Candles for CoCo

On this day in 1883 in Saumur France, Gabrielle "Coco" Bonheur Chanel was born. A woman born into relative obscurity and has become one of the most iconic figures of the 20th century and one of THE most iconic and influential in fashion. Born to an unmarried laundry lass and street vendor she had a life of humble beginnings. She spun great tales of her past and upbringing as one could only guess because she was embarrassed of it. She was once quoted as saying, "My life didn't please me, so I created my life".

She had a job as a seamstress early in her life but her start in fashion was as a milliner (hat maker). She worked from an apartment as a distraction/hobby that quickly evolved into a full blown business. In 1910 she began to sell her hats from an established boutique at 21 rue Cambon, Paris (The CHANEL flagship boutique is currently at 31 rue Cambon).  

To CoCo We Give Thanks For ...

1) LBD - Little Black Dress. The most iconic of the CHANEL garments. The fist LBD is reportedly constructed from  thin silk, crèpe de chine and had long sleeves. It is the most versatile, fashionable, functional and elegant garment EVERY women regardless of shape, size, budget or age MUST have hanging in her closet in one form or another. The LBD is figure friendly and fabulous. A classic, undisputed wardrobe staple.

2) Costume Jewelry - She made what was then "undesirable" to the wealthy French, chic, timeless and fabulous. She said: " "It's disgusting to walk around with millions around the neck because one happens to be rich. I only like fake jewelry … because it's provocative."Vaughan, Hal (2011). Sleeping with the enemy: Coco Chanel's secret war. New York: Knopf

I LOVE costume jewelry. I have always found it to be much more creative and unique than it's high priced, precious counterpart. Piling on the faux-pearls is still VERY chic!

The bracelets worn in the above image are one of CoCo's favourite pieces: A white enameled cuff featuring the Maltese Cross in 'faux jewels'

3) The CHANEL Suit. One of the most iconic looks in fashion. It has stood the test of time and thanks to Karl Lagerfeld we can all enjoy the suit in its updated version, that's if you have $4,000+ to spend on a suit. The original version was inexpensive and for a lady's comfort and function to travel. It was created from a jersey knit fabric especially created for Coco.

4) Men's Wear Inspired Looks - CoCo embraced pants as sportswear in the 1920's. A bold feminist move in the early days before it was socially acceptable for women to wear pants. 

5) The CHANEL Handbag - THIS is the bag to aspire to ladies. The quilted Chanel bag with the chain strap and interlaced CC logo is the most coveted and classic bag in Fashion in my humble PROFashional opinion. Some would argue the Birkin is because of it's waiting list and price but I'm partial to Chanel. The classic 2.55 (named after the month and year of design - Feb 1955) - black and hand quilted. Often imitated and never duplicated. Karl Lagerfeld revived and reissued it in the 80's and it has come a long way with different shapes, colors and fabrications but it has NEVER lost it's value or reputation. It boast a a heft price tag too; approx $4,000+ new. It is an investment piece that does not really loose it's value. Completely justifiable: Dear Santa ...

She was a trailblazer in fashion and lived a very interesting life. A feminist and a style visionary. There would have been 130 candles for CoCo today but sadly she left us in 1971 at the age of 87. Her legacy lives on and continues to thrive as the house of CHANEL is one of the most coveted brands on the planet! Although strange to pay tribute to someones birthday who has long since ended her earthly journey, attention had to be paid today to celebrate the life of such an amazing lady and a true inspiration to me and fashionistas everywhere.

Cheers to you COCO!

Style Knows No Age

I always hear women complain about getting older. We are all guilty of it. Looking in the mirror in disbelief at the newest grey hair or fine line. We use lotions, potions and plastic surgeons to help us avoid what is inevitable going to befall ALL of us no matter how many face lifts, botox injections and firming night creams we use. 

Thankfully there is a stylish silver lining to accompany those sexy silver hairs; Personal Style and Fashion.  A while ago I came across a blog called Advanced Style. It showcases and celebrates stylish women who are advanced in age but have sacrificed nothing in the way of Style.

A published book of the same name by author/blogger Ari Seth Cohen (2012) is a treat for the eyes and an inspiration to me. I want to be these women when I grow up. These ladies with their fabulous jewelry, haute hats, lush fabrics and have great tailors.

 100 and FABULOUS!

 Tziporah Salamon 

Stylish Couple

 A colouring book with some images from Advanced Style is set for release on September 3, 2013 (Pre-Order HERE) Celebrating Stylish Seniors. A perfect gift for a child (young and old) to enjoy and act as a teaching tool. Teaching respect and that Style knows no age!

Soul Sunday: What's Your Legacy?

I was inspired to write this blog by the former producer/Co-Creator of the Simpsons. As interesting and as random as it sounds today he is my HERO. His name is Sam Simon and his legacy is GIVING.

I, as millions of others have the Internet as my primary source of news. The other day I came across an article in the UK DailyMail about Simon giving away his fortune. I have been reading it on-line from various media sources and am HAPPY to finally be reading a positive and inspirational story.

