Search A Chic Critique
Custom SearchConnect With Me
Archives
Leaving on a Jet Plane: Chic Luggage
When packing for the holidays, did you:
-
A) stuff all of your belongings carelessly into your worn-out Vera Bradley bag from college (hoping no one noticed the mismatched prints)
-
B) haul out your haggard, old black Samsonite (you got as a wedding gift from your mother in 1980) from the attic, a welcome addition to your “eclectic” luggage collection
-
C) meticulously organize, divide and sort all of your clothing, accessories, and shoes into “outfit of the day” bags, then place into your custom Louis Vuitton
-
D) None of the above
I’d be proud of all of you if you chose “C,” seeing as packing this way not only makes it easier to dress every day (no more hassle tearing up your suitcase to find that other black pump!), it also preserves your clothing. There’s no shame in any of the other answers, of course. I’ll let it be a mystery as to what answer I chose (hint: it’s a combination of a few answers).
How to pack is another post for another day. Today, however? Sophisticated, chic luggage. Why not travel in style? With the copious options available today (in a variety of price points, mind you) there’s no excuse not to own a functional, modern luggage set. The key is to look for a set that comes from a reputable brand, is well-made, and versatile (good luggage will last you for years).
Bric’s X-Bag, Red ($150-175). While it’s tempting to go with prints, they can easily look childish and dated. Stick with a classic neutral, or a bold, rich red, hunter green or navy if you’re aching for color (think primary colors) or have a preppy-bone to itch.
Hartmann “Next Generation” Tweed Collection (pieces ranging from $375-$895) You can’t go wrong with tweed or houndstooth.
Ralph Lauren Cooper Weekender Bag, $3495 Camel-colored leather? Sigh.
Longchamp “Pliage” Luggage (pieces $195-$370) Hands down, one of my favorite luggage and tote designers in the world. Their “Le Pliage” bags are all made of nylon, making them low-maintenance and easy to clean.
J.Crew Globe-Trotter Centenary Suitcase, $1,675. Want something with a vintage vibe?
Prada Trolley, ($2650 each). They are available at three Prada boutiques: New York 57th Street, Phone: (212) 308-2332; New York Broadway, Phone: (212) 334-8888; and Beverly Hills Rodeo Drive, Phone: (310) 278-8661.
Now you know what to ask Santa to bring you next year.
See you in the new year & stay chic!
Annie
All That Glitters…
Wearing something that sparkles and shines is just plain fun. New Year’s is one of the rare opportunities to wear sequins and glitter, and why not? Be a little indulgent – you’re allowed to.
Here are some of my favorite ball-dropping, show-stopping pieces to wear while you ring in the new year:
1. Mui-Mui Glitter-Finish Pumps, $595
2. Herve Leger Sequined Bandage Dress, $2500
3. Rebecca Taylor Strapless Silk Bustier Dress, $495
4. Adam Folded Silk-Sequin Organza Dress, $1495
5. Anya Hindmarch Sequin Glitter Clutch (out-of-stock, unfortunately). Obsessed.
6. Steve Madden “Scandall,” $109
7. OPI “Sparkle-licious,” $8.50
8. Velvet by Graham & Spencer Sequin Top, $163
9. Tibi One-shoulder Sequined Dress, $935
Are you a fan of making New Year’s resolutions? Mine are to spend less, save more, do what I love with passion & determination, pursue health, and use every opportunity to laugh and live. I encourage all of you to usher in the new year by making yourself a priority: be good to yourself, and always take care of yourself.
Have yourself a merry little Christmas, and stay chic!
Annie
A wardrobe edit & consult makes a great last-minute present to Mom! With the new year approaching, remember, “Out with the old, dated, and frumpy, and in with the new & figure-flattering.” Let A Chic Critique help consolidate, organize, and prune your closet for 2011.
A Royal Wedding
Depending on your age, you might have ‘grown up’ with the iconic, graceful and much beloved Princess Diana. Her wedding to Prince Charles in 1981 was internationally publicized and remains a day of remembrance.
Designed by Emmanuel, Diana’s dress was made of ivory taffeta and antique lace and featured a 25 ft. train – and note, this was considered very “haute couture” in the 80’s! (images via here)
In the 90’s, you might have swooned over Carolyn Bessette’s Narcisco Rodriguez silk crepe gown in her wedding to John F. Kennedy, Jr.
Now, in late 2010, those prone to be fashion & culture-obsessed are eagerly awaiting the impending nuptials of Kate Middelton to Princess Diana’s son – Prince William – in April, 2011. Kate, much like her late mother-in-law, is the epitome of effortless style & elegance: she defines “classic,” and always carries herself with grace. Italian, French, English, Spanish, and American designers alike are anticipating what wedding gown she might choose or have designed. Interested in seeing some of their proposed sketches? I thought so.
