I hope everyone is ready for some serious eating and family time this Thanksgiving holiday! BUT don’t forget about another important date of the year– November 25th, 2016–otherwise known as Black Friday!!! This is the perfect time to find outfit pieces that you would normally not buy for yourself or even gifts for someone special for Christmas at reasonable prices.
There are tons of sales going on from Nordstrom, J.Crew, Lululemon, Amazon, and many more. Spend this shopping day splurging on a nice pair of boots you’ve been eyeing or a new winter coat as well as a fabulous new makeup palette or accessories.
Even though you might dread the thought of going out and shopping on Black Friday there are many tools to shop online for exactly what you want.
Here are some of my other key vendors I love who will feature specials for Black Friday:
Hope you’ve been enjoying these cooler nights. Lord knows I have in my mid-life hormonal craziness!
Let’s face it–we’re in that weird weather transition where our days begin in the low 50’s and end in the upper 80’s. So how can we effectively look cute without losing our style sanity?
Let’s focus on 5 ways to style a scarf that can simplify your dressing routine and ultimately make you feel pulled together on these seemingly schizo days.
Here are five different outfits that utilize several types of scarf material, the latest trends, and also links to learn how to tie a scarf itself.
Outfit #1)
One of my favorite looks includes a ‘faux infinity scarf.’ This is a great day to night outfit, especially topped with the leather jacket. It’s a smaller version of a blanket scarf but super elegant yet light enough to wear with a short sleeve shirt {check out this additional post to Style a Basic Tee for more inspiration}.
Outfit #2)
Styling a basic shift or t-shirt dress paired with some riding boots and then accessorize with a wool or knitted type scarf is a “go-to” outfit concept for me. Try the figure eight or loop-n-through concept or simply let the scarf hang around the neck. Keep in mind, this style of scarf often looks best in the fall/winter months because of the bulk of the material, but it is a great staple scarf to have on hand regardless!
Outfit #3)
Plaid shirts are still popular this season coupled with your favorite tall riding boots and jeans. Add a knitted infinity scarf to add more warmth as well as a simple pop of color/contrast. I will be showcasing this outfit myself over the holidays myself. Check out last weeks blog post for more Simple Holiday Outfits like this.
Outfit #4)
This is the perfect professional ensemble if you add a blazer to this concept! Traditional trousers and a plain t-shirt paired with a fun loafer is adorbs. Get crazy and add the latest trend –the neck tie scarf. This dainty add-on can be tied in many ways as showcased in Audrey A La Mode’s blog.
Outfit #5)
Last but not least, get inspiration with a fun skirt and over-the-knee riding boot. Maybe opt for a classic denim skirt or button front style, that is also trending, with a simple double wrap scarf to add some color and pattern. This is the most common type of scarf you might see in stores and something that can be worn all year around depending on the weight and pattern you choose.
So don’t delay–get your day on with the perfect accessory–The SCARF!
For all you visual learners–also check out this fabulous instructional video from Nordstrom called “How to Tie a Scarf.”
If you have any additional tips for styling your favorite scarves, please share in the comments section below. We would love to hear from you!
Stylishly Yours,
Jen Childree
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 Young2016-11-14 11:00:022016-11-21 00:24:325 Ways to Style a Scarf
Cooler weather is finally here–thank you God! Freaking out because you’re not prepared?
Well don’t.
Today we’ll cover the trendy 5 essentials for fall to protect you from the chill in the air. There are many different styles, colors, and shapes for each piece offered below so select those that fit your body type and personality!
1.) Poncho
This outerwear piece is a fashionable replacement for a traditional jacket or sweater if the weather allows. I adore the ones made with wool or cashmere material which keep your body warm and cozy.
2.) Plaid Shirt
Plaids are back in action this season and look adorable partnered with a fur vest, topped with a blazer or poncho, or layered with a basic tee and sweater.
3.) Flared Jeans
These jeans were retro and hip for the spring but can also be taken into the fall/winter months. A darker wash is the best for every body type and can be accessorized with a belt and finished off with pumps or ever ballet flats. Try high waisted styles if you dare.
