Posts

Closet Clean Out – Before & Afters

 

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

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

 

 

Small Space, Big Wardrobe 

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

 

 

Move In And Un Pack

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

 

Sophistication Is Just One Step Away

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

 

Another Before And After

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

 

 

Dry Cleaner Bag Hell

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

 

 

A Full Overhaul 

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

 

 

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

 

 

Stylishly Yours,

 

Jen Young

Closet Clean Out – Hanger Help, Gaps, and S.T.Y.L.E.

 

If you have been keeping up with this new series, in the last blog you saw that our closet cleanout started with purging and sorting, dropping off and letting go. The closet cleanout is WELL on its way! Now you are thinking, where do we go from here? Don’t you worry ladies and gents, there is plenty more to be done in this journey to a visually pleasing new start.

Though, I would like to take a moment to point out some of the things I think are most important when it comes to rebuilding your wardrobe. Hanger Help, Identifying Gaps and a little thing I like to call my Signature S.T.Y.L.E. System!

style hangers

Hangers might just be the most important thing to upgrade your closet. I am such a stickler for matching and clean hangers. Not only does it help preserve your clothing, but visually it is pleasing, and technically it is more organized. I suggest using black or cream felt hangers. The more evenly spaced your closet is the easier it is to find what you are looking for.

Another tip is to color code your clothing. I section clothing off by type {i.e. shirts, pants, dresses, etc.}, sleeve length {sleeveless, short, long, non-collard, collard} and then color coordinate with the ROYGBIV {Red. Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, Violet, bookended with whites and blacks} system in each section. This way your eye easily moves to the type of item you need and then to the color you want to select.

Secondly, I use this newly spaced and organized wardrobe as my guideline for what you might be missing! You MUST identify the gaps in your wardrobe. This is my favorite part of the process and where I pull out my styling hat. A wardrobe is weak if you don’t have your core pieces. The ones that go with anything, and complete all the outfits my fashionista heart can dream of! By going through and pointing out these gaps, I can decide the best way to begin styling and have a path of where to begin.

 

Here is an example of an inventory sheet for the ladies I use to identify your gaps.

 

We can also completely inventory your closet virtually with my new Virtual Styling Service. Subscribe to the blog here and receive my inventory sheets for both men and women.

 

 

The final step to part two is integrating my Signature S.T.Y.L.E System ! This refers to my stylish yet less is more philosophy. I don’t look at a wardrobe as needing to be limited to 30 things like the age old Capsule Wardrobes from the 90’s, but rather refined and made with purpose. In fact, most robust wardrobes have around 100 items including tops, bottoms, shoes, accessories and intimates.

I use the acronym “S.T.Y.L.E.” to keep on track:

treamlining your wardrobe {weeding out the unlovely and reducing your overwhelm}
aking Inventory {understanding the importance of establishing an essentials based wardrobe with current inventory and remixing what you already have}
our body type {knowing how to dress your shape; focusing on your assets not your age}
ess is more {identifying and prioritizing core pieces you need to make smarter shopping decisions; saves time and money}
mbracing your authentic visual voice {instilling confidence to maximize your peak style potential and personal goals with your first impression}

 

Now stay tuned for a little “before and after” action in next week’s conclusion of the Closet Cleanout series! If you still have any doubt of why cleaning out your crap makes all the difference you won’t after seeing these images…

Stylishly yours,

 

Jen Young

Closet Clean Out – Purging and Sorting

 

 

Closet Cleanout

 

Sometimes practicing what you preach is one of the hardest things to do. Day after day I help women and men get a fresh start with their wardrobes–cleaning their closets, purging and sorting, filling the gaps, and transforming their image. It seems I also try hard to avoid doing the same for myself. Not that my closet is a pigsty… But I do occasionally turn my head to the side and eye-roll when I walk past the door. It’s the cobbler’s children have no shoes mentality, right?

 

This past year I moved my clothing into my dream closet, and now I need to take time to make it the picture perfect room. For the next few weeks I will bring you all through my own closet facelift, and hopefully learn some new things along the way!