Below are some of my personal favorites for Kate (from some of most renowned modern designers):
“I admire the balance Kate Middleton strikes between elegant and contemporary with her unmistakable style. For her, I had in mind clean lines, soft shapes and classic touches such as the boat neckline and distinctive train.” — Frida Giannini, Gucci
“On the royal wedding day, I envision Kate Middleton in a fresh, modern silhouette emphasizing her elegance and beauty in a youthful way.” — Gilles Mendel, J.Mendel
As a side note, I am mildly (okay, ridiculously) obsessed with J. Mendel’s gowns. If my budget would provide, he would design MY wedding gown someday.
“I think that there will be so many comparisons to the late Princess Diana that her dress should almost be the opposite of what Diana’s was — modern, simple and very elegant.” — Tom Mora, vice president of wedding and special occasion, J. Crew
“We designed a ‘blossoming’ dress because we imagined her as a new Botticellian Venus.” — Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli, Valentino
“…The tradition of intricate hand-pieced lacework in the high-necked bodice with elbow-length sleeves, together with the voluminous skirt of a mixture of stiff and soft silk tulle, feels regal, yet poetic.” — Vera Wang
You can read the full article here – as I said above, more than 30 designers submitted their sketches of what they envisioned Ms. Middleton wearing on the royal wedding day. Which one is your favorite? What do you see Kate wearing?
Wedding season is just around the corner. Need help with your creative vision? A Chic Critique provides fashion styling and creative direction for your special day: let us help you shop, and dress you and your bridal party!
Stay chic,
Annie
All photos courtesy of designers – and taken from WWD.com
Holiday Hair
Seeing as we’re nine days out from Christmas, you’re probably beginning to round out your last series of holiday parties – whether it be for work, or with friends and family. I’m sure you’re even beginning to consider what you’ll wear to that festive feast on Christmas Eve, or perhaps while opening up presents Saturday morning. Regardless – don’t forget this is the perfect season to spruce up your locks and accentuate that pretty little face.
First image via here; 2nd via here; third via here; fourth via here
Try an asymmetrical bun or chignon : secure with an elastic or bobby pins, and add a vintage broach or a crystal incrusted hair pin right behind your ear (top right). Another idea to update your typical, go-to party updo? Try pairing it with a beautiful, jeweled headband, which will instantly add polish & a glamorous touch. More of a romantic? Use a large-barreled curling iron or hot-rollers to create large, voluminous curls : finger pick, then sweep back one side with a gorgeous pin (bottom right).
Get the look:
Jennifer Behr Crystal & Pearl Headband, $144
White House Crystal Cluster Bobby Pins (seen above on model), $28
J.Crew Jeweled Headband, $26.50
White House Crystal Feather Barrette, $34
With gorgeous holiday hair like this, you won’t even need mistletoe to get a kiss – promise.
Stay chic,
Annie
Hip & Handsome Gifts For Him
A few of A Chic Critique’s picks for all the men in your life this holiday season:
Saddle Leather I-Pad Cover, $59
Instead of suggesting the ubiquitous I-pad as a gift for the gadget-techie-lover in your life (oh, and it’s a great gift, trust me), I’m going to suggest it’s counterpart and companion. Sleek, handsome & preppy, this case is the perfect compliment to one such toy.
Saks Fifth Avenue Men’s Collection Cuff Links & Money Clip Set, $178
A set of classic cuff links are a welcome addition to any man’s wardrobe.
Weston Leather Cigar Case, $73
For the cigar-aficionado in your life.
Audio Technica Record Turntable, $225
Now your hipster, die-hard musician (or collector) has a cool place to play his ever-growing, extensive collection of vintage vinyl records.
Wolfgang Puck Reversible Grill & Griddle, $109
The grillmeister in your life will be thanking your for this portable Wolfgang Puck grille – makes gameday grilling with the guys easy, fun & delicious.
TAG Heuer “Grand Carerra” Automatic Chronograph Watch, $5,900
Perfect for the fashion-conscious, metrosexual male in your life who appreciates the finer things and has an eye for sophistication.
Paul Stuart Nigel Herringbone Phineas Cole Shirt, $228
If he’s allergic to the mass appeal of Brooks Brothers, he’ll love Paul Stuart’s English aesthetic. The fit of the Phineas Cole line shirts is trimmer, cleaner -and- the collars are cutaway.
Rubicon Estates Rubicon 2006 Vintage Notes ($145)
The winery formerly known as the Neibaum-Coppola Winery is renowned for it’s flagship wine – the Rubicon. The vintage is great, described as having a flavor that is “big and berrylike, with a round finish that trails on forever.” Perfect for your wine-snob father-in-law (or father).
Happy shopping – only 12 more days to get it done!
Stay chic,
Annie
Gorgeous Gifts for Her
A Chic Critique has put together some favorite gifts as a guide for all the ladies in your life – whether it be a girlfriend, mother, grandmother, mother-in-law, wife, or sister.
The Perfect Hostess Gift
I have been a devoted fan of Seda France candles for almost ten years now. At only $29 for a large candle, these delicious-smelling votives come in darling, toile “pagoda” boxes – almost too pretty to unwrap! Favorites? The Holiday scent (pictured here) & nutmeg vanilla.
