PRETTY IN PARIS * DAY 1

The Travelers Diary

PARIS

DAY 1:

Ahhh Paris, the flight is long but the great anticipation blurs it all. As the plane descends and the morning light creeps through the windows, the excitement escalates and an overwhelming feeling of gratefulness sets in.

Well, here we go…yet again, I’m reassured that dreams DO come true!! ☺️

The 9yr old little girl in me that created this dream is elated, knowing that I’ve held on to her dream and have never let it go.

The streets, the architecture, the buildings and the people are all so captivating. Everything that I’ve imagined and so much more, right here before my very eyes. This feeling is electric!!

Flying through the night was a brilliant move. Being able to arrive in the morning and have the entire day ahead, turns out to be a wonderful start to this trip.

I must take a moment to acknowledge my first CHICified encounter in Paris. I present to you… The Airport Ladies Room! I must confess, I’m so taken by the sleek decor and the fabulous color combination, that I completely forget why I’m even in here. At this very moment, I know that this is going to be one heck of a city to explore.

While walking through these streets and flower shops and passing by all the eclectic boutiques and cafes, I’m realizing more and more that I feel right at home.

This day has been filled with colorful moments and memories. Well, when in Paris, do as the Parisians do! 😉 Off to the cafe for supper, socializing and a recap of this amazing day.

The “highlight” of the evening, discovering that this is what 10pm looks like in Paris!

Perfection! 😉

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

July 10, 2015

SOURCES OF GORGEOUS INSPIRATION!

OUR CHICified 5!

LOVES FROM THE WEEK.

Regardless of our walk in life, regardless of our current circumstance, regardless of the negative things we may have been told, all that matters are our desires, dreams, goals and determination.

FASHION!!

INSPIRATION: The sartorial elegance and ingenuity that grace editorial pages, models and mannequins are great sources to inspire, dare and ignite our imaginations.

MAKEUP!!

INSPIRATION: The beauty and creativity that opens our eyes to possibilities, while demonstrating a template for execution.

FLOWERS!!

INSPIRATION: The magical layering of countless colors and petals. Delicately created with the power to exude happiness, love and appreciation. Equipped with the captivating ability to boldly make statements while quietly transforming any mood.

JEWELRY!!

INSPIRATION: A sparkle of life that gives clarity and motivation, while creating a visual to aspire to.

ART!!

INSPIRATION: Intellectual exposure to mediums and textures beyond our comfort zone. Unique expressions which have the power to ignite our desire to create.

NOTE FROM THE EDITOR:

“Continuous exposure to inspiration, along with insight to things that ignite dreams within us, is exactly what CHICified is about.”

SHAYZON

*images 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! 😉

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 🙂

July 10, 2014

I'm HERE and I'm BACK!!

MY BLOG LOVE!!!

I’ve been on hiatus for a couple of months ONLY because I needed to focus on the final planning of our 14th Anniversary RE-DO-WAL (our dream wedding/renewal). I got to marry my Prince all over again!! ‘)

I most definitely will share more photos and details once we receive them from the photographers. I’m hanging on by a string and trying to be patient as I nibble at my nails in great anticipation. lol…

Right now we’re living through the eyes and photos of our dearest friends and family that shared the day with us.

I’ve missed sharing my thoughts, tips and pics with you, BUT that’s being fixed right now! ‘) Another exciting thing that happened, was the launch of our

CHICified Facebook Page. (link)

It has been doing really well so far. Please check it out and press LIKE to enjoy our page and the great things happening! ‘)

Well, it’s ~~CHICified Time~~…oops, I mean Summer Time!! ‘))

The perfect time and platform for Amazing Style, Incredible Deals and tons of

SHAYZON FAB FINDS!

YAY!!!

April 25, 2014

GLAMOROUS Style, FABULOUS Fashion & FLAWLESS Beauty

MOST BEAUTIFUL INDEED!!

LUPITA NYONG’O

I remember the evening clearly, I was super excited and preparing “my cozy space” for my Annual Award Season Routine, the highly anticipated… Red Carpet PRE SHOWS!!!

It was the Golden Globes and there was a brief moment that I stepped away from the TV (more than likely for some ice cream 😉 ) and upon returning, I was literally stopped in my tracks and my breath was taken by this incredibly stunning women on the screen. I had no idea who she was ( I don’t get out to the movies as regularly as I would like, so at this point I had not yet seen “12 Years A Slave“).

