Bangles bracelets are back!  Which just happens to be one of my favorite new trends for Summer 2011. Bangle bracelets add sparkle, color and style to your wrists. Seen on the runway at the Spring 2011 fashion shows from designers like Marc Jacobs, there are really no rules to wearing this accessory.  You can go big and bold or thin and dainty, depending on your preference.

Bangle bracelets have a range of origins since they are part of ancient jewelry on several continents.  Since the Oscars, fashion takes a new turn in favor of Indian influences.  Bangles as you know come in various colors, shapes and materials. Wood, plastic, resin or metal…they definitely do the trick at catching ones eye. They make for a great accessory anytime.

My personal favorite way to wear bangle bracelets is to pile lots of skinny bangles on my wrist. This set of bangles makes it easy for you to wear with anything as they come in 2 great colors!

 

Another option for bold skinny bangle bracelets that are super budget friendly are these pastel vintage inspired bangles. They look great worn all together at once or wearing just a few at a time. These pastel bangles feature a vintage-inspired design with gold, pink, teal and pearls.

Update your jewelry for summer and shop for these unique bangle bracelets and many more!

 

Ahoy Mate! It appears that this nautical look will never really go out of style. Crisp clean lines and sailor inspired accents make the nautical look timeless.  Navy blue is one of the hottest colors, so wear it proudly…just don’t go overboard and look like you just hopped off the boat.  These sailor inspired pieces are casual, yet chic and perfect to accentuate any outfit.

1. Come Sail Away With Me Bracelet

In the middle of all these nautical trends, many shoppers may find themselves wanting many different versions of the same striped shirt. So you will want this top secret accessory to create your nautical look! This nautical white and gold bracelet with nautical trim embellishments will make you ready to set sail.

2. Captain Of The Seas Pin

Hit the open seas in style with this vintage pin that features a print of anchors and ropes in a classic nautical color palette. Pair this darling captain of the seas pin with a simple blouse, a high-waisted skirt and canvas wedges to begin navigating the waters of nautically inspired fashion.

3. Dome Leave Home Without This Ring

It’s here! The perfect little wear-with-everything dome ring. This absolutely stunning gold and white stretch ring is just the thing you need to add a little bit of polish to your nautical look.  Whether you’re headed to the office or a spontaneous night out on the boat, this beautiful gold and white stretch ring offers easy sophistication in a dash.

4. Oyster & Pearls Handbag

A modern spin on traditional pearls! This bronze handbag is caged with gleaming rows of pearl beads and bronze loveliness with a cream tote. Classically lovely piece to add to your nautical look!

5. Relax In The Sun Straw Hat

Shield yourself from the sun in this oversized floppy straw hat and look nautically chic too!  It features a two toned color scheme of navy and white. This flexible oversized floppy straw hat makes it the perfect traveling hat and also perfect for a romantic sunset evening!

6. Ready For Royal Scarf

Here’s your perfect chance to buy something that surely will be a staple in all seasons! This softly stripped circle royal scarf can be worn a number of ways, the classic colors and lightweight fabric boost its usefulness to the extreme. Get inspired and loop it around the collar of a denim jacket or hang it in a low knot over a classic white tank. The possibilities are endless. The thick royal blue and white stripes make up the print of this oh-so-soft oval, giving you plenty of reason to throw it on with just about anything!

7. Ravishing Rosette Coin Purse

Save yourself the headache of transferring your cards and cash from purse to wallet to clutch to match each occasion and let this Valentino inspired navy rosette coin purse hold your funds instead! This coin purse is roomy enough to hold all your necessities – money, credit cards and lip balm – but small enough to stay out of the way of your carefully put-together nautical look!

 

You may be wondering why I’m blogging about fitness on our fashion blog, but I have learned lately that they truly go hand in hand. I thought I would get a little personal in sharing my weight loss success and how I now feel more confident with fashion!

When you feel good you look good. Fashion is about being confident.  Personally, I feel the most confident about myself when I’m working out and feel like I look good. Trust me, I went through many stages of weight issues and I am proud to say I have now lost 30 lbs and I have never felt better. Bottom line…my clothes fit and shopping is fun again!

There is no exact recipe for weight loss, but in my mind there is no secret either. Working out and eating right is what works. By no means am I a nutritionist or a doctor, but for me counting my calories and working out worked! Every person is unique so find what works for you.

