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Monday, December 28, 2009

Viva Las Vegas! Part Un

I'm finally turning 21, and I couldn't think of a better way to exercise my new privileges as a 21-year-old than to head to Sin City! Now, the great debate is... what do I pack for a 4 day, 5 night stay in Vegas?! After some research and consulting with friends, here is part one of a three blog series that encompasses what I've learned about what to wear/pack for a Vegas getaway.

Stay tuned for parts two and three because a lot of the information pertains to travel and nightlife in general, so even if you aren't headed to Vegas any time soon I hope you can still learn something! If you have any other suggestions, please leave a comment and share your insight!

Step 1: Travel Wear

Of course, you have to get to Vegas first, and for most of us this means hoping on a plane. Consequently, this also includes going through security, hours of sitting, and trekking through the terminal. Yikes...

The first cardinal rule for travel attire is wear easy to remove/put-on layers. For the outermost layer I recommend jackets with zips, open cardigans, and single button blazers. These are the easiest to remove when you get hot or have to go through security.

The second cardinal rule for travel attire is wear slip-on/slip-off shoes that are flat. The slip-on/slip-off aspect follows the same rationale as layering, whereas the flat aspect is ideal for rushing during layovers and maintaining comfort for the duration of your travel time. I recommend ballet flats or mid-calf boots.

The third (and final) cardinal rule for travel attire is accessorize smart. Choose sunglasses, scarves, and other practical accessories (a watch, perhaps).

Here's an example outfit that follows all three rules (it's missing a shirt haha, but if I were wearing this I would just wear a plain white t-shirt)

Product Information:
Sunglasses: Ray-Ban
Black Watch: Peacocks (UK)
Vanilla Lotion: Bath and Body Works
Leopard Ballet Flats: Steve by Steve Madden
Cardigan: TopShop
Skinny Jeans: Wet Seal


Friday, December 25, 2009

Happy Holidays from RemChic


Hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas and a great New Year's Eve/Day! Stay stylin'!

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

The only thing better than a LBD is a LBB

It was a sad moment when I realized my little black bag ("LBB") finally gave out after 5 great years. The zipper split, and after unzipping and rezipping every which way, I decided that the time had come to retire my beloved bag. Now I'm on the hunt for a new one, which is a very difficult task. If you type in "black handbag" in Google 12.6 million links are found. Overwelming, no? As I browse through a few of the links I notice catchphrases such as "cell phone pocket," "real leather exterior," and more. Ahh the burden of having choices! Here are some that I perused on my hunt:


Product Information:
1. Melie Bianco Oversized Tote - Piperlime
2. Steven by Steve Madden Metal of Honor Satchel - Piperlime
3. Marc by Marc Jacobs Twisted Q Groovee - Piperlime
4. Kate Spade Tutti Frutti Maryanne - Zappos
5. Women's Faux-Leather Satchel - Old Navy
6. Equestrian Cross-Stitch Satchel - Fred Flare

I have not made a definite decision yet; however I have picked up a few tips in case you are on the hunt for a perfect bag/pair of jeans/etc.

1) Search websites that feature a lot of different brands such as Zappos, Piperlime, and Bluefly.

2) Think about your price range in regards to the quality of whatever it is you are looking for. For me, this is a long term investment, so I'm willing to part with a little bit more cash than say a quick trendy piece that will only last one season.

3) Hunt, hunt, and hunt somemore. Look for pictures that show all angles, look for information on measurements, read fabric content, etc. One time I found a black bag online that I bought without doing enough homework and the bag was way too big for what I wanted and had a really cheap nylon inner lining that ripped after a month of use.

Of course, I'm also a dreamer, so I decided to scope out some bags that will go on my bucket list...
Chanel Classic 2.55 Black Caviar Bag


Marc Jacobs Classic Quilted Stam Bag


Chloe Victoria (Medium) Handbag

Do you have an item in your wardrobe that is as important to you as my LBB is to me? Leave me a comment!