 

Closet Cleanout Purging and Sorting

When it comes to going through closets {which can really be a microcosm of your life}, the key is to remember this is a very personal job. Not only do clothes tell the story of someone’s personal tastes and treasures, sometimes they also hide the pain they might be feeling. Let’s face it {me included}, inventorying your wardrobe is a cleansing experience AND a process you must stride gingerly through.

Purging and Sorting consign repair donate

First things first: I have clients make three piles. Consign, Repair/Launder and Donate. Anything that is not a for sure “keeper” ends up in one of these piles. I suggest you repair items that are realistically repairable or gussied up by a fresh press at the professional dry cleaner asap. All other garments and accessories should be sent to a donation center of your choice or consigned for a new start. You can see some of the places I consign in my PREVIOUS BLOG. 

Purging and Sorting thread up

One of my favorite ways to consign is by using ThredUp. They send a kit to place your clothing in with FREE SHIPPING, you mail it back, and they do the rest! I love making money while I sleep. Wink.

Purging and Sorting shoes

Look for rough edges on shoes or worn out toe fronts.

 

Purging and Sorting discoloring

When items start looking furry and discolored..purge them. You are better than that!

 

Purging and Sorting pilling

Frayed edges mean Bye Bye.

Look for Pilling, Frayed Edges, and Shoe Wear and Tear: When it comes to what I look for with repair items vs. donate and consign…Though this is always up for debate, some of the more apparent problems I see are scuffs and rips on shoes, discoloration on clothing, and pilling on items like sweaters or pants. We all know them and we see them often, but saying goodbye to our cherished items often times is hard to do. If you struggle to know just when to let go…here is another post to help you ask seven simple questions to declutter your wardrobe. 

 

Purging and Sorting dogs

And though I am one who truly loves furry friends, it is always nice to make sure and arrange someone to watch them, or have a pen they can stay in during the process. And that goes for non-furry little friends too. When you purge and re-org–make this a sacred time for you and your closet. These decisions can be stressful… so give your self a kid free-pet free moment to deep dive into the challenge.

 

If you want to learn more on having your own fresh start with a closet clean out, email me: jen@foreverstyled.com or call me at 678-772-9975. You are worth it. Your closet will thank you and likely spur you on to lean out other parts of your life as well.

 

 

Stylishly ((and realistically)) Yours,

 

Jen Young

Lessons From 2017

 

I am not going to lie to you…I am really happy 2017 is in my rear view window.

 

You know—some years are better than others, but this last one I grew like a beanstalk, facing both the challenges of single motherhood and learning what it means to stand firm on my own two feet as an entrepreneur. That statement is code for—this girl needs a nap asap.

 

Please don’t hear me complain with a voice positioning myself as a victim. I love my life and all that God has revealed the last twelve months amidst uncharted waters. And thanks to my parents; I have slept in for seven days in a row at their home in Florida this week, so I am officially a well-rested camper.

 

But let’s all face it: Adulting. Is. Freaking. Hard.

 

Can I get an, “Amen??” And then wear this shirt if you agree…..

 

Can we also harmonize, in tandem to the mess and hardship we all face, this life holds so much beauty?

 

Let me expand a bit so perhaps all my imperfections and revelations from them will urge you on to something bigger and better than you ever thought possible for yourself. Taking an introspective look at myself has been a healthy exercise, so I pray you will garner some insight as you prepare your own clean slate for 2018.

 

When I got my initial footing in the fashion industry just four years ago thanks to my mentor and friend Lauren Lafevre {Edit By Lauren}, I had no idea how much the simple notion of “get your clothes on” {as stated in my tag line} would lead to profound personal truths that run deeper than just my wardrobe.

 

 “Fashion is not necessarily about labels. It’s not brands. It’s about something else that comes from within you.” Ralph Lauren

 

Here are the lessons I will take with me into the new year:

 

 

1.} Attitude is Everything: Choosing a positive attitude and self-concept is paramount to combat all the negative input that can potentially sabotage your daily routine. My personal commitment is to bring light to a dark world…and that happens to begin with a thoughtful outfit, an intentional smile, and lending a helping hand. I also like to keep in mind the popular phrase that became a mantra in Facebook’s hacker culture, done is better than perfect. Or even better, acknowledging Voltaire’s statement, “Perfect is the enemy of good.” Not to say giving something your all isn’t a worthy goal, but knowing when things need to take your time and when they don’t is also important.

