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A Trip into Virtual Styling with Forever Styled

A Trip into Virtual Styling with Forever Styled

 

With Fall in full swing (hello low of 40’s this weekend!!), we want to discuss with you a little something called Fall transition fashion. Dressing can be a tough thing on its own. But now throw in a morning breeze followed by an afternoon sweat, and you are just asking for a mess!

There is a solution to your daily dressing woes. As you may ((or may not)) know, Forever Styled offers Virtual Styling services that are customized just for you. It is okay to admit you have trouble getting dressed, dont know how to use your own clothes, or are sometimes so busy and caught up in the day-to-day rumble of life that you neglect your wardrobe and your look.

Here is a little peep at the Virtual Styling services:

Shopping Service Options

1) A one-time fee for 12 outfits

2) 12 outfits each month for 3 months

3) 12 outfits each month for 6 months

To begin, Forever Styled charges a $50 one-time on-boarding fee. Which then will allow me time to assess and familiarize myself with your closet. It is important to note: we do not charge the fee if I virtually inventory your closet for you. And if the task of inventorying your own closet makes you shake… No worries! I can come to come to your home and do it for you at an additional cost.

As an example, here is a taste of what a full outfit board will look like once we combine a head to toe looks for you!

 

REQUEST THIS SERVICE

To conclude, if you have any questions about the Virtual Styling Services just ask! Please always feel free to reach out and a member of the Forever Styled Team will happily answer any questions you may have!

Stylishly yours,

Jen Young

Summer Dressing

When it comes to summer, you have to think about more than just fashion. I do not know about y’all, but here in Texas it gets hot… I mean like HOT.  So when dressing for those scorching months it is about managing style while trying to hide sweat marks.

One of my favorite outfit options in the summer time is, drumroll please, The Summer Dress! I know, I know, what a predictable idea, but really it is the best option. When going with a Summer Dress you can always find a fit that is flattering for any body type and you can play them up or down with accessories. (Bonus: Summer dresses can double as special event dresses – simply swap out accessories to match the occasion!)

Summer Dresses:

   

 

Here are my suggestions for switching up the summer dress: You can layer on jewelry, or add pops of color with bold shoes without adding layers of clothing that can be extremely hot.

Jewelry:

   

 

Shoes:

   

 

Another look I love for summer is the two-piece set. You can find two-piece sets in fun prints and different cuts, which helps to make them wearable for an occasion. The are particularly great for String Bean body types!

 

Two-Piece Sets: 

   

 

One last thing to complete your summer look: Sunglasses! Sunnies are not only a fun way to jazz up your look, but they also protect your eyes against harmful UV rays and add some polarization to block out pesky glares from Texas heat mirages!

 

Glasses:

   

 

 

Stay cool and cute, my friends!

Jen Young

My Favorite Things

Favorite Things

When it comes to wardrobes, my goal is to help others feel confident in the clothing they own. I want my clients to be proud of the closet they step into, and fill the gaps mindfully. And most of all I want each of YOU, my precious readers, to say “This is a place full of my Favorite Things!”

I think one of the best ways to accomplish this, is by starting with my favorite things. In order to give a more general idea of what I consider essentials, I will share the “must-haves” for your wardrobe no matter your body type or lifestyle.

Being mindful of sleeve length, fit and functionality I have added items including button down tops,  the best basic tees, and a single printed blouse. Having a classic white and black blazer is a great way to round out a professional look.

Below are all looks you can SHOP just by clicking on the image!

 

TOPS

Favorite Things Top Favorite Things Tee Favorite Things Tee Two Favorite Things Shirt

 

BLAZERS

Favorite Things Jacket Black Favorite Things Jacket White  

 

And when it comes to staple purses, don’t always think bland! One pop of print {leopard in particular makes me one happy camper} paired with the perfect work bag and a fun clutch for a night out, is a great way to gussy up your wardrobe yet still be practical.

HANDBAGS

 Favorite Things Bag Leopard Favorite Things Purse Favorite Things Clutch 

When it comes to belts, I think having a mix of metallics, a neutral shade {black or nude}, and a printed option is important! I encourage an inch in width for a “skinny” belt so it doesn’t disappear into your outfit. You can opt for a thicker variety if your waist is an asset {PEAR and HOURGLASS shapes for sure}.

 

BELTS

Favorite Things Belt Four Favorite Things Belt Three Favorite Things Belt Two Favorite Things Belt One

 

Last but not least… Something many forget to consider–a natural nail polish! I always have a go-to shade on hand. Or better yet, having your nails properly manicured once a month is something that pulls any look together.

NAIL POLISH

Favorite Things Polish Two Favorite Things Polish One

For shoes– think a combo of comfort and class. I encourage clients to purchase one perfect heel and a fun run around shoe.

