21 May 2013 / By Nikia Jefferson

Design School(ed) with Shernett Swaby of SWABY

schooled (sko͞old):
Educated or trained in a specific activity or in a particular way.

The Design School(ed) series continues with Shernett Swaby of SWABY and Model 29. It’s been almost four years since our first encounter at the Randolph Street Market and my SWABY handbag is still in heavy rotation. Shernett takes pride in the fact that she has full control of her SWABY collection – there’s no outsourcing whatsoever. She marches to the beat of her own drum and has managed to stay true to her design aesthetic while still creating sellable garments.

There is much to learn from Shernett, especially with her extensive fashion background. So, let’s get into it, shall we?

Design School(ed) with Shernett Swaby of SWABY

Toronto native, Shernett Swaby, is the creative genius behind SWABY. From origami folds to exaggerated flowers, Shernett uses unique details and textures to create a point of interest on every design (which are all made with her own hands, by the way). Shernett sits down with our guest correspondent, Kari Herrera of Chicagoings.com, to school us on her Project Runway Canada experience, the importance of creating her designs in-house, and what inspires each collection (including her diffusion line, Model 29).

Our “ChiTown Shakedown” segment is sure to result in a few laughs as Shernett shows us just how much of an independent thinker she is. Yes, she kept it really real with us. And that’s exactly why we deem her not only as one of the most talented designers in Chicago, but also the most grounded.

Special thanks to Media Elixir, Kari Herrera, Gabriel Charles Tyler and DJ HasH for your involvement in this series!

17 May 2013 / By Nikia Jefferson

Friday Find: A Film and A Store Opening You Can’t Miss

Friday Find showcases the item ChiTown Fashionista has become smitten with during the current week. Plus, what better way to start the weekend than with a bit of impulse shopping? It’s been a long week, you’ve earned it.

For this week’s Friday Find, we’re taking a break from featuring tangible goods to shine some light on a couple of experiences you should partake in over the weekend (besides the event I’m hosting on Sunday). Be warned, one of them may still lead to the purchase of a tangible good or two.

Scatter My Ashes At Bergdorf’s

I had the pleasure of attending a screening of this movie earlier this week, and have to say it is an absolute “must see” for anyone that truly loves fashion. This documentary provides viewers a clear understanding of what makes Bergdorf Goodman the destination of choice for shoppers who are not only seeking the best luxury goods, but appreciate the impeccable service and exclusivity that Bergdorf’s prides itself on.

From the storied history of the Bergdorfs and Goodmans (did you know the Goodmans lived on the top floor of the store for many years, in a 16-room apartment?) to the intensely tedious process of creating the store’s world renowned window displays, this film will make you appreciate Berdorf’s for more than just the obvious. Of course, there are a few juicy stories, as recounted by the owners, employees and designers. You’ll find out which celebrity unexpectedly purchased 70+ fur coats on Christmas Eve as gifts for loved ones and which designer was dropped by Bergdorf’s because they collaborated with JC Penney.

Scatter My Ashes at Bergdorf’s opens today and will be showing at the AMC on 600 N. Michigan (if you’re not in Chicago, visit bergforf-movie.com and enter your zip code for locations and showtimes). Grab a few friends and check it out this weekend. You won’t regret it.

ULTA West Loop Grand Opening

That’s right. ULTA is opening a new location in the West Loop today!

For those of you that live and work in the area, I’m sure you’ve been walking past the storefront (16 S. Halsted) in anticipation of this day.

Sure, you can visit the store whenever your heart desires. But this particular weekend, in celebration of the opening, there are deals and freebies to be had. Today through Sunday, there will be complimentary makeovers and consultations from brands like Urban Decay, bare Minerals, Murad and Philosophy, gift certificates (for the first 100 shoppers each day) and free gifts (for the first 1000 visitors over the entire weekend). That’s more than enough reason to get down there at some point this weekend.

Enjoy.

15 May 2013 / By Nikia Jefferson

Renouvelé Chic: Join Me for Shopping and Spa Services This Sunday

Shopping and spa services. That’s pretty much all a woman needs in life, right? That’s exactly why, when I was asked to host Renouvelé Chic this Sunday, I responded with a resounding “YES”.

The French skincare and waxing salon, Le Remède, is West Town’s newest gem and the perfect venue for ReFINDefined’s upcoming popup shop experience. Join me and Alison Ray of Sassy Moms in the City on May 18 (5-8pm), as we shop ReFINDefined’s redesigned vintage wares (that’s clothing, accessories and home decor, y’all) while indulging in spa treatments, sweet treats and good vibes.

Full details are below. Be sure to RSVP, as space is oh-so limited.

I can’t test all the products and eat all the desserts myself (although, I wouldn’t mind trying).  So stop by on Sunday and help me out! I look forward to seeing you there.

Le Remède – Waxing & French Skincare Boutique Spa
hosts ReFINDefined Pop-Up
Sunday, May 19th. 5-8p
1900 W Chicago Ave.