 

My kids: Jackson (14}, Me {no age required}, Julia {11 going on 21}!

 

2.} My Children, Family, and Friends are my Greatest Resume: I think about the time I invest in my team members with Forever Styled {love you Shelby and Alex}, keeping my home organized and calendar oiled with kid/biz appointments, but nothing is more sacred than the moments I invest in my children, family, and friends–especially during technology free dinners chock-full of meaningful conversation. That means protecting this time is uber important. Who you surround yourself with on any given day also shapes who you become and the legacy you will ultimatley leave behind.

 

3.} I am NOT a Superhero: While I secretly wish I could clone myself, read the minds of my teenagers, or even be invisible for a day, I recognize I am not Wonder Woman or any other being that requires a cape. But knowing I cannot do it all, be all, for everyone liberates me. Becoming a master “time-blocker” of my calendar and recognizing my limitations as a person has saved me. Learning to say “NO” in order to give greater value to the things I say “yes” to has changed my life. Don’t be a slave to thinking you have to be a multiple plate spinner to be a success. Simplify your commitments and aspire for greatness at a few things. Invest in the philosophy that less is more. That includes the amount of stuff you have as well. To that point, stay tuned for a “full monty” view {kidding} of my own personal closet purge later this month.

 

My buddies: Shannon, Amy and I on a recent trip to San Fran.

4.} I Need Fun: Being an adult carries so much responsibility! I have learned that some of the my best original ideas for my business and personal goals have come out of weekend retreats with soul sisters or times when I just let loose and eat waffles with fried chicken. If you haven’t spent time laughing with your friends or at yourself for that matter…then get on it. You might uncover your greatest strengths by doing something out of the ordinary like saying yes to kayaking when you prefer to read a book at home. Staying stagnant is boring. Venture out and explore something new. You deserve a unique adventure that just might expand your territory.

 

5.} Health is so Important: As I have learned to take better care myself this year, by adjusting my workout routine {thank you Susan Stivers}, food and sleep plan, and getting more margin around my calendar, I am happier and wiser. I took baby steps toward life balance, but will keep pressing forward knowing this pursuit works. There are no medals for people who push themselves beyond human capacity warranting daily doses of Xanax. I am ready to be stronger and mentally clearer than ever this year.

You with me?

 

Blessings to each of you this New Year. What have you learned that you will take into 2018? Share the love….

 

“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” – 2 Cor 12:9

 

 

With Strength and Dignity,

 

Jen

 

 

Outfit Inspiration – New Years Eve

 

DRESS (Alternative Option)  |  CLUTCH  |  SHOES

EARRINGS  |  DRESS (Alternative Option)  |  CLUTCH  |  SHOES

CLUTCH  |  EARRINGS  |  SHOES

EARRINGS  |  DRESS (Alternative Option)  |  CLUTCH  |  SHOES

DRESS (Alternative Option)  |  EARRINGS  |  CLUTCH  |  SHOES

 

New Years Eve is just around the corner and, with tons of deliberation, I’m ready! Unlike when you are in your early twenties, dressing for New Year’s Eve tasks on a new meaning in life as a mother. I want to look fun, but not in the way I did back then. Finding a balance between being a big sparkling ball of wonder and looking like a lady of the night is always difficult, so here is what I’ve settled on:

By keeping the glitz and glam away from the main attraction (my dress) and letting it settle on the accessories, you can give off a more sophisticated look on New Years Eve. I also like to move away from the expected on New Year’s Eve. Instead of doing loads of sparkle or sequins until you can’t see straight, go for something a little more subtle, like leather. It still gives a shine but keeps your outfit on the calm side. I am also mindful to keep plunging necklines at bay.