Thursday, September 24, 2009

How to..Rock Bodacious Braids

I've always been an advocate of the saying "your hair is your best accessory." After all, there won't be a single person that has the same set of locks as you, so why not take full advantage of them? Lately, I have noticed a lot of girls adopting the braided look, and I am definitely a fan of the trend.

Why are braids so great, you ask? Well here are a few reasons...

[1] they are a great way to put a chic hair do together when you are rushing to class, stayed up late for an exam, etc.

[2] there is a braid for every hair length, thickness, and style...what other hairdo can accommodate this magnitude of diversity?!

[3] you can dress it up, down, or whatever other way you like! From headbands to ribbons, you can really "customize" your braid!

Types of Bodacious Braids:

The "Snake" Braid


Gossip Girl star Blake Lively sported a snake braid style at the Emmy awards recently. This style is soft Rapunzel meets the edgy ninja chick.

college-fashion-trends-braids-blake

Style.com (by Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic)

This style is perfect for you if you have:

-long layers or single -layered hair (if you have hairs that poke out, use a tacky gel product to tuck them in!)

-sleek, straight locks

-longer hair

How to achieve this look:

-Straighten your hair using a flat iron. I would use a taming, sleeking spray before applying heat to prevent fly away hairs and frizz. I like the Tigi S Factor Smoothing Lusterizer Defrizzer & Tamer.

-Use a fine bristled brush to bring all of your hair into a high ponytail. I would avoid wide tooth combs or anything that is going to show parted lines.

-Braid the pony tail all the way to the bottom. If you have thin ends (like Blake's) you might be able to manage using a tacky, thick gel to hold your braid. However, if you have thicker ends or will be doing a lot of dancing, jumping around, etc. I would recommend going ahead and tying the end.

Braid + Headband Combo


This is the look I've been sporting a lot lately. I have naturally wavy hair, and when I don't have time to straighten it I throw it in a braid, add a thick elastic headband, and viola! My mane has been transformed =)

college-fashion-trend-braids2
college-fashion-trend-braids3

This headband is available for sale from Free People, and let me tell you, this headband has saved me on my worst hair days. I've received a lot of complements on it, and I really like the 1920's/1960's fusion.

This style is perfect for you if you have:

-A bad bang day! Tuck them under your headband and kiss your worries goodbye!

-Wavy, frizzy hair that needs a headband to tone it down a bit

-Lots of layers, no layers, long layers. In other words, this style is good for any hair cut because if pieces do or do not fall out, it'll look adorable

How to achieve this look:

-This look is very natural, so let your hair be imperfectly chic. I would recommend using a curl enhancing mousse while it's still wet if you have really flat hair, just to add a bit of a tousled look to your hair when it dries.

-Loosely braid your hair in the back and secure with a hair tie.

-Place your head band over as if you were going to wear an ear cover during the cold. Then, sinch the band up about a 1/2 inch from there. This will add a bit of volume to the top of your hair, so the headband doesn't totally flatten your hair

-If you want, you can take a blow dryer and blow by the base of you braid to allow a few pieces to "naturally" fall out. This will help you achieve a look similar to the image shown!

Across Braids


This picture was taken from an Oscar de la Renta fashion show and even includes some ribbon woven through the braids for an extra splash of color!

college-fashion-trends-braids-oscar


Style.com (by Greg Kessler)

This braid is probably one of the most prominent braids I have seen on campus. I have seen girls who have their hair braided across in the front and then the rest is loose, or braided across and pulled up (similar to the picture).

This look is perfect for you if you have:

-French braiding skills

-Enough hair to put into an across braid

How to achieve this look:

-Part the hair you'd like to braid using a pick comb and tie the remainder of your hair back temporarily. If you plan on wearing it down, only lightly tie it, so you won't have any kinks.

-Check out this tutorial on how to braid your hair across!

The Fishtail Braid


college-fashion-trends-braids-fishtail


Style.com (by Hayden-Harnett)


This is a style that is named for the loose end that looks like a fishtail. I haven't tried this look myself, but I do think its a great twist on a classic favorite.