I never worried about watching what I ate as I was involved in sports my whole life and always active. So I was shocked when I graduated college and started gaining weight. When I entered the real world I was still eating what I wanted and found less time to work out. I never got to a point of being obese or anything, but I was so tired and unhealthy it took its toll on me. I had to make a change. I used to love shopping and buying clothes and suddenly that became a chore for me. Some of my favorite items in my closet were too tight!

I then went through a stage I don’t necessarily recommend….I became obsessed with exercise and nutrition. Although by being strict I lost the weight, it’s not the life change I felt I wanted forever. I was working out 6-7 days a week and ate pretty boring/ bland foods. I reached my ideal weight but had to find a more realistic routine that I could adopt for life.

I then found my balance. I started adding back in some of the foods I loved, although in moderation and cut my work out schedule back a little. I still work out a lot, especially more on days I know I am going to splurge and have pizza! (I have to have it occasionally) Being fit is a way of life. It’s not a fad diet or a popular workout; it’s a life-long commitment to being healthy and fit.

This all circles back to fashion and feeling beautiful. There are so many trends and styles that I never took advantage of because I wasn’t confident to leave my house wearing them and now I can. Confidence can mean a lot of different things. It’s not necessarily being a size 2, 4 or even a 6. That’s not realistic for everyone. Once you are content with your body you then feel comfortable in your own skin and it will show the second you step out the door. For me it made shopping fun again and much easier. It was amazing how everything just fits better.

Here are a few tips that help me that I thought I would share….

1. Lift Weights: Every woman should lift dumbbells. I lift anywhere between 3 and 10 lbs depending on what I am doing. I am not looking to bulk up just looking to burn fat and stay slim and toned.
2. Stay Active with Cardio: Find an activity you love. Whether it’s running, swimming, playing tennis or hiking.  The point being…doing cardio helps lose weight and if you don’t like going to gym find something you can have fun doing while reaping the benefits.
3. Set Goals and Realistic Expectations: Setting a goal gives you something to work towards but be realistic. Don’t try to lose 10 lbs in the first week or try and go from not working out to working out 7 days a week. Ease into it or else you will get burnt out.
4. Everything in Moderation: I don’t like diets. I don’t believe you have to give up everything you love. Just find a balance. Give yourself a “Free day” and splurge a little.

Much love!

 

 

As the weather is getting warmer & warmer and summer is officially here, everyone is looking for that great bean dip recipe for those fun summertime cookouts.  I thought I would venture out from my daily fashion blogs and share my favorite bean dip recipe for summer! I must give credit where credit is deserved, this delicious recipe comes from my amazing friend Rochelle.  Thanks Roe!  Enjoy!

Bean Dip Recipe

2 can Black Beans

1 can Pinto Beans

1 can Navy Beans

1 can Kidney Beans

1 can Chickpeas

1 can Black-eyed Peas

2 can Fiesta corn

1 can Rotel

1 Fresh Tomato

1 Fresh pepper ( any color)

¼ diced Red onion

Salt & Pepper

Olive Oil

Balsamic glaze- it’s important to get the glaze…it makes such a big difference!

Mixing directions:

• Empty beans into strainer and rinse well. Shake dry as much as possible.  Place in large bowl.
• Strain excess liquid from canned corn and tomatoes. Add to bowl.
• Chop fresh tomato, pepper, and onion. Add to bowl.
• Add salt and pepper, olive oil, and balsamic glaze.
• Mix well.

I think this bean dip recipe tastes best after it has had time to sit and chill. Have fun with it.  You can also add jalapenos and cilantro too!

Hope you enjoy this as much as I do!

 

 

Fashion meets punk princess with this edgy and sexy glam rock tank top. This rock tank top offers an upscale fashion look with a sexy rock edge.  Glam rock fashion is all about outrageous anything….hair, makeup, clothing, etc.  We see lots of glitter, wild colors…with of course, a glamorous touch!

 

You can rock this glam racer back rock tank top with a pair skinny jeans, fringed booties and a few bangles.  Then catch the performance of some local band and instead you will be the one stealing the show. This glam rock tank top features glam/girly wording, lace detailing and metal embellishments.