I added my pops of flair in the shoes, using “blush” as my accent color with feathers as a fun touch. Oh, and news flash ladies… These heels are a dream for your feet! Sole Society has a fabulous reputation combining affordability and comfort. This is a must on New Years Eve as we all end up walking way more than expected. And I  of course rounded out my outfit with a handy-dandy clutch! Leave your oversized bags at home please.

Finding the right bag can some times be tough. How much do you really want to carry verses how much you NEED to carry is always the question. This mid-sized bag is great for hauling the essentials. The added gun-metal sheen helps pump up my look just a little more too!

Hope these holiday tips and tricks inspire the confidence you need to look and feel fabulous !

Cheers to a beautiful New Year in 2018!

Jen Young

How To Wear A Hem

 

When it comes to jeans most of us know the basics: Length, shade, rise and in-seam. Did you know there is something more to the fit of a jean though? Something that has nothing to do with the denim pants themselves??

 

The deciding factor of pants being a do or a don’t resides in the shoe. That’s right ladies! Shoes once again are the thing that matters most.

 

Ever put on a pant and thought to yourself, “These just don’t look right…”? You’ve worn them a million times before and never had a problem. It is the holidays and all, but you got them buttoned so it isn’t your waistline being the problem.

 

Even if the fit is just right, wearing the wrong shoe with an ill matched hem line can make all the difference in an outfit. Here are a few of my fashion do’s when it comes to hem line / shoes type matches:

 

Hem Frayed

JEAN  |  SHOE

 

Frayed Hem & Heel: The jean that started it all. I recently purchased a pair of frayed jeans like the ones in the photo above. Upon trying them on I had a long conversation with all the sales reps about why they didn’t look just right (but were still something I HAD to buy). They informed me that swapping my flats out for a higher heel would do the trick.

Sure enough, all I needed was to balance the frayed edges with a little pop of height.

 

Hem Cropped

JEAN  |  SHOE

  

Cropped Hem & A Strap: I am honestly not the biggest fan of a cropped hem. Maybe it is PTSD from my pedal pusher days, or perhaps just something I don’t think looks right. Though, if you are going to do a cropped hem jean, the way to do it is by breaking up the lines with more lines!

Pair with a strappy heel to keep the eye going in the right direction.

 

 

Hem Flare

JEAN  |  SHOE

 

Flare Legged Hem & Platform: When it comes to flare legged jeans, the whole point is to elongate. My rule of thumb is to keep the length going as long as you can. Max out on the height with a pair of platform heels or booties.

Stay away from flatter shoes or a lesser heel, it usually gives off a stumpy look.

 

 

Hem Skinny

JEAN  |  SHOE

 

Skinny Leg Hem & Flat: Not so much that it is how you have to wear them, but how you get to wear them! Skinny legged jeans are on the list of those which can be dawned with flats. Since the tailored leg allows for a slender path, it is great for making into a more casual look with a flat.

 

Hem Cuff

JEAN  | SHOE

 

Cuffed Jean & Bootie: A cuff of some sort is always in style. May the cuffs of your jeans be skinny and rolled like the ones shown above, or thick and singular how they are being worm now. The problem with a cuffed jean is that they can easily cut your height in half. The harsh stop often times becomes a distraction, and when not paired with the right shoe can be detrimental (not to be dramatic) to an outfit.

I always suggest wearing a bootie of some sort. It keeps in line with the cut of the cuff but still gives an elongated look when turned to the side.

 

 

So before the next time you slap on a pair of jeans and shoes, take a moment to think, what would your little jean angel do?

 

 

Stylishly yours,

 

Jen Young

 

Holiday Highlight – Haute Exchange

consignment

 

It’s holiday highlight time again for my favorite stores in the greater Austin area and this one goes out to my lovely friend, Natalie Thorp, Owner of Haute Exchange. Not only do I love shopping her consignment finds, it is a reliable resource for me and my clients.

 

Consignment is a thoughtful way to get a little cash back for your gently worm items and make room for something new. Working with Natalie and her team makes it easier than ever. The staff at Haute Exchange is kind, organized, and helps you re-home the old and welcome the new!

 

Even more than being the perfect resource for your closet, re-selling your consignment potentials also helps the environment.

