Blog Archives
The Classics: Chanel 2.55
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The Chanel brand has always been associated with classic, timeless elegance. To this day, a Chanel handbag remains one of the most recognized and respected accessories in the world.
Mademoiselle Chanel designed her accessories to be both practical and sensible, and to her accessories signified the true emblem of luxury and elegance. In the 1920’s, Coco Chanel became tired of having to carry her handbags in her arms and decided to update her handbag, for the modern woman. The resulting design was called 2.55 after the date of creation, February 1955.
From the very beginning, Coco Chanel strove for functionality. For this reason, the bag features a double flap with a zip-fastened pocket intended as a secret place for storing a love letter. On the inside of the bag there are three bellow pockets, meant to store a lady’s necessities like lipstick and perfume.
The bag has a quilted diamond or herringbone pattern on the exterior. Using a running stitch, this gives the bag shape and volume. The pattern is believed to have been inspired by several sources: by jockeys’ riding coats, the stained-glass windows of the abbey at Aubazine, as well as by the cushions in Chanel’s Paris apartment. The original 2.55 is lined in a burgundy color which represents the color of the uniform she wore growing up in an orphanage. The famous double C emblem, (“Coco Chanel”) is stitched on the inside flap like a coat of arms. The bag originally came with a front lock called “the Mademoiselle Lock” (in reference to Coco Chanel never marrying). Since the 1980s, versions can also be supplied with a lock in the shape of the double C logo. Both the iconic rectangular clasp that is gilted with gold and the famous leather and chain shoulder strap had never been seen on a handbag before Coco Chanel added them.
Since it’s introduction, there have been several variations of the original design including different colors, leather/fabric combinations, metal and interwoven leather straps and the lock, mademoiselle vs. interlocking CC. Chanel released an exact copy of the original 2.55 in February 2005 in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the creation of the original. Though the name “Reissue 2.55” should apply only to those commemorative handbags it is now commonly used now as a name for all the handbags resembling the original 2.55.
Beauty Royalty: AERIN Beauty
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This week Aerin Lauder, granddaughter of Estée, launched her own cosmetics and lifestyle brand, AERIN. The brand kicked off the debut with it’s first line of cosmetics, AERIN Beauty. In the future, plan on appreciating new collections of accessories, sunglasses, shoes and home decor.
Stepping down from her role of Senior Vice President and Creative Director of Estée Lauder, Aerin plans on holding a less demanding consulting role. Speaking of consulting… helping her build the brand are Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour and former NBC head Jeff Zucker.
AERIN Beauty is nothing short of elegant and feminine. Inspired by Aerin’s own beauty secrets, the lovely range aims to create a daily beauty routine that easily fits into a stylish lifestyle. A delicate signature Rose scent threads through the collection and is all bundled up in pretty pink and gold packaging. The collection features simple, everyday-wearable products that look and feel luxurious.
Bewitching Baubles: Bib Necklace
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Make a statement this season with a bright bib. A bib necklace combines layers of intricate beads and jewels strung across the collar bone, high on the neck. Bibs can incorporate many materials and textures to create a bold, multi-layered, eye-catching piece.
These colorful, chunky necklaces easily enhance any outfit while still remaining elegant. Pair with simple tees or tanks to effortlessly renew a tired outfit. Or wear with your favorite, “worn a million times” dress for a new and fresh look.
Available in all shapes, colors and sizes, a bib necklace is a great piece to have on-hand when an outfit feels a bit dull. Here are a few of my favorite bewitching baubles:
BaubleBar ~ Summer Princesse: $38.00
Adia Kibur ~ Short Neon Stone Necklace: $54.00
Zara ~ Strand Necklace in Shiny Golden Colors: $25.90
J.Crew ~ Cabochon Fan Necklace: $150.00
Ann Taylor ~ Sunburst Necklace: $59.99
Kate Spade ~ Painted Jewels Necklace: $198.00
The Classics: Miu Miu Suade Mary Jane Pumps
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Miu Miu Suade Mary Jane Pumps
Mary Jane was a character created by Richard Outcault for his comic strip, Buster Brown. Published in 1902, Mary Jane was the little sister of the main character, Buster Brown. Outcault used this comic to advertise his products for The Brown Shoe Company and eventually the style of the shoe worn by the little girl became known in popular cultures as Mary Janes.
Traditionally made in black patent leather and only worn by young girls, the current style of the Mary Jane has come a long way. Available in platform, stiletto and chunky heels and with bauble and buckle garnishes, the Mary Jane is the classiest classic.
The Suade Mary Jane Pumps by Miu Miu are the epitome of the classic feminine shoe. Perfectly constructed, this shoe is not only elegant but adorable at the same time. The sexy stiletto and platform adds height and balance as the dainty strap reveals it’s feminine nature.
The Mary Jane can be found in many forms and designer’s collections. Celebrate the holidays with your favorite party dress and Mary Jane.
Boot Week: Cole Haan Air Whitley Knit Boot
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Cole Haan Air Whitley Boot
Boot Week ends with a fun lace-up boot.
The Air Whitley Knit Boot by Cole Haan provides both comfort and style. Supported with Nike Air technology, these boots feel like running sneakers. The classic lace-up style is detailed with a stretch knit sock that lines the entire boot. The cap-toe detail provides a military twist and the over-lapping sock screams cold winter days. Pair these boots with black leggings and winter coat for a warm and comfy elegance.
Choose a boot this season that suits your needs and taste. With so many different styles and designs available, you don’t have to pick just one…
Have a wonderful weekend!
Ashling
Statement Piece: BB Dakota Ellis Blazer with Leather Collar
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A simple black blazer is an essential for any closet. BB Dakota’s Ellis Blazer with Leather Collar adds a modern touch to a classic jacket.
The tuxedo-style blazer is elegant with an edge. The leather-paneled detailing fashions a rock-n-roll style with a tailor-made frame.
Pair this jacket with feminine pieces to add a nice contrast to any outfit. Or emphasize the rock-n-roll style with a pair of skinny leather pants or leggings.
The Ellis Blazer is a great statement piece to add to your Fall wardrobe.
Glow-T 