BEVERLY HILLS, CA - JANUARY 12: 71st ANNUAL GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS -- Pictured: Actress Lupita Nyong'o arrives to the 71st Annual Golden Globe Awards held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 12, 2014 -- (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/NBC/NBC via Getty Images) — BEVERLY HILLS, CA – JANUARY 12: 71st ANNUAL GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS — Pictured: Actress Lupita Nyong’o arrives to the 71st Annual Golden Globe Awards held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 12, 2014 — (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/NBC/NBC via Getty Images)

I called out to my hubby, “WHO IS THAT??? NOW SHE’S A PERFECT EXAMPLE OF CHICified!” She was radiating through my screen, I felt my eyes immediately zoom in to her piercing eyes, her gorgeous smile and lips, her incredible bone structure and her flawless skin.

Jan. 13, 2014 - Los Angeles, USA, USA - Lupita Nyong'o attends the 71st Annual Golden Globe Awards aka Golden Globes at Hotel Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles, USA, on 12 January 2014. Photo: Hubert Boesl (Credit Image: � Hubert Boesl/DPA/ZUMAPRESS.com) — Jan. 13, 2014 – Los Angeles, USA, USA – Lupita Nyong’o attends the 71st Annual Golden Globe Awards aka Golden Globes at Hotel Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles, USA, on 12 January 2014. Photo: Hubert Boesl (Credit Image: � Hubert Boesl/DPA/ZUMAPRESS.com)

There are many attractive people in the world, but ever so often there is one that is extraordinarily striking and captivating.

Lupita’s effortless presence and ability to make every garment that she wears look like perfection, is and has been quite the treat for a fashion and beauty obsessed girl like me. ‘)

Immaculately paired with her beauty are the vibrant and most sartorial garments brilliantly selected by her stylist Micaela Erlanger. Topping it all off, is Lupita’s humility, humor, grace and willingness to become transparent for the world to see.

Lupita’s sincere reveal of the moments in her life when she felt “unbeautiful”, when she was faced with uncertainties and insecurities, dreams and wonders, along with her smarts, tenacity, talent and grace, has formulated an inspirational and powerful gift that she now charmingly passes on to millions.

I always take such pleasure in the stories of journeys, dreams achieved, awards received and hopes believed.

It’s more than just the clothes, makeup, and material things, it’s the dreams as reality, goals rightly achieved, confidence to try, determination to be and moment of arrival that makes life rich and beautiful.

CONGRATULATIONS BEAUTIFUL!!

You are MOST BEAUTIFUL INDEED!

LUPITA NYONG’O

April 15, 2014

WELL HELLOOOOO SPRING!!!! ')

IT’S OFFICIALLY SPRING WHEN…..??? ‘)

What are some of the little things you do to celebrate the official arrival of SPRING??

Well, let me go first!

~ First, I chant: “mmmmm….SPRIIIING… I welcome you with smooooth shaved legs, painted toes, exposed arms and a smile fit for bright pink gloss and sunniiiies!!! mmmmm….” LOL…😉

~ Second: I just love cracking my window super early in the morning before I get up and listening to the birds while that energizing, crisp, fresh air creeps in.

~ Third: When I can pack away sweaters and most of my vast array of jeans that have faithfully assisted my ensembles for the past 6 months; AND actually break out a RAZOR for a proper and thorough LEG SHAVING…….???

OH YES DARLING, RING THE ALARM……IT’S SPRING!!!! 🙂

~ Fourth: It’s truly official when I can relieve these poor little toes from the torture and confinement of panty hose, lined tights, sock upon sock and boots.

Note: Those were all being worn at the same time most days!

~ Finally: One of the most exciting for me, is taking my princess for our FIRST SPRING PEDI!!!!

I would love to hear some of your Spring Rituals!

Before I go, I leave you with some SUPER important SHAYZON PEDI POINTS and REMINDERS.

* Have fun with your polish colors, there are NO RULES!!

* If you bump into a color you love while out shopping, take it with you to your next appointment. Spas/salons don’t usually mind using your personal polishes.

I’m sure we’re all selective on wear we choose to lay our heads, well so should we be selective on wear we place our feet.

* Remember to always wait at least 2 days after shaving your legs before going for a pedicure. Don’t stress about the stubbles or hairs you haven’t gotten around to YET! 😉

WHY? (Shaving creates micro openings/tears in the skin, making you susceptible to bacteria making its way into the legs. That can become a nightmare experience.)

