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Staying True to Yourself Through Style

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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 people. I 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

TIME SAVING TIPS FOR THE WORKING WOMAN

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

 

#J.K.

 

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

 

Time Saving Tips - Outfits

1. Lay Out Your Outfits

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

 

Time Saving Tips - Handbag

  1. Pick One Handbag A Week

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

 

 

3. Keep A Day To Night Kit

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

 

Time Saving Tips - Laundry

4. Sort Out Your Laundry Beforehand

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

 

Time Saving Tips - Kids

5. Give The Kids Responsibility

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

 

Time Saving Tips - Lips

6. Love Your 5 Minute Makeup 

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

 

Time Saving Tips - Cleaners

7. Let Your Dry Cleaners Help

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

 

Time Saving Tips - Clutch

8. Keep A Clutch In Your Purse

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

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

Stylishly yours,

Jen young

Women Entrepreneurs – A Talk With Tricia Hall

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Women Entrepreneurs

 

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

 

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

 

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

Reduce, Reuse, REPLACE!

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TOP  ||  SANDALS  ||  HEELS  ||  PURSE  ||  YOGA PANTS

 

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?

 

Replace Bras

 

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:

 

Resale Shops

  1. Moss Designer Consignment
  2. Buffalo Exchange
  3. Still in Style
  4. Turquoise and Pearls

 

Online Consignment

  1. Thred Up
  2. The Real Real
  3. Tradsey

 

Donation Centers

  1. Texas Reach Out Ministries
  2. South Austin Pregnancy Resource Center
  3. Dress For Success

 

For other questions on shopping smart, what to replace, or to dig even deeper with my new SHOPPING SERVICE, email me! [email protected]

 

 

Stylishly yours,

 

Jen Young

Think Thin

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Think Thin

This is a message to all the ladies out there who need a little mid-week pick me up. I want to bring your attention to the difference in being thin and thinking thin. Often we force ourselves into crazy diets and monster juice cleanses. Just last week I fell victim to one of these in which I spent a full day hugging the toilet… and then some. I mean—I do feel better {sort of} but this girl has gotta chew SOMETHING ! Thank God for almonds—just saying.

 

So ladies, here is the deal. There is a big contrast in forcing yourself to be thin and thinking thin. We spend so much time getting kids and spouses ready, ourselves presentable, and working our tails off to support the dream. There really shouldn’t be any time reserved for running our self-esteem into the ground. But somehow that always seems to make the cut in our daily ritual.

 

Think Thin Thoughts

 

STEPS TO THINKING THIN

 

Throw away the fad diets. Chunk those pills in the trash. Start taking the time you once used to degrade your body and start THINKING THIN!

 

1.} Daily Affirmations:  I challenge you all to take some time in front of the mirror today telling yourself just how wonderful you are. Do it especially when it is hard to believe you are beautiful, inside and out. We cannot learn to like ourselves or celebrate the bodies we have by constantly talking ourselves down with negativity. I am convinced that we will never love and fully accept ourselves while simultaneously believing that we are less. Every time you call yourself “fat”, every time you call yourself “ugly”, every time you talk yourself down and refuse to believe in yourself, those words stick with your soul. And it changes us.

 

So for every negative thought you have about yourself…come up with at least three positive things to undo that degrading statement to edify and restore. Do it today. You matter and deserve this practice. Here are some examples. You can also start by simply saying to yourself, “Hello, beautiful friend, I think you are lovely.”

 

 

2.} Know your Body Type and How to Dress to Your Assets:

 

If you missed the “I Feel Fat and I Have Nothing to Wear” series last month, read more about styling your love handles and recognizing the importance of proper underpinnings. These quick tips are a great way to jumpstart how to celebrate your body type and make it work for you! Just because you aren’t a size 2 {or maybe you are}, you can still look and feel great about yourself.

 

 

3.} Take Care of YOU! How often do we put everyone else before ourselves? If you have a family, I know you have experienced this phenomenon that suggests we are to slay ourselves and put our “people” {kid crew and life partners} at the top of the priority list! Nonsense…I always love the reminder from our trusted advocates who fly the friendly skies to put the oxygen mask on ourselves FIRST before our children so we can be more effective to offer proper care as a result. So —that means suck some air in your nostrils as soon as humanly possible so you can give your all for what you were created for! And if it involves storing a paper bag in your car….there is no judgement. Been there. Done that.