The Perfect Stocking Stuffers
NARS “Follow the Boys” Lipgloss Set, $40 (Can’t say enough about NARS. You must convert. Now.)
Tocca Bar Soaps, $12 each (grandmother / mom / mother-in-law will swoon).
The Perfect Sweet-Smelling Gift
Michael Kors 3.4 oz Eau de Parfum Spray, $92 – I’m in love with this perfume, and it often competes with this one for my attention. Smell it & see why – feminine & breezy, with a intriguing, sexy twist. Perfect for your mother, wife or girlfriend.
The Perfect Gifts for your Gadget-Loving Girl
Tory Burch “Alice” Quilted Leather Labtop Case, $250 – Say goodbye to the old “blah” black laptop case & she will be the envy of every co-worker with this sophisticated piece.
Burberry I-pad Case, $475 – Every fashionable girl needs a sleek case for carrying an I-pad, and the bright yellow is so mod.
The Perfect Universally-Pleasing Gift
Polaroid 300 Instant Camera, $90, instant film ($10) – I adore this vintage throwback camera! No need for an I-phone app – get the real thing.
The Perfect Luxe Gifts
Crumpet Hooded Cashmere Sweater, $375 – Nothing says luxury more than a timeless & classic cashmere sweater. A beautiful investment for any woman’s wardrobe & a staple in her closet for years to come.
Chloe Paraty Leather Bag, $1895 – Spoil the high-maintenance loved one in your life. Or let Santa spoil YOU.
The Perfect Gifts for Pampering
You certainly can’t go wrong with a feminine, soft print robe. Josie Season of Love Print Robe, $88
My pick for mother? A shearling-lined TB slipper: chic AND comfortable. Tory Burch Coley Suede Slipper, $128
The Perfect Gift for your Best Gal friend (or your girlfriend)
What’s she into? Wine? Interior Design? Fashion? Photography? Buy a great coffee table book for her apartment: always fodder for conversation & fun to peruse. Or buy her a year’s subscription to her favorite magazine. She’ll love you for it.
Grace: Thirty Years of Fashion at Vogue (price ranges)
Happy shopping!
Stay chic,
Annie
Haute Holiday Jewelry
“It’s the hap-happiest season of all…with those holiday greetings, and great happy meetings when friends come to call! It’s the hap-happiest season of all! There’ll be parties for hosting…marshmallows for roasting and caroling out in the snow…”
It’s that “most wonderful” time of year, indeed – festive fetes, parties galore, caroling, mistletoe, spiked eggnog, and holiday get-togethers alike. I’ll admit: I’m one of those people who starts listening to Christmas music prematurely (I’m a sucker for Bing Crosby, Harry Connick, Jr., Etta, & good ole’ Frank, in particular). I’m also quite a lover of any reason to get dolled up and don a quintessential cocktail dress – topped off & perfectly accessorized with a jeweled cuff and a sparkly, ornate, over-sized ring.
I’m a firm believer that a woman can never own enough cocktail jewelry – what better way to reinvent your little black dress from last year? A gold, pearl-encrusted cuff or a bold, rich pop of color on your finger can instantly transform and enliven any holiday ensemble.
My favorite “festive” accessories for the season:
Kendra Scott Adora Chandelier Earring in Midnight, $120 (glam & gorgeous)
Kendra Scott Novia Beaded Stud Earring in Champagne, $65 – Switch out your pearls for a chic, modern take on the classic stud. Perfect for a more conservative party, or perhaps a gift for your mother-in-law!
(Incentive: you receive a $20 OFF coupon when you sign up to receive Kendra Scott emails, so let the holiday shopping begin!)
Kenneth Jay Lane Domed Pave Ring, $275. Great for a New Year’s bang!
DANNIJO Lena Cuff, $480
J. Crew Miriam Haskell Pearl Cuff, $650 – Exquisite & stunning, this cuff would marry well with a black shift or cocktail dress.
Yves Saint Laurent, Chic Crystal Ring, $795 – Who said the Christmas palette should just be relegated to red & green?
Fenton/Fallon for Carrington J.Crew Crystal Bow Necklace, $295
Deck your arms with cuffs & jewels…fala-lala-la-lala-lala.
Stay chic,
Annie
Deep & Dark: Winter Nails
If you’ve been searching for the perfect wash of Holiday color for your nails, look no further. This winter, deep wine, merlot, and burgundy shades are making their debut, and as Essie puts it, “Intriguing color is the new sexy.” Sophisticated, mysterious, and warm, this color palette is just in time for Christmas.
With just an ounce of sparkle (for festive cheer), OPI’s “Tease-y Does it” is easily one of my favorites to try. It’s from their new “Burlesque” line of colors which came out in November. It’s a deep, purple-y red with shimmer.
Another color to try is Essie’s “Masquerade Belle,” ($8) a deep wine wash from their Winter 2010 collection.
Essie’s Luxedo, $8 (Winter 2010)
One thing to keep in mind when applying dark colors: keep your nails filed fairly short (to medium) and square. If they are too long, you will look vampy (say no to Elvira nails)!
Stay chic,