* I know it feels good, BUT it’s best to keep your toes away from the jets, especially if they are on while soaking your feet.

WHY? (Jets can harbor bacteria and fungus from prior clients and improper cleaning.)

* Be sure, especially on a busy day in the salon/spa, that they are properly sanitizing the foot baths between clients and/or before it’s your turn for relaxation. 😉

WHY? (Evenings, weekends, and days with mani/pedi specials, can become very hectic, leaving it challenging for the technicians to thoroughly sanitize the basins between clients. Let them know you don’t mind waiting a few extra mins for them to have a chance to properly prepare the basin for you.)

* Secret recommendations from the spas: “If possible, clients should go for morning appointments or Monday-Wednesday evening appointments.”

WHY? (Slower days and times allow you to receive the best pampering, thoroughly sanitized stations, a quieter environment and undivided attention on you.)

HAPPY SPRING AND PRETTY FEET TO YOU HONEY BUNNY’S! MUAH 🙂

March 31, 2014

THE PERFECT LBD

WHAT IS THE PERFECT LBD????

SINCE IT’S SUPPOSE TO BE “PERFECT“, DOES THAT MEAN WE ONLY NEED TO HAVE ONE???

Some may not be familiar with the acronym LBD, so let me start with that… ‘)

LBD is short for Little Black Dress.

The LBD is one of my recommended “must haves” for every fashionista/womans closet. You may be wondering, what makes a little black dress the “perfect one” AND how much should this “perfect” LBD cost you?

There really is a “perfect” little black dress, but I believe there is a perfect one for each and every occassion! 😉 You can have one that’s sophisticated, one that’s simple, fun, sexy, spunky and/or funky…… get my drift? ‘))

In other words, NOOO you don’t have to have just one and YES there is definitely more than one “perfect” LBD for each of us!

** A few CHICified things to keep in mind when LBD shopping or hunting:

1) ALWAYS try it before you buy it. Many times it can look drab, boring, ill-shaped or down right ugly on the hanger, but sometimes those odd little gems are the “perfect” ones. Believe me…that’s what happened to me with my “hanger ugly” little gem. ‘)

I passed it and passed it and passed it, but something about the fabric and the neck line was very appealing. I decided to take my own advice to just try the darn thing on! To my pleasant surprise, I was blown away by the cute style, incredible fabric, flattering fit and then….THE PRICE!!!! Holy Canoly!!

Let’s just say I most certainly did the FAB FIND HAPPY DANCE in my dressing room!! 🙂

I accessorized my LBD this time with a vintage leather purse, a gold bangle and necklace. I added some spice to my ensemble with burnt orange tights and black suede pumps. I did a topknot to accentuate the neckline and topped it off with a bold red-orange lipstick.

OK, I know you’re thinking…there’s no way SHAYZON is going to leave us hanging on the price! LOL… Of course not!!! It was……… $8.00!! I kid you not!!

**Totally DEAL GURU Worthy!**

2) When selecting an LBD, keep the type/s of occasions in mind that you are purchasing it for.

3) An LBD is an asset because that one dress can become a multi-event garment. By adding different jewelry, shoes, bags, tights, hairstyles, scarves etc. your one LBD can look like 10 different dresses. ( Don’t shy away from adding color to your ensemble.)

4) Select styles that are timeless vs trendy , well tailored and most importantly, styles that accentuate your most flattering features and assets. Stay away from styles and cuts that make feel self conscious and/or insecure. ( There isn’t one particular style that’s recommended for an LBD, go with what looks amazing and makes you feel confident. )

5) SHAYZON’s RACK ATTACK recommendation is to shop and scout department store sale racks, resale stores, boutiques, consignment shops and definitely thrift stores. ( Usually we find the most fabulous things when we don’t need them, so always keep an eye out for that gem before you actually have an event that may require it. )

You most certainly don’t have to break the bank to have “THE PERFECT LBD“.

January 15, 2014

MY VINTAGE RECREATION

THE STORY OF MY LITTLE GREEN VINTAGE DRESS!!

There she was, sitting pretty in the window on a beautiful sunny day, waiting for someone to see her and to fall in love with her enough to take her home. ‘)

Well here came SHAYZON driving by and completely taken by the Fabulous Vintage Green Dress in the window.

NUTSHELL?