 

Are you a frugal fashionista? Or just plain broke? Trends change so often it’s near impossible to constantly keep up especially when you are on a budget. I have found that you can make drastic changes with the same outfit by just changing your accessories. I love wearing jeans and a simple cute white or black tank. However, by just adding some accessories I can change a plain outfit into a fantastic outfit in minutes. Jewelry does not have to be expensive to look expensive either. I don’t always have the cash to spend on new accessories so that is why we decided to start adding jewelry that looks great on and helps in the wallet too!

Here are just a few of our great finds for the frugal fashionista…now available on ChiChiCollections.com.

1. Mint Rosebud Earrings $7

These Mint Rosebud Earrings are inexpensive and a great way to freshen up a blouse and pencil skirt or add a little summer magic to a relaxed dress worn with flats.  These sweet mint rosebud earrings are the perfect accessory for a frugal fashionista. Just slip on these vintage-inspired post earrings for a flash back and a huge punch of flair.

 

 

 

2. Ready for Royal Scarf $11

This Ready for Royal Scarf is such a fabulous find and fabulous price. Frugal Fashionista here’s your perfect chance to buy something that surely will be a staple in all seasons! This softly stripped circle royal scarf can be worn a number of ways, the classic colors and lightweight fabric boost its usefulness to the extreme. Get inspired and loop it around the collar of a denim jacket or hang it in a low knot over a classic white tank. The possibilities are endless. The thick royal blue and white stripes make up the print of this oh-so-soft oval, giving you plenty of reason to throw it on with just about anything!

 

3. Caramel Wrap Around Belt $12

This Caramel Wrap Around Belt is a fashion must. Now this wrap around belt is something to write home about with its caramel hued color and rhinestones! This belt is meant to wrap around you waist two to three times, and is easily secured at the appropriate length by a delicate silver clasp. Pair it with a white blouse, mini skirt and silver T straps for a look all with be envious of.

 

 

4. All OVAL these Earrings $8

Attention miss frugal fashionista…these All OVAL these earrings scream expensive, but check out their price. From time to time, you come across the perfect accessory. You simply love these vintage-inspired posts. An elegant golden trim encircles the solid center, featured in robin’s egg blue. Wear them with a simple dress, cardi and your fav T’straps for that perfect look of sophistication and beauty.

 

 

5. Captain of the Seas Pin $11

Hit the open seas in style with this vintage pin that features a print of anchors and ropes in a classic nautical color palette. Pair this darling captain of the seas pin with a simple blouse, a high-waisted skirt and canvas wedges to begin navigating the waters of nautically inspired fashion.

 

 

 

Just remember you don’t have to spend thousands to look great!  Shop ChiChi to get your hand on these fabulous buys!!

We love summer and there is no better time to show off your new fab summer dresses than now!  When it comes to choosing fab summer dresses, choose one that is stylish and that you are comfortable with. This is key to making sure you look your best.  When you are comfortable and know something looks good on you, you will exude self confidence that others will pick up on the minute you walk in the door!

Here are our 2 most favorite fab summer dresses that will compliment may different body types.

1. Jungle Love Dress

Coral and turquoise are two of our absolute favorite colors, so why not wear them together with this strapless ruffle dress. This print has the most vibrant of these colors in an incredibly detailed jungle floral design! Printed on silky joy fabric, the intricate design is perfect for your summer getaway. This strapless ruffle dress features a stretchy cinched waistline and layers of beautiful ruffles on the bodice and trim.

 

2.  On the Go Chevron Dress

Pops of colorful flowers and faded navy chevron are a breath of fresh air in the summer. These two looks are pieced together perfectly with the one shoulder. This chevron dress was created solely for our “On the Go” gals!

 

P.S. Enter promo code “CHI20DCHI” at checkout and save 20% on all ChiChi Collections fab summer dresses. Hurry offer ends June 30th!

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Right now feather earrings are the hottest new trend! They are wild and whimsical, a great accessory to pair with most any outfit.  We’ve seen celebrities such as Gwyneth Paltrow,  Jessica Szohr and Hillary Duff wearing these trendy earrings. They are super lightweight and make you feel free as a bird! Feather earrings come in so many different colors and styles, your options are limitless.

I love these hot pink feather earrings Gwyneth Paltrow is rocking!  They are bold, fearless and fun!

