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Back To School Means Back To Jeans

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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!

 

 

 

  1. 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.

 

 

 

  1. 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.

 

 

  1. 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.

 

 

  1. 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.

 

 

  1. 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

WHEN BAD BRAS HAPPEN TO GOOD PEOPLE

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Bras Header

 

Welcome to part two of the “I Feel Fat and I Have Nothing to Wear,” series. If you missed out on part one, “How to Style Your Love Handles,” you can read it too! Today we are going to get even more personal and talk about bras. That’s right… We are talking about “the girls” and how to best fit them {or tuck them in-HA!} for any outfit.

Side note, have y’all seen the new Ta Ta Towel {a.k.a the world has gone mad for a towel bra}? I have no words to describe how I feel about this new invention nor do I know why I have a major urge to purchase one every time they come across my feed. Someone help a sister out here. Maybe it is because my boob sweat often outweighs my clothing. Sorry, TMI.

But seriously…

When thinking about bras we can all easily point out the major problems. Back fat being our number one enemy, maybe even worse than all other fashion problems combined. Then you have the cup catastrophe. Is there not enough to fill them all the way up leaving that unwanted gap very visible under your tees? Or is there so much happening, it’s spilling over? Neither scenario is a look to love.

And then there are those things called straps. Too lose or too tight. To thick or too thin. The problem goes much deeper than just if you are wearing a bra that fits. It is if you are wearing the RIGHT bra for your body type.

When used in the correct way, your bra can actually be your best friend, and the thing that takes your outfit to the next level!

 

Bras On Woman

 

Here are some of my solutions for fixing your bra situation before it’s too far gone:

 

1.} Get a professional bra-fitting every six months. Yes, you heard me correctly, especially for us hormonal ladies who are in the 40 plus category.  As our bodies ebb and flow and succumb to that dad-gum gravity, it is crucial to keep the twin towers upright and ready for every party. From the office to a night on the town, having the right bra is key. I recommend trusting the ladies in intimates at Austin’s Nordstrom Barton Creek Square or your local Soma Store associates to guide you!

 

2.} Make sure you have the right bras on hand for every outfit. The must-haves on my essentials list include the following:

  1. Sports Bra {here is a link to a recent post of my favorite place to shop for those at Outdoor Voices.} Don’t forget to protect the ta-ta’s even when you are working out. Some of my chestier clients even opt to wear these in leu of a traditional bra on a daily basis.
  2. Razor Back Bra: for those unusual styled tops that help you avoid annoying peekaboo straps.
  3. Strapless Bra: this red carpet strapless bra is a best-seller and super comfy too. You can also opt for a wireless option commando bandeau style if you don’t need tons of support.
  4. Traditional Bras in both nude and black shades. Here are several everyday strappy options for daily wear.

 

 

3.} Quick Q & A for your Boobies: {Care of our friends and experts at Nordstrom}

DOES THE BAND RIDE UP YOUR BACK?

If yes, your bra is either too large or needs to be tightened. If it’s still too loose after you’ve adjusted the band, it’s time to go down a band size (and possibly up a cup).

DO YOUR BREASTS SPILL OVER OR BULGE UNDER THE CUP?

If yes, your cups are too small and you need to go up a cup size.

And here is a quick tip–get hair extensions to cover the spillage or the unwanted bulge. I am not ashamed of my quick fix solutions for the overhang. I adore my amazing hair fairy, Tamara Segura, at Luca Salon in Austin. She can be reached by phone or email for magical locks: tamarashairstudio@gmail.com; (512) 626-8649.

DO THE CUPS PUCKER OR GAP?

If your breasts don’t fill out the cups, your bra is too large.

DO YOUR STRAPS SLIP AND SLIDE?

If you’ve adjusted your straps and they still fall off, either the band is too big or your bra has lost its elasticity. If you have sloped shoulders, opt for a racerback bra or a style with convertible straps.

DO YOUR STRAPS DIG INTO YOUR SHOULDERS?

If so, try loosening the straps. If that doesn’t solve the problem, it’s likely the cups are too small and you need to go up a cup size.

DOES THE WIRE POKE AND PROD?

If so, you’re wearing a cup size that’s too small.

