Chic & Cheerful

Fashion. Design. Life. Etc.

Monday, December 29, 2014

Underneath My Christmas Tree.


Image by abitofglitter.
     While I can't say I was on my BEST behavior this year, it sufficed enough to leave me a very happy girl come Christmas morning! I felt so incredibly spoiled by Santa (aka my ridiculously generous family) and I thought I'd share my haul today.
Image via neimanmarcus.com
     I knew this Eddie Borgo stunner would be awaiting me on Christmas morning, and finally getting a chance to open it was the best! I blogged about this bracelet previously, having been obsessed with it the moment I laid eyes on it. It does not disappoint! 
Image via neimanmarcus.com
      I cannot wait to crack this baby open! I have been mesmerized with Betty since screening the Bergdorf documentary! Lena Dunham is also developing a TV show based on Betty's memoir, so it must be good, right?
Image via beautezine.com
     I am finally in possession of this stunning clamshell shaped compact by Alexis Bittar! I am SO excited, as I've been coveting it since October!
Image via jcrew.com
     My brother-in-law was kind enough to gift me with this GINORMOUS and stunning J Crew scarf I've had my eye on. My only gripe is that it hasn't been cold enough to wear it!
Image via shopbop.com
     I was delighted to receive the Elizabeth and James Nyos lariat from my sweet sister. I'd wanted this since the summer so I was incredibly excited to receive it!
     Other trinkets I received include a signed copy of Diane von Furstenberg's autobiography "The Woman I Want to Be" (!), "It" by Alexa Chung, and the LC Lauren Conrad Starburst Earrings and Bar Necklace I've also previously blogged about. I had a very Merry Christmas, as I hope everyone else did, and I will be back in the new year with much more glitter!


Saturday, December 13, 2014

Cheap Thrills.

All images via kohls.com
     I get a thrill from making a luxury purchase as much as the next person, but I also enjoy bargain hunting just as much. I love finding stylish pieces in unexpected places, and my latest finds are too good not to share. I am absolutely blown away by the jewelry from Lauren Conrad's collection for Kohl's, LC Lauren Conrad. They are trendy, affordable, and of seemingly good quality. This bar necklace in particular caught my eye. It reminds me of a Jennifer Meyer piece, but instead of a thousand dollar price tag, this necklace costs a mere $12.60!

     I actually own these ear crawlers, or "Stick Drop Earrings" as they are called on the Kohl's site, and I love them. The photo is a bit deceiving, as they are shown here upside down. I love them and I have gotten many compliments on them. They are great because they are both a statement piece, yet really dainty at the same time. They're currently on sale for $8.40.


     I LOVE this ring! Again, the color and style are similar to Jennifer Meyer's fine jewelry pieces, but again, the look is available without the Jennifer Meyer price. This ring can be yours for $9.80. Such a steal!

      Another great ring for the same price point, is this Interlocking Circle ring. This piece reminds me of several pieces from the Elizabeth and James jewelry collection. I would love to get this to pair with the ear crawlers.
     I highly suggest that you visit your nearest Kohl's location in person to drool over all the adorable pieces from LC Lauren Conrad!

Thursday, December 11, 2014

Loveliest Looks.

Image via dailymail.co.uk
     This week belongs to two ladies wearing very different looks by the same designer. Katie Holmes and Olivia Munn both looked incredible, rocking looks by Valentino at an event honoring the brand's namesake. Katie stuck to an all black look highlighted by a red clutch that coordinated with subtle stitching on the front of her frock. I particularly love her hair and makeup with this look- polished, but  not fussy.
Image via dailymail.co.uk
     Olivia went for a more striking color palette, choosing this saffron colored dress and pairing it with neutral Rockstuds and a printed bag. I love the bold lip she chose and the sleek hair style. Bravo, ladies!

Icon.

Image by Richard Avedon.
Today, model Dovima would have turned 87. 
This image by Richard Avedon is one of my all time favorites. 


Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Tom Ford For The Win.

Image via tomford.com
     I'm sure you are currently doing a double take as you regard the necklace in the above photo. Is it or isn't it? Oh, it is all right. What you are observing is the aptly named Tom Ford Penis Pendant necklace. Oh yes he did. Available in ahem, three different sizes, these pendants while not for the faint of heart, would make for a very cheeky Christmas gift. They are 18 karat white gold, and the small version (pictured above) will set you back a mere $790. Is it bad that I kind of want one? I think they're genius!