 

Here are a few words with Natalie on why that is true and how her business owning dreams came true:

 

 

JY – Tell us the background of how Haute Exchange can to be and why you chose to work in the consignment industry instead of classic retail?  

 

NT – I’ve been consigning and purchasing consignment clothes since I was 16 years old. I was raised in Temple, Texas and there was a consignment shop that I thought was a great business model.  My husband is an entrepreneur and this was his idea to start the business in Dripping Springs.   But most of all… I am a recycler.  I am also a treasure hunter. This business keeps my interest.

 

JY – Please explain why recycled clothing is so important to the environment?  

 

NT – Textiles are toxic when buried in our landfills.  In 2013, Americans recycled some 2.3 million tons of textile waste. That brought a reduction in greenhouse gases equivalent to taking 1.2 million cars off the road for an entire year.  Would you throw a car away when you’re done with it?  Used car sales brought about consignment for clothing. We want you to consider consignment as an option for all your clothing. We spend so much on our attire it is a wonderful option to get some of your investment back from unwanted items.

 

consignment kate spade

consignment coach

 

JY – What are a few tips you have for shoppers over the holidays? 

 

NY – Shop local. Don’t buy at full price. Always consider consignment as an option to the mall.  Also consider vintage clothing for a change.  You can find wonderful vintage coats, jewelry, and purses especially.

 

JY – What does your store specialize in?  

 

NT – We sometimes take clothes that are brand new. People order off the Internet and decide that’s not what they wanted or perhaps it didn’t fit properly. There are so many options in buying clothing at a consignment shop. We may have that suede fringe jacket you’ve been wanting for less than half the retail price. It’s really the thrill of the hunt, the treasure hunt!  If you get it in your blood it doesn’t stop.

 

We have a 3 generation concept.  You could bring in your teenage daughter or your mom.  We have brands for everyone at any age.  Most of all we inspect the garment completely, so you know you are getting quality pieces without snags, loose buttons, etc.  We never want you to pay full price for your fashion.  Most of all if you purchase something with regret you now have a chance to make some of your hard earned money back!  We accept consignments daily!

 

When you shop here…You will start to look for that unique thing that nobody else has or something you can’t buy any longer.  We may have it here!  And that’s what we seek out at Haute Exchange. We want one of a kind, unusual, very attractive items in our shop. Will also take all the Chico tops that you have too!  Ha!

consignment Ralph Laurenconsignment shoes

consignment Michael kors

 

JY – What other things would you like potential customers to know? 

 

NT – We are here for the Dripping Springs community to repurpose their clothing. I just want to foster those ideas in the community that some things are meant to be reused and that it’s ok for you to shop resale.  Our shop is clean and neat.  We have the best consigners, the best brands and our clothing is top notch.

 

 

For those looking to consign, here is our extended preferred vendor:

 

    

    

 

 

Happy and Peace-filled Shopping to each of you this Holiday Season.

 

Jen Young

Holiday Highlight: Raven and Lily

Holiday Highlight Raven and Lily

Holiday Highlight Sign

Holiday Highlight Dresses

 

The holidays are indeed upon us… And getting back to my original plan this month, I am honored to feature amazing businesses in the coming weeks that deserve high praise for not only the “beauties” they sell but also to celebrate the mission behind their brand.

 

This Christmas has taken on a whole new meaning for me as a single mom, so I am excited to share about a thoughtful company that empowers the working woman to experience financial reward and personal freedom as a result of unique international partnerships.

 

Holiday Highlight

Kirsten Dickerson {the tall blond} alongside her beautiful artisan partners

 

It is a joy to talk with my dear friend Kirsten Dickerson, Co-Founder of Raven and Lily, for this post.
We have known each other for over 20 years from our Pi Beta Phi sorority days, so it a blessing to watch her business thrive as she changes lives everyday. Her vision to offer trend-forward fair trade fashion, accessories, and home furnishings to empower women on a global scale truly inspires me.

 

Here is a little Q and A with Kirsten.

 

J- What was your inspiration behind Raven and Lily?