SHOES

Favorite Things Heels Favorite Things Shoes  

When it comes to jewelry and your core wardrobe, remember to keep your key pieces visible and untangled for easy styling. A long but simple necklace and a dainty option are always a good idea! Or layer the two. Add a diamond stud and basic hoop if your ears are pierced.

NECKLACES

Favorite Things Necklace Favorite Things Jewelry   

 

Hope my list of favorites things encourage a mindful shopping experience.

Styled and Smiling,

Jen

Frame Your Face Right

Glasses

With summer sun coming in fast, I want to get real about an accessory we often leave out of our daily dressing routine. It is one that works for every season of they year, and for those who need them every day too! Today, I want to address the most common accessory that we tend to think the least about…your glasses!

 

A lot of people overlook glasses as a key accessory since they are typically considered for function, not fashion. You have your one “go-to” pair that you whip out everyday without a second thought. They are usually ones we have had for years, and the prescription is probably completely out-of-date.

 

Let alone… are they even right for your face shape? Let’s dig a little deeper to learn more about what face shape works with the best frames.

 

There are 5 common face shapes: Oval, Round, Heart, Diamond, and Square. Each one has specific frames that fit and shape a face in the right ((AND WRONG)) way!

1.} Oval Face Shape Glasses:

  • Features: Lightly curved jawline that is a little narrower than the forehead; Cheekbones are high and angled
  • Most versatile face shape
  • Recommend: Any round or square shapes (Goal: give a nice contrast to facial curves)
  • Avoid: oversized styles (Tip: Don’t choose frames too large for facial features)

Glasses Gucci

GUCCI

Glasses EyeBobs

EYEBOBS

 

2.} Round Face Shape Glasses:

  • Features: Full cheeks; A wide forehead and a rounded chin
  • Recommend: Square or strong, angular frame shapes (Goal: provide contrast to face)
  • Avoid: too small or too short of frames, round styles (Tip: Frames that are wider than they are tall give the illusion of a slimmer face)

Glasses Tom Ford

TOM FORDGlasses Eye BobEYEBOBS

 

 

3.} Heart Face Shape Glasses:

  • Features: Broad forehead that extends down to a small chin; High and angled cheekbones
  • Recommend: Oval and round shaped glasses, Thin, light-colored frames to balance narrow chins (Goal: Balance the width of your face)
  • Avoid: Top-heavy styles or decorative designs (Tip: Don’t draw too much attention to upper face)

Glasses Eye BobsEYE BOB
Glasses Kate Spade

KATE SPADE

4.} Diamond Face Shape Glasses:

  • Features: Wide cheekbones and a narrow forehead; Angular jaw lines
  • Recommend: Oval and rimless frames, Glasses with strong brow lines (Goal: Balance and enhance facial features)
  • Avoid: Very narrow or thin frames (Tip: Don’t draw unnecessary attention to your narrow eye line)

Glasses Tom Ford

TOM FORD

Glasses CORINNE MCCORMACK

CORINNE MCCORMACK

5.} Square Face Shape Glasses:

  • Proportional in width and length; Broad forehead with a strong, horizontal jawline
  • Recommend: round or oval eyeglasses in dark or bold-colored frames (Goal: divert away from and add contrast to strong facial features)
  • Avoid: most geometric and square shapes and light-colored frames (Tip: don’t give your face too much angles)

Glasses JACQUES MARIE

JACQUES MARIE

Glasses Kate Spade

KATE SPADE

 

There are several different ways to go about finding out what face shape you may be. A fun method is to trace your face shape with a bar of soap, dry erase marker, or some lipstick in the mirror.

You can also measure the width of different parts of your face, and then deduce a shape based on the results. This is a bit more complicated, and something I suggest you do with the help of a professional… Someone like me : )

 

Email me if you want to find your perfect glasses frame: jen@foreverstyled.com

Stylishly Yours,

Jen

SXSW Style Made Glam

GLASSES  |  JACKET  |  EARRINGS  |  JEANS  |  BOOTS  |  SHIRT

SXSW Style Close Up

JACKET  |  EARRINGS  |   SHIRT

 

SXSW Style Glasses

I wish I was this cool. Pouty Face!

GLASSES  |  JACKET  |  EARRINGS  |  JEANS  |  BOOTS  |  SHIRT

 

SXSW Style Jacket

JACKET  |  EARRINGS  |  SHIRT

 

SXSW Style Details

GLASSES  |  JACKET  |  EARRINGS

 

South By South West is here and with it comes SXSW Style! Every year, for two weeks, our city is covered in interactive badges and people from all over. With this crowd comes a whole new truckload of FASHION. So while I love seeing what other cities have to offer when it comes to dress, there is something about staying a little Austin Weird that I can’t help but sport.