4.) Tall Riding Boots
I can hardly wait to pull out my tall riding boots with a pair of skinny jeans and a tunic style denim top. Black or brown can work but brown tends to be more versatile. Get crazy and partner these boots with white jeans to winterize that key essential from spring.
5.) Long Sleeve Tee
Like I mentioned in last week’s post {Four Ways to Style a Basic Tee}, this is such an easy and versatile essential for all year around. It can be easily dressed up or down. Make sure you focus on the neckline fits you best as you get creative on styling this key wardrobe ingredient.
I hope this summary of the 5 Essentials for Fall will help you take inventory and be smarter with your shopping habits.
What are your favorite places to buy fall clothes and your go-to pieces in this chilly weather? Share the love.
Fashionably 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 Young2016-10-10 11:00:402016-10-10 10:33:015 Essentials for Fall
In preparation for the up-coming Fall guide, I have had the privilege to work with several vendors around the Lake Travis/Bee Cave area to make this vision come alive. Many boutiques have graciously offered their expertise and clothing items to make this post a hit.
In a nutshell, we focused on complete looks for under $100.
Hope you are having a fabulous Monday and are ready for an amazing week.
I always start my day with a few positive daily affirmations. Today I am focusing on the theme of organization as I ready my home to sell. While this is a daunting task, it doesn’t have to be a stressor. It can actually be a liberating process to cull through stuff you have held onto for years and then organize your treasures in a manner that simplifies your life and mind.
Here are a few simple steps to consider, specifically for your wardrobe, that will ease your daily dressing efforts and ultimately bring peace to your life:
1.} Shirts: Tops should always be stored on the top wrung of your closet–since tops are worn on the “top” of your body! If you only have a single bar to store all of your t-shirts and blouses, place them to the far left side of the closet sloping up from shortest to longest.
2.}Bottoms: Pants, skirts and shorts should live on the bottom tier of your closet, half folded on a felt or wooden hanger. If you have the space, feel free to hang your athletic pants…but remember TANP {TIGHTS ARE NOT PANTS!} and should be reserved for yoga only. Bottoms can be stored to the right side of the closet if you have a single bar. If you have a tight space, consider the tri-fold for pants by Marie Kondo and place in a drawer accordion style. Use clips for the felt hangers to secure shorts and skirts.
3.} Sweaters/Cardigans and Scarves: Sweaters and scarves should remain neatly folded in color groupings and stored on shelves or in drawers. Cardigans may be hung since they are considered outerwear unless they are too bulky or weighty for the hanger.
4.} Outerwear, Blazers, Jackets, and Athletic Wear: Outerwear, Jackets and Blazers should be hung together. Make sure your athletic wear is separate as those items aren’t considered a topper for daily wear.
5.} Long Garments: Dresses, tunics, and longer vests should be placed on a top wrung where they can hang at their fullest length without dragging the ground.
6.}Hangers: Wire hangers can damage your clothes, reduce their life cycle and are from the devil. Please stop the madness and get rid of those immediately from your life. Invest in a proper hanger NOW! To keep things tidy, leave the hanger exposed once you remove a shirt for wear. You can also coach you housekeeper to put them back in the right place for you.
Encourage your dry cleaners to place your garments back on the felt hangers you bring them to prevent the wire options form coming back into your life. Take in your own garment bags instead of using the traditional plastic. This is a more sustainable practice for the environment.
7.} Color Groupings and Sleeve Length: Clothing should be lined up from left to right beginning with the shortest sleeved top at the beginning of the line-up {i.e. camisoles and sleeveless shirts} to the longest sleeved. I make sure collard shirt styles are together in their own section as well. Next, prioritize each by sleeve length grouping by color using ROY G BIV as a reminder {Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, Violet} Bookend the color grouping with whites and blacks ranging from lightest to darkest in shade.
8.} Garments face what side? Make sure the fronts of your shirts face left on the hanger if you are right handed and facing right if you are left handed. This allows you to easily see the details on the front of the shirt when you pull it out for consideration. Don’t put anything back on a hanger that is soiled or hung on the inside out. That practice makes my skin crawl.