The article talked about his passion for protecting and caring for animals as well as feeding the homeless.  He expressed in a recent interview with the Hollywood Reporter "'The truth is, I have more money than I'm interested in spending. Everyone in my family is taken care of. And I enjoy this." 

He was recently diagnosed with terminal colon cancer and was told by doctors he had 3-6 months to live. I'm sure this was a sobering thought to him but based on his actions, an inspirational one too. He is contributing his 'Simpsons Royalties', tens of millions of dollars annually it has been reported, to causes that produce an instant result or reward for those who are the recipients. He is re-investing his fortune in humanity and to limit the suffering of animals. 

Mr. Simon and the Sam Simon Foundation is responsible for what includes but is not limited to the following:

* Turning his Malibu Mansion into a dog rescue shelter for strays that standard shelters would otherwise put to death. They are cared for and trained to be companions for the deaf through the 'Hearing Dog Program'

*Purchasing zoos and travelling circuses to save the animals. He told the reporter "I just wanted to have some days where I get to see animals walk in grass for the first time. Through PETA, we rescue animals in roadside zoos and circuses. They are some of the most abused animals in the country. Freeing those animals, that's something I'm not sure I would do if it weren't for the cancer." 

*Feeding the homeless or families in need with cruelty free, healthy Vegan food. I have read that his place services and feeds over 200 families a day via Tom Bradley Family Source Center, 5213 W. Pico Blvd. , Los Angeles 90019. 

*Service dogs for Veterans. This foundation provides companion animals to veterans suffering emotional and/or physical injury as a result of the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts.

* Pet visitations. Taking animals into visit people in assisted living facilities, thus providing health and well being benefits to the recipients.

*Mobile surgery clinics for animals This service provides FREE surgeries for animals. 

The motto: "Saving the lives of dogs, to enrich the lives of people"

He was asked what change in the world he would like to see by the Hollywood Reporter and he replied, 

"I want medical experiments on animals stopped. They don't do anything, and they don't work. Veganism is an answer for almost every problem facing the world in terms of hunger and climate change. It helps people's health. Meat is the biggest greenhouse gas producer. There's also the cruelty and suffering aspect. When people do meatless Mondays, and when people adopt instead of buying a dog, that's a PETA victory."

The three people he mentioned to be an inspiration to him are Capt. Paul Watson of the Sea Shepherd (who now has a boat named after Sam Simon)

Ingrid Newkirk of PETA

Sam cuts the ribbon for the New PETA Headquarters, now maned the Sam Simon Center

and Charles MacCormack of Save the Children

Former CEO of Save the Children in Ethiopia

Reading about Sam's generosity, besides feeling like he is my new HERO, it made me think a lot about the legacy I would leave behind. Not a legacy of fame or fortune but of service or example. None of us need millions like Sam to help, give or make an impact. I am however inspired and impressed with someone who has the resources to accomplish such good and who actually goes out and DOES IT. Giving of your time or resources no matter how big or small does make an impact. What if it only helped one person or animal? wouldn't it be worth it? 

My legacy? Time is the most precious commodity available to us all. Taking time out of your life to enrich the lives of others is one part of the legacy that I will leave behind. I hope it inspires my children to do the same. I want to empower and inspire women all around the world through fashion, there is an investor out there to make my vision a reality, I will just keep moving forward and working with women one-on-one to build self esteem through personal style until I am able to reach them globally. I also want to make an impact in the Down Syndrome community as my son has blessed my life in more ways than I can possible articulate. My children are my greatest legacy of all. Spending time with them and teaching them the compassion and respect for the planet and animals (we ALL have Plant Based diets) and people. Sharing with them the virtues of hard work, service without reward, honesty and persistence. Most of all inspiring them to follow their dreams no matter when it may lead them, they need to fight for what they would like to accomplish in their lifetime, essentially their legacy.

I must also make clear that I'm not counting Sam out yet either. I would assume based on all the fighting he does on behalf of others and voiceless animals he has a hell of a lot of fight in him too. May he find healing and peace in what I hope is a very long life ahead. The world could use more people like him.

What would you like your legacy to be?

 

Leave your comments below!

Animal Glitz

Fabric: Printed Metallic Sequins on Lace ($105/yd)

Happy Stylish Saturday everyone! My style inspiration today is a little 'Animal Glitz' - Sequin prints that resemble an animal print. We all have (by WE I mean me) hoards of traditional animal prints in our closets. What about 'animal inspired' prints with a little bit of glitz? 

Jayma Mays in black shorts, a gold sequined  print Rachel Zoe blazer and burgundy Jean-Michel Cazabat pumps.

Rachel Zoe Pre-Fall 2013

Image: Tamara Wickstrom

Evolution Vintage: Sequin Abstract Animal Print top - $85

Prefer a Peacock?