14 May 2013 / By Nikia Jefferson

Design School(ed) with Azeeza Khan of Atelier AZZA

schooled (sko͞old):
Educated or trained in a specific activity or in a particular way.

Today, we are excited to announce the launch of Design School(ed), a series of videos focusing on emerging talent and designers making major moves in the fashion community. Our first set of videos, which is a trilogy of sorts, will feature interviews conducted by our guest correspondent, Kari Herrera of Chicagoings. Designers will drop knowledge on a myriad of topics, including their design process, lessons learned from Project Runway and what inspires them.

First up is Azeeza Khan of Atelier AZZA. Enjoy!

Design School(ed) with Azeeza Khan of Atelier AZZA

For this installment of Design School(ed), our guest correspondent, Kari Herrera of Chicagoings.com, sits down with Azeeza Khan of Atelier AZZA to discuss everything from her new Magnificent Mile digs in The Shops at North Bridge (520 N. Michigan Ave) to the key attributes of the “AZZA girl”. Our mighty curveball, known as the “ChiTown Shakedown”, reveals Azeeza’s favorite pizza place, which baseball team she roots for, and one of her current favorite dishes (which involves Ruffle chips, by the way).

Watch as we gain more insight into the world of Atelier AZZA and get personal with the woman behind all those Swarovski embellished dresses and accessories that Chicago (and the world) has grown to love.

Special thanks to Media Elixir, Kari Herrera, Gabriel Charles Tyler and DJ HasH for your involvement in this series!

13 May 2013 / By Gabriel Charles Tyler

Get The Look: Channel Your Inner Daisy (or Gatsby)

The opulence of the “Roaring 20s”, marked by the iconic looks of flappers and debonair men, resulted in a decade where fashion exuded elegance and class. Now, movie goers across the nation will get a taste of the fashion and glamour that has made the Jazz Age iconic, with the release of Baz Luhrmann’s adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s literary classic “The Great Gatsby.” While I had the chance to see an early screening of the film on Tuesday, thanks to Be U Weddings, and could go on and on about the stellar performances from Mulligan and DiCaprio, or the amazing working on the soundtrack into the film, I won’t ruin the experience for you. Instead, here are a few ways you can channel your inner Daisy and Jay Gatsby with a 21st-century twist.

Channeling Daisy

Brooks Brothers was mentioned several times in Fitzgerald’s writings as a representation of the ultimate gentleman’s purveyor of fine clothing to the American man of distinction. If you’re looking to dress like the DiCaprio version Jay Gatsby, head over to Brooks Brothers. The clothier chain has created a limited-edition menswear line inspired by the film, featuring striped regatta blazers, velour vests, wing-tipped shoes and walking sticks. Other ideas for channeling Gatsby include reading glasses, trench coats and linen suits.

1. SCOJO Sullivan Street Reading Glasses

2. Brooks Brothers The Great Gatsby Collection Shawl Collar Cardigan

3. Banana Republic Tailored-Fit Navy Micro-Stripe Suit Trouser

4. Brooks Brothers The Great Gatsby Collection White and Brown Spectator Wingtip

 What vintage-inspired pieces are tugging at your inner Daisy or Gatsby?

10 May 2013 / By Nikia Jefferson

Friday Find: Movado ‘Bold’ Crystal Dot Watch

Friday Find showcases the item ChiTown Fashionista has become smitten with during the current week. Plus, what better way to start the weekend than with a bit of impulse shopping? It’s been a long week, you’ve earned it.

Stark white and sparkly. This is my kind of Movado.

I spotted this ‘Bold’ Crystal Dot version while flipping the pages of the latest Nordstrom catalog (which I tend to do more often than I should). I’m a strong proponent of wearing white watches all summer long. And although I adore my ceramic Michael Kors watch, I think it’s time to add a new milky white timepiece to my arsenal.

The colored Swarovski crystal accent adds the perfect hint of femininity (what girl doesn’t love a dose of sparkle?) and the design is oh-so clean. If you’re looking to join the Movado family, this is the ideal introductory piece. That’s because a price tag of $395 makes it one of the most affordable Movados you can find (you can thank the leather strap for that).

Now I’m off to update my Mother’s Day wishlist, yet again. It’s never too late, right?

07 May 2013 / By Nikia Jefferson

The Newness: From Louis Vuitton to Modahnik

1. Louis Vuitton Mosaic Pump | 2. Coach wallet (similar here and here) | 3. Modahnik dress | 4. Rebecca Minkoff “Blake” Bag | 5. King Onye Foreign Currency Necklace | 6. Zoya Polish in “Zuza”

I’m constantly sharing my current “wants” and other great buys on Twitter and Facebook. People are always asking, out of all the things on my ever-changing wishlist, what do I actually break down and buy?  So, I’ve decided to periodically divulge that information on this here blog. My own Closet Conversations of sorts.