9.} Shoes: Remove all shoes from their original boxes so they are easily visible AND accessible to complete your daily look. A shoe can make or break a good outfit. Invest in boot trees for tall boots to keep their integrity and shape. Or you can store in appropriate clear boxes until it is time to wear them to avoid dust bunnies. Generally speaking–avoid clear containers if you can leave your shoes exposed on shoe shelving units.
10.} Accessories: Make sure your jewelry is within your reach AND organized so these become a vital part of styling your complete outfit ideas. Invest in jewelry storage trays or other creative, mirrored storage solutions like I have. Hats and handbags should also be easy to access. I fill my purses with tissue or the bag they came in and place them on a shelf so they are like works of art in my closet. Hats are stored in adorable boxes as part of my closet decor.
Now you are well on your way to give every item in your closet a place to properly rest. Namaste.
I hope you have a fun and relaxing Labor Day weekend. This is a great time to catch up on sleep, chores, family time, and Forever Styled blog posts!
With this Monday off, perhaps grab yourself a good cup of coffee, wine, or tea, a cozy spot, and go back and check out a few blog posts you might have missed like…
Do the contents of your bedroom closet resemble the life of a borderline-hoarder warranting the need to call 911 ForeverStyled? Or maybe you have held onto things for years and need therapy to finally dump all the junk? Well, this post is for you.
I am going to help you take baby steps to assist you in the purging process which I believe begins by asking yourself 7 simple questions to help you declutter your wardrobe.
Our goals for today include focusing on what’s really important to you in your life, haulting your indecision, and making sure that all the remaining items in your closet make you feel confident from the inside out.
Here goes…
1.} Is this item in wearable, first class condition? I encourage individuals to regularly cull through their wardrobe each season to make sure every garment on rotation is clean, pressed and in excellent shape. If an item looks worn, faded, stained, torn, pilled {i.e. fur-bally} or damaged/unrepairable to the eye, get rid of it immediately. I repeat, don’t over think it and get rid of it.
Now what about that oversized sweatshirt from college with the twenty holes that also has sentimental value?
Let me ask you this question, instead? Would you want to sleep with someone who looks like they have been mingling with moths? Be mindful that your spouse/significant other deserves to see only your best as well. On the other hand, if the item is sentimental, fold it and put it in a keepsakes box so it doesn’t take up valuable space in your daily inventory.
2.} Have I worn this item in the last two years? If you haven’t worn an item in the last two years, there is a reason. Most people wear only 20% of 80% of their clothes anyway. Be true to yourself and keep only the things you absolutely adore and make you feel amazing.
Perhaps your son said your butt looked big in it….so now you have a negative memory associated with the item? Purge it.
If there is 2 inches of dust on the hanger– that is another indication you need to Disney-fy it and LET IT GO.
Give yourself about 5 seconds to touch, assess and then toss it if it doesn’t “inspire joy” as Marie Kondo believes. Your heart already knows it is a goner.
3.} Does this work for my Body Type {proper fit}? I beginevery new client session with a body types assessment that includes taking three measurements of the bust/chest, waist and hips. You can measure your own shape by using the apps: Dress My Body or My Shape Stylist.
Once you identify your body type it makes the purging process much easier. You can focus on keeping items that work for your shape. Either donate or consign those that do not.
Try on all your bottoms {pants, shorts and skirts} as they are the foundation of every good outfit. Then move to tops, dresses, outerwear, shoes and finish with accessories. Check out each of these recent blog post for dressing a Pear, Apple, Stringbean, Peanut, or Carrot to help you weed out the unlovelies.
4.} Would I buy this item again if I saw it in the store today? The minute you touch your garment ask yourself, “Would I purchase this item at full price and would I still buy it again today?” When you think on these questions, you immediately determine how much value the item has to you. This is true specially for those impulse buys you got at Target or Marshall’s {I used to be so guilty of this..ugh!} that might even still have tags on them.
5.} Would this item be better suited or repurposed for someone else? Speaking of tags… do you have garments with tags still on them hanging in your closet or items that are better suited for someone else that are in good condition? These are perfect contenders for consignment stores or your gifting to your best friend.
Or, if you love the item enough to keep it, remove that tag and welcome it permanently into your closet. Tags make your clothes feel like you aren’t really committed to keeping them. HA!
