Freehand Tartan Belt at Anthropologie

This belt is so right for a number of reasons. For starters, it's plaid. Despite what people may say, plaid never goes out of style. It may sneak in hipster trends with big and bold flashes, but classic tartan absolutely never goes out of style. Take Burberry for example, have you ever heard anyone say that Burberry scarves are out of style? No, and neither have I.

The Freehand Tartan Belt is more than just plaid. It is a funky and sexy way to cinch your waist. Not too trendy because the muted tones are perfect for a number of outfits and for the promising spring weather. If it so happens to find its way in to my closet, you'd better believe it will stay there for some time amongst some crisp white blouses, khaki ankle pants and white linen shirtdresses. The Freehand Tartan Belt can be purchased from Anthropologie for $58.00.

Until next time,

Chamele

Day 1: Aurelie Bidermann Jewelry

Hello Divas!

 

Well we are wrapping up our 30 days of Luxetips!  It has been a blast!  Chamele is awesome and we hope to see her return very soon.  Next up, is Luxetips' "Best of 2010" beauty and fashion products.  Yes these are great items I loved and wore out this year. And guess what?  You will get an opportunity to win some of the items from my "Best of 2010" List!  Woot!  So check back in tomorrow to win big! 

 

Cuff 'em Dano!

I saw an awesome gilded gold lace cuff in a fashion magazine recently. It is the kind of piece that screams Grecian Goddess. I already know which pieces I would wear it with- a one-shoulder turquoise jersey dress or a sleeveless black silk jumper. You get the picture.  In my mind, I already own the cuff.  On my hunt for a cheaper version, I ran across what else but a more expensive version.  However, the price was not that off-putting because the Aurelie Bidermann cuffs are such exquisite works of art made from real lace.  One dipped in 18 karat gold and the other dipped in blackened silver.  

 

The 18-karat gold cuff makes you think your face would launch a thousand ships, while the Blackened Silver Cuff is equal parts glam and edgy.  

 

I could see Heidi Klum and Marilyn Manson in it alike.  Aurelie Bidermann's lace cuffs are priced at $1890.00 on Net-a-porter and are in such high demand, they are currently unavailable. However, rings from the same line of dipped cotton lace are available for $460.00. If ever you wanted to be cuffed... .

 

Until tomorrow,

 

Chamele

Day 7: Rose Gold Watches

Watch Me Work It

 

Last season, the trend in menswear inspired clothing was the gold bold faced link watch. This season, Michael Kors offers the same trend in a rose gold. Hello? Did you hear me?  I said rose gold.  When was the last time you wore it?   I had not either until until last year. So why do I want it?  Because so few wear it. The feminine color tames the menswear trend with it's pinkish tone and makes this menswear inspired watch ever so unique.  You can purchase the Michael Kors Runway Watch in rose gold from Nordstrom for $ 250.00

 

Until Tomorrow,

Holiday Series #7: Accessorize with Scarves by Lindsay Phillips

This holiday season, accessorize your outfits with scarves! I love to wear scarves because they can really brighten and differentiate your outfits, especially if you like to wear a lot of blacks or neutral colors.

For the holidays, if you're wearing a colorful dress, you can wear a more neutral scarf such as this one on the left. This beautifully made Cape Coral scarf in grey by Lindsay Phillips ($25, USD) feels very light and soft on your skin. The pattern is quite interesting too- it looks a bit leopard with glittery threads sewn in. It's definitely eye catching and great to pair your outfits in! If you're going to stick with dark colored dresses, I would pair it with brighter colored scarf, such as this gorgeous turquoise here.

(Disclaimer: I received this product from this company's PR agency to test, try and share my thoughts with my readers.)

Check out more blogs @ TotalBeauty.com

Mixed Media and Mixed Metal Jewelry: FIERCE!

Hello Divas!

I hope your Tuesday is simply superb!  I am enjoying God's blessing and loving life!

It is Day 25 and Chamele discusses the new "it" accessories, mixed media jewelry.  Love, love, love.  Do you have a mixed media statement piece? 

