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Back to School Sale Shopping

Julian Gold | Neiman Marcus | Old Navy | Zara | H&M | Nordstrom | Target | Tory Burch

It is that time of year again! Summer is winding down and everyone knows what comes next…the kids go back to school! 

Along with getting back into school routines {cannot come soon enough, honestly}, I also enjoy shopping all the back to school sales! 

Whether you are looking to save big on back to school items for the kiddos or if your goal is to get the best deals on summertime looks for yourself, I have gathered a few of my favorite sales:

For Back to School, Target is always my go-to. They always have the best prices on cute school gear and you can usually find some great discounts on wardrobe basics like t-shirts, shorts, jeans, etc. I know when my children were younger I always tried to get the best deals on clothing especially because they always seemed to outgrow their shoes and clothes faster that I could outfit them. 


Another great sale for back to school clothes is going on right now at Old Navy. Right now they are having a sale that is up to 60% off! So don’t delay and load up on all your essentials.

If are looking to save big on summer styles just for YOU, I have a ton of other recommendations! H&M and Zara are having MAJOR sales up  to 70% off! Run, don’t walk there, if you are needing items to take your work wardrobe up to the next level. On the local level, Julian Gold is having a sale on all of their summer merchandise! 

Next up is one of my favorites…Neiman Marcus featuring high fashion up to 75% off. I love the selection of shoes they have at the amazing prices! Tory Burch is also having a sale that is up to 70% off! If you have had your eye on a special handbag– now is the time to treat yourself. 

And last but not least… It is that time of year again!! The Nordstroms Sale is happening now, and boy do they have some of the BEST skin care and home-goods deals you will find all year! I know that sounds silly to think Nordstroms of all places for skincare and home-goods, but they by far have the best prices on candles and makeup during this sale. 


Now these are just a few of my favorite sales going on right now so if you know of any you think I should mention drop me a comment below!

Best, 

Jen

Summertime Office Attire

It’s June and that means things are heating up. Well outside at least… The same probably cannot be said for the temperature in the office. Dressing for your place of work in the summer can be difficult because temperatures are variable. I have pin-pointed three areas where you can still stand out in your summer office attire while dressing for the contrasting climate.

Three Key Items: Sleeveless Dresses, Strappy Sandals, and Flowy Skirts.


Sleeveless Dresses can be “tricky… tricky” (please read that like you are singing the song) because you want to be sure you are still professional without showing a little too much. The things to remember with summer dresses is you want to check the hemline and the neckline. Avoid deep plunging necklines and keep your skirt length to just above the knee. Tasteful necklines include scoop necks, slight v-necks, and the classic round neck. You can add in your personal style with patterns and fits!

Next on the workwear agenda is strappy sandals! Please start with a fresh pedicure for your weekend flip flops (hello Rose Gold Birkenstocks for all my Austin ladies!). So why not show off those piggies in the office. You can go for the super on trend ankle wrap sandal with the heel you prefer, or the open toe slide! Really, the options are endless for strappy sandals in the office.

Finally, a good go-to piece for summertime office wear is a flowy skirt. I stick to a lighter fabric that moves freely so that I won’t get too hot outside but have enough to keep me covered inside. I like to add my personal pizazz with either a bold print or accessory such as buttons or pleats!

Overall, dressing for summertime in the office is easy! You just need to identify your key items and go from there.

What do you consider summertime workwear essentials?

Leave me a comment below!

The Three Colors of Summer

I know I am not the only Austin-ite ready for summer. I am looking forward to spending days on Lake Travis, picnics at Zilker Park, and indulging over some patio dining. 

Call me crazy, but despite the heat, I think Texas is a great place to live in the summer months—Austin in particular. Given the diversity of the city and all it has to offer, I often explore the outdoors sporting my more casual fashion as a result embracing the laid-back lifestyle.

There are several trends highlighting “casual” play this season,  including my three favorite colors of summer 2019. 

1.} BEIGE – First up we celebrate our friend, Beige. Trend reports enlist “Down to Earth” shades as paramount, so I cannot think of a better color to represent this essential neutral palette. Monochromatic, beige on beige concepts or outfits including dominant earth tones are head to toe looks I personally adore!

2.} FUCHSIA – Next up we have the “Electric Avenue” trend which is all.about.neon! If I have to pick my favorite eye catching color, I am going to have to say, “Neon fuchsia!” I am not afraid of a bold pop of color and have loved pink since I can remember. Fuchsia is a great choice for ladies who are not afraid to stand out in a crowd and take charge. This color is also great for all my Winter Tone ladies out there!

