THE SHOE THAT GOT AWAY!

A Reality To RESALE SHOPPING!

Keeping it real on being RESALE CHIC:

The joy I felt as I darted towards these GORGEOUS RED SHOES! I spotted them in the back of the resale store, in the shoe section and it was immediately ELECTRIFYING!! With every step towards them, I hoped that it would be my size. As I got a few steps away, I LITERALLY started praying for them to be my size! How crazy! 🙂

These brand new, red, unique, vibrant, platform sandals from Alice and Olivia sat pretty on the shelf, waiting to be bought by a shoe lover. I so hoped that shoe lover was me, but unfortunately as I tried to FORCE my foot into these size EIGHT beauties, knowing darn well that my feet are a size NINE! The horrible reality set in, I WASN’T the soon to be owner of these red hot beauties! 🙁

As wonderful as resale, vintage and thrift shopping is, this is a reality that goes along with the process and boy does it sting like a bee sometimes! There are those times when you can easily walk away from a Diamond Find and never think of it again, then there are other times when the piece that got away, literally plays over and over in your mind for days. Well, what should I do, you ask?? Just ride it out! lol… Eventually the feeling of regret or missing out will pass, trust me! I went home and looked them up online and they popped up for about $150. In the resale store, it was an amazing deal for less than $50. It was just one of those days in RESALE CHIC Land BUT I’m NO QUITER!! lol…

Well Honey Bunnies, ONWARD AND UPWARD WE GO! The hunt continues!

muah 🙂

December 29, 2015

NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION w/ A NEW FLAIR!

HOW TO MAKE AN ACHIEVABLE & CHICified KIND OF NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION!

Well it’s that time of year again!!

It’s the time when many ponder, evaluate and make “that list” of all the things to be done differently for the year ahead. Here are some quick tips on how to make an achievable and CHICified kind of New Year’s Resolution.

The good ole… NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION! ‘)

~ KEEP YOUR LIST REALISTIC, SHORT & SWEET

~ MAKE YOUR GOALS SHORT TERM GOALS! Ex. 3mth INCREMENTS.

~ REWARD YOURSELF ALONG THE WAY

~ TREAT YOUR MIND INSTEAD OF PUNISH YOUR MIND

~ DON’T BEAT YOURSELF UP!

~ CALL IT A TREAT DAY, NOT A CHEAT DAY

~ WRITE DOWN YOUR GOALS & KEEP IT ACCESSIBLE

~ CHOOSE A POSITIVE MINDED CONFIDANT TO SHARE THEM WITH

~ EVERYDAY IS A CLEAN SLATE.

~ IF YOU SLIPPED TODAY, JUST START FRESH TOMORROW

~ REMEMBER, YOU’RE AN AMAZING AND CHICified PERSON WITH OR WITHOUT A NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION LIST! 😉

Note from the Editor:

Typically the things added to a list are things that everyone is hoping will become a habit. Be mindful and remember, new goals should be realistic and practical to your schedules, physical & financial capabilities and most importantly, your lifestyle.

HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM THE CHICified FAMILY!!

September 7, 2015

LET'S TALK TEE!!

LET’S TALK TEE!!

For most, when we hear about a “TEE” we immediately think casual. Right?

Well, I’ve developed an entirely different outlook along with a great appreciation for the good-ole “TEE.”

I now call it MY versatili-TEE! 😉

A “t-shirt,” as the majority calls it, is a fashion piece that I consider a must-have for everyones closet. The versatility and effortless qualities, makes it an intelligent wardrobe purchase.

Let’s look at the pro’s:

~ They can be worn with a suit, skirt, jeans, slacks, shorts, under a blazer, a tunic, a dress, etc…

~ The colors are limitless.

~ They look great with every type of accessory. It all depends on the look your going for.

~ The quality options are huge.

~ The price point can be from as low as a few bucks into the hundreds.

~ It’s a fashion option that anyone can have, regardless of your budget! (Now that makes it CHICified!).

SHAYZON TIP:

When selecting a “TEE” always, always check for the quality of the fabric. The quality can make or brake the final look.

Here are a few things I call the “quick check”:

~ When you pull on both sides of the shirt, does it leave an indentation where your finger are?

If so… it’s a No No.