 

K- My inspiration behind Raven + Lily is the value of women. I believe in dignity oriented opportunity for women, and I know that when women are empowered, they will invest in their families and communities. I created a lifestyle brand that would provide the Western women with products that reflect the beauty and culture of the women who made them. We think about the impact on people and the planet at every stage of production and follow fair trade standards. Our customers are part of the beautiful redemptive stories of hope unfolding in the lives of the women who make our designs.

 

Holiday Highlight Outfit

J- Can you explain your signature look / describe the brand behind Raven and Lily?

K- We are modern, yet organic. I love neutrals, texture, minimalism and a little bling. I believe in designing things for fashion and the home you can love for years and aren’t dictated by trends. All materials used in Raven + Lily designs are natural and sustainably sourced.

 

 

J- Could you tell us a bit about your heart for philanthropy and vision for sustainable fashion?

 

K– With every purchase, our customers are helping to provide fair trade employment for at risk women.  With every purchase, our customers are also helping to donate back to help provide micro loans for HIV+ women who have graduated from a business skills training program. At every stage of our production process, we think through the impact on people and the planet…as far back as the buttons and where cotton is sourced.  We want to know the story behind our designs so that our customer can be confident they are having a positive and not negative impact with their purchase.

Statistically, fashion is the second largest polluter, 1 in 6 people are employed in the industry, less than 3% earn a livable wage, and 80% are women. These stats are heart-breaking, but I’m in the business of breaking that negative impact and proving that it is possible to produce beautiful products that empower women and protect our beautiful world.

 

 

J- What tips would give others to keep in mind this holiday season when shopping?

 

K- Slow down, and look for opportunities to gift, dress, and decorate thoughtfully this holiday season. It takes time, but its possible to do this.  There are so many wonderful companies and products that do good in the world now. If you don’t know where to start, try this excellent of social good companies  http://www.thegoodtrade.com

 

Holiday Highlight Bag

 

J- What is your favorite piece in the store right now (if you had to choose one)? 

 

K- For fashion, I love the goat hair bucket bag and Simbi black dress with brass buckles. It’s the perfect LBD for year round wear.  For the home, I love the wool pom blankets and pillows from Morocco. They are on my master bed and look perfect for the holidays though I use them year round!

 

Holiday Highlight glamping

 

J- Talent runs in your family. Tell us a little about  your husbands movie premiere and background?

 

K- Well, my husband, Brandon Dickerson, is a film-maker and current director at Laity Lodge.  His most recent movie, “Amanda and Jack Go Glamping” was filmed at our former glamping retreat, Green Acres, outside Austin and was just released. You can download and watch it this week! Our son is also an aspiring film-maker and my daughter wants to be a culinary artist.  So I guess its safe to say we are a family of artists who really love movies and nature.

 

 

Learn More About Raven and Lily by visiting them ONLINE or on INSTAGRAM

 

I  hope your holidays are filled with happiness and peace. It always pays royally when you shop with purpose and with brands who gives back a hundred-fold like Raven + Lilly.

 

Blessings to You and Yours this Holiday Season.

Jen

Skip The Crazy This Black Friday

NATIONAL

     

 

LOCAL

 

 

 

Now, don’t let the title fool you, I know good and well most of us are doing some kind of shopping this Black Friday. However, I am trying to make it as easy and quick as possible so you can get back to laying on the couch with family and respecting your time to give thanks.

 

Above are tons of sales, both locally and nationally, and their links to guide you through your shopping experience. And to make things one step easier for you, I’ve added a SHOP tab to my site with easy to snag options for gifts under $100, for him, for you and for the family!

 

For those of you still needing to get out and face the crowds… Here are some tips on making your excursion a little less painful:

 

  1. Do all the ONLINE shopping you can first, before trying to get out and about. And don’t forget to take advantage of free shipping and gift wrapping, it is such a time saver in the long run!

 

  1. When going out to the stores make sure to prepare like a momma. Bring snacks and water to keep your pulse and blood sugar going with you!