 

I hope these bra tips and tricks will help you feel more confident in your daily dressing experience.

Where do you shop for the best bras? Have any favorites you want to share? Let us highlight your comment !!

Many thanks to Forever Styled friend and supporter, Magan, for her recommendations below from our post last week. I wanted to make sure you heard about this great alternative given her recent recovery story from breast cancer.

“This is a nice shape-wear option.  (I find the shape-wear with legs to roll up.)  Maidenform is breaking into this market at half the price of Spanx.  And Target is convenient. (I had to buy these after breast reconstruction surgery after my mastectomy. Final operation needed just a little filler, so surgeon pulled a bit from my tum. Had to wear this shapewear every day for a long time!) -Magan

 

 

Defying Gravity Together,

 

Jen Young

VIRUAL STYLING MADE SIMPLE

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Virtual Styling

 

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.

 

Virtual Styling Hue and Stripe

 

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!

 

Virtual Styling outfits

Virtual Styling Favorites

 

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

ELAINE TURNER – TAKE TWO

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Hello gals! It is just a few days until my Elaine Turner Launch Party and I’m thrilled to show you all one more outfit that will be available during the sip and shop! In case you missed last weeks post, click here.

 

Today we are bringing out the comfortable side of things with a fabulous top and wristlet pairing.

 

 SHOES | TOP | BRACELETS | PURSE | JEANS

TOP | BRACELETS | PURSE | EARRINGS

PURSE | TOP | BRACELETS | JEANS | SHOES

BRACELETS | PURSE | JEANS | SHOES

This Cold Shoulder top is perfect for weekend wear or even work attire. I’ve paired it with white jeans for a summer feel. The classic “v” neck is a great touch as this small accent softens the upper body and adds a nice detail.

 

As you can see, I’ve added a pop of color in the earrings and the shoes, but a big bold statement necklace would look just as amazing!

 

And can we take a moment to talk about this clutch? Something I have truly come to love in the Elaine Turner line are her darling bags. They are perfect for every occasion: from full to the brim totes to sleek little clutches for your night-time outing!

 

Elaine Turner Trunk Show

 

Want to join me this Friday for the launch party?? The more the merrier! Bring your friends, have some fun, and add some AMAZING pieces to your summer wardrobe.

 

Finally, have you entered our fabulous giveaway? You probably should! Be sure to visit Facebook and IG to learn more about how to enter. Come to the party for another two entries. I will  announce the winner on Saturday, July 1st.

 

 

For questions or to RSVP email me: jen@foreverstyled.com

 

 

Stylishly yours,

 

Jen Young

 

 

2017 Summer Beach Totes

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Hello  Sunshine!

Hope your local weather forecast, like the rain we’ve had in Austin, hasn’t brought you down in the dumps. Perhaps many of you can’t wait to head to the beach or simply seek out the warm summer sun instead?  I don’t know about you, but some serious Vitamin D is calling my name. I mean, have you seen my mayonnaise legs in the latest posts? Not even photoshop could make those babies bronzed.

So here is the great news, wether you are relaxing at your neighborhood pool or going to Cabo with the family, we have some trendy and stylish summer beach totes that will have you turning heads. Call it the next step to LAST WEEK’S blog!

I’ve picked some of my favorites totes from hot spots like Nordstrom, Everything But Water, Anthropologie, and my current obsession–Draper James. Reese Witherspoon, you are my southern, lady-friend hero. Is there nothing you can’t do?

ONE // TWO // THREE // FOUR // FIVE // SIX // SEVEN // EIGHT // NINE // TEN // ELEVEN // TWELVE // THIRTEEN

As you can tell there are so many adorable choices out there! Pick one that best represents your personality and style.

1.}  Flamingo Straw Tote– A simple and tropical bag that gives any outfit or swimsuit a pop of color.

2.} Blush Straw Bag– I love the unique body style and handle on this bag! Its subtle color promotes a modern but natural flair.

3.} Milagro Circular Handbag– This bag really stood out to me because of its unexpected shape and the adorable touch of detail in the pompoms.

4.} Ague D’ Mar Tote– Now I know this is a bit of a wild choice, but it’s so quirky and fun! Big brother is watching. Just saying. Where are the built in cameras?

