Sometimes we do it on purpose, and sometimes we don’t even realize it. But breaking fashion rules is now a GREAT IDEA! I don’t know about you, but taking time to follow fashion rules can get kind of tedious… And between car pool line and shuffling between clients, it is one of the last things on my mind.
So what better way than to kick these worries to the curb than by taking a stand and forging our own style street?!
This White Top and Jean combo is the perfect example of wearing white AFTER Labor Day! How fabulous will this clean slate look with brown knee high boots? I’ll tell you how fabulous… Enough to make me say yes to a long-standing fashion no-no!
Mixing and matching is a thing, so why can’t mixing and NOT matching be one?? Pair a Cognac Ankle Bootie with a black bucket purse for contrast. This is a great way to add flair to a simple pair of jeans and tee.
Combining Pink and Red or Black and Blue is no longer something to turn your nose up at. These Pink and Red Heels are the perfect way to mix the two colors in a sophisticated way. It is also lovely when paired with a simple black dress for a pop of color! Or try a pink top and red skirt. Then you must try a simple black and navy dress with a black heel for your everyday work look.
Eventually us Texas girls just have to come to terms with the fact that there is no such thing as winter in our neck of the woods… We also need to stand up and support suede! Instead of staring at the packed full closet of coats we will never wear, let’s start doing it anyways! Dawn a lighter colored jacket, like this Suede one, that will also work for your Spring or Summer wardrobe.
Tell me what your favorite fashion rule is to break in the comments below!
Stylishly yours,
Jen Young
https://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpg00Jen Younghttps://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpgJen Young2017-09-21 11:10:532017-09-21 22:27:30BREAKING THE FASHION RULES
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.
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.
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!
When thinking of back to school shopping the same thing always comes to mind… me wanting the perfect Jeans! Even though it has been 101 in Texas this week —you still need the right pair.
From being a little girl begging for my high-waisted Gloria Vanderbilts, to watching my daughter do the same in her skinny Hudsons, jean shopping is a ritual I have both loved and hated my entire life. I’m sure a lot of you can say the same.
So today I’m going to let you in on some jean secrets for each body type and save you a few headaches! As well as throw in a tip or two like…if you are in a hurry and can’t try on, wrap the flat jeans waist band around your neck. If the two ends overlap just a tiny bit they will fit your waist.
Each body type has a very specific fit that best flatters it’s shape. You can learn more about each type by visiting my Style Tools page. And when it comes to dressing in a pinch, like we all do most mornings trying to get the kids out the door, here is a fast way to know what jeans will feel like pajamas in that carpool line. Also… please repeat to yourself now “I will no longer wear pajamas in the carpool line.” There is a time and place where we just have to kick old habits. This is it!
THE PEAR ((Best Jean Brand and Style)):NYDJ {Not Your Daughter’s Jeans} are absolutely my go to for the ladies who are curvier on the bottom half. Deny the inner voice that tells you these are mom jeans. There are several styles from Flared to Straight Leg that will work for any occasion. You may still have to take in the waist a little since your middle section is your narrowest point and typically your asset. For a more relaxed fit…try the Citizens of Humanity Boyfriend style.
THE APPLE ((Best Jean Brand and Style)): The So-Slimming straight leg style from Chicos is a total winner especially for you gals who have skinnier legs and a fuller mid-section. These jeans tuck in all the right places and give you the confidence to wear them with pride. The Curvy Slim Jeans from White House Black Market are also a fave if you want to accentuate your lean stance but struggle with a more generous section in the upper thigh.
STRING BEAN ((Best Jean Brand and Style)): My more athletic ladies who have little to no curves often need to create the illusion you have them. Feel fee to experiment with styles with embellishments like floral appliqués like these Kut from Kloth embroidered Catherine boyfriend jeans. I adore the Hudson Nico mid-rise jean as well as they shape shift with your body. I also like a AG Stilt if your budget isn’t a concern for super skinny gals.
THE PEANUT ((Best Jean Brand and Style)): A slightly flared or boot cut option is best for you as you strut your perfectly proportioned self. You can really get a way with any jean style but do be cautious as skinny jeans can often make you look short and stout. Frame denim flared jeans are an investment but worth every penny. I also like the mid-rise Perfect Boot Jean from Gap. The darker wash is a good option for you.
THE CARROT ((Best Jean Brand and Style)): Lucky one—you have a really wide choice of pants and jeans that look absolutely great on you! Go for any style that will accentuate your hips and bottom such as pockets and embellishments to balance out your wider upper body. The best styles for you are baggy pants, wide leg and palazzo! Colorful and bright pants and jeans will look great, as will patterns and bold prints. Whiskering {refers to thin fading lines formed from creases that are usually found on the front pocket area of jeans} at the hips and flap pockets will add curves to your lower half. I am a big fan of the Isabel Embroidered Flare by Free People as it hits many of the criteria listed.
So, pack up the kids with a little more excitement this year, because you now only have to stress over one parties’ pair of pants.
