Fun Umbrella Options from the MoMA Store

An umbrella is a required accessory in the Spring.  With that being said, it seems as though most of us simply reach for the typical black umbrella or you know, the one with the company logo that you received as a gift.  I'm certainly guilty of the latter. But this year, I made a vow to purchase an umbrella that has a bit more spunk.

To start my search, I headed straight to one of the top sources for unique items, the MoMA Store.

Affiliated with the Museum of Modern Art, the MoMA Store is filled with products that will creatively ramp up your wardrobe, living area or workspace. Quirkiness and eccentricity are the MoMA Store's strong suit. So, I knew the umbrella selection would not disappoint.

They range from architect-inspired to just plain fun.

Frank Lloyd Wright Waterlillies Umbrella - $32 | Frank Lloyd Wright Butterfly Umbrella - $32
Sky Umbrella - $48 | Goggles Umbrella - $28


Now, I can't attest to their ability to withstand the gusty Chicago winds. However, these are definitely perfect for those drizzly and mild rainy days.

Click HERE to view the entire inventory of umbrellas. Feel free to navigate the rest of the site (particularly the watches) and check out the other charming items the MoMA Store has to offer.


What do you think? Do these convince you that it's time to update your umbrella stash?

Get "DRAPED" in The Valiant Life

DRAPES is a local jewelry line I discovered two years ago at Wicker Park's Black Market Caviar. I was at the boutique for a t-shirt launch but was simultaneously sidetracked by the beautifully crafted fringe jewelry in front of the store.  Once I was informed of the designer's name, DRAPES by Ashley Scott, I made a vow to own at least one piece of jewelry by the end of the year.  Fast forward to today, and I own two pairs of earrings and a brooch!

I have kept track of every DRAPES collection since that day in 2010. So, when I was recently invited to the trunk show for the latest installment, The Valiant Life, I knew I couldn't miss it.

With fringe at the center of every past collection, I assumed there would be a few tassel items included. This time around, however, Ashley dabbles in the art of ombre. The dark to light color transition in the fringe necklace (above) and earrings (below) distinguishes these pieces from those of prior collections and proves that DRAPES knows how to maintain its signature design while also embracing current trends.

I was most excited by the metal work Ashley added to this collection. With each piece hand cut by the designer herself, no two items are alike, even within the same pair of earrings. It is this kind of asymmetry that ensures customers will truly receive a one-of-a-kind treasure.

The 3-tier, all metal pair of earrings (listed on the website simply as V4) are my personal favorites within The Valiant Life family of jewels. The design is sophisticated and perfect for a dinner date or a night out with friends. Priced under $50, it's pretty much a given that they will be in my possession within the coming days.

The collection's statement necklace, which incorporates beads, stones and wire, is quite the stunner. The versatility of this mixed media adornment, with its the neutral color scheme, allows it to be worn all summer long with a multitude of outfits.

To view the entire Valiant Life collection* and start adding items to your virtual shopping cart, visit the DRAPES online shop. Once there, make sure you keep scrolling down to see some of the key items, from previous collections, that are still available for purchase.

Go ahead, get "draped"! Then come back and tell me which item(s) had you clicking "Buy Now" in an instant.



*The Valiant Life collection is noted as items V1 to V7 in the online shop.

Sarca: Rare Finds Off the Beaten Path [EXCERPT]

Ruthie Davis shoes at Sarca

Although the gems and baubles may grab your attention initially, the racks of clothing will have you in awe. The ample amount of textures - think lace, feather, fur, sequin -  and rich colors will have you wanting to play dress up in the super chic dressing rooms. - Chicago Like A Local

Click here to read my latest article on Chicago Like A Local and find out what makes Sarca one of Chicago's prime shopping destinations.

MAGICLV Brand Discovery: Gräf & Lantz

One of the many highlights of my trip to MAGIC was discovering the quality wares of Gräf & Lantz. Made entirely in L.A., this brand's use of leather and felt immediately intrigued me.

Founders Holger Gräf and Daniel Lantz explained that what started off simply as a collection of felt and leather wine bottle holders has now expanded to bags, tech accessories and home goods.

Lantz's design skills mixed with Gräf's engineering background has resulted in a line that successfully marries the world's two oldest fabrics while dispelling the myth that felt items are too "crafty" and lack style.

Concerned about the durability of the products? No worries. Lantz ensured me that the merino wool felt, which he sources from Germany, is of the highest quality and will show no signs of pilling.

My top picks were the croc embossed totes, the colorblocked clutch bags and the iPad sleeves which consisted of brightly colored leather on one side and gray felt on the other.