This look is perfect for you if you have:


-long layers or single -layered hair (as I mentioned before, if you have hairs that poke out, use a tacky gel product to tuck them in!)

-locks that can be straightened or are straight

-medium-to-long hair

How to achieve this look:

-After straightening your hair, part to one side with a parting comb. If you aren't sure which side is better for you, a great way to check is to flip all of your hair down in front of your face and then flip up quickly. Your hair should naturally fall more to one direction than the other.

-After parting your hair bring it down to the base of your scalp (near your neck) and braid tightly! You can even pull it to the back or side, depending on where you want your braid to fall.

-Stop when you have a few inches left and secure!

Thoughts?

Now that you've seen my favorite bodacious braids, what do you think? Is there a particular style you like or have noticed on your campus? Are there any other styles you like?



Thursday, September 17, 2009

Sassy Shoes I Love

So I usually go through phases with clothes. The cycle usually goes obsession with dresses, then belts, then skirts, and finally shoes. I'm definitely in a shoe phase right now. Here are my faves right now...let me know what you think =)










Thursday, September 10, 2009

My Style Resolutions =)


I'm officially a senior at the U of A, and I want to make my senior year as memorable as possible. One way I want to achieve this is through having amazing style! Here are my style resolutions:

1) Start shopping at thrift and vintage stores. I want to find amazing pieces that are unique, stylish, and inexpensive!

2) Keep up on fashion shows and learn more about the designers I like =)

3) Never ever wear sweatpants to school again. Ever.

4) Plan my outfits the night before, so I don't have to stress in the morning!

5) Make sure that I get ready every day. It just starts the day off right when I'm put together!!

6) Learn how to wear heels! I'm going to start by wearing heels while I do chores around the house and then go from there!

What are your resolutions?!

Thursday, September 03, 2009

Fashion News! My Internship at CF!

Dear Readers:

I have officially began my internship with College Fashion! Check out this article introducing all of the fab interns (including yours truly! Be sure to check out my columns on CF! Don't worry, RemChic is still a top priority of mine, but it would be great if you dedicated readers could check out my writing on CF as well!





Monday, August 31, 2009

Look for Less: Rachel Bilson


Rachel Bilson always manages to pull of a very effortlessly chic look. I believe her shoes are Christian Louboutin Mary Jane Closed-Toe Platforms, which cost $855. However, with my recreation, this outfit will cost you a fraction of the original price at $183! The key elements here are the oversized oatmeal colored cardigan and the high waist, dark wash denim shorts. This is a great back-to-school outfit that anyone can pull off!

My choices:
Charlotte Russe Seamless Cami
Arden B High Waist Sailor Short
Top Shop Oversize Cardigan
AJ Morgan Sunglasses in Black Coal
Indigo by Clarks Mary Jane



Worthy Website: 80's Purple


80spurple.com is in the same genre as Urban Outfitters; however, their pieces seem a little bit more unique and they have a lot more variety. Their dresses, for example, range from $30 to $500. They feature a very wide selection of brands and styles. My favorite aspects are the jewelry and shoe sections. Check it out and let me know what you think!

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Would You Wear...Funky Tights?


Funky tights are one of the trends on the runway for fall 2009. These tights vary from sequined embellishments to ripped distressing, and everything in between! Designers are pairing tights with solid or neutral colored boots and round toe pumps. I've featured 4 examples, all from Urban Outfitters. UO seems to carry a lot of funky tights for under $20. What do you think?

1) Urban Outfitters- Punk Paisley Tights $14
2) Urban Outfitters- Backstage Ombre Tights $14
3) Urban Outfitters- Dainty Floral Tights- $18
4) Urban Outfitters- Heathered Tight $14



Friday, August 28, 2009

Fashion News! Hair Change Ups





Thursday, August 27, 2009

Girl to Love: Gona Dragusha


Miss Gona Dragusha was this year's Miss Universe runner up. She represented Kosovo beautifully. Dragusha is only 18 years old and looked exactly like Audrey Hepburn in her evening wear. I was floored! She isn't a girl you would pick out as the prettiest right away, but after you look at her a few times, you notice her very unique look. I like her because she is simple, elegant, and she was the only girl to wear her hair up during the evening gown portion of the competition. I always love a girl who stands out without trying!

