13 May 2015 / By Nikia Jefferson
If Iris Apfel is on your personal list of fashion icons, one of the style traits you seek to possess is the ability to effortlessly (and creatively) pile on tons of accessories. Simply put, no one does it like Iris.
Fortunately, the newly released IRIS documentary gives us a tiny glimpse into her life, including the thought process behind some of her over-accessorized looks. The film takes a close look at how her interior design background influences her style and also focuses on the beautiful relationship she has with her husband Carl.
04 May 2015 / By Nikia Jefferson
With Spring finally showing face and Summer right around the corner, there’s no better time to liven up our accessories a little bit…or in the case of Boo+Boo Factory, a lotta bit.
If you recall my Etsy roundup last year or have seen my recent feature in NewCity, you already know I’m a fan of local jewelry designer Christina Anton (pictured above). In a segment of the market where metalsmiths seem to be reigning supreme (mainly due to the layered necklaces and stacking rings trends), Anton’s designs are both refreshing and uncommon.
27 April 2015 / By Elise Giannasi
Memorial Day and summer vacations are upon us! That means we will be spending a lot more time in O’Hare airport over the next few months. Here to make your travel experience less stressful is the Terminal Getaway Spa, located right in the middle of Terminals 1 and 3 (you can access it through the other terminals as well).
03 April 2015 / By Nikia Jefferson
Last week, I had the pleasure of hosting one of four Chicagoland Sally Beauty Supply events promoting the Beautiful Textures and Dream Kids product lines by Strength of Nature. Both collections focus on hair manageability and natural hair styling. And did I mention they are extremely affordable? You would be hard-pressed (no pun intended) to find anything priced over $10.
25 March 2015 / By Nikia Jefferson
Over the past few years, the number of women deciding to go natural (or rock locs) has increased significantly. Gone are the days where wearing hair in its natural state is considered unprofessional or unkempt. Now, an insane loc updo or a free-flowing ‘fro actually tends to up one’s cool factor (hello, Solange!).
I joined the natural hair movement in 2007 and never looked back. Over the past few years, it’s been quite interesting to see how various hair care brands are beginning to address our specific needs. One of the brands that has been there since the beginning (and continues to evolve) is Strength of Nature, whose Beautiful Textures and DreamKids products provide affordable solutions for cleaning, maintaining and styling natural hair. That’s why I am excited to announce that I will be hosting one of their many Flaunt Your Look events hitting Sally Beauty Supply stores nationwide!
24 March 2015 / By Elise Giannasi

Spring is finally upon us (although you wouldn’t know it after yesterday’s snow storm). That means it’s time to thaw out your frozen face and get it ready for the warmer temperatures and all the new beauty trends that come with the change of season.
But where should you start?! If you’re in Chicago, that’s a no brainer. Our new favorite go-to for all things eyebrows is Agnes O. Salon and Derma Spa (21 W. Elm Street) in the Gold Coast, where Sabrina Danyla of Beauty Babe is the resident brow magician and makeup artist.
06 March 2015 / By Nikia Jefferson
As you know, I can never pass up a designer sale. Especially when it’s from an online retailer I shop at least once a month.
Now through the end of the day tomorrow, you have a chance to take advantage of Shopbop’s highly anticipated sale. The discounts are tiered (code: BIGEVENT15) – the more you buy, the more you save. It’s the perfect opportunity to jump start your Spring wardrobe or simply spend that tax refund that’s burning a whole in your pocket.
25 February 2015 / By Nikia Jefferson
With so many people choosing to downsize their homes and join the tiny house movement, space saving solutions are becoming more innovative and modern. When it comes to living comfortably in small spaces, who is more familiar with it (by choice or not) than a college student? That’s exactly why the newly launched collaboration with CB2 and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) is destined to be a hit.
10 February 2015 / By Nikia Jefferson
Yesterday’s post was all about celebrating friendships for Valentine’s Day. Today, it’s all about the loooove! And what better way to commemorate the upcoming holiday than with a new Soundtracked playlist.
Aptly named Love Life, this mix has a dual meaning. It was created to not only celebrate one’s love life but also a love for life. There’s no baby-making music on this roundup (sorry). Instead, we decided to incorporate feel-good love songs that will have you snapping your fingers or busting a move.
It’s already in heavy rotation in our house. So we hope you love this edition of Soundtracked just as much as we do.
Click the music player below (or here) to enjoy the sounds.
The ChiTown Fashionista Soundtracked music series is curated and mixed by resident music mixologist, DJ HasH. Each playlist will equip you with the best tunes for every facet of life. You are only required to do three things: download. listen. enjoy. And if you’re anything like us, you’ll keep it on reserve for those moments when a DJ is nowhere to be found (trust us, it’s the easiest way to impress all your friends).
09 February 2015 / By Nikia Jefferson
Valentine’s Day. That wonderful holiday when we celebrate love with our significant others.
But what about our close friends, that we love and adore?
It has become increasingly popular to also use this time of year as an opportunity to celebrate friendships, old and new. February 13th, which is now known as Galentine’s Day, is the day to let your girls know just how much they mean to you. If your crew is a stylish bunch, like mine, and you’re stumped on how to honor them, it’s Kalla to the rescue!
The luxury floral delivery service (which is only available in Chicago and Miami) has an impressive collection of arrangements that are perfect for Galentine’s Day, or any other special day. Once you pair their flowers with an exclusive array of artisanal chocolates by Christopher Elbow and a bottle of champagne (all available on the site), then add in a few party favors and girl talk, you’ll have the makings of a memorable Girls’ Night In.
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