I immediately pulled over like a crazy lady, parked illegally and ASSUMED it would fit!! 😉

Bought her, took her home and low and behold…. it was WAAAY TOO SMALL!!

The top of the dress wouldn’t zip close if I paid it! I tried every possible contortionist move. LOL…

I just had to find a way to make this fun, flowing, a-line vintage piece work!!!

As I stared in the mirror, laughing at how hilarious I looked trying to zip it up, I got this brilliant idea to cut off the top of the dress and make it into a skirt!! I immediately got a hold of my amazing seamstress, who has been with me through my many thrift and vintage reinventions. ‘)

I asked her to remove the top section completely, take a bit of fabric from the hem of the dress to create a waistband and to replace the zipper. She took on the challenge and a few days later,

VOILA!! ‘)

It’s so awesome to reinvent Vintage and Thrift finds into unique pieces of your own!

With my little skirt all ready to go, I was in the mood for pop, contrast and texture! I paired a bold black and white stripe fitted top, leopard print pumps and a leopard print belt with my bold green skirt. Finally, I topped it all off with gold accessories and a chocolate brown clutch. Oh yes, how could I forget, my cappuccino shades! 😉

Note: I totally went against one of my rules for buying VINTAGE and THRIFT!

ALWAYS, ALWAYS try things on, NEVER ASSUME it will fit!!!

****The cut of styles, the designs, and the size charts were very different in the past, so naturally the fit of clothes from the past will also be very different.****

TOTAL OUTFIT?? LESS THAN $100

Outfit Info: Skirt: Vintage Store (50% off), Pumps: Aldos (on sale), Top: H&M (on sale), Tights: Anne Klien (Marshalls), Belt: R.J. Graziano (NYC Flea Market), Clutch: BCBG (Thrift Store Find), Jewelry: NYC Flea Market

November 12, 2013

PEARL PASSION IGNITES FASHION

H2T (head to toe) PEARLS!!

Gone are the days of Breakfast at Tiffany’s,

when elegant strings of pearls like those donned by the great Audrey Hepburn, deemed adequate to making a girl feel feminine and noteworthy.

NOW, it’s ALL about PEARLS FROM H2T (head 2 toe)!!

Who can forget Lady Gaga who took it most literal a few years ago! Well since then, designers have continued to creatively incorporate this delicate gem into every aspect of fashion.

From the edgiest to the chicest, priciest to the cheapest, pearls are now attainable by all and has been embraced by many.

Are you a Pearly Princess??

I sure hope so! BUT….

If not, you most certainly should give it a try!! ,)

How??

Well you know SHAYZON has got you covered with tips!

A simple way to try a trend or experiment with fashion, is to start with accessories.

For the daring, try pearl shades! (Total DIY project that can cost you under $10) .

For the fashionista, strings of pearls (genuine or faux) will always be a hit!

For the confident, a wedding gown adorned with pearls from H2T is a sure way to make a statement of your PEARL PASSION!! ‘)

Don’t ever be afraid to experiment with something new!

The Travelers Diary

PARIS

DAY 1:

OUR CHICified 5!

LOVES FROM THE WEEK.

A SHAYZON FAB FIND…

SOMETHING FABULOUS & WORTH FINDING!

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

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

FAB FIND STAMP OF APPROVAL! 😉

BODY BASHING!

We do it to ourselves time and time again.

MY BLOG LOVE!!!

YAY!!!

MOST BEAUTIFUL INDEED!!

LUPITA NYONG’O

CONGRATULATIONS BEAUTIFUL!!

You are MOST BEAUTIFUL INDEED!

LUPITA NYONG’O

IT’S OFFICIALLY SPRING WHEN…..??? ‘)

Well, let me go first!

HAPPY SPRING AND PRETTY FEET TO YOU HONEY BUNNY’S! MUAH 🙂

WHAT IS THE PERFECT LBD????

Totally DEAL GURU Worthy!

You most certainly don’t have to break the bank to have “THE PERFECT LBD“.

THE STORY OF MY LITTLE GREEN VINTAGE DRESS!!

VOILA!! ‘)

Note: I totally went against one of my rules for buying VINTAGE and THRIFT!

ALWAYS, ALWAYS try things on, NEVER ASSUME it will fit!!!

TOTAL OUTFIT?? LESS THAN $100

H2T (head to toe) PEARLS!!

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

**Totally DEAL GURU Worthy!**