5.} Totes Y’all Vanderbilt Tote– You can never go wrong with a bold script canvas bag, especially one that features the signature Draper James magnolia-shaped hardware. Did I mention Reese Witherspoon is my southern sister from another mother?

6.} Mirabel Tote– This tote just screams beach party! I love its traditional shape that is woven with colorful cotton.

7.} Alice + Olivia Stace Face Straw Tote– This bag is a total girly-girl accessory. I love a dramatic bag with a whole lot of personality. I wish my eyelashes were that long!

8.} Watermelon Cool It Y’all Tote– Summertime warrants something covered in watermelons or pineapples–perfect for making a fashion statement and adding flair to your poolside attire.

9.}  Kayu Piñata Tote– What a dramatic and playful tote to carry on your arm! The striped texture of the tote is soft to the touch and is large enough to stuff a bunch of pool/beach toys inside.

10.} Fallon & Royce’s Tote– Another script canvas tote but its clever graphic statement, that makes me smile, is made out of sparkly beads!

11.} Mar y Sol ‘Ibiza’ Woven Tote– Now if this does scream, “I’m made for summer!”- I don’t know what does! This is definitely one of my favorites and is on my wish list.

12.} Tory Burch Gemini Link Tote– No woman can go wrong with a Tory Burch bag! I love this orange and navy color combo and pattern, and the fact that it is waterproof. This style of a tote can also easily transition from work to play.

13.} Lilly Pulitzer Bohemian Tote– This tote is on the smaller size, but it certainly makes a punch with its rich, bright tones!

Below are some more great finds. Take a look and shop for your summer go to tote!

May Calgon take you away to your Dream Destination,

Jen Young

JUST IN TIME FOR MEMORIAL DAY

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Memorial Day Outfit

DRESS // EARRINGS (Similar HERE) // PURSE // SHOES (similar HERE)

Many of you asked about the dress I wore to the Lake Travis Education Foundation’s Butterfly Brunch so I am here to give you a little insiders look – just in time to be inspired by red, white and blue for Memorial Day.

 

This Derek Lam off-the-shoulder dress is perhaps my FAVORITE I have purchased in a long time. Its light weight fabric is breezy for the already hot summer days, and it works great for day to night wear. In the images above, I paired it with a pair of thick heeled sandals (similar HERE) and a fabulous cork Elaine Turner bag. Add a pop of red color in the earrings and your all set for Memorial Day on the boat or out in the town!

 

Memorial Day is one of honor, and though it might sound silly to some, I feel appriciation can be shown in the things you wear. I know I’ll be dawning my red, white and blue loud and proud, will you??

 

Shop this look and similar ones throughout the post! And for those of you wanting a little gift, use discount code JYOUNG for 20% VIP access on all things Elaine Turner.

 

 

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

JEWELRY WITH A MISSION (Giveaway Included)

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Noonday Collection

I’ve got something awesome to share… a company with jewelry that is changing lives one bracelet or earring at a time!  Noonday partners with talented artisan entrepreneurs to make a difference in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities. By developing artisan businesses through fair trade, they empower them to grow sustainably and to create dignified jobs for people who need them.

Noonday works to break the chain of poverty which inspires me to support this incredible mission and vision though my influence as a stylist.

I recently purchased a few pieces from Noonday representative, Laura Choy, and could not be more excited to rally around such a profound and fashionable company. The recent collection for spring/summer is so beautiful, I had a hard time choosing just a few.

Noonday Necklace

NECKLACE / EARRINGS

Noonday Flat Lay

CHOKER NECKLACE / CURVED EARRINGS / STRAIGHT EARRINGS / DAUNTLESS NECKLACE

Noonday Jewelry

EARRINGS / BRACELET

Lucky for all of my readers though, one of you will get a free necklace! Just go to my Instagram page @stylistjenyoung, Like the photo, and comment #ForeverStyledLovesNoonday to be entered to win! Consider it a Mother’s Day Gift to yourself, or just a fabulous addition to your personal collection. Contest ends Thursday at midnight and the winner will be announced Friday morning.