The travel bags were also a favorite, with their perfect blend of ruggedness and refinement.

Although this was their upcoming Fall collection, many of these items are currently in the Gräf & Lantz online shop.

Here are more gems I spotted on the website:

clockwise from top left: Bradley messenger | Loden Green Pouch | Jaunt tote | Zenzi bag


I will most definitely be making a purchase in the near future. I'm thinking a Zenzi bag or colorblocked clutch for me and a Bradley messenger for hubby.

What do you think? Are you officially a fan of Gräf & Lantz now?

Etsy Showcase: Plastique

Plastique is an Etsy shop I've known about for awhile. It was the Chicago skyline necklace (above) that initially caught my attention. However, Plastique has even more to offer.  From well known skylines to turntable cufflinks, L.A.-based graphic designer Jen Murse has created an affordable jewelry line filled with instant conversation starters.

1. cufflinks | 2. DJ brass knuckles | 3. Golden Gate Bridge 3-finger ring | 4. London skyline | 5. tweet twitter necklace | 6. interchangeable ring set (teal) | 7. interchangeable ring set (red) | 8. prismatic square earrings

Each piece is made with laser cut acrylic and directly reflects the designs Murse creates on her computer. With geometric earrings, knuckle rings, and necklaces representing the world's best cities, this Etsy shop is the ideal online destination for gift hunting. There's even a cassette tape necklace that has just enough space for you to add a custom "mixtape" label. What a unique, personalized item for a music lover, right?

After adorning your body with Plastique goods, take to the walls of your home. Majority of the necklace pendants have been resized to larger dimensions, which results in eye-catching wall art.

The wall art is available via the Plastique online shop and appears to be a customer favorite (since all but one are currently sold out).

Click over to the Plastique Etsy Shop and get acquainted with the brand. With everything priced under $30, you'll be adding items to your virtual shopping cart in no time. Trust.

What do you think about Plastique? Which piece is your favorite?

ChiTown Fashionista is in Vegas for MAGIC!

I'm currently in Las Vegas attending the MAGIC trade show! Over 5000 designers and brands are here taking over two convention centers to network with one another and connect with buyers and media.

I'm really looking forward to Launch Pad at WWDMAGIC (20 emerging brands showcasing their collection in a gallery-like setting), FN Platform (a showcase of 100s of footwear brands that I've aptly deemed as "shoe heaven") and Heart of Prêt (30+ European designers looking to gain some shine in the U.S.).

There will also be a slew of runway shows, book signings, seminars and blogger panels...not to mention the 'Dreaming of Chanel' exhibition featuring 16 vintage Chanel dresses.

And all of that equates to a lot of walking. Yes. Cute flats are in tow.

From upcoming trends to the brightest stars in clothing, footwear and accessories, I will be soaking it all in and sharing as much as possible with all of you!

So, you know the drill. Follow me on Twitter (or view my live tweets below) as I navigate the many aisles of MAGIC today and tomorrow.*

*Also follow hashtag #MAGICLV to stay up-to-date on all tweets related to the trade show.

Have you ever been to MAGIC? Do you have tips on the best way to conquer it all? Any specific brands or designers you want me to check out?

My Jason Wu for Target Experience...as seen on Twitter

The Jason Wu for Target collection launched yesterday with much anticipation and excitement amongst the fashion community. Actually, many who don't necessarily stay abreast  of fashion news were enthusiastic about the collection simply based on the adorably captivating Jason Wu + Target commercial. Even my mom said, "can you pick me up one of those cute t-shirts with the cat on it".

As with any designer collaboration, it's serious business for those in the know. Staying up through the wee hours of the night to take advantage of the online sales or getting up extra early to beat the crowds in-store is the normal protocol. Remember my Lanvin for H&M adventure?

Luckily, I was still awake at 2AM on Sunday when the items went up for sale on the Target website. I quickly snatched up the t-shirt for mom and two blouses for myself. I was content with my purchases but still decided to head to the store to see the goods in person.

Of course, I took to Twitter to keep my fellow fashionistas informed. Here's how it went down:

Overall, I was not overly impressed with the clothing. As mentioned in one of my tweets, the jersey shirts and dresses, the trench and the tote were the best finds.* I was told that the quality of the navy poplin dress and the flared black dress were also on par. Needless to say, when my blouses arrive, they will be returned.

Oh well, can't win 'em all.

