Couture and Cocktails 2011 Event Recap, David Meister Rocked The Runway

Dear Fashionistas,

Couture & Cocktail mavens Rebecca Besser and Kristina McGrath kicked off the exciting 2011-12 New Generation Season to support the Joffrey Ballet and the Educating Arts.  It was an exciting evening of fashion, fun and philanthropy.  Chicago definitely knows how to support their own  The star of the night was David Meister, the designer who's designs rocked the runway.  Glimmer is glam and seriously chic.  Above are a few of my favorites and can be found at Neiman Marcus right here in Chicago.  The event took place in an architectural wonder, The Hudson.  A perfect place for the most glamourous event of the year.

If you didn't make it this year, be sure to put it on your radar for next year's list of must go-to fashion events.

Ta Ta,
Nicki

Chicago Designer Christina Fan Rocks Urban

In the photos above: 
I am wearing the Helen Scarf Cardigan in Grey Caddo Lake Print and Christina is wearing the Mata Hari Caftan tunic in Blue Caddo Lake Print.

In the photos above:

I am wearing the Langtry dress in Grey Caddo Lake Print, Lauren (in the middle) is in the Marilyn Dress in Blue Caddo Lake print and Christina is wearing the Cixi dress in Grey Caddo Lake Print (exclusive to City Blue Chicago).

Dear Fashionistas,

There is no mistaking it, Christina Fan designer of C/Fan creates a look distinctly her own.  A cut above the seasons seaworthy hues and cinematic previews.   C/Fan puts a twist in our stylish closet by designing pieces that show a glimpse of skin with effortlessly flowing luxe fabric wrapped around our silhouette.

Fan was accepted to law school but quickly found her creative juices churning while traveling and started to pursue designing.  In 2009 she launched C/Fan creating modern graphic prints and key pieces to accompany your growing wardrobe.  The unique pieces can be styled in a variety of different ways so that they can be used as a statement or a transitional piece.  

The above shots are from a fun photo shoot we did around the corner from her studio. Another example of the fun whimsical personality Fan creates while showcasing the seasons most sought-out pieces.

Be sure to check out C/Fan's website by clicking here.  A Chicago Fashionista's favorite.

Ta Ta,

Nicki

AGGA B- One Shoulder Wonder

Dear Fashionistas,

Wonder what to wear to a graduation,  a wedding,  a summer fête, or to one of many fashion events hosted by amazing talented Chicago designers?

This one shoulder wonder by Chicago designer AGGA B is a classic piece to wear this season by dressing it up with the array of accessories presented in all the fashion mags or simply by itself as a reflection of elegance.

Made with Italian fabric in the USA and only $130.00.  Click here to purchase.

Ta Ta,

Nicki

Cartier

Dear Fashionistas,

French luxury jeweler and watch manufacturer Cartier located at 630 North Michigan Avenue is best known for developing the most fashionable and exotic wristwatches. The Baignoire and Tortue models were designed in the early nineteen hundreds and can still be found today in most Cartier stores.  However, Cartier is also known for designing and carrying some of the most expensive and rare jewelry collections that only royalty would be privileged to wear.  Including the borrowed 1936 Cartier tiara Princess Catherine wore on her wedding day to Prince Phillip. The halo-style tiara was originally a gift to Queen Elizabeth II by the late queen mother when she turned 18.

Since 1847 the name Cartier has been identical with terms beauty and luxury.  The House of Cartier has catered to some of the most beautiful women in the world including The late Jackie Kennedy who wore the Cartier Tank Louis watch, Princess Marie-Chantal of Greece is well-regarded for her lineage and her stellar always “put-together” look, which includes a white gold Cartier Tank Americaine and closer to home Angelina Jolie who can be seen wearing Cartier timeless pieces. 