3.} LEOPARD – Finally, we have the “Wild Side” trend. I am going to be completely honest here…I LOVE LEOPARD print. I wear this “trend turned neutral” year round as this print is one of my favorite ways to add a little spice to any outfit. I don’t necessarily recommend a full head-to-toe leopard print ensemble but a subtle printed scarf or fun shoes can take your outfit to the next level. 

Now that I have bragged on my three favorite colors for summer 2019, what are your faves? Is there any colors you adore that aren’t on my list?

Comment below and let’s chat about it. 

Stylishly Yours,

Jen Young 

Forever Styled Is Back!

I’ve said it a time or two… And like us all, every once-in-a-while life just seems to get in the way. While I have still been taking clients and doing my styling thing on the side, it has maybe become clear to some of you that I have been a bit MIA on the cyber front.

Some of you know, I began a full time job with Pitney Bowes as a Sales Development Rep back in January which had to take front and center to stabilize my family life. I will say I have missed pursuing my passion for fashion so hopefully reengaging in the industry on a part-time basis will restore my soul.

All this to say… I’m back!!

That’s right, friends—I’m ready to kick the styling into high gear. Not only is my website up and running at new speeds (and a new design), but I am back to taking in-person styling appointments on weekends and virtual styling appointments on week nights.

Just a reminder of a few of the things you can do with Forever Styled:

Closet Assessment & Inventory: We take a look at your closet together, see what you have, and then make some choices. When we are done, opening your closet will bring you peace. As we move into a new season, this is the perfect time for a Spring Overhaul or a refresh if you have worked with me in the past. Adding items like the ones below might be just what’s missing from your closet:

Forever Styled can be the one to help you determine what is and what is not needed! 

Personal Shopping: We can lend a hand while you fill in your wardrobe gaps or we can do all the work for you. It’s that simple.

Virtual & Photography Styling: From styling your family portraits to keeping your wardrobe inventoried, Forever Styled offers an array of virtual styling options.

Travel Packing Consulting: Packing is an art form. We help you effectively pack and teach you key skills that will allow you to travel worry-free.

Speaking Engagements & Events: Whether you need a seasoned speaker for your event, a consignment store strategist, or a closet stylist, we can help.    

So, if you are looking for a wardrobe re-fresh, or just an excuse to get back on the styling train with me, email for your next appointment: jen@foreverstyled.com.

Stay Stylish,

Jen Young

Fashion Emergency Kit: Holiday Edition

Can you believe it’s that time of year again? ’Tis the seasonwhere you are full of holiday cheer {or not!} and your planner is full ofparties to attend and an endless shopping list to pursue.
But do I have the perfect gift solution for you~
Have you ever experienced a wardrobe malfunction at one of yourholiday events and just really needed a fashion emergency kit?
See if this scenario sounds familiar. You are at a Christmasparty with your boss and their cousin’s friend is just the person you have beenwanting to meet to secure a new client and you must make a powerful first impression. BUT youjust ran into a doorframe and ripped the very dress you bought to “wow” thisperson. You are panicking and do not have time to go home and change.
Well fear not, you brought your fashion emergency kit so there isno need to fear. All you need to do is whip out your mini sewing kit and patchthat baby right up. Then go out there and make your dreams come true!
So now that we have been over this super hypothetical situation,let’s talk about what goesinside this fashion emergency kit.

FASHION TAPE  |  ROLL BRUSH  |  SEWING KIT  |  SHOE PETALS  |  MINTS  |  FUR BALLS  |  SOLE SERUM  |  TIDE TO GO  |  JON HART

Here’s what youneed to grab:
1. Fashion Tape (link here!)
2. Mini Roll Brush (I love this one! It comes in the cutest colors!)
3. Mini Sewing Kit (Check out this fun one from Overstock! I love it because it has all thetools you need—even for first time sewers!)
4. Shoe Petals (This is my FAVE)
5. Breath mints (not really for fashion but you will thank me)
6. Sweater Stone {to remove those dreaded fur balls on your garments} 7. Sole Serum: For those achy feet. Instant painreliever for high heels and more.
8. Tide to Go Instant Stain Remover! Touch up yourspots in a jiffy.
All you’ll needto do is gather all the things and put them in your favorite pouch (I love my Jon Hart Grande).No need to carry it with you…just leave it in your car!
I hope this fashion kit helps to make your holiday season evenmore bright and merry! Consider bringing this fun curation to your next giftexchange or reserve it for your fashion conscious friend.
And for more holiday fun, take a look at my pajama gift guidethrough the SHOP TABon my website!
Stylishly Yours This Holiday Season.