Day 25

Mixed media jewelry and mixed metals are all the rage right now. I am fond of mixed metal necklaces and rings in particular because when I have one on mixed metal piece I do not feel weird wearing  silver earrings and a gold ring or vice versa. A mixed metal necklace ties it all together.   My favorite mixed metal necklace is  no longer being carried at Banana Republic, I wear it with everything, whether I dress up or down. Here are a few similar necklaces currently sold at BR  that appear to be equally satisfying:

The Heritage Labyrinth Necklace may look a bit over whelming;  but truly, if you wear it, you will not need much other adornment. It makes a  bold statement. I love how the 10k gold plate and silver are interwoven. The necklace defies convention, appearing to be seemingly otherworldly.  I could picture this sort of statement necklace peaking from underneath  an ordinary collared shirt. It sales at Banana Republic for $ 125.00

I am absolutely in love with the High Tea Knot.  Not much of a pearl girl,  myself, this is the perfect twist to a look that may otherwise dates its wearer.  The High Tea  Knot is delicate without being overly demure. The interplay of metal and pearls in the knot is both unique and classy and flattering wearers of all  ages. The necklace is funky without  giving the look that you are trying to hard.  It sales at Banana Republic (BR) for  $59.50. I can hear it softly whispering my name.

The Heritage Tangle Treasure Necklace, like the Heritage Labyrinth Necklace is a good number for work. It has a new-age professional edge. Gold and silver links are twisted with rope, glass beads, and a herringbone flex chain. The huge lobster claw closure makes ensures an easy grasp. It sales for $ 98.00 and is also found at BR.

 

Until tomorrow,

Chamele

How to Properly Layer Accessories

Hello Divas!

How have you been this week?  I have been mostly good!  You know what I learned this week? If you don't think you are beautiful no one else will!

During Mother's Day weekend, I kept seeing examples of improperly placed accessories.  I like to follow the rule set by Coco Chanel, before leaving the house, always remove one accessory.  Over accessorizing is never good.  Here are a few tips when wearing necklaces, dangling earrings, and arm pieces.

Necklaces

When layering necklaces, the best look is a short length necklaces with a long necklace.  The necklaces should compliment each other and one should be more dominant than the other.  This Rachel Roy necklace is a perfect example of layering necklaces:

Earrings

If wearing long dangling earrings usually a necklace is not needed.  If you do choose to wear a necklace, wear a long necklace so there is separation between the earrings and your neck piece.  A short necklace should never be worn with long dangling earrings.

Arm Pieces

I love to layer bangles.  However, I usually limit my layering to three.  Three just seems like enough and not overpowering.  However when I wear a cuff, one is enough.  A big beautiful cuff should speak for itself.

Beautiful Cuff

Happy Accessorizing!

Toodles!

K-la Boutique Stylish Clothes and Funky Accessories

Hello Divas!

My message today:  Always try to maintain a positive attitude even when the Drama gets you down! LOL!

In December, I ventured out to K-la Boutique to check out the new store in Phipps Plaza here in Atlanta.  I had never been there before, but I am glad I went.  This boutique has the CUTEST accessories and clothing at super affordable prices.  Most items are sold between $25 and $75! Believe me you can purchase a funky dress and accessories for under $100!  I love this store.  Check out some of the cool items I discovered.

 

I love gray and black, so naturally I gravitated to these wonderful dresses.  The gray jersey dress on the left is so cool for a nice champagne brunch or lounge.  The silver and gray dress is perfect for a semi-formal event or a cool night on the town.  Both dresses were under $75! Wowza!

However, I was particularly fascinated by the Jewelry case! Yummy!

 

In fact I loved the jewelry so much that I had to purchase an item for myself. Big and beautiful Cocktail Ring! It was only $25! You can't beat that!  Everyone should have a fab Cocktail Ring!

  

K-La Boutique is located in Phipps Plaza and Atlantic Station in Atlanta.

Toodles!

I Need This in My Life: Louis Vuitton Train Case

Hello Divas!

I hope you are having a gorgeous day!

Every Tuesday I feature a different "lust" item of the week. Hey we can all dream and fantasize right? LOL!

In my opinion the ultimate "IT" accessory is a Louis Vuitton Train Case. I mean how can you not like it? Gorgeous and functional. I love it! The LV train case is a DIVA item. When you are carrying one, people turn and stare. The LV logo equals quality, style, and function. A Louis Vuitton train case will last for years and years. I will certainly hand mine down to luxe baby!

Of course, the train case is roomy and full of compartments. You can store all of your cosmetics, beauty products, and accessories in one place. There is no need to minimize here! And it comes with a full size mirror! Swoon! I have been eyeing this vintage train case for a while....mmm this would be a great Wedding Anniversary gift!


Toodles!

Photo Credit: Antiques on Bardwell

Classic yet Stylish and Affordable Business Attire

Hello Divas!

I hope you are having a truly wonderful day. I am a true Polyvore Junkie. I just love creating outfits. I use Polyvore as my inspiration when planning for a trip or just creating a new wardrobe. Last week I gave a presentation at Georgia Tech on "Dressing For Success on a Budget." I created a set featuring stylish business attire that was super affordable. Except for the classic black pumps, all the items in this set are under $50! Wow! Like I say, everyone can live the luxe life affordably! Enjoy!