~ Does the fabric look like it will become dull and fuzzy after a few washes?

If so… it’s a No No.

~ If the fabric is finely ribbed but doesn’t have strong elasticity to the shirt itself.

It’s a No No.

Pairing a “TEE” with something dressy, is a CHICified fashion move. It adds personality and creates a balance to your ensemble.

A “TEE” makes an outfit not too dressy, not too casual, but simply effortless.

Images: From Wendy’s Look Book, Blaire Eadie, Kylie Jenner, the web, and our editor-in-chief, Shayzon.

August 20, 2015

MEET SHAYZON, THE FASHION MIXOLOGIST and STYLE EXPERT Mixing Up Stylish Looks for Moms and Women on CBS46!

WHAT IS A FASHION MIXOLOGIST?

An expert at finding, mixing and matching labels, no name, resale, high end, thrift and unexpected pieces together seamlessly.

WHO IS THE FASHION MIXOLOGIST?

SHAYZON, she has all the ingredients to mix you one of her FIERCE FASHION COCKTAILS!

See SHAYZON in action below:

http://www.cbs46.com/clip/11777019/shayzon-style-beauty-expert-is-here-mixing-up-stylish-looks-for-moms

Source: Shayzon, Style & Beauty Expert is here Mixing Up Stylish Looks for Moms!

July 25, 2015

PRETTY IN PARIS * DAY 2

The Travelers Diary

INSIDE PARIS WITH SHAYZON

DAY 2:

As morning breaks and the sunlight begins to creep in through the drapes, I feel as soft tap on my shoulder, my eyes pop open and it hits me… IT’S MY FIRST MORNING WAKING UP IN PARIS! Wow, I have dreamt of this very moment for so long. I immediately spring from the bed and run over to the french doors to say a prayer of thanks and to take in the sweet morning air.

Today will be a day of exploration. Getting out to as many other areas as possible in Paris is the goal. 😉 It was very tempting to prebook tours and excursions, but after alot of thought and knowing our personalities, the freedom of going where ever we choose at our own pace, seems alot more enticing. First things first, at this moment there’s a rumbling within me that more than likely can only be satisfied with some hot tea, baked goods and an egg white omelet. Lol… I’m a happy foodie! 😉

SHAYZON’s TRAVEL TIP: The hotel site is a great source for places to eat & visit and for exciting things happening around the city. Not to mention the two great magazines (WHERE & PARIS) in the room. Personally mapping out each day based on research and input from the incredibly helpful and funny concierge is working out really well.

This morning we’re venturing a bit outside of Paris to one of their largest markets called Marche’ de Saint-Denis. The market is filled with a plethora of vendors. There are rows of fruits, herbs, vegetables and seafood, topped off with laughter and a myriad of beautiful languages.

One of the key recommendations from our concierge Antoine, “Always be mindful of crowded spaces, my pockets and my purse.” NOTE TAKEN! 😉

In the midst of walking through the crowd, the laughter of two little girls is piercing through and as we continue to shuffle through, the crowd breaks and there they were, just as happy as ever. One thing I love about laughter, it has no language barrier.

This is such a colorful and rich experience. So much to see but not enough time to see it all. We will definitely have to come again. This marche’ has everything you can think of and so much more.

Well the adventure continues with a trip on the subway and lets not forget a quick photo of hubby and yours truly. lol.. 😉

SHAYZON’s TRAVEL TIP: It’s really convenient to get cash/euro from the ATM machines, but I recommend speaking with your bank prior to traveling to let them know where you’ll be and the dates that you’ll be there. Most importantly, ask your rep if there will be any bank fees for card usage or service fees from the places charging your card while you’re away. This helps to prevent your charges being denied in a country where you may not be able to quickly contact your bank and also preventing a huge shock of bank charges for every transaction when you return home.

Traveling back into the city from Saint-Denis is another excellent opportunity to capture more of the architectural beauty that laces Paris. (psst…did you notice the lady on the balcony?) 😉

Back in Paris and it’s time for lunch and the second half of the day.

I think I belong here. 😉

STAY TUNED FOR PART 2 OF INSIDE PARIS WITH SHAYZON DAY 2.

All images were taken by and belong to SHAYZON, our very own Editor-in-Chief.

