FASHION WEEK 2016 – CHICified WRAP UP!

Fashion Week 2016 – CHICified Wrap UP!

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Fashion Week 2016 around the globe was a supercharged and excitingly stressful time. Designers known and unknown eagerly anticipate the reveal of their collections. It’s somewhat comparable to the end of year show and tell that we’ve all experienced at some point or another in our lives. lol… 🙂

Designers work tirelessly for this moment that comes around twice a year. The challenge and task of translating designs from their thoughts and dreams to sketches, patterns, textiles, mannequins, models and finally to the runway is remarkable. The runway, a place where collections are birthed and unveiled for everyone to see. It’s quite an elaborate process and outlet for not only RTW (ready-to-wear) garments to be seen, but also for extremely creative, exaggerated and artistic pieces to be unleashed as well.

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Many people after seeing a runway show, will ask “who would ever wear that?” or “no one can wear that in everyday life!” Well, many garments on the runway are simply designs without boundaries or inhibitions. In addition to the practicalities, which are geared mainly to the very important, front row industry buyers, it’s also very much about fun, creative freedom and limitless expression.

That being said, as Fashion Week 2016 A/W wraps, it has truly been an EXCITING, COLORFUL and COMPELLING Fashion Week season for sure.

gucci-2016-milan-fashion-weekFor a number of years I’ve been saying to my hubby that fashion had become somewhat “blah” and uninspiring. Everything looked the same and everyone has been dressing and looking the same as well. Regardless of height, size or personalities, everyone wears the same thing!! Something is just wrong about that!  Years ago, there was more individualism, uniqueness and true personal style. It was easily identifiable from one person to the other.

Well, after obsessively watching the live feeds, videos and excitedly combing through images from Fashion Week in NY and internationally,  I must say it looks like we may be heading back to the vibrant and exciting days of old in fashion! YAY!!

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The colors, textures, prints, patterns and designs that were utilized and intertwined are simply fantastic and invigorating. Gucci, Dior, Chanel, Stella Jean, Balenciaga and on & on have thoroughly blown my mind!

As I always say, “fashion can be bought anywhere but your true style comes from within.”

Your eye and interpretation of garments, the organic assembling of those pieces and your seamless, somewhat effortless way of having your outer wear in true reflection of your inner personality is, your CHICified Signature Style.

Fashion Week 2016 – CHICified Wrap Up!

**gorgeous images are from the web**

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

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

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.

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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! 😉

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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.

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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.   20150712_132605

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

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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.

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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.

20150712_134002  Well the adventure continues with a trip on the subway and lets not forget a quick photo of hubby and yours truly. lol.. 😉

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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.

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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?) 😉

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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.***

PRETTY IN PARIS * DAY 1

The Travelers Diary

PARIS

DAY 1:

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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.

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

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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.

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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!!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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_DSC0437The “highlight” of the evening, discovering that this is what 10pm looks like in Paris!

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

AMAZING DIY/DIM DINNER PARTY CENTER PIECES

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

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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.

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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… 😉

DIMDo 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.

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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. 😉

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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/

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.

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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.

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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!! 😉

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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.

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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. 😉

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

FAB FIND STAMP OF APPROVAL! 😉