It’s Fall Y’all!

Move out of the way Spring Cleaning there’s a new kid on the block and it’s the Fall Closet Clean Out. Why save the big clean for the spring? Your wardrobe changes with the leaves so should your closet.

Have you ever looked at your closet and felt completely overwhelmed? Have you ever struggled to pick an outfit even though you feel like you have so many pieces of clothing? If you answered yes to any of these questions I have a solution for you.

I offer three specific closet clean out services to help with your dressing woes.

All of these services include a body evaluation so that we can go through your current closet and handpick items that work best for you. I will also do a closet inventory to help you create a log of all of your current clothes so that you have a “refresher” sheet to jog your memory anytime you are struggling with a look.

 

So lets take a closer look at each of the individual services.

 

The Seasonal Closet Clean Out:

  • body type assessment {3 simple measurements to determine your shape}

  • seasonal analysis/inventory of your spring/summer or fall/winter wardrobe essentials based on your specific body type

  • sorting items that need to be altered, donated, or consigned and organizing what’s left

  • customized “Style File” including tips for your body type, your wardrobe essentials checklist, and additional trends and style tips including Forever Styled’s local favorites list of resources and retailers

 

The Ultimate Closet Facelift:

  • body type assessment {3 simple measurements to determine your shape}

  • complete analysis/inventory of your entire wardrobe based on your specific body type

  • sorting items that need to be altered, donated, or consigned

  • re-organization of your closet/wardrobe and upgrading hangers {cost of the hangers not included}

  • customized “Style File” hyperlinked with items to shop including tips for dressing your body type, your wardrobe essentials inventory checklist, and additional trends and style tips including Forever Styled’s local favorites list of resources and retailers

 

The VIP Elite Concierge Status:

  • you customize the amount of time you would like to pre-purchase at a reduced rate

exclusive invitations to bi-annual VIP parties and other seasonal events with high-end collaborative partners

  • shopping discounts from collaborative partners

  • special Style Party hosting incentives {host a party and receive 50% off a gift package/service of your choice}

  • receive benefits from a unique client referral program

This concierge experience can be tailored to your budget.

 

You can inquire about any of these services in the comments below or in the “What We Do” tab. Happy Fall (Closet Clean Out) Y’all!

 

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

Showing up Well

As the third installation of our “We asked you answered” series, we are going to talk about the importance of showing up well!

Now, what exactly does that mean?

I say it’s putting your best foot forward and being ready with your intension set to take on the world for an interview, presentation, networking event, carpool line or whatever situation you might encounter!

When it comes to showing up well, here are the rules I strongly suggest:

 

1. Proper Grooming

Dare I say it… Good basic hygiene and proper grooming is crucial as you assert your first impression. Taking one last look in the mirror before making your exit in the morning is a BIG deal! Please run a brush through your hair, keep mints in your bag, check your teeth for spinach and pluck your lingering nose hairs.  Another little trick to consider is to keep a travel-size perfume bottle and powder compact in your car for last minute touchups. Neutrogena Makeup Wipes also do the trick for shirt stains and sweaty face blotting. Manicured nails also suggest you care about the details of your life. If you struggle with nail biting, consider a good top-coat that is nasty to taste. Bitten to the quick nail beds infer you are stressed out and lack self-control. Never let these simple details get in the way of your success and declaring your confident visual voice.

 

2. Dressing for the Occasion

Ever arrive at a party or work event and immediately wish you would have asked your friend what he/she was wearing beforehand? Dressing for the occasion is a key part to showing up well. Going to a job interview in a tight mini-skirt and tank top isn’t okay, just like going on a first date in an all white evening gown might send the wrong signals. As professional women, or perhaps you are re-entering the workforce, it might be hard to know just what is acceptable. If you are questioning your top, wear a jacket. Keep your shoulders covered and be mindful of your hemlines. If you want to give off a little spark of power, wear a fashionable pair of pants with a strong colorful top. Elongate your legs with the perfect pump and remember to hold your shoulders back with an upright posture.

 

3. Doing your Homework

This tip is meant for those showing up to a job interview, but can easily be used for all walks of life. It’s like when I try to help my kids with their math homework. Is anyone else lost 50% of the time?? When it comes to being interviewed, starting a new position,or walking into a new social situation– you should be prepared. Beyond knowing what to wear, you should also do the research on the background of the company with whom you are interviewing  and have thought through why you want to be a part of their team. Make sure your wardrobe matches the integrity of the audience you will meet in the office and beyond.

 

So before you go… Stop. Check. And Show Up Well!

 

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