June 26, 2015

AMAZING DIY/DIM DINNER PARTY CENTER PIECES

ARE CENTER PIECES AT A DINNER PARTY A MUST HAVE??

Party planning can be quite a task sometimes. Ok, let’s keep it honest, it’s quite a task every time! lol… 😉

What we’ve discovered at CHICified through trial and error, is the importance of simplifying the planning process into specific steps.

The two MAJOR must haves:

1. Order Of Operation List

2. To Do List

TIP: TO DO LIST apps are awesome! You don’t have to worry about losing a piece of paper. Just don’t lose your phone! lol… 😉

DIM – Do It Myself (Found in the CHICified Dictionary)

Today we’re focusing on an area of the To Do List that has people a bit uncertain. THE CENTER PIECE.

The importance of a center piece on a dinner party table (buffet or sit down) is a very important decision to your event and most certainly a personal choice.

It all comes down to the ambiance you are creating and your personal taste and style.

TIP: Shayzon loves having a center piece on her table when entertaining, but she doesn’t believe that it always has to be with flowers.

There is no right or wrong decision about having a center piece. If you choose to have one, it can definitely be visually appealing and also a great conversation piece.

Going to a florist or ordering custom made arrangements is an awesome option if time allows and you’re financially able to. A DIY/DIM approach is also fantastic and a very CHICified way to go. Not only does it become your signature creation like the ones created by Shayzon in these pictures, but it’s fun, personalized and very cost effective.

Shayzon (CHICified‘s Editor-in-Chief) shared these pictures of the center pieces from her Premier Party for her new show Mother Funder on Bravo. She worked with flowers from the local supermarket and a vase shaped like a purse made from moss that she found at a flower wholesale warehouse.

These beautiful center pieces most certainly became a conversation piece at this dinner party. 😉

For directions on how to create your own CHICified DIY/DIM flower arrangement, check out: http://www.chicified.com/a-gorgeous-floral-arrangement-for-less-than-7/

June 8, 2015

CAPTURED INSPIRATION

OUR CHICified 5!

LOVES FROM THE WEEKEND!

CHICified believes in taking time for visual inspiration.

Here are a few gorgeous pics that we fell inlove with over the weekend.

Note from the Editor:

In this world that we occupy, there is beauty to be admired and inspiration to gain. Be present in your moments and have your eyes be your camera.

SHAYZON

*photos from around the web.*

June 5, 2015

WHAT IS A SHAYZON FAB FIND?

A SHAYZON FAB FIND…

SOMETHING FABULOUS & WORTH FINDING!

FAB FIND is most certainly found in the CHICified Dictionary. ‘)

Here’s the short & sweet definition, along with important points for

SHAYZON to give the FAB FIND stamp of approval.

Fashion, shoes, accessories, bags and decor that are graciously accompanied with great quality, a fit that’s remarkable and appeal to the eyes that’s purely irresistible. Top that all with a pretty little price tag adorned with a mind-blowing price, and you’ve got yourself the definition of a FAB FIND!!

“Feeling GRAND and wearing a FABULOUS ensemble that looks like a million bucks, all while smiling inside knowing that it didn’t cost more than a minuscule dent in my purse, is just FABtastic!”

With a few pointers and tips, anyone can master the hunt.

SHAYZON’s Truth Serum:
It takes a minute to save a buck!

* Don’t only settle with the first thing you see that stands out on the rack. Look around.

** Don’t grab just anything with an inexpensive price tag. Check the quality, style & fit.

***TRY IT ON, TRY IT ON and did I remember to say TRY IT ON!?!? Getting things altered is smart.

Not so fast!

Remember the factors in the definition above when identifying and selecting your FAB FIND and you’ll be well on your way!! 😉

Tip: As you browse through magazines, stores or online, keep those things that excite you in mind when out on the hunt for a FAB FIND.

These ‘Hangisi’ Manolo Blahnik pumps were my inspiration ($650). For a dramatic fraction of the cost, I knew when I came across these consignment pumps, they were FAB and definitely going home with me. 😉

*my pumps were found brand new in a consignment store on clearance for less than $20!

FAB FIND STAMP OF APPROVAL! 😉

May 15, 2015

A GORGEOUS FLORAL ARRANGEMENT FOR LESS THAN $7???