Your Carpool Companion,
Jen Young
https://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpg00Jen Younghttps://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpgJen Young2017-08-16 12:07:172017-08-17 09:23:34Back To School Means Back To Jeans
I am not sure where you are sitting or perhaps standing as you take in these words. Know I am grateful for your kindness in reading my weekly posts and trusting me with fashion tips. I want to get REAL and share, in a letter, some things I have discovered during the hardest six months of my life that are evolving my mission with Forever Styled.
Let’s do this.
A major event happened last year which was instrumental in waking me up to my reality and the changes I needed to make for myself to reclaim my truth. I have been talking for years about how to align one’s inner longings/values with the way an individual presents themselves on the outside with their wardrobe. Honestly, I have been a hypocrite to that end.
Sadly, my soul grieved for years in a difficult marriage, and I became an expert in adorning my outer shell to cover up all the falsehoods of my reality. I was living a lie shielded behind “perfect appearances”. Always thinking, if I could get my outsides to look the part —then maybe no one would notice what was going on.
Here is what I know now.
Lesson # 1: Life is messy and imperfect. So am I and that’s ok!
On December 20th, 2016, when my relationship officially fell apart, I realized that sometimes life is MEH {a.k.a. freaking messy and imperfect} and there are days a girl just needs to sit on the couch in baggy sweatpants, look disheveled and cry. It’s important to allow yourself to grieve and fall apart {and even look like poo} when life is seemingly shattered. Goodness knows I pray you aren’t in a solemn place like this, but if you are—know there is hope.
The silver lining I found through the tears was recognizing that I didn’t have to hold it all together with my attire or my reality to be loved or accepted…that I could show up in, God forbid—yoga pants and a mis-matched T to my girlfriend’s house and feel totally cherished. In fact, it made her more at ease to not feel she had to posture around the annoyingly accessorized stylist.
Lesson #2: There is no need to hide anymore!
From over spending to accomplish the perfect outfit to wearing a baggy shirt because of body hatred, let’s surrender to the fact that you are beautiful inside and out. You and I don’t have to cover up all that is happening in this jacked-up life. And if you say you have no mess…I don’t believe you. No mess. No message. Part of the human story is speaking authentically to the challenges we face. So let it all hang out. You might even be hiding behind a closet full of clothes that don’t make you feel genuine.
Come up with three words that trigger the most profound description of how you want to be perceived. Hang those words on your closet wall. My three are: APPROACHABLE, THOUGHTFUL, FLATTERING. These words will be a foundation for rebuilding something more appropriate for the things you keep, the things you purge, and things that come into your life.
Lesson #3: I Matter. YOU Matter.
Silence that self-condemning inner critic that says you aren’t enough. You aren’t pretty enough. Smart enough. Tough enough. Strong enough. Fit enough. Rich enough. Perfect enough. Start making the changes you need to align your truth with the notion that you were uniquely created by God for a significant purpose. Remind yourself that God doesn’t make junk even if you are standing knee deep in it. Dare to accomplish great things knowing that what you believe about yourself shapes every decision you make. Acknowledging that you cannot build a personal brand based on other people’s opinions. The one that matters most is yours.
What can you expect from Forever Styled moving forward?
Now that I’m awakened to all the crazy, messy stuff that exists in my life and yours {wink}, it is time to focus on educating you how to get your clothes on everyday verses just pushing product.
While I will continue to make recommendations on things I really do value, love and wear, my posts will be centered on how to empower the change that needs to happen within, to live with less. I want to make sure you know how to be the most informed about your wardrobe and be more responsible with your hard earned shopping dollars.
From here on out I will be sharing more about my story and would love to know more about yours. This space should be for dialogue about the challenges and joys you are experiencing in your life and daily dressing routine…not just about having the latest and greatest trend.
Sound good?
This is my truth. What is yours?
I would love to hear it and how this post might have inspired you this week. How have you taken a difficult situation and turned it around for the better? Your story matters to me.
Bless you from head to your stylish toes,
Jen
https://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpg00Jen Younghttps://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpgJen Young2017-07-26 11:46:392017-07-26 11:48:57A Letter To You
If there is one thing I have learned from the start of this year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale it has been figuring out how to effectively inform my busy clients about shopping the lowest prices with over 3500 options to consider. To accomplish this mission, Virtual Styling has become a crucial, more affordable part of my styling services. Let’s face it, the days of in-store shopping are becoming less desirable with the on-set of the Amazon’s of the world.
Over the past week I have been introducing my clients to a new system called Hue & Stripe. With my exclusive invitation, you can enter the world of virtual styling, your chance to save time and money.
You heard me right—from this single mom in needing a third arm to keep things going, to the professional gal looking for five spare seconds. Working with me, your personal stylist, no longer HAS to be done in person!
Don’t get me wrong, nothing replaces the advantages of working together in the flesh, but sometimes it isn’t possible given limited time and budget constraints.
More details will follow with additional features I will be offering using this application including a “virtual outfit subscription” service! Stay tuned…
This whole process begins with your entire closet being inventoried with photographs and added to your custom profile. I can also make head to toe virtual outfits and fill in your wardrobe gaps all with a few clicks. This allows my clients to have easy access for purchasing new items and a simple reference point for outfit ideas.
I can’t wait to show you just how fabulous this addition in styling can be!