Photos: NBC, Miss Universe


Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Would You Wear...Project Runway Dresses (1st Challenge)


This past week's challenge was to create a look based on an outfit appropriate for an awards show. The designers were able to draw inspiration from any award show, whether it be MTV Music Awards, the Oscars, etc. Here are four looks that I thought were the best. What do you think? Would you wear any of the following? Post your thoughts!

Monday, August 24, 2009

Great Deal: shopbop.com




How To: Dress For The Airport


Footwear is the foundation for comfort. However, comfort does not rule out style. The worst mistake people make at the airport is being overdone in extravagant stilettos. The second worst mistake people make is wearing bedroom slippers. Find a happy median!


Layering is key no matter what. Airports and airplanes fluctuate tremendously in temperature. Additionally, if you're flying from place-to-place chances are you will encounter changes in climate, as well as a possible day-to-night transition while you fly. Pick light to medium coats/jackets/hoodies that are easy to take off during security checkpoints or from your airplane seat. You don't want to waste time or bother those around you by fiddling with fancy snaps, etc.

1. Athleta Cover It Up Coat $79
2. TanJay Mandarin-Collar Jacket $30
3. French Connection Eclipse Coat $80
4. Top Shop Peplum Jacket By Boutique $110
5. Forever 21 Cropped Rebel Jacket $32.80
6. Wet Seal Ribbed Mixed Jacket $26

Other tips:
[1] Pack light! Bring only the essentials (chapstick, a book, iPod)
[2] Go easy on the make-up! It's bound to come off with the change in altitude, etc.
[3] Throw your hair up! Again, with changes in climate, humidity, and more it's better to be safe than sorry.



Saturday, August 22, 2009

BEST BACK-TO-SCHOOL ITEMS 2009


This academic year, its all about versatility and fine details. I chose pieces that I feel are affordable, unique, and high in quality. I also wanted to include some cute school supplies (buy a water bottle and stay hydrated!) Post links to your favorite back-to-school items!



Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Fashion News! Victoria Beckham and Vogue




Monday, August 17, 2009

FALL TREND REPORT 2009





There are several trends for fall 2009. However, here are my 4 favorites for the upcoming season. Some other trends include:
-Biker wear (see the post "Trend Alert: Biker Babe"
-Exposed bras (I'm not a fan haha)
-Broad shoulders (the pads are back???)
-Extravagant tights (lace, beading, rips, and everything in between)

Ruching: refers to a sewing technique in which light weight fabric is gathered in a repeat pattern to form ridges or pleats that resemble the foldings of a paper fan. Usually ruched fabric is attached to some sort of elastic and can either be free flowing (such as the dress Katherine Heigl is wearing above) or is suspended or stretched, so that the ruched pattern stays in place, such as in the green/navy dress above (by Charlotte Russe, $29.99)

Chunky Chokers: These necklaces are soooo cute! This is definitely my favorite accessory trend for fall 2009. These necklaces are very diverse, so everyone can find something they like! Free People is selling chokers that are following a luminous/mixed metal theme (such as the model in the upper right hand corner). Designers like Marni are featuring chokers that are made of earthly materials and textures, such as wood and bamboo.

Asymmetric Jackets: asymmetrical pieces are very "in" for fall 2009. This includes all of the one shoulder dresses and tops that have been popping up everywhere this summer. However, I think the asymmetric jackets are going to be the best investment for fall 2009. The off center zippers are the most notable detail when it comes to asymmetric jackets, and will give a great twist to a practical piece!

Hot Pink Dresses: Hot pink dresses are alllll over ready-to-wear collections by several designers, including Michael Kors. Hot pink looks surprisingly well on just about all skin tones, making it very versatile for everyone! I prefer the short party dresses, just to play up the flirty-and-fun aspect that hot prink brings. I would avoid anything longer than knee length because you will probably look prom=like or like a pink highlighter.