Tuesday, December 9, 2014

Nailed It.

Image via twitter.com
     It is no secret to those who know me, that I have a major nail polish fetish. Not just any nail polish mind you, but expensive nail polish. My heart used to belong solely to Chanel, but thanks to my sweet sister I have expanded the realm to include several ridiculously luxurious Tom Ford shades as well. It looks as if I may have to expand my tastes even further, as Victoria Beckham has just launched 2 shades with the English nail boutique Nails Inc. Dubbed "Judo Red" and "Bamboo White," they are gorgeous, classic colors, sure to become a staple in my nail arsenal.
Image via vogue.co.uk

     They are available from Nails Inc's website and will set you back $25 each. Just for good measure, how adorable are these photos of Victoria?
Image via vogue.co.uk


Roar.

Image via forwardforward.com
     It has recently been brought to my attention that my beloved Rag & Bone Newbury boots are now available in leopard pony hair. *Head explodes.* If anyone has a spare $595 plus tax to spare, I will gladly take donations.

Friday, November 21, 2014

Loveliest Look.

Image via getty.
     Oh Gwyneth. I will admit, I've gone off my beloved GP a bit since the phrase "consciously uncoupling" entered the world's lexicon, but I will always give my girl credit where credit is due. Gwynnie's excels at the minimalist look better than anyone, and this week was no exception. She is rocking her very own collaboration with Monique Lhuillier for Goop and I am digging it. Both the navy skirt and white crop top are available for purchase on her website. I am also loving the pop of red in the form of her clutch and her lip color. Nice one, Gwyn!

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

On My Mind.

Image via anitakojewelry Instagram.
     I am forever in awe of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley's incredible style. I find it quite rare these days that anyone's style translates so beautifully across both the street and red carpet, and yet Rosie always looks completely like herself no matter the venue. Lately I've found myself completely enamored with the accessories she's sporting in this shot- the Anita Ko jewelry is to die for- particularly that diamond collar! I am on the hunt for something in my price range and I won't rest until I find it. I am also coveting her gold sunglasses which I THINK are by Oliver Peoples. LOVE.
   
Image via neimanmarcus.com
     One of my necessary luxuries is nail polish. Expensive nail polish. The addiction began several years ago with a single bottle of Chanel's "Black Satin" and has since spiraled into a black hole of addiction. Countless nail polishes later, I was introduced to Tom Ford's luxe line of colors and I haven't looked back. I didn't really think there was anywhere to go from there but then this... Christian Louboutin has released a line of nail polishes and they are SWISH. Each bottle is 8 inches tall and the polish itself takes weeks and weeks to make. According to his website, 2 coats of his polish is akin to 20 from any other brand. I am dying to get my hands on a few shades to see if it lives up to the hype.
Image via glamour.com
     I will admit I have never seen any of "The Hunger Games" films, nor have I read the books, but I like everyone else, am completely smitten with Jennifer Lawrence. Her makeup for the premiere of "Mockingjay Part 1" is gorgeous! I am particularly loving her lip color and on a quest to figure out what it is. Given that she is a Dior spokesperson, it is highly likely it is something by Dior...
Image via neimanmarcus.com
     My Eddie Borgo obsession continues with this fabulous toggle bracelet. This pave version in gold is exclusive to Neiman Marcus, but it can be purchases in several different color ways elsewhere, as well as sans jewels. I LOVE it.



Jenna.

Image via getty.
     Solange Knowles had some definite competition in terms of dressing for her wedding this past weekend. J. Crew. genius Jenna Lyons brought it. Between the plain white tee, the feather skirt, the fur coat and the leopard clutch, I am in awe. Jenna has the same talent as Kate Moss in that she is entirely able to take pieces- both widely recognized and obscure and make them look as if they were made solely for her. Amazing.

Monday, November 17, 2014

Santa Baby.

Image via neimanmarcus.com
     The holiday season is fast approaching, and for once I think I just about have everyone on my list sorted out. All gifts have either been purchased or bookmarked for purchase, and now I finally have time to figure out what I'd like to receive for the holidays. High up on my list is an Eddie Borgo bracelet. I love everything about his jewelry and am already the happy owner of a pair of rose gold pave pyramid earrings, so naturally I need a few more pieces to compliment them! Spoiler alert- I already know that this absolutely stunning rose gold pyramid stud bracelet will be awaiting me under the Christmas tree. (Thanks mom!)
Image via wsj.com
     Betty Halbreich was easily my favorite part of the documentary "Scatter My Ashes At Bergdorf's." For those that aren't aware, Betty has been a personal stylist with Bergdorf's since the 1970's and continues to dress some pretty powerful people today. Lena Dunham is even working on a television show based on her experiences. She recently released her autobiography and I've been dying to get my hands on a copy in order to see if her acerbic wit has translated to the written page.