Noonday Giveaway

 

_ _ _ _

Laura Choy Noonday

MORE ABOUT LAURA CHOY

My business with Noonday started shortly after my husband and I brought our third child into our home via adoption.  Through travel and exposure to poverty,  I was drawn not only to the beautiful hand made accessories but to the power that they held.  Power to provide a meal, or an education, or to lift a head that has been downcast after years of abuse, domestic violence, or trafficking.  The dignity of good work and a fair wage is truly empowering!

 

Visit Laura’s site to shop: www.LauraChoy.NoondayCollection.com

To receive items before Mother’s Day you must order before May 1st!

 

 

Stylishly Yours,

Jen Young

Looking Lovely At Lunch

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Ladies Who Lunch

 

Ladies who lunch, this one is for you!! Are you on the board of a charity, or a part of your local country club? If so, you have probably been to a luncheon. And you have probably been stumped at what to wear.

Being inspired by the upcoming Butterfly Brunch, where I am creating a Runway Styling Experience to benefit the Lake Travis Education Foundation, I wanted to give a little insight on the matter!

Here are a few tips on how to lunch in style from yours truly:

 

DRESS {like photographed dress} / PURSE / JACKET / NECKLACE / BRACELET / RING

  1. KNOW YOUR CROWD. There are many types of luncheons, and nothing worse than showing up to one under dressed. If you are going as a guest, always ask your friend what the attire will be like. Know if you are heading to a spring dress kind of place or somewhere you should be dressed more business professional.
  1. PLAY IT SAFE WITH COLOR. I like to tell clients it is best to play it safe with color in a situation like luncheons. Don’t go too bright, neon is something to stay away from. But also, try to step away from the black section of your wardrobe. Wearing pastels is the perfect way to stand out while fitting in.
  1. THINK OF WORK AND PLAY. Most ladies going to lunch are working it into a busy schedule. You have to be dressed to go back to your 9 to 5, or head to your next meeting. While carrying a clutch to something like this is a great idea, some times it just isn’t practical. If need be, bring your bag, just make sure it’s one that fits with what you are wearing, and not that old clunky one we all can’t seem to let go of.

 

DRESS {like photographed dress} / PURSE / JACKET / NECKLACE / BRACELET / RING

PURSE / EARRINGS / SUNNIES / BRACELET

SHOES / DRESS {like photographed dress} / PURSE

Stylishly Yours,

Jen Young

We Wear Chesley Mae

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Chesley Mae

 

When you find something you like… You can’t let it go! And when it comes to Chesley Mae, I can’t stop collecting it either. This jewelry line is perfect for everyday wear and looks fabulous when you dress it up too!

Based on a South Texas ranching past and love for natural beauty, designer Chesley Clark launched her line of gems in 2014. Each piece is made of hand selected stones and is uniquely crafted for fun and practical wear. Chesley incorporates stones, mixed metals, bead-work, and vintage chains to create her one-of-a-kind looks.

Paired with a plain and simple top and loose legged pants or an army green vest over a tie-dye tee, Chesley Mae pieces are great for wearing as a weekend wear accessory. For a girl who feels that even dressed down should be a little dressed up, necklaces like these are the perfect choice!

 

TOP / PANTS

VEST / SHIRT {like style} / SNAKE BRACELET / LEATHER WRAP / WHITE BRACELET

Chesley Mae doesn’t just go with your relaxed look. Wear them with your casual Friday work outfits, like the one below. This gingham off the shoulder and dark denim allows the purple necklace to pop. And who can get over the details of this stone necklace??

 

SHIRT / JEANS / BELT / SHOES

SHIRT / POLISH

And last but NEVER least, is wearing Chesley into the night. Every girl needs an LBD (little black dress) and every girl should add a pretty Chesley Mae as well. The layered look is easily accomplished with these beaded strands that stand out in a crowd. I added a simple Chanel given to me by my grandmother, and headed out for a night on the town!

DRESS / SHOES / PURSE

From day to night, Chesley Mae is a lovely addition to your “stylish-yet less is more” wardrobe!

To shop these pieces and more, visit: www.chesleymae.com. Join Chesley’s Insider’s Group on Facebook as well.

Stylishly Yours,

Jen Young