Some of the newer pieces include semi-precious stones including the Caresse d'orchidées par Cartier necklace created with white gold, diamonds and onyx and the Panthère ring designed with yellow gold, tsavorite garnet, and onyx.  Over the years Cartier has also expanded into Leather Goods and Fine Accessories for the home.  The handbags are made with the finest leathers and exotic skins the world can offer with the unmistaken logo engraved on the hardware.  Carried by celebrities and some of the most famous women in the world.

Cartier on Michigan Avenue will provide you with the most extraordinary customer service and offer private showings if you prefer.  A Chicago Fashionista's dream.


Ta Ta,
Nicki

Meriam Cecilia Shows Off Her Ethereal Side

Dear Fashionistas,
Chicago designer Miriam Cecilia has created a "storm" of nature! It's no wonder since her designs are inspired by nature and all things beautiful. She showed us what she is made of last Friday by showcasing her ready-to-wear pieces and magical couture gowns. Using mica as a feature on one of her gowns around the neckline was glorious.  Another adornment was fur, set upon the shoulder as a warm accent.
Hand-sewn with care, the styles are created for the goddess in all of us by designing elegant structures that allow wearability. The fabrics flowed without a care as if you were part of the wind, moving naturally with a feminine stride.

An oasis of iridescent and serene accomplishment, Miriam Cecilia presented a collection that is surreal but attainable.
Ta Ta
Nicki    Chicago Fashionista ChicagoFashionista

Color Me Missoni At Sarca

Dear Fashionistas,

The Italian house Missoni is renowned for their fabulous knits and fantastic color arrangements in stripes, geometrics and floral patterns. The luxury label isn't sparing any color, knits or fun when it comes to creating a shoe line either.  These vibrant shoes above are HOT! Multi-color crochet-knit sandals in a wooden clog or espadrille heel features knotted and self-tie straps that thread through gold rivets are incredibly delicious. 

You can find these spring must-haves at SARCA at 710 North Wabash in Chicago. 

See my darlings, you don't need to trot across the globe to find some of the most coveted items around.  We got you covered right here in Chicago.

Ta Ta,

Nicki

Creatures Of The Wind

Dear Fashionistas,

Chicago hip designers Chris Peters and Shane Gabier are Creatures Of The Wind and have mixed femininity with an architectural sense of style.  The dress above is a knit cotton a-line wonder made with structural rope detail and an intricate crocheted neckline. 

Loving this dress with the silk/chiffon draping in front, shaped as a bustier but without the constricting component.  Easy to wear and it makes a statement. Two statements that are essential for a ChicagoFashionista to make it a breeze getting ready for all her Spring haps.

You can find the above dresses and other amazing pieces from Creatures Of The Wind at Barneys New York and ikram right here in Chicago!

Ta Ta,

Nicki

Five Star Frocks For Chicago's Warm Months

Dear Fashionistas,

Don't you just love a good dress to wear throughout the warm months? Lets face it, Chicago only has three good months of warm weather to really enjoy light flowing materials.  So I gathered a few of my favorites that can be worn strolling along the shopping districts, grabbing lunch with friends or meeting for a cocktail at Trump Tower.   The best part - is that they are all reasonably priced and located in Chicago. 

1. Marlowe - 800 North Michigan Avenue.  This wool silk pleated dress is stunning.  It is the epitome of elegance and will get you through luncheons to cocktails for many years to come.

2. Cerato - 3451 North Southport Avenue. This Vienna dress by Chicago designer Sophia Reyes is stunning with it's vibrant color and designed with perfect proportion's.  This dress is a must-have to show off your flirty femininity side.

3. Zara - Block 37-1 West Randolph.  Leather is the "it" textile this S/S2011 and Zara is making it accessible and fun with this little ruffle leather number. Make this a Chicago streetstyle by pairing it with your black patent leather lace-up heels and skinny belt.

4. Neiman Marcus - 737 North Michigan Avenue.  T-Bags is one of the stylish designers at Neiman Marcus that is "yes" affordable.  The striped halter maxi is designed with all shapes in mind.  A banded empire waist and gathered bodice makes this dress wearable for both day and night.