You say, “What?” Clothes have feelings too, people.
Designer brands typically consign well especially jeans, stand alone tops, jackets and dresses. Keep in mind that most consignment stores will only take clothes for the season at hand.
6.} Is this item an accurate reflection of my personal brand {your style/visual voice}? There is usually a thread of consistency in the types of clothing we select for ourselves that qualify our style. These are the things that ultimately make us feel amazing about ourselves and should be the only keepers.
Style themes that describe one’s personal brand can rage from Bohemian, Romantic, Edgy, Classic or sometimes a hybrid of a few listed. I personally invest in a classic base accentuated with an edge evidenced in my accessories and the details {rock studs and fringe are my friends}.
It is also important to consider the environments and people you are influencing {like your job, social life and your hobbies} and how you want to be perceived. Taking time to consider the impact of your visual voice is key to feeling authentic and at peace in your daily dressing routine.
Remember that stellar first impressions can open doors of opportunity when you are thoughtful in the way you present yourself. That doesn’t mean you should constantly obsess about what others think of you but rather work on refining the rough edges so individuals can see the diamond in the rough sparkle.
7.} Do I have multiples {in color, pattern or shape} of this item and thus a need to diversify? Let’s face it…we are all creatures of habit and often buy multiples of the same garment in different colors or even gravitate to one color palette alone. I actually used to collect black shirts and hated the thought of color. It wasn’t that I was going for the goth look, I just couldn’t resist another perfect slimming black shirt.
My humor writer, blogger friend, Wendi Aarons, even confessed her addiction to khaki pants in this hilarious post. Glad she is feeling redeemed from her addiction and enlightened to the world of designer denim. Be mindful to diversify your closet. Adding color and pattern actually gives you more multiplying efforts in your wardrobe.
Hope these tips and trick inspire you to live a leaner, more intentional approach in your daily dressing routine. I find that closets really are like microcosms of our lives. They story tell about our truth, what we hold dear, and how we see ourselves. Cheers to a great week!
Fashionably 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 Young2016-08-29 11:00:372016-08-30 08:32:477 Simple Questions to Help You Declutter Your Wardrobe
Just two weeks ago I did a blog post on Makeup Bag Essentials, so I figured it would be helpful to supplement that post with a special feature on “Must-Have Makeup Brushes.” Of course, you can’t successfully apply your makeup if you don’t have the right tools!
So let’s explore what brushes never leave my makeup bag–call them my holy grail of applicators. I’ve picked several basic necessities below I consider the best of the best featuring a few from the Sephora Collection, but you can find other substitutes and lookalikes brushes for a lesser cost elsewhere. I will say I NEVER skimp on brushes and consider them an investment. As long as you clean them on a regular basis with appropriate cleansing wipes or liquid cleaners, you can keep them on rotation for at least two to three years.
For all you DIY’ers, here is a recipe for making your own cleanser for your brushes as well: {Featured on Popsugar}
Step 1: Mix two parts antibacterial dish soap to one part of the extra-virgin olive oil on a clean plate (don’t use paper plate, as the oil will seep through).
Step 2: Grab your first brush and wet it slightly with lukewarm water. Make sure the brush stays bristle-side down throughout the entire process. If water gets into the ferrule (the middle tube part that holds everything together) of the brush, it can loosen the glue, causing the bristles to fall out.
Step 3: Dip the damp brush into the soap mixture and coat it thoroughly. Next, work the mixture into the bristles using the palm of your hand and fingers. Continue until the soapy residue is makeup free.
Step 4: Rinse the brushes under lukewarm water until no soap runs from the bristles.
Step 5: Roll a dish towel like you would a yoga mat, and drape a paper towel over it so that most of the paper towel hangs off. (The paper towel should look like a slide coming down from the dish towel). Next, arrange the brush so the top of the handle sits on top of the towel, pitching the rest of the brush down onto the paper towel. This will allow your brushes to dry on a slant, while keeping moisture away from the ferrule.
Repeat with remaining brushes. Some make take two washings to get completely clean, depending on the amount of residue left behind. Allow them to dry overnight, and repeat about once a month.
