Lighthouse Flair: Fun, Fashion and Philanthropy

Dear Fashionistas,

Find designer "FLAIR" up to 80% off to benefit the blind next week.  September 24-25, 2011 900 North Michigan Avenue and Saks Fifth Avenue come together to support the fashion fundraiser.

FLAIR will feature an array of new and gently pre-owned designer clothing and accessories, boasting labels from Gucci, Oscar De La Renta, Yves St. Laurent, St. John, Prada, Burberry, Christian Dior, Armani, MaxMara, Donna Karan, Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, and much more priced up to 80 percent off the original retail value!

These incredible fashion finds will be available on Saturday, Sept. 24th from 12 noon to 7 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 25th from 12 noon to 6 p.m.  The sale opens with a VIP fashion show and breakfast at Saks Fifth Avenue, 700 N. Michigan Ave, from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Saturday morning.  Hosted by Sherren Leigh and Cassandra Gaddo from Today’s Chicago Woman, the Saks fashion show will feature the best of FLAIR and use models who are both sighted and visually impaired.  Tickets to the VIP show are available for $100 and include special Preview Shopping at the Flair pop-up shop from 10 a.m. – 12 noon.

Above are a few fab pieces that will be available:

7327- Yves St. Laurent bag

3384- Tory Burch dress

3407- St. John leather jacket

Don't miss this rare opportunity.  To purchase the fashion show tickets, Simply visit 

www.chicagolighthouse.org/FLAIR

Ta Ta,

Nicki

Our Future Fashionistas

   

Dear Fashionistas,

Yesterday I taught third grade at St. Benedict Grade School.  The girls gushed all over my Burberry shoes so I knew we had future Chicago Fashionistas in the class.  Not sure if these girls are "future fashionistas" since describing what they thought fashion was this season was right on target.  So, I think it is fair to say they are fashionistas now.  Zara was one of their favorite stores and bright colors are certainly a fashion statement this season.  It's  nice to know we have fashion icons in the making right here in the city.  Oh and in third grade.  Love it!

Ta Ta,

Nicki

Modern Makeover For The Trench

Dear Fashionistas,

Have no fear, spring is in the near....well, future.  However, I don't think once spring chimes in it is going to leap to a balmy 75 degrees. So when your ready to shed your "puffy" go a little lighter with a stylish trench.

Keep the bold colors at bay and go for a neutral color for longevity.  If you want to add a pop of color, throw a silk scarf around your neck and carry a leather clutch to match. Voilà!

Fave 1: British luxury fashion house Burberry founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry has always been the destination for their signature chic plaid clothing and fashion accessories.  But, if you're not a plaid fan, you can thank the new chief creative director Christopher Baily.  Responsible for re-branding the company, and taking the fashion house to new heights, we can now purchase stylish trenches without the plaid. My pick, is the grey wool trench with the frilled hem. A classic trench while redefining femininity is worth the investment.  Check out Burberry in Chicago at 633 N. Michigan Avenue.

Fave 2; New British phenomenon on the scene is Ted Baker. Ted Baker is one of the fastest-growing leading lifestyle brands in the UK.  He is known for his attention to detail shirting for men and quirky sense of humor.  Grown since 1987 from a menswear haberdasher to designing a wide range of collections including: Menswear, Womenswear, Global, Endurance, Accessories, Fragrance, Skinwear, Footwear, Eyewear and Watches. Ted Baker has become a global brand and is opening stores in the United States including Chicago at 1009 N. State Street which opened in December of 2010.  Check out the store and snag this super cute full-skirt double breasted trench in rose pink. Another classic with a kick of sass!

Fave 3: American darling, Kate Spade from Missouri has captured our hearts with her handbags in the early 90's.  She expanded her line to stationery, personal organizers, address books, shoes, beauty products, perfume, raincoats, pajamas, and eyewear. In 1998, she opened her first store in SoHo and in 2003 Chicago, at the location of 56 East Oak Street! This year, everyone who's anyone seems to be talking about her 2011 collection!  The collection is filled with bright colors and whimsical flair.  I happened to spot a trench that is elegant with a bit of fun.  The coat features sunburst pleating and playful bow detailing in back. Includes flap pockets, shoulder epaulettes and polka-dot print faille lining for a final whimsical touch.

Ta Ta,

Nicki

I JUST LOVE SHOE NAKED

Dear Fashionistas,

I am still obsessed with "naked" color shoes this year!  Is it wrong to love a shoe that gives the magical appearance of legs as long as a giraffe?  I think not.  The color blends with your natural color of skin (on some skin tones) to give the look of elongating your leg.

The color also allows your colorful ensemb to "pop"!  If you want to wear a really vibrant dress and make it stand out, nude shoes polish it off.  Or wear nude shoes instead of black so that the focus is on your dress and not your shoes.  Nude is also a classic shoe that will never go out of style so you don't have to feel a bit of remorse if you are buying designer.  Your safe!

I have picked a few sandals that I just adore.  I know it is a bit early for spring in Chicago, but why not get your sandals now? When it is warm enough, you are ready to step into spring with style.

I apologize for shopping most of the shoes at Nordstrom but the shoe department just can't be beat.

1. BP Kenna Sandal at Nordstrom. I love the satin straps.  The description suggested pairing it with evening wear but even a pair of great flair jeans with a simple flutter top would be divine. Or to show off your elongated legs, wear a day dress to scroll along Rush Street. 

2. Kate Spade at Nordstrom. This lavish strappy sandal with the satin bloom oozes femininity. I want to wear it with cute fitted white shorts or skirt with a pinkish color tank or even a neat black tank with a twist.

3. Glint Kathryn Sandal at Nordstrom.  Enjoy these leather shoes with the braided cut-out shape to give it a modern flair. The heel is approximately "4.  Wear these with absolutely everything.

4. Ivanka Trump at Nordstrom.  Ivanka Trump has a newly created shoe collection with an incredible price range. I am crazy about Ivanka shoes!  These flats are on my list to buy for hanging at the beach this summer.

5. Burberry at Bloomingdales. Remember jelly shoes?  Hated them! But check out these modern cute T-Strap Jellies from Burberry.  Cute heart accessory attached for a bit of fun.

6. Lanvin at Barneys New York. Barneys on Oak Street has an amazing shoe collection also.  In love with these satin flower and grosgrain trim sandal.  I guess I like the accessories attached to the shoes this year.  It adds a bit of pizzaz and in this case, a feminine touch.  

Ta Ta,

Nicki