SOLD

Vintage 60's Lillie Rubin Gown with 'animal print' sequin bodice ~ $295 

The ultimate fashion Rorschach test. I see abstract animal prints here, what say you? 

Nail It: Jamberry

I have the sincere pleasure of spending most Monday evenings with two of my best friends; we chat, chow and do nails. Well by WE I mean my gal pal Jensine. She is kind enough to give us AMAZING manicures. During a recent Manicure Monday we were able to try Jamberry nail wraps. 

First let me say that they have a selection that is vast and second to non in the nail wrap biz! I loved that they have Jr Jam's for the little ones, like my 5 year old diva daughter. Check out the selection HERE

Not available in stores girls, you have to purchase your Jams via a sales representative. In my case, contact Amanda Willson. She hooked me up with these coll White/Grey/Black print. 

I always keep my nails natural and short. A print always looks good on shorter nails so don't distress ladies if your nails are on the short side.

My friends each had accent nails in a print.

Sydney Said: "I loved the huge assortment of colors and patterns, so cute! The cherry pattern I tried was adorable! I didn't find them to last as long as I hoped, but that could have been user error-I think using the dryer they offer may be the key. I'd definitely be interested in trying a whole set in the future."

Jensine Said: "I don't feel 100% confident giving a review since I enjoyed a full day of water park activities the day after applying the two test nails. I was impressed with the multitude of designs that Jamberry has to offer. I was excited to see so many animal prints, which I am crazy about! I applied the decals for two of my friends and while using a blow drier (in lieu of a Jamberry decal heater) I had to be careful not to burn them but use enough heat so that they would adhere completely. I don't know if it was a lack of heat or the long soaks in chlorinated water that caused my decals to lift the next day. Bottom line: I'd give Jamberry decals another shot!"

How it all works:

You must purchase your Jamberry Wraps from a Consultant OR if you have some time and LOVE nails you can become a consultant

You can Host a PARTY

They come in SHEETS, $15/ea  - 18 wraps will do 2-3 full sets!!

No smell, no chemical, no animal testing

VARIETY (over 200+ Designs in wraps, shields, glitter and more)

Apply with heat; Jamberry sells a dryer or use a hair dryer (which is what we did)

After 10 days of by busy mom lifestyle my nails looked like THIS:

I have my hands constantly in water, washing dishes and clothing, wiping baby butts and cleaning my home. I also run a business where I'm typing and working with my hands. I saw the standard wear that I expected. They did last longer than the Sally Salon Effect alternative.

I would try Jamberry again for sure. 

If you want to try BUY 3 NOW and get one FREE! The value is there as well as the selection. Reach out to Amanda to order. She will ship all over the USA and has told me Canadians can start jammin' SEPT 1st

Will you Nail it with Jamberry?

Soul Sunday: A Better Life

Image source unknown

My husband as an avid surfer. He finds his spiritual time in nature, especially the Ocean. To the degree that I subscribe to fashion publications he has a subscription to all Surfing publications. He recently received the most recent and sadly the TransWorld Surf magazine. On the inside cover they printed this:

final issue of

A homeless man gave this piece of paper to an Australian surfer named Creed McTaggart. He told TransWorld that this was one of his most prize possessions and I wanted to make good on #38 "Share this with someone!" So you, dear reader are the luck recipient of these 37 AMAZING tips for a better life.

None of this requires wealth, status or a specific geographical location. Just an open mind and heart. Want a better life? 

In 37 steps a random homeless man can help you achieve it.

1) Take a 10 minute walk everyday and SMILE!

2) Sit silent for at least 10 minutes

3) Sleep for 7 hours

4) Live with Energy, Enthusiasam and Empathy (YIPPEE)

5) Play more games

6) Read More Books

7) Practice Meditation, Yoga and Pray

8) Spend time with 70+  plus and 6 minus (Oldies & Youngies)

9) Dream while you are awake

10) Eat foods that grow

11 )Drink WATER

12) Make 3 people smile a day

13) Don't waste precious energy on gossip

14) Forget past issues

15) Don't have negative thoughts, stay present. It's all about the NOW!

16) Life is a school, learn

17) Eat Breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar

18) Smile and Laugh

19) Don't hate others

20) Don't take yourself or anyone too seriously

21) Agree to disagree

22) Make peace with your past

23) Don't compare your path to others

24) No one, except you is in charge of your happiness

25) Forgive everyone for everything

26) What others think of you is non of your business

27) However GOOD or BAD a situation is it will CHANGE

28) Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Stay in touch with friends

29) Get rid of everything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful!

30) Envy is a waste of time you have everything you need

31) The best is yet to come

32) No matter how you feel, get up, dress up, and show up!

33) Do the right thing

34) Call your family often

35) Your inner most is always happy so BE HAPPY!

36) Each day give something good to others

37) Don't overdo it, know your limits

*38) Share this with someone!

The goal for me is to practice some of this, a lot of the time until I can do all of this, all of the time.

What will you put into practice today??