If you want to learn more about Hue & Stripe, or how my new virtual services can aid in bringing peace to your daily dressing routine, email me: jen@foreverstyled.com
Shop Smarter not Harder,
Jen Young
https://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpg00Jen Younghttps://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpgJen Young2017-07-21 14:40:182017-07-21 14:41:54VIRUAL STYLING MADE SIMPLE
Hello my lovely ladies! I am so excited to announce the upcoming sip and shop happening this week at Fab’rik. Join me Thursday, from 4 PM to 6 PM to see the latest in vacay chic fashion. I will be helping style outfits for your beach trips, lake trips, and all the trips in between! It’s time to kick off your summer in style, and Fab’rik is the perfect place to do it.
And of course, for my fabulous friends, I have to give a little sneak peek. Here are two outfits, one for day and one for night, that I couldn’t take my eyes off of!
Let’s dive right in to this amazing Fab’rik tank and short combo. If you are anything like me, shorts are a tough one. Finding a pair that is long enough to feel comfortable but stylish enough to look good is not always easy. These are perfect! The pink and purple pattern is adorable and great for throwing on and going to the pool or into town for a little shopping excursion. The pop of pink is great for breaking up an outfit, and the lace up shoes are a nice touch. You can also throw on a pair of sandals or a wedge to dress the outfit up or down.
And for night… This maxi is AMAZING! For someone who is not a maxi kind of girl, I have been taken by this one. I will let you in on a secret…it is the first maxi I have added to my wardrobe since the season of wearing maternity clothes in 2003 when I gave birth to my son. I know –crazy. The pattern is perfect for beach wear, and not “so in your face” you could put in in your regular wardrobe rotation! Paired with some wedges and a fab hat you are set for the sun! I added a strappy bra-let under my maxi to add a little added detail.
I would also like to take a moment to point out the amazing beaded stackable TEE bracelets I’m wearing. These are a Fab’rik staple, and a statement piece in your accessory collection. They are sweet, simple, and affordable but make a great impact for any outfit.
You can purchase all of these items Thursday night! Hoe to see you there!
Stylishly Yours,
Jen Young
https://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpg00Jen Younghttps://7da25e.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/fs-logo.jpgJen Young2017-06-12 13:39:592017-06-12 15:57:08Vacay Chic at Fab'rik
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
On November 15th, 2016 the Texas Conference for Women will be held in Austin, Texas. This one-day conference will feature inspirational keynote speakers including the iconic Belgian-born American fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg who is best known for her iconic DVF wrap dress. This timeless wardrobe essential came to symbolize power and independence for an entire generation of women in 1974.
By 1976, she had sold over a million of the dresses and was featured on the cover of Newsweek. This super versatile dress looks perfect on all different body types and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Especially for the fall, this dress looks sophisticated paired with riding boots, pumps, or if you’re feeling stylish…sneakers! Furstenberg literally changed American fashion with her relevant and classic design.
Check out some of the wrap styles I selected from Nordstorm, and pick the one that fits your shape and style!
There will also be 100 other speakers like international human rights attorney Amal Clooney, World Cup champion and equal pay advocate Abby Wambach, educator Linda Cliatt-Wayman, and Nina Tassler, the highest ranking Latina in network television {CBS}. There are several breakout sessions ranging from personal finance, health and wellness to career advancement offering something for everyone.
Unfortunately tickets are sold out but the call for volunteers is now open! Receive free registration in exchange for your time. Click HERE!
To learn more about the #TXConfWomen conference click HERE!
Please also subscribe to these social media sites on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay connected!
Packing for travel is a task many of us might dread. Even if it’s taking a short business trip or a long vacation with the family, packing can be stressful and a hassle.
To aid in that burden, check out Forever Styled’s packing for travel consulting HERE! We will help you hand pick your wardrobe according to your destination, weather forecast, and the events that you have scheduled so you can look fabulous every day of your trip!
And you won’t incur that dreaded overweight bag fee because we will be strategic with the items you take– giving you the flexibility to make several outfits out of a few items.
Packing Tips for Travel:
1.) Pack shoes first and place on the perimeter of your suitcase facing outwards. Stuff shoes with socks or other intimates to save space.
2.) Ziplock all liquids in several small bags to prevent spillage in your suitcase. This also makes packing easier instead of taking one large bag full of your makeup bag essentials.
3.) Sushi roll larger intimates, t-shirts, and other cotton items. Place on top of and in between shoes to create a solid base.
4.) Fold collard shirts and place on top of rolled cottons. Layer them with tissue to prevent wrinkling. Sometimes I re-purpose dry cleaner bags as well.
5.) Wrap belts around the outside of the shoes instead of curled up in a ball.
6.) Pants, dresses and skirts can be flat folded opposite each other and then tucked in like a present. Check out this amazing video here for more visual instruction: http://youtu.be/LIk8v__Osm8
Once you learn how to pack correctly, you will have a valuable life skill. Hope your upcoming trip is filled with peace and happiness.
What other tips do you have? We’d love to hear.
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 Young2016-09-19 11:00:192016-09-19 08:45:54Packing for Travel