 

Welcome to my version of SXSW Glam!

 

I’ve paired a light weight shaggy fur jacket with a camo button-down and jeans. This partnership helps balance out the frill of the jacket and keeps the look more modern. Matched with over-the-knee boots to keep in line with this odd weather we have been experiencing and you are ready for a day at the film festival or by night stalking new bands! I finished my look with a blush statement earring and sunnies that could turn a billion heads.

 

Something to note is that when choosing an outfit with a subtle mix of pop and flair, it is best to keep in mind the balance to get your SXSW Style right. Having the sunglasses and jacket be over-the-top works because I am lessening the effect with the more neutral shades in the top and boots.

 

OTHER OVER-THE-KNEE BOOTS:

       

SHOP HERE                              SHOP HERE                               SHOP HERE

 

OTHER STATEMENT GLASSES:

       

SHOP HERE                             SHOP HERE                              SHOP HERE

 

So have fun, and have flare while rocking the streets of our SXSW filled city!

 

 

Stylishly yours,

Jen Young

The Secret To Modern Career Wear

When it comes to career wear I think of one of two things: “I don’t want to wear pantyhose and an oversized suit skirt” or “It’s time to get certified in yoga, so I can wear stretchy pants and tanks forever.”

Either way, it’s difficult to get excited about career wear. From women who remember the days those shoulder padded suits {I am dating myself} were actually IN, to young ladies trying to make their college party wardrobe work for their new 9 to 5, dressing for a job can be hard. I have been grateful to work in the world of fashion where my relaxed jeans and on trend sneakers don’t have CEO’s turning their heads. But I have also been in your shoes too, ladies, and I know the challenges that come with it!

So how do you dress for success without sticking out like a sore thumb?

Well my fashion friends, let me spill a secret of my own: Think Smart! Plan ahead, and be ready from day to night!

LOOK FOR DAY

 

NECKLACE (ALTERNATIVE)  |  SHIRT (ALTERNATIVE)  |  PURSE  |  JEANS  |  SHOES  |  JACKET

Career Wear Up Close

NECKLACE (ALTERNATIVE)  |  SHIRT (ALTERNATIVE)   |  PURSE  |  JEANS  |  JACKET

 

LOOK FOR BOTH

Career Wear Shoes

JEANS  |  SHOES (LEFT / RIGHT ALTERNATIVE)

 

LOOK FOR NIGHT
Career Wear Night Full

NECKLACE  |  SHIRT (ALTERNATIVE)   |  PURSE  |  JEANS  |  SHOES (ALTERNATIVE)  |  SUNGLASSES

Career Wear Up Close

NECKLACE (ALTERNATIVE)  |  SHIRT (ALTERNATIVE)   |  PURSE  |  POLISH

 

That is really all there is to it! We carry monster sized bags with everything under the sun for our kids, but can’t take a moment to plan for ourselves. Thinking smart can be easy if you just try! Show up well {see a little tip from last week’s blog} remember your style, and embrace the fact that we live in a world where dressing from day to night at work is socially acceptable ((with exceptions))! If you work for a more relaxed professional environment like a tech company or a startup, you might have the option of going a little more casual in your dress. My suggestion is to always go with dark jeans so they look a little more like work pants. And still make sure your toes and shoulders are covered.

 

And here are just a few other tips to remember on you modern career wear journey:

             

TOP                                                  TOP                                        TOP

  1. Re-Purpose Tanks 

First things FIRST… When I say tanks, I do not mean your workout tops or your undershirts. I mean fresh, silk or cotton blend tank tops that can be styled multiple ways or those you wear when trying to escape the summer heat in Texas (Option 1 / Option 2 / Option 3). These tops can be worn under a blazer or jacket, paired with and tucked into a skirt, or even with a long sleeve top underneath to become work appropriate.

 

      

TOP                                                   DRESS                               JACKET

2. Keep Color In Mind 

Adding color is a great way to modernize your career wear. Know what colors are on trend for the season and don’t be afraid to pile on the layers! Emerald green is huge this year, so having a dress with a slightly darker toned jacket to throw on-top is the perfect way to make this trend all your own.

 

      

 SKIRT                                        JACKET                                      SKIRT

3.Update Your Skirt & Jacket Look

But what if we changed things up a bit? Try a more flowing skirt or one with volume and add a cropped jacket to the mix with a tunic top layered underneath. You are still following the dress code, and having fun while doing so!

 

In our modern work wear world, remember there are still some companies that mean BUSINESS when it comes to dress. It’s not always appropriate to go more casual, but for the most part, this is the new norm in offices! 