Let me introduce you to some of the newest members of the family (translation: wardrobe).

Each season, I tend to splurge on a pair of shoes or a handbag (or in some cases, both).  Clearly, these Louis Vuitton Mosaic Pumps were the reason I had to break open the piggy bank this time around. I’m not sure I’ve ever spent this much on a pair of shoes, but they are completely worth it. As a pump, of course it’s perfect for the office. And thanks to the laser cut detail, there is an elevated level of design that takes it from an everyday pump to a statement shoe that can be worn for almost any occasion. Versatility is key, especially at that price, right?

I’ve mentioned King Onye on the blog before. Local designer Oneka Ijeoma has a knack for creating one-of-a-kind designs that I just can’t get enough of.  My inner world traveler squealed with joy when I noticed this Foreign Currency necklace in her Lincoln Park boutique (707 W. Armitage). With coins from countries I’ve visited and those still sitting on my bucket list, this necklace is a consistent reminder of just how big this world is and how much traveling I need to do.

With so many neutral handbags in my arsenal, it was time to add something bold into the mix. Just looking at the bright yellow color puts me in a better mood. And the studs add the right amount of edge to this sunny satchel.

This wallet is a direct result of a gift certificate sent to me by my Coach personal shopper (yes, it has become a problem). The colors and distressed leather give it a vintage feel. Plus, I love that it doesn’t scream “Coach”, which means it is a style I would have purchased, regardless of the brand.

I can’t say enough about the talent that is Kahindo Mateene. Her clothing line, Modahnik, is causing quite a stir in the local and international fashion community (the images from my post about her Spring 2013 lookbook have been pinned more times than I can count). I was lucky enough to get my hands on this dress for $Free.99, thanks to a Twitter contest held by Purely Fashion. The vibrant print is insanely good, and the peter pan collar is a such nice touch. I’m saving this beauty for an upcoming trip. I’ll be pairing it with the Rebecca Minkoff bag, obviously.

What purchases have you made recently? Which new item in your wardrobe do you plan to practically live in all season?

03 May 2013 / By Gabriel Charles Tyler

Mamma Mia: Mother’s Day Gift Ideas for Every Mom

Mother’s Day became a nationally recognized holiday in 1914, and since then it remains to be the one day a year (well, besides Christmas and birthdays) for husbands and children to celebrate the women in their lives. To commemorate Mother’s Day, we’ve rounded up some unique gift options for a myriad of moms. Check out our picks below.

MOM-TO-BE

1. The HATCH Collection Cape - This cape may be a bit pricey, but it is completely worth it. The belted design means that it can be worn at every stage of the pregnancy and beyond!

2. Belli Skincare “Your Best Baby Bump” Duo - This kit contains a belly oil that not only helps to prevent stretch marks, but also doubles as massage oil. All of which is needed to help a mom-to-be relax and recover.

01 May 2013 / By Nikia Jefferson

A Chicago-Style GILT Sale Launches Today

Ever wondered what a Gilt sale that caters specifically to Chicago’s fashionistas would look like? Well, today’s your lucky day.

Beginning at 11am CST, the Second City Spring Style event will offer up deals exclusive to Chicago members and handpicked by Gilt’s new Women’s Editorial Director, Tracey Lomrantz Lester. The selection will not only include clothing and accessories (I’ve got my eye on the Missoni umbrella ($95) and Kelsi Dagger tote ($179) shown above), but also discounts at some of Tracey’s favorite local spots for dining, pampering and even working out.

Of course a sale this special has its own link. So, make sure you visit www.gilt.com/midweststyle to access it.*

If you’re like me, you’ll be logging on to Gilt a few minutes before 11am, with your trigger finger on the keyboard (or touchscreen, if you’re mobile), to get first dibs on the goods. Just be sure to save an umbrella for me, ok?

*If you are not a GILT member yet, click here for an official invite.

26 April 2013 / By Nikia Jefferson

Friday Find: J. Crew Scalloped Linen Jacket

Friday Find showcases the item ChiTown Fashionista has become smitten with during the current week. Plus, what better way to start the weekend than with a bit of impulse shopping? It’s been a long week, you’ve earned it.

When the J. Crew catalog hits my mailbox, everything stops. I will flip through the pages with one hand while holding the baby in the other (if it comes down to that). Of course the merchandise is quality, but it’s the styling that gets me excited. This week, however, there was one particular item that literally jumped out of the page. There was no sophisticated styling involved. It didn’t need it. It was a shining star, all by itself.

Yes, the Scalloped Linen Jacket is unique in its design and will make your circle of fashion friends envious. However, the appeal resides in the fact that it can also spice up one’s work wardrobe. We all know how difficult it is to find something that is equally professional and stylish. That could very well be the reason the above photo resonated so well with our Instagram, Facebook and Twitter followers.

I have a feeling this jacket will sell out fast, so be sure to get your hands on one as soon as possible. The versatility, alone, will make it worth every penny.