Toodles!

Business Attire by Luxetips featuring Vila blouses

Grand Opening!: Pekuliar Treasures Fashionable Living Boutique

Hello Divas!

It is almost the weekend baby! Whoohoo! My dear friend and fabulous indie designer, Alicia Garcia of Pekuliar Treasures is opening her own boutique! I am too excited. Read my article on Alicia here.

Pekuliar Treasures Fashionable Living, The Art of living well: Apparel, Accessories, Specialty Gifts, and Culinary Delights will feature Alicia's gorgeous clothing, one of a kind jewelry, and specialty gifts all hand made by local companies and designers. So divas if you are early Christmas shoppers, you must get to this boutique to check out these fabulous items!

Pekuliar Treasures is having a Grand opening showcasing this fabulous space on Saturday 10/18. If you are interested in attending this event, please email me and I will make sure Alicia puts you on the guest list. Pekuliar Treasures Boutique is located at 6716 Broad Street, Douglasville, GA 30134 in Historic Douglasville, next to Gumbeaux's. Please visit her website at www.pekuliartreasuresboutique.com.

And good news Divas! Pekuliar Treasures is giving away a $25 dollar gift certificate to one Luxtips reader. Please email me at latoicha007@gmail.com to enter this giveaway. A winner will be announced next Thursday, October, 9th!

Toodles!

Moon & Lola Earrings Giveaway & Other Cool Announcements

Hello Divas!

I hope your weekend is going great! I meant to send this post out on Friday, but my son is a little under the weather, so I had to take time out to take care of him. But I had to inform you fabulous ladies of another giveaway! Whoohoo! Luxetips has partnered with Sammy's Place Boutique to giveaway these fabulous Lincoln Moon & Lola Earrings. These earrings are just TOO pretty. Divas you can pretty much wear these earrings with anything! A fabulous dress, jeans, ruffled blouse and classic bermuda shorts, ...anything your heart desires. I love them! Moon & Lola Jewelry is a celebrity favorite and has been featured in In Style, Lucky, and Maire Claire magazines. These earrings retail for $56.00. So if you want these fantastic earrings to add to your wardrobe, simply leave a comment in the comment section. This contest will end on Sunday, August 24 at 12 midnight.

In addition, Sammy's Place Boutique is a sponsor of an uber chic event entitled "Gala in the Garden." For those of you who live in Atlanta, this event will take place, Thursday, August 21 8 pm, at Park Tavern Piedmont Park. It will include a "Couture 4 Cancer" Fashion Show which will feature clothing and accessories exclusively from Sammy's Place Boutique. I have previously blogged about Sammy's Place. Check it out here. Sammy's Place features beautiful designer dresses and accessories for every fashionista who loves the luxe life! I just love this boutique! Beautiful space and beautiful clothes?? I'm in! This event will also include a Silent Auction, entertainment, and complimentary drinks and delectable treats. This will be the must attend event in Atlanta. Tickets are $50.00 and there is a $100.00 VIP Pre-Gala "Go Green" Mixer! And the best part is that all proceeds will benefit the Georgia Cancer Foundation. Fashion for a Cause...now I love that! If you want more information, please view the flyer here. Sammy's Place is located in Buckhead (Atlanta) at 2299 Peachtree Road, NE.

Toodles!

Accessories: The Belts Have It!

Hello Divas!

I realized that I have been discussing make-up so much on my blog that I have neglected to discuss fashion. My new fashion indulgence is belts. I am loving this fall trend. Now I usually do not wear belts. For some reason I never really got into it. But considering the wide variety of beautiful belts for this season, I must partake in wearing this fun accessory. I love the fact that you can pair a belt (skinny, medium, and wide) with cardigans, dresses, and bulky sweaters. Check out my must have belts for this fall!

Toodles!

1. Skinny Yellow Patent Leather Belt. This belt is too cute! You can pair this with a cardigan or with a dress. Also the yellow color is a nice pop to a neutral color outfit. You can purchase this belt here or at Target. It retails for $9.99.

2. Wide Basketweave Belt. I love this wide belt! It is just fantastic!
You can pair this with a dress or bulky sweater. And this belt is only $8.80! You can purchase it online here or at Forever 21.

3. Medium Gold Sash Belt. This belt is a nice metallic gold color and it can pretty much go with anything. I love the texture of this belt!
You can purchase it here online or visit a Francesca's Boutique near you. It retails for $18.00