 

 

 

Stylishly yours,

 

Jen Young

 

 

 

Completing an Outfit with Accessories

Ever been stuck in a dressing rut? It might be shocking to hear coming from a stylist’s lips, but I feel ya! That is right friends, I sometimes have just as much trouble pulling polished and complete looks out of my own closet ((even if it is newly cleaned and organized). So what do I do when it comes to getting over the fashion hump?? I steer clear of boring basics and go straight for the finishing touches! I hit the accessories hard and get creative with what once felt dull.

 

Here are my top tips using accessories to turn your style frown upside-down:

 

HATS

A great way to spice up your jeans, tees or simple denim jacket is by throwing on a hat. You can make it fancy, or keep it simple, like this floppy felt brim option. Either way you turn it, hats are a great way to add that extra “oomph” that ties everything together from head to toe. Oh, and did I mention hats cover up your overdue for a shampoo hair?? Don’t make a face! We’ve all be there one time or another…

 

 

GLASSES

Sunnies cover up a long night and an early morning. I also like to think that my final look in the mirror after leaving the house is more complete with matching sunglasses. The nice thing about a good pair of shades as a finishing accessory is that you can have one simple pair that works for most every look. My rose gold aviator ray bans are my favorite.

 

 

 

JACKETS

Jackets used as accessories are an uncommon twist on what is so traditional. So I ask you to step outside your usual fashion box, and work with me. Look past the functional aspect of a jacket. Yes, they are there to keep you warm…But what if you simply throw it over your shoulders and wear it like a cape? Or even better, take a denim jacket and wrap it around your waist? Jackets can also be a way to add color or pattern to your wardrobe.

 

 

 

 

 

BAGS

Purses are the perfect way to complete and transform an outfit. No one can afford to buy something new to wear for each day of the year, or if you can, I would LOVE a peek inside your closet. For us normal folks though, finding ways to reuse clothing and revamp items is key. I find throwing a different bag with a staple piece is perfect for jazzing up its basic purpose. Clutches for evening wear are preferred. A unique classic professional tote for work is also appropriate.

 

 

JEWELRY

The most obvious ((and maybe best?)) of them all! Jewelry is great when left simple or layered to perfection. I encourage clients to mix metals, use vintage with new, and go bold when it comes to this accessory. Make any dress or shirt look refined and fresh with a statement necklace, or turn up the arm candy party by layering tons of bangles with your daily watch. And NEVER forger the power of a bold earring! Be cautious, however, of adding too much bling if you are planning to speak to an audience with a headset or present to camera. Those larger pieces can often interfere with your first impression !

 

I hope these tips give you greater style confidence ! Please do share how you plan to integrate these styling ideas into your wardrobe this week, loves!

Stylishly yours,

Jen Young

Closet Cleanout: The Final Touch

 

Our closet journey is sadly coming to an end with all the final touches, and BOY was it something! I can now say going into my closet doesn’t come with a cringe or a wrinkle of the nose. I am truly excited “get my clothes on” in my little oasis. Now, like most things in life, it isn’t perfect. Of course, I would love a center island for my undergarments and jewelry. Or a new light fixture on the ceiling… But those cost money, and like so many people I work with, renovating on a budget is preferred.

Instead of dwelling on the lack of built-in storage or the make shift shoe holders, I choose to see only the positive. When comparing my closet to my life over the past few years, I think I am finally BACK! In a very pure and powerful moment, looking at the coordinating hangers and nicely folded scarves, I noticed that the disheveled mess that started is now put back together.

 

See, here is the thing–this past year has been no walk in the park for me. Moving into my new home and new life consisted of throwing shoes in the bath tub and praying for a Hail Mary pass. This was my reality:

 

 

As time went on I knew I had to pick myself up and get things back to normal, or as normal as possible. So I took on a little bit of change one day at a time. As you can see, my closet became bearable but with small imperfections. The hangers were mismatched {but felt no doubt since wire is from the devil}, and the items not coordinated to my liking. But they were in. And I could open the door without hitting boxes. So life went on.

 

 

It wasn’t until this past month when I took on a full overhaul that I realized just how much my closet was like my life. In true Jen fashion, after a day of running around, picking up kids and forcing a dinner into place, I jumped into this closet like it was my job (because it kind of is!). I forged through, sorted things out, and got creative. Every shoe put in place was a cleanse for my soul. I even managed to purge three garbage sacks for consignment! Hooray!

 

 

And just like my life, all the pieces might not be perfect, but they are back together again.

 

Thank you all for going on this journey with me, I would be honored to help you do the same! If you are interested in picking up your closet pieces, feel free to email me: jen@foreverstyled.com

 

 

 

 

Stylishly yours,

 

Jen Young

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