Image via jcrew.com
     My favorite place in the world to purchase scarves is hands down, J. Crew. No one does it better for such an amazing price point. I LOVE this Italian Brushed Scarf in lavender mist- it looks so cozy! This is absolutely at the top of my wish list.

Image via dailymail.co.uk
     For years I've enjoyed reading The Edit on Net-a-porter.com, so I was absolutely beside myself when I found out they would be publishing 6 issues a year under the masthead Porter. A subscription to what has easily become my favorite magazine is kind of a no brainer- they offer 63% off the cover price, and they publish special covers for subscribers like the insanely gorgeous one of Christy Turlington, shown above.
Image via shopbop,com
     Lastly, I am full on obsessed with this Nyos lariat necklace from Elizabeth and James. I love it. I've coveted this since the summertime and was bummed not to receive it for my birthday, but there's always Christmas right? Fingers crossed! If Santa Clause slipped any of these treats under my Christmas tree, I'd be one happy camper!


Solange.

Image via vogue.com
     With my sister newly engaged, I definitely have weddings on the brain. We've been trading ideas back and forth by phone and text since her fiance slid the ring on her finger. One thing that surprised me slightly is that she plans on wearing a very simple and elegant dress to her ceremony, foregoing the crazily embellished, multi-layered cupcake dresses I have become accustomed to seeing. I hoping simplicity becomes a more popular trend concerning wedding gowns, and after seeing Solange Knowles' simple Humberto Leon for Kenzo dress, I hope all future brides will take note.

Sunday, November 16, 2014

Fancy Versus Frugal.

Image via zapposcouture.com
     I fully admit to having champagne tastes on a beer budget. Sometimes that even extends to champagne tastes on a bottled water budget. The point is, as a former personal shopper, I pride myself on my talent to shop around for both the best prices, and for comparable items. I fell madly in love with these Elizabeth and James Compass Rose Stud earrings many months ago, but at $195 I wasn't exactly rushing out to get them, despite the urge. (If you are so inclined, you can do so HERE.) So when I stumbled on Lauren Conrad's Starburst Stud Earrings from her LC Lauren Conrad line for Kohl's, I was a happy camper. Why? Take a look...
Image via kohls.com
     They're practically identical! Albeit, for the $9.60 they'll set you back, you won't be getting white topaz like the Elizabeth and James version, but you WILL be getting the exact same look for a tiny fraction of the price. I love these! And they'll keep my earlobes nice and warm until I can upgrade to the Elizabeth and James pair. You can purchase your own set HERE.


Friday, November 14, 2014

Loveliest Look.

Image via Getty Images.
     Keira, Keira, Keira. Why she wears anything other than Chanel Haute Couture at all times is beyond me. (Not the most practical or financially viable choice, I am well aware.) She always manages to make these intricate, exquisite garments appear both entirely classic and completely modern. She wears them with an ease and a casual edge that is just magic. Perhaps that why this is the second time in a row she's been my pick for Loveliest Look. Don't stop with the Chanel Keira. Please.

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

Grace.


Happy birthday to a fellow Philadelphia native, Her Serene Highness, Princess Grace of Monaco,
AKA Grace Kelly.
Today would have been her 85th birthday.

Things That Sparkle.

     Typically when a designer capsule collection is announced in partnership with a chain store, I go through a wave of emotions. Elation often leads to excitement, leads to anticipation, leads to disappointment once I view said collaborations in person. However... there is always an exception to the rule. One of my favorite jewelry designers Alexis Bittar, has created a small collection of tools for Sephora, and they are gorgeous! I've been a fan of Alexis Bittar for many years, and as a former personal stylist, I've adorned many a client in his beautiful, unique, American made (in Brooklyn!) baubles. I love that he's taken his natural aesthetic and translated everyday items into things that sparkle. The main piece of the collection is this exquisite makeup brush set, consisting of 5 gold and crystal encrusted brushes, and a sleek display stand. The set will set you back $175, but with tools this pretty, your makeup application will be far from boring.
     This powder brush and accompanying travel roll is perfect for a girl on the go in need of frequent touch-ups. This set will cost you $58.
     My favorite piece from the collection is this clamshell shaped compact. I have been searching high and low for a glamorous mirror to store in my handbag, and I have most certainly found a winner. This beauty will set you back $42. Run, don't walk to your nearest Sephora to check out these fabulous finds! Oh, and I've heard whispers that there are credits to the Alexis Bittar website in each package... Enjoy!