 

 

4.} Have Accountability: The best way to make physical or mental changes is to involve others in your journey. Lord knows I have a therapist and a new health coach to challenge me on the kinds of thoughts and foods I expose my mind and body to. With that kind of regular support, with a friend, coach or counselor, you will be amazed at how quickly you can heal from old patterns and wounds. Make a list of your personal goals as it relates to self care and align your partners in crime to move the needle forward.

 

 

5.}  Start today: Adopt a “Blast off” and get her done mentality. Stop pressing snooze and commit to a life filled with gratitude for yourself and in turn live a more peace filled life as a result. I am enjoying this book by Allisan Maslan that speaks to this very topic.

 

Think Thin Kiss

 

May these quick tips inspire and challenge you in your personal Think Thin campaign. What first step will you take today to adopt this important philosophy? We’d love to hear all about it!

 

Acknowledging the Struggle is Real,

 

Jen Young

How To Style Your Love Handles

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love Handles

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 #3: Partner a tailored tunic top with some higher waisted shape-shifting leggings. This Splendid top gives you plenty of coverage in the mid section yet balanced with tighter fitting pants for any body type. I sub out my leather jeggings to dress up the look with strappy heels for a night on the town.

 

 

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

 

 

A Letter To You

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Letter To You Header

 

 

Faithful Forever Styled Readers and Clients,

 

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

 

 

 

Nordstrom’s Sale Must Haves

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TOP  |  GLASSES | PERFUME | UNDERWEAR | SNEAKERS | SKIRT | BOOTIES | TOTE  | FLATS | DRESS | PAJAMAS | MAKEUP | TONING KIT | HOODIE | SWEATER

 

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.

 

  1. Chelsea28 Bell Sleeve Poplin Top

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.

 

  1. Sonix Parker 55mm Sungalsses

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.

 

  1. Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb

There is little to say about this perfume except that it is one of my favorites! The smell is not overbearing and lasts all day long.

 

  1. Hanky Panky Underwear

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.

 

  1. Vince Corbin Slip-On

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.

 

  1. Hinge Barris Block Heel Bootie

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.

 

  1. Halogen Corbin Genuine Calf Hair Slide Loafer

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.

 

  1. Halogen A-Line Leather Skirt

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.

 

  1. Halogen Flounce Back Shift Dress

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.

 

  1. PJ Salvage Jersey Chemise

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.

 

  1. MAC Hooked On Nude Eye Kit

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.

 

  1. NuFace White Trinity Facial Toning Kit

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.

 

  1. Paint Stripe Transporter Leather Tote

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!

 

  1. Adidas Original Trefoil Hoodie

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.

 

  1. Nordstrom’s Signature Cashmere Pullover Sweater

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: [email protected]

 

 

Stylishly yours,

 

Jen Young

Beauty Trend: Bold Lip

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We are back at it with the next summer beauty trend and it is all about lips. This season it’s about being bold, but knowing the right way to do so. Today Shirley will show us how to do a bright lip with a classic twist:

 

Beauty Trend Lips

LIPSTICK  //  LINER  //  BRUSH

Start your bold summer lip by applying a lip gloss all over the upper and lower lip. This helps soften the color before it is even applied. The gloss should be close to the color you are using as your pop, Shirley is using the Jentry Kelley line for all of th3e products in this tutorial!

 

The next step is to add your bright color over the gloss. I suggest a pretty pink during the day and a rosy red at night. You can’t go wrong adding a blast of color to a little black dress after all!

 

An important tip to remember is to ALWAYS line the lips once you have added your bright color. Lining them after helps lock in the lipstick, and makes sure the bold color is contained to your lips and kept in check. Doing the liner afterwards also keeps the boldness a little more muted.

 

Finish the look by smudging in the color one last time.

 

Beauty Trend Bold Lip

 

 

And there you have your summer lip! Like Shirley mentioned in the video, pink is a hot color this season, but branching out to an orange could also be fun. This is a time to experiment with your comfort zone, and see what all your summer lip can bring.

 

I will be dropping one more video this Friday to show you how to contour, something I personally have trouble with!

 

And to have your makeup done by Shirley, or to set up a makeup class, visit her at Adore Boutique in Austin. Call Shirley to book your appointment: 512-524-0208

 

Stylishly yours,

Jen Young

Must-Have Makeup Brushes

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Must-Have Makeup Brushes-2

Hello my Beauties!

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!

Fashionably Yours,

Jen Young