I know that quality and fabric choice has to be sacrificed to keep prices down. But what do you think? Should the Target designer collaborations focus a little more on quality, even if it means an increase in price? Or do you think cost should remain the priority and Target should continue to cut corners to keep the price as reasonable as possible? I know there is a happy medium. But I'm not sure Target has found it yet.

Let me know your thoughts. And also share what you scored from the collection!

*Since the handbags and scarves were nowhere in sight when I arrived, I can't comment on those.

Leaders 1354: Streetwear At Its Finest [EXCERPT]

"Inside, you will discover the latest – and sometimes the rarest – footwear from mainstream brands such as Nike as well as lesser known, yet equally appealing, names like Amongst Friends.  Clothing designers Play Cloths, Robotic Minds and Chicago’s own Enstrumental, are right at home in this retail space surrounded by graffiti walls and vibrant artwork."

Click HERE to see what else I discovered at Leaders 1354.

My Winter Style...on Refinery29

Guess who made the cut for the Refinery29 Winter Street Style post?!

Click HERE to check out the feature. Then, click through the slideshow to see how my fellow Chicagoans brave the cold in style!

hat: Double Stitch
coat: ASOS
handbag: Celine
boots: NYLA
cute face: my mama


*Special thanks to the Refinery29 Chicago editor, Shani Silver, for the feature and Amy Creyer for the amazing photo!

6 Not-So-Obvious Laptop Carriers

Although we are in the era of smartphones and tablets, there are times when we need to bring out the laptop and get down to some serious business...or blogging, in my case.

Here are six not-so-obvious laptop carriers that will allow you tote that computer around in style!

1. The Batchel by Cambridge Satchel Co

2. Commuter Bag by Marc by Marc Jacobs

3. The Alesya Bag (currently sold out but be on the lookout for the restock)

4. Mac Technology Case by Rebecca Minkoff

5. Glad for Plaid Laptop Bag by ModCloth

6. Computer Bag by m0851


Any favorites?

LINKING UP: Chic Outerwear; Refinery29's Open-Call Photo Shoot; The Perfect Leopard Pumps; Stylist Ni'ma Ford; Brahmin Handbag Love

Miss Renaissance makes bundling up look SO chic! (click HERE to get some winter-weather inspiration)

Refinery29 is hosting an open-call street style photo shoot! (click HERE to find out how to get snapped by Amy Creyer of Chicago Street Style)

Having to return my new Zanotti shoes means I'm still on the hunt for the perfect leopard pump. Fashion Bananas is certainly on the right track. (click HERE to join me in my animal attraction)

The Sartorialist profiles stylist Ni'ma Ford. (click HERE to learn more about my newfound style crush)

eat.sleep.wear. has me falling in love, again, with Brahmin handbags. (click HERE to see why)

Visit CurrentlyObsessed.me to "Stalk" My Ever-Changing Fashion Obsessions

On any given day, you can find me tweeting or updating the ChiTown Fashionista Facebook page with of-the-moment items I'm currently coveting.

The newly created website, CurrentlyObsessed.me, has made it extremely easy for readers and followers to keep track of my ever-changing obsessions and view them all in one central location!

Not only does CurrentlyObsessed.me allow members to "stalk" my obsessions, but it also links the merchandise directly to the retailer's website, allowing users to purchase the items and receive immediate gratification. You know the fashion consumption enabler in me is especially happy about that!

Once you sign up, you can also create your own page to list all of the items you've grabbed from my profile as well as some of the other bloggers listed on the site.

I add items to my profile almost daily. So, click HERE to check out my latest finds. While you're there, don't forget to hit the "Stalk Me" button in the top right corner (sign up is required to join the site). It will demonstrate your support of my online shopping addiction. And that, my friends, is a good thing.

As you can see, gold jewelry and cobalt blue are prevalent throughout my wishlist. Is there anything particular that you've found yourself obsessing over recently?

My Refinery29 Style Feature: Outfit Details and Behind-The-Scenes Photos

With 2012 in full swing, I had to take time to reflect on one of the best moments in 2011, both personally and for ChiTown Fashionista.

When my Refinery29 feature posted in November, I immediately took to Twitter and Facebook proclaiming my feelings of both gratitude and honor.  Throughout the year, I had received a few mentions on the website but this was my first independent feature. AND it involved a photo shoot!

The experience was amazing and certainly unforgettable. Pulling together looks for the photo shoot was a bit nerve wracking. Knowing that the photos would be on Refinery29 (you know, the best online source for the latest style, shopping and fashion trends) meant that I had to properly represent ChiTown Fashionista and ensure that I did not disappoint my readers. But once the outfits were squared away, it was time for the fun part!