Here are my MUST HAVES:
Foundation Brush: To achieve that airbrushed and flawless face, you must use a foundation brush. I love the Sephora Collection but Bobbi Brown makes one that I also love. Apply a small amount of liquid foundation to the back of your hand; dip your brush into the foundation you squeezed out and then buff in circular strokes onto the face until you find the amount of coverage you want. Remember to start small and then build up gradually!
Powder Brush: To set all your foundation and concealer in place, use a fluffier brush to cover your whole face with powder. Apply the powder in broad, sweeping strokes all over the face to set coverage on the face. There are so many brands that make powder brushes so pursue your local beauty store to find one that feels good on your face. Take a look at some of the Chanel collection brushes that I adore!
Bronzer Brush: Another essential includes a Bronzer brush. Starting with the perimeter of the face, apply bronzing powder and blend inwards from the temple, the contour of the cheek, and the jawline. Bronzers can be temperamental in achieving the coverage you want so make sure you find a brush that is soft, dense, and fluffy. I love the IT Brushes from ULTA because of how soft the are!
Blush Brush: This staple brush is my favorite because it includes an angled shape making it easier to brighten and sculpt your facial features in a single gesture. Again you have to start light handed and then build your blush to your liking.
Eye Shadow Brush: If I had one brush I couldn’t live without it would be my Bobbi Brown Eye Sweep Brush. It makes putting on eyeshadow so easy and effortless and gives a beautiful result. This brush has soft bristles and a full, rounded shape to it. It’s really great for anyone looking to create a variety of eye makeup looks, from a dramatic smoky eye to subtle daytime shadow.
I trust and love everything about the Sephora Collection brushes as well as some gems from Chanel and Bobbi Brown. They make applying my makeup so easy and flawless!
What are your favorite brushes? Please share in the comments section below. Check out below some more great picks to have in your makeup bag!
As summer comes to an end there are endless things to do including buying school supplies and clothes for my two amazing kiddos. I am so blessed to be a mom, but when I’m taking them to summer camps, friends houses, and soon enough– school and practice, I still want to look cute and comfortable! Enter in…HOT PINK MILITARY STYLE.
Just because you’re a mom, community influencer and/or a busy professional like me, that doesn’t mean you can’t be stylish and on trend. For example, I’m wearing a fuss free option with my daughter, Julia, when we went to the local candy and ice cream shop, The Candy Jar, in the Hill Country Galleria in Austin.
What I love most about this outfit is that it’s so versatile and easy to accessorize. You can also dress it up or down. This hot pink A-Line dress from Gap {similar here} and a lightweight military jacket from Nordstroms Rack is an unexpected combination of trendy and fun. I’ve paired this concept with some of my favorite suede Sam Edelman sandals {similar here} and a necklace from one of my good friends Chesley House of Chesley Mae Designs {also featured in my past “Off the Shoulder” outfit blog post.}
Then I added some arm candy from Stella & Dot and Fab’rik where you can find some great steals on jewelry! But of course, I always start my day with coffee so I included my “But First Coffee” coffee travel mug for when I’m on the go.
Hope you have a fabulous rest of your summer and that you have some inspiration for your next outfit!
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 Young2016-08-15 11:00:302016-08-15 11:00:30Hot Pink Military Style
The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is still going on {until August 8th}, and this is a great time to stock up on professional wardrobe essentials under $100. While you might already have several core pieces for your “going out” attire and weekend loungewear, have you really considered how you want to present yourself at the office? It is imperative that you make sure your essentials are covered first as you prioritize your shopping dollars.
I have selected a few core pieces to consider that won’t break the bank, but will also give you incredible flexility as you round our your professional wardrobe.
Being the best dressed doesn’t have to cost you an arm and leg either. Take advantage of this incredible sale featuring some of my favorite pencil skirts, blazers, staple heels, accessories, and more.
If you need a little more inspiration for additional ideas to enhance your professional wardrobe, check out Nordstrom’s advice HERE! Filling in these prized pieces that are under $100 is the worth your shopping dollars and will ultimately enhance your personal brand and overall image.
Here are a few other goodies to consider as you build a core base for your professional 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 Young2016-08-01 11:00:172016-08-02 10:55:59Professional Wardrobe Essentials Under $100