Jessica Szohr’s feather earrings create a glam rock look, just stunning!

The feather earrings Hillary Duff is sporting are perfect for a casual, busy day of shopping!

 

Here are a few of my favorites:

Tip: Feather earrings look best when worn with a casual outfit.  Throw on a simple tank and your favorite jeans and doll up your outfit with any style of feather earrings.

So what’s the verdict?  Are you a fan of feather earrings?  Vote yes or no and let us know!

 

Summer is almost here so what better time to explore the summer 2011 shorts trends! Without a doubt shorts are my favorite fashion item this year and it doesn’t look like it’s going to change anytime soon. A year ago I would have said different.  Shorts look good with pretty much everything and are surprisingly versatile, making the look both cool and sexy.  Shorts can also create a sense of rebelliousness. They can look refined with the right top and work for all seasons, especially here in Florida!

Shorts come in a variety of styles and it seems that this offers many advantages to women since you can opt for a pair of shorts regardless of your fashion style.  You can find many styles ranging from casual chic to punk.  It goes without saying that everything goes with a pair of denim shorts!  But what about the other summer 2011 shorts trends?

Here are a few of my favorite styles that I have come across.

Summer 2011 Shorts Trends #1: Menswear Inspired

You don’t have to be a surfer or tomboy to wear these shorts. This menswear inspired trend can work in several ways.  These bermuda shorts can be worn with a blazer, belt and professional looking shoes…which is perfect for a day at the office . If you choose a really baggy pair for comfort, then pick a  more fitted shirt or t ‘shirt for a laid back look.  Pair with a chic hat, simple accessories and flats to convey a confident, casual feeling.

Summer 2011 Shorts Trends #2: High Waisted

This cute trend of high waisted shorts can make your legs look like they go on for days and your waist look tiny. Who wouldn’t want that, right? Choose a shirt you can tuck into your shorts or even add suspenders! These shorts can really create an ultra-feminine or retro/vintage look.  Pair with peep toe heels.

Summer 2011 Shorts Trends #3: Hot Pants

You can thank Lady Gaga, Rhianna and Beyonce for making this trend a Hot Pants Trend. For those daring enough to try this look, I’d recommend going with a tight fit top so that you don’t have to try to tuck anything thing. This is adorable for a date night. I love how she adds boots with this as well!

So there we have it, the top summer 2011 shorts trends.  Are you dying to get your hands on a great pair? Check us out at www.chichicollections.com!

 

Hmmm….what to wear on the 4th of July?  It’s nearly time to celebrate!   What will you be wearing when the fireworks start? With backyard BBQ’s, sparkler-lit picnics and firework beach parties…what’s not to love about our great Independence Day?  Whether you’re 6 or 60, for me the 4^th of July conjures up the best of summer apparel and good old fashion summer fun.

The 4^th of July is such a fun time of the year and a perfect time to celebrate and share your U.S.A. pride.  Incorporating red, white and blue into your wardrobe or accessories is a great way to show your spirit. While thinking about what to wear on the 4th of July, I decided to search for all fashionable red, white and blue items.

There are so many to choose from and I had such a fun time creating a “wish list” devoted to 4^th of July fashion!  I’m thinking about heading to the beach or out on the boat,  so I’ll  most likely be keeping it casual in denim shorts and flat sandals. Whatever you plan on…from fancy boat parties to chill cookouts…we’ve got you covered with these fun accessory options.

Check out the great 4^th of July Fashion finds at ChiChi Collections!

The blue and white Relax in the Sun Straw Hat is perfect for shielding yourself from the sun and of course looking festive on the 4^th!  The Time to Smell the Roses Purse is in a fabulous shade of red and is great for strolling through the park or having cocktails with friends. The Ravishing Rosette Navy Coin Purse is not only cute but incredibly convenient for running all over town celebrating!  The Rainbow Necklace is just delightful and a perfect accessory to pair with a simple white tank and denim shorts. The Teal Love Hand Sanitizer Flask is a must have. Just strap it to your bag or toss in your purse and you will be all set. Weather you fill it with wine or fill it with hand sanitizer you will be prepared. Lastly, this Red Poppy Key Chain is great for collecting all your keys with an organized and stylish effect!

I hope this helps answer the big question…what to wear on the 4th of July!

Happy almost 4th of July!