 

  1. Don’t feel like you need to do it all. Splurge on a nanny for the kids so you can shop child free.

 

  1. Better yet, make it a girls day! Meet up with your friends and throw a relaxing lunch in between stores.

 

  1. Always remember to dress for trying on! This sounds silly, and though you might not be shopping for yourself, it is always something to keep in mind. Wear a regular bra, not a sports bra, and cami so you can easily slip on and off tops. Think comfortable shoes and make sure to have on bottoms (not a dress).

 

  1. Take advantage of curbside pickups at stores like Nordstrom’s. You can shop ahead of time and roll right up to snag your bags.

 

  1. Be willing to valet park (or prepare for walking). It is a good way to shed those newly added turkey pounds!

 

  1. Prioritize. Don’t think you will make it to every store on your list. Know the top things you want to score deals on and go for those first. Anything else is a bonus and a pat on your back!

 

 

Happy Thanksgiving to you all! And happy shopping to those brave souls out there.

 

 

  • Jen Young

Just Saying Thanks This Holiday Season…

It’s 11:23 pm, and I am just siting down to draft this post after a crazy-pants day. You know the ones—when you pile laundry upon work upon dinner upon kid duties upon bills and so on… It is the holiday season after all! But somehow I have tremendous energy and passion left to share how thankful I am that you are a part of my life and the Forever Styled Community. Without your support as a faithful client, diligent reader and/or dear friend, I wouldn’t be the same!

 

Since the month of November often warrants expressing gratitude and appreciation for the key influencers and blessings of our lives, I am excited to share insight on some of my favorite boutiques and why their vision for fashion is changing the local style scene as we enter the busy holiday season.

 

But, before we launch into that upcoming “love fest”, God has given me some insight I thought appropriate to share before we get out our mega Christmas lists and overstuffed turkeys, become irrational towards the person who steals our parking space during black Friday, or suffer from an egg nog hangover. Not to preach, but let’s not succumb to the madness this year, shall we? How can we reign the in crazy and actually enjoy the time with loved ones and friends instead of stressing out and making ourselves nuts?

 

Here are some ways I am planning to stand out like Clark Grizzwald {you MUST watch Christmas Vacation if you have no idea what I am talking about} but without the 2000 strands of lights…..

 

1.} Approach the holiday season by setting your intension. Plan out your shopping with a budget in mind and stick to it. Don’t allow wish lists to pressure you to invest in things you cannot afford. For me, this year is about creating new traditions with my kids like cooking family recipes together, watching classic Christmas shows, sleeping {a lot—which is not common for me!} and playing a ton of ping pong. I also hope to gift more “experiences” than legos and xbox games this year. Just last week I had the pleasure of meeting my new friend Blue in the horse ring during my recent Charismatic Cowgirl experience with friends at Sandra De Robinson’s gorgeous ranch. Who knew a horse could be telepathic? This “blew” my mind…no pun intended.

 

Holiday Season Horse

 

2.} Bless others by practicing random acts of kindness. My personal goal is to do something thoughtful and creative for someone I don’t know every day until Dec 31st. I am journaling about people’s reactions and so far—I am in awe. For example, today I found a penny with the year of my birth on it while I was filling up my car.  I ended up giving it to the man across my view. He smiled HUGE, and said thank you. Once nestled in his car, he turned and hugged his wife after showing her his lucky prize. Tomorrow I plan to buy for the person behind me in the Starbucks line. Scatter joy…it is contagious.

 

Holiday Season Coffee

 

3.} Extend Grace to Yourself if you burn the turkey or holiday ham. Most of us put too much pressure on ourselves to cook the perfect meal, outfit the best dressed home and body, and maintain composure with that 5th glass of cabernet. Avoid feeling bad if you burn the bird or anything else for that matter—order take out and get over it. Life is short. As long as your clothes are on and clean and your belly has food in it… Be happy. Give yourself grace when things get out of sorts or your hair is on fire. You deserve a break this season. Remember to silence the voice that says you aren’t enough and eat that giant slice of pie.

 

Hope these quick tips bring light and harmony to your home and heart this month. What are your tips for thriving during the holidays? Do share…

 

 

Love,

 

Jen