Which one will you wear this summer?

Ta Ta

Nicki

Lara Miller Is Eco-Wonderful

Dear Fashionistas,

Chicago designer Lara Miller has amazing taste and extraordinary talent.  Her collection is constructed of eco-friendly bamboo, organic cotton and other sustainable materials creating elements of soft woven pieces of wonderful.  

Easy to wear but still über-stylish, Lara Miller reaches out to a larger market and manages to capture a customer who is tried and true.  The Val Cigarette Pants pictured above are  examples of how Lara Miller can create something to look chic and oh so very wearable.

Her collection is manufactured in Chicago and can be found on her website: Lara Miller or discover more of Lara Miller at Cerato.

Ta Ta,
Nicki

Don't Blame It On Rio!

Dear Fashionistas,

Looks like the sultry seventies is amongst us my darlings.  The bright pinks in multi-layered jersey and organza panels sway with every step.  Hot nights dancing to your favorite salsa band in a tropical location sounds like a place to wear these bold dresses.  Marc Jacobs  RTW ties in the disco era with exotic prints.   Don't blame it on Rio though, we just can't help dreaming of steamy nights when spring is right around the corner.

1. Marc Jacobs RTW: PEACH COMBO SILK GAUZE PANELED KEY HOLE DRAPED DRESS

W/ VELVET TIE AT NECK & BELT W/ FLOWER DETAIL

2. Marc Jacobs RTW: BRIGHT PINK MULTI JERSEY ORGANZA COLOR PANELED

V-NECK RUCHED DRESS

Marc Jacobs is located at 11 East Walton Street  Click here for location.
Ta Ta,
Nicki

Cerato, Where Chicago Designers Mingle

Dear Fashionistas,

GILT Chicago, Daily Candy and Time Out Chicago are gushing over Cerato at 3451 North Southport Ave. So I curiously went over to Cerato to see what all the hubbub was all about.  Feminine and flirty decor with a hip vibe featuring double-wide fitting rooms large enough for the moms with strollers and fashionistas to get a complete 180 degree angle!  You know we need that space.
Cerato is focused on cutting edge designers from Chicago and is making waves in the style scene.
Sophia Reyes, CFAN, Anna Fong, Horacio Nieto and Lara Miller are some the hottest names to watch in 2011 and are located at Cerato.  Get in there now to check out the fresh spring arrivals.  Receive a SPECIAL  "No Tax inclusion on any purchase" when you mention my blog. Offer ends March 14th!
**discount does not apply with current promotions

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

It's Fun, It's Sexy, It's Extreme and I'm Wild About It

Yves Saint Laurent
Printed Puff Sleeve Silk Dress



















d'Orsay Cutout Pump

                                                 

BIG BOLD BRIGHT BAGS

Dear Fashionistas,


Big Bold Bright Bags are all the rage this spring.  With these bright vivid colors offered in stores now, they will surely help us snap out of the dull drum's of winter. But buyer beware: though retailers are showing vibrant colors in head-to-toe fashion, I would advise to wear sparingly.  Just a splash will do my darlings.


Blue and green tote by TOD'S: Located at 121 East Oak Street 
TOD'S fine Italian made handbags are known for their impeccable taste, enviable quality and understated luxury. 


Yellow Washington Mews Maryanne Tote by Kate Spade: Located at 56 East Oak Street
Kate spade, known for her chic handbags and accessories, offers this supple marbled yellow patent leather tote that is finished with a chic metal strap.  


Red Shoulder Bag by Jill Sander:  Located at 48 East Oak Street
Jill Sander is known for her minimalist aesthetics of the 90's. This German designer has made her way into showing more pops of color thanks to the new appointed creative director Raf Simons. This bold shoulder bag is made out of strong resistant deer leather.

All bags look great with jeans, a flouncy short skirt, a long dress or a tailored black suit.

I hope you like my bags for spring.  What are your favorites?  Send me a picture and I will post it!

Ta Ta,

Nicki