Have you ever admired floral arrangements and found yourself feeling a bit intimidated or wishing you were able to recreate them for your own home?

WE DEFINITELY HAVE! ‘)

Flowers have the power to brighten any space, improve any mood and transform any environment.

Flowers also have a reputation for being expensive.

We see them in magazines, as a major focal point on the sets of many TV programs, hotel lobbies, weddings, spas, restaurants, cafes and so many more captivating spaces. Clear indication that flowers are a great and important part of creating an influential and positive space.

ps. There’s actual research that shows how flowers affect the way we feel.

SO how can you enjoy the benefits of beautiful flowers on a regular basis without breaking the bank?

No worries, CHICified will most certainly show you how!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Her are the steps on how to create a beautiful and expensive “looking” flower arrangement for less than $7.

Lets get started!! 🙂

Today we went with miniature pink roses.

1st. What you’ll need are gardening shears, a vase, a funnel and water.

( You can find unique containers and/or great inexpensive vase at a dollar store, the supermarket or even better, in your own home.)

2nd. Lay out all of your flowers so you can see exactly what your working with.

3rd. Remove all the leaves and put them aside.

4th. Create a cutting guide by measuring one stem with the exterior of your vase leaving a 1/2 inch of the stem above the rim of the vase and then cut the stem at an angle.

5th. Cut all stems using your guide.

6th. Begin adding and arranging your stems one by one.

7th. When you have created the final look you like or love…. add your water through the funnel to avoid disturbing your arrangement.

** We prefer adding water at the very end of the process, so we can freely rearrange the flowers to our desired placement.**

TAH DAH!!

* Never underestimate the potential of a supermarket bouquet. ‘)

(BOGO sales get us excited!)

* When selecting your bouquet, be sure the petals and leaves have no brown spots and aren’t wilting.

*Choose your flowers by the color scheme you love, your favorite type of flower or go with the bouquet/s that makes you feel happy and excited when you see it.

Treat yourself!

Create an environment on a Savvy Budget at home and/or at work that makes you feel special, happy, worthy and CHICified.

You deserve it! ‘)

April 7, 2015

BODY BASHING??

BODY BASHING!

We do it to ourselves time and time again.

The realization of Body Bashing hit me a bit ago after speaking with a few ladies who shared that they were really unhappy with their bodies.

These beautiful ladies were having great difficulties with finding clothes that they thought looked good on them. What I thought was most unfortunate, was that they all ended our conversations with a good dose of BODY BASHING. 🙁

Ok, so first things first, what is BODY BASHING?

It’s being unhappy and critical with the body you’re in; your shape, your height, your proportions and your size.

Well the goal of CHICified is always to put as positive, informative and uplifting perspective on things we care about (which is you, our readers).

I’ve narrowed it down and there are two times when this horrible bashing takes place the most.

While shopping and while getting dressed.

What many of us don’t realize while shopping is the fact that the clothes we are trying on or wanting to wear, wasn’t uniquely made for our specific bodies. What we do is look at a piece we like, try to fit it and become extremely hard on ourselves if it’s not a perfect fit.

All of our lives we have been doing, what I call, Russian Roulette Shopping.

Russian Roulette Shopping is hit or miss shopping. Honestly, we are the ones that get the hit when we miss! It should actually be the opposite! If a designer or store doesn’t have the clothes that’s flattering to your body, then they missed (having you as a buyer) and you need to hit the road (happily to the many other available options out there). 🙂

If we begin to approach shopping in a new and CHICified frame of mind, we will focus on finding designers and stores that carry pieces that are cut to fit our individual body types.

It may take a bit of effort to lock down all of the ones you love, BUT imagine the fun and fulfillment that you’ll have. Confidently walking into a store, knowing that this is your spot, and it’s all just a matter of picking what you want and not what you have to settle for.

ps. Remember the HUGE options that we will always have when in a pinch… a seamstress and the local dry cleaners for tailoring and alterations.

LOVE THE BODY YOU’RE IN, WE’RE ALL BEAUTIFUL!

ENJOY THE PROCESS!

HUGE HUGS MY INTELLIGENT & CHICified SHOPPERS!! muah 🙂