonderful readership) voted to learn more about! So thank you for sharing your opinion.

And away we go….

Today we will focus on a relevant topic for many of the clients and one I have wrestled with in my own life: Staying True to Yourself through Authentic Style.

Seems easy right ?… And sometimes not so much.

First off, there is that big black hole called TRENDS, which so many of us fall victim to but shouldn’t given our body type or limited budget. Or there is the fact that you could have a full sleeve of tattoos but work in a professional field that does not accept them. And then there is the reality that most days it is easier to throw on workout clothes {God forbid yoga pants with your rear exposed} instead of actually thoughtfully dressing. Let’s also just own the fact that you haven’t gone to the gym in 3 years anyway so spandex really isn’t for you.

Though I could take on this topic for days, I will spare you some of my chatter and instead give you my top 5 ways to stay true to your authentic style in any environment.

 

1. Find Your Pop and Stick With It: By pop, I mean your style thing. Is it that you collect out-of-this-world shoes or love to tie scarves in your hair? Know your thing and do it as often as possible! I personally include a touch of “leopard” or animal print with most of my outfits to remind myself that I am a lioness arising. Mic Drop.

2. Turn Quirks Into Accessories:  If you are someone who is needing to cover up something that is special to you, like tattoos or piercings, consider them an accessory. Take into consideration buying items with brighter colors or bold patterns to mimic the beauty of your bodywork. And if you have to cover up those gems at work or hide your brightly colored hair due to dress codes…let your beauty erupt on your days off. Own it. And remind yourself that while we sometimes have to conform to get our jobs done, that doesn’t mean we cannot express ourselves when appropriate.

3. Notice A Rut Before It Is Too Late: Let’s face it..bad pants do happen to good peopleI think one of the biggest killers to personal style is the thing we never see coming. Ruts happen, like buying the same top in multiple colors or collecting 25 pairs of khakis as if preparing to work at Target because they are comfortable. But thank God there is something you can do about it.  Start by recognizing you have a problem first. {Wink.} When you regularly trade those cute skirts and dresses for yoga pants and oversized college t-shirts–you need to hug a friend or call me and abruptly steer clear of losing your style {and self -worth} in a sea of unflattering nylon and cotton. Redirect your rut with intension so you can be free. Um. Now.

4. Define Your Style Words and Live by Them: The first time I work with my clients, I walk through a discovery process to identify key words that define each person’s visual voice. These words often evolve over time based on life circumstances and seasons of life.  My own style words happen to all start with the letter A: Approachable, Appropriate, Authentic. Begin jotting down key phrases that you want others to say about you. Ask friends how they would describe you? Create a vision board of images that inspire your style to get your creative juices flowing. You will see patterns emerge that point you to the right words that express the impression you want to make. Let these words be your guide so you stay true to your authentic style.

5. Trends Aren’t a Have-To: I started this blog by saying that being a slave to the trends can be a slippery slope into a bottom-less pit. When cropped flared jeans surfaced last year, I was like, “WHAT?” Ain’t nobody should climb on that bandwagon..but that is just me. While the runway can talk for us, we should honor the fact that most of the world isn’t accessorized by Tom Ford. I am hopeful this 5’5″, 135 pound frame might someday mirror the likes of Behati Prinsloo…but I reserve those thoughts for my dreams. Know your shape and dress to your assets no matter the trends. I am here to help if you need wise council on that topic.  #goturback

 

Remember, style is something we all have inside, and something that is unique for each one of us. Stick to yours and watch yourself shine!

Oscar De La Renta said, “Fashion is a trend. Style lives within a person.”

And thank you Coco Chanel for saying it best, “Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself.”

Stylishly yours,

Jen Young

Closet Clean Out – Before & Afters

 

In true closet clean out fashion… This is taking MUCH longer than I initially thought. Where we were hoping to have an awesome array of images from my own closet, there are still a few finishing touches missing from the album. Not to get all “busy working mom” on you, but I think there is a great lesson to be learned in all of this.

Perfection is never reachable, and some things just take longer than you anticipate. Despite the time I DO NOT have to finish cleaning out my own closet, let me show you some of the ones I have completed and give a little insight on what happens during the process of closet clean out. Each space poses its own set of trials and tribulations, as no two closets are alike!

 

 

Small Space, Big Wardrobe 

This closet is actually a combination of two coat closets and one smaller walk-in. The goal was to maximize space and give a flow to the placement of items. We accomplished this by designating closets to specific items of clothing (i.e. shoes, coats, everyday items). This way every like minded thing lives together.

 

 

Move In And Un Pack

I love a clean slate like I love a good piece of chocolate! Being able to work with clients as they move into their new homes is a great way to make a fresh start in the space. It can be a daunting task to unload and sort all of your crap, but the results are life-giving when it’s all said and done.

 

Sophistication Is Just One Step Away

When it comes to matching your closet to your lifestyle, it’s all about the sophistication! A very easy way to accomplish this is just by turning your hangers! I have said it once and will say it a million times more, using matching felt hangers makes a world of difference. Don’t believe me… Look at the photos above! Everything lines up and the same eye level making it easier to discern what item to select each day. Added touches like displaying beautiful handbags and other treasures styles the space in boutique fashion. And look at those striped hat boxes…to die for!

 

Another Before And After

Here is another example of why turning hangers and reducing clutter is SO IMPORTANT! We got rid of a 1/4 of these clothes my client will never miss. Adding a matching hanger also gave her added space and more peace of mind!

 

 

Dry Cleaner Bag Hell

These images reveal the power of removing those dreaded plastic dry cleaner bags and letting your clothes breathe for a change. If you are concerned about something getting soiled or dusty, consider purchasing reusable clear zip up bags. Here is another quick tip: Ask your dry cleaners to turn your hangers and cover your garments with your personal zip up bags so you never bring wire or plastic bags back into your life. This practice is environmentally responsible and makes the practice of daily dressing much easier.

 

 

A Full Overhaul 

This closet was one where I got to add an extra spin. For me a space is all about looking past the clothing and finding a way to design to its full potential. I love adding in little flares to hang jewelry or store smaller items. Adding a touch of your personal style to the decor of your closet is a great way to finish the look and make your clothing stand out even more.

 

 

If you are planning to clean out your closet and need help, email me: jen@foreverstyled.com. And stay tuned for a fully finished look at my own closet this coming week!

 

 

Stylishly Yours,

 

Jen Young