Friday, March 7, 2014

Loveliest Look.

Image via Getty Images.
The always gorgeous Keira Knightley turned up in Paris this week to attend Chanel's RTW Fall 2014 show. (Set in a Chanel themed supermarket no less!) The lucky Ms. Knightley donned a Chanel Haute Couture creation for the event, and I am in love. Her light makeup and undone hair add an air of nonchalance to the pristine ensemble, creating the perfect balance. J'adore!

Tuesday, March 4, 2014

Sans Logo.

Image via lovebbags.com
In my opinion, there is something so inherently chic about a simple leather tote bag. In a world full of bags with every bell, whistle, and frill imaginable, I find it much more timelessly elegant to carry a bag that whispers instead of shouting. I've been on the hunt for such a bag for quite a while and am thrilled to have found 3 wonderfully beautiful options that suit every price point.
Image via zara.com
I absolutely LOVE this plain soft shopper I spotted on Zara's website recently. Completely devoid of any superfluous detail whatsoever, this practical yet stunning bag is perfect to tote life's essentials. The price is pretty sweet too- it can be yours for the bargain price of $49.90. If black is too basic, it is also available in an equally chic cobalt blue. It is available here.
Image via purseblog.com
I first spotted this exquisitely crafted leather tote by up and coming designer Mansur Gavriel, on Jenny Kayne's blog. The perfect exercise in minimalism, save for a contrasting lining color of your choice, this flawlessly constructed tote is pure perfection. If a tote isn't your first choice, Mansur Gavriel's bucket bag is also a hot commodity. I'm living for this large tote with a gold interior, available for $485 here.
Image via barneys.com
For the ultimate in understated luxury, the Balenciaga Papier tote is the ultimate statement. The same bag Charlize is sporting in the above photo, (albeit in blue) it is the perfect investment for someone who wants a designer bag that will outlive a single season. This stunning bag is available for $1445. Snag yours here.

Monday, March 3, 2014

Iconic.

Image via popsugar.com
Lupita blew me away.

Sunday, March 2, 2014

Voyeurism.


To say I am obsessed with Rosie Huntington-Whiteley is an understatement. Apart from the obvious fact that she is an incredibly beautiful, successful model, has a hunky action star boyfriend, perfect hair, and perfect skin, she is also ridiculously stylish as a model off duty. 
When I was informed that she and her fabulous wardrobe had been profiled for The Coveteur, to say I was excited would be an understatement. I love the sneak peaks into wardrobes and medicine chests that The Coveteur so generously provides, and Rosie's haul did not disappoint.
These are a few of my favorite shots...

Not only is Rosie a fantastic model, she is also a lingerie designer, collaborating with the brand Autograph for Marks and Spencer. Her line is so feminine, so romantic, and dare I say, ultra sexy and luxurious. 

A girl after my own heart, she also shares a fondness for blush hues, and snakeskin, not to mention a killer collection of coffee table books. I am absolutely coveting this blush snakeskin House of Harlow clutch, and the pile of fashionable books as well!

Her jewelry collection incites some major envy on my part. I spy some fab vintage Hermes pieces, as well as some edgy Anita Ko.

One of my favorite aspects of Rosie's style is how she manages to marry edgy contemporary pieces from Isabel Marant, Balmain, and the like with more classic items from Burberry, and Stella McCartney.  Although this Dolce and Gabbana bag and Christian Louboutin pumps are both classic wardrobe staples, their details exude a touch of edge. I love it.
Images via thecoveteur.com
Rosie is lucky to have such a beautiful space to store all her goodies. 
I'm so glad The Coveteur shared Rosie's space!





Friday, February 28, 2014

Loveliest Look.

Image via veooz.com
Leave it to Naomi Watts. She looked absolutely incredible this week, rocking look 23 from Altuzarra's Fall 2014 RTW collection, a dress that walked the runway a mere 2 weeks ago. When I think strapless, I am typically reminded of the awards season red carpet, not a chic minimalist party outfit. Paired with colorful Bvlgari gems, Naomi hit this out of the park.