Here are a few behind-the-scenes photos just to give you a sneak peek into how the day went...

CONTINUE READING...

Shoppin' and Stylin' at Mr. and Mrs. Digz

A few weeks ago, I was invited to Mr. and Mrs. Digz to check out the store and style looks from their wide variety of merchandise.

With a 4-part store concept (designer vintage, consignment, new and handmade)*, I had a feeling that I would be overwhelmed with choices from which to style our lovely model, Rochelle. And I was indeed correct!

*For more information on the store, click HERE to view my post on Chicago Like A Local

Since this was my first time visiting Mr. and Mrs. Digz, I took a few moments to browse the store and get myself acquainted with the well-edited collection of clothing, jewelry and accessories. I was particularly impressed with the range of sizes that were offered AND the presence of a men's section. It truly is a one-stop shop.

Here are just a few things I discovered during my walkthrough:

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Save on Last Minute Gift Ideas from ASOS! (My Top 10 Picks)

ASOS has knocked down the prices (up to 40% discount) on what they've deemed as last-minute gifting items.

Here are my top picks from the array of choices.

1. Made Brass Flower Cuff Bracelet
2. Made Macho Moja Ring
3. Leather Elbow Patch Gloves
4. Adidas Originals Cambridge Watch
5. Leather Contrast Snake Skin Shopper
6. Metallic Oversized Bowler
7. Calourette Pin Confetti Brooch
8. House of Harlow 5 Stack Rings
9. Harris Satchel
10. Faux Fur Long Cuffs


Now, get to shopping!!

*Save an additional 20% with code: XMASSHIPUS (offer ends Friday, December 16th at 4pm PST)

Holiday Gift Ideas from the Chicago Blogger Network

If you're still on the hunt for the perfect gift or looking to add more to your own wish list, check out the Chicago Blogger Network Holiday Gift Guide!

Over 30 local bloggers recommended their "favorite things" this holiday season and it resulted in one of the most impressive gift guides I've seen. It is filled with a variety of unique items, some of which are made by local designers and/or sold in local boutiques.

Yours truly also participated. Can you find my item above?   
hint: My love for this brand started over a year ago.

Click HERE to view the entire gift guide, along with the links to each item and the respective blogger.

Then tell me, which item(s) did you like the most? Which one of your "favorite things" would you add to the list?

Linking UP: Stylish Work Wear; The Perfect Winter Outfit; The New Age Diary; Sound Advice from a Top Fashionpreneur

Refinery29 challenges us to spruce up our work wear. And we're certainly up for it! (Click HERE for a wardrobe boost)

Le Blog de Big Beauty has me dreaming of velvet dresses, ladylike handbags and mirrored brooches. (Click HERE to find out why)

Swa-Rai has discovered the coolest diary on the market! (Click HERE to reignite your childhood journal-keeping days)

Fashionista.com receives great business advice from Rent the Runway's Jenn Hyman. (Click HERE to see why business plans are practically unnecessary)

My Popular m0851 Tote (and how to get it on sale)!

My Refinery29 feature (more to come on that later) was posted almost two weeks ago and I'm still getting inquiries about the luscious leather tote bag I was rockin' in some of the photos.

With Cyber Monday in full effect, I figured this would be the best time to tell you about the bag and how you can get one at 20% off!

I stumbled upon the m0851 store while strolling in SoHo during my New York Fashion Week visit in September. I had never heard of the brand but the smell of leather drew me in. I was immediately impressed with the quality of the bags that lined the ramp as I entered the store.

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Support Local Businesses on Black Friday: In-Store and Online Sales to Add to Your List

Looking to bypass the mega retailers and outlet malls and, instead, support local businesses on Black Friday?

Well, here's a roundup of some of the best local shops offering great in-store deals post-Turkey Day! And since these are some of my personal favorites, you will most certainly bump into me at one of these spots on Friday.

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The Chicago Blogger Shopping Crawl: Fashion, Fun and Fellowship

(l-r) Andrea, Gabriel, me, Raijean, Dee Dee, Hallie, Patrice, Tabitha, Jen, Elise, Mariposa, Lisa

The Chicago Blogger Shopping Crawl has come and gone.  Yet, I'm still recovering from all the shopping, in-store scavenger hunt missions, Twitter challenges and fun times!

I put my tagline - "the enabler of fashion consumption" - to the test last weekend and passed with flying colors. Everyone left the crawl with tons of bags and lighter wallets. SCORE!

Here's a recap of the day.

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