Badgley Mischka at TJMAXX

For lack of a better phrase, OMG! TJMaxx never ceases to amaze me. The latest treat the store is offering- the most amazing leather purses from Badgley Mischka. Badgley shoes are a favorite of mine, particularly since last summer's purchase, the Xoa, a big girl shoe if ever I saw one. But I digress. The Calista is a school-book type satchel with detachable strap and some hardcore hardware in impressive matte metals.  The Cherise is a larger and deeper satchel than the Calista, with double handles and detachable strap. Both the Cherise and the Calista sell at theTJMaxx on Howell Mill for $229.00, and I suspect neither will be there for long.

 

Until tomorrow,

 

Chamele

The Unsung Sung at TJMaxx

I found a number of items at TJMaxx after my Lent stint. I found a small size cologne in Men's Fragrances, Sung by Alfred Sung, I thought I would get it as a surprise for Hubby. Hubby immediately put it on before going to work and thankfully but inquisitively stated that the smell was "interesting." Immediately I asked, "Does it smell feminine?" Not having smelled it myself, I had taken a chance on the purchase."interesting," could only mean one thing, it smelled feminine. The cologne was only $9.99 and Alfred Sung is Alfred Sung. Geez. I sniffed the bottle. It was definitely "interesting." I sighed.I had good intentions.  It smelled great but not for Hubby. I did some research and .... that was definitely the women's fragrance. It just happened to be in the wrong section, but don't tell Hubby. Oh well, I just scored a wonderful fragrance for myself.Sung by Alfred Sung at TJMaxx.

Until tomorrow,

Chamele

Luxetips For Less! Chloe Sunglasses at Ross

Hello Divas!

Life is good. Enjoy it!

Yesterday I took some time to help a friend find the perfect dress and accessories for her graduation ceremony.  We went to Ross because in my opinion Ross has the best dresses at rock bottom affordable prices.  Plus I can always find a pair of shoes or other home items while I am there.  So while browsing the jewelry case look what we found:

Chloe Shades! These Shades are just drop dead gorgeous.  First they are an off white beige color, tortoise shell and Big Big Big!

Can we say Divalicous!

But the best thing about these shades were they were only $70!! Chloe shades for $70 bucks? A steal!  They usually retail for $378!

I told my friend if she didn't buy those shades she was insane.  She did. And guess what, as I predicted folks keep complimenting her on how fly she looks. That is what $378 shades for only $70 will do for ya!

Divas don't sleep on Ross.  Most people discount shop at TJ MAXX and Marshalls but Ross has tons of little finds and steals. I love Ross!

Toodles!

Pour La Victoire at TJMAXX!!

The Hotness! TJMaxxes at Howell Mill and Buckhead Loop have updated their shoes recently with a ton of sexy stilettos and bright flats.  Pour La Victoire, a brand famed for its laser-cut sandals and super soft leather stilettos made in Brazil, is currently stocked at both locations. The shoes below are just a couple of the many pairs TJMaxx is currently carrying. The shoes range from $69.99 to $99.99.   

Until tomorrow, 




Chamele

40 Days of Sacrifice: Re-Invent Yourself!

I have tried many times to refrain from shopping. Last year, I said I would try for a full 365 days to refrain from shopping. I lasted three days. I decided this year that I would give up shopping for myself (notice the operative words here are “for myself”) during Lent.  I mean, if I cannot do it for God, then ...  well, I guess, that is a problem between me and God. I was thinking what I will do to keep me “fasting.”   I know a complete “wilderness experience” might include me not even tempting myself with trips to TJMaxx or looking online at Modcloth, but I simply will not go 40 days without stepping foot in TJMaxx, and it is unrealistic for me to not look at my online favorites.  Plus, the real lesson in sacrificing is giving something up when it is in your face.  I decided that every day for 40 days I could do something different with my wardrobe or with my person so that I look better in what I already have. So here are the first ten things or forty things that both I and you (should you choose to join me) can do for the next 40 days:

1.      Tighten it up! or in my case, untighten- Instead of wearing tights with my dresses, I am going back to stockings. It sounds boring when there are so many trendy tights, but I wore a pair of flesh tone stockings and darn near did not recognize myself. If you generally wear stockings, try a fun printed tight instead. The point is to switch it up.

2.      Get lifted- I am sure John Legend wasn’t thinking get fitted for a bra when he made that song. I went for a fitting and found out that I was wearing the wrong cup size.  It is amazing how new your clothes look when you are wearing the proper undergarments. Because the goal is to not shop, I must wait until the 40 days is over to purchase any new bras, for now I may try slightly tightening the straps on the bras I do own.

3.      Dye hard-  I am thinking of getting rid of a velvet gray jacket I rarely wear, but I was thinking that if I remove the current color and re-dye with the Rit dye Scarlet, it will look so funky. Find one item you are about to get rid of because you are tired of looking at it, make a trip to the grocery store,  buy a popping color and go to town. Make sure to get a color that will show i.e. if your item is red, then yellow likely may not show, go darker or buy a color remover.

4.      Hemming and hawing- Don’t go hemming and hawing over what you don’t have. Adjust a hemline up or embellish a hemline by tacking lace or tulle to the hem.

5.      Good cause- The Lenten season is based in sacrifice. Show your charitable side and clothing you haven’t worn in a year or more. I try to donate three to four times per year. There is no better time to do some closet cleaning than Spring.

6.      Button it! – Take an older item an update it with new buttons. I had an old red suit with black cloth buttons. I took the buttons off and put on shiny gold ones and my suit was as good new.

7.      Collar-less- A good coat is a good coat. No need to sacrifice a blazer or coat because it looks dated. Sometimes simple adjustments can make an old item look brand new. The coat I referred to above also had a black cloth collar and black sleeves. I opened the seams and took off the black cloth collar leaving the coat collarless.

8.      Frame- maybe you think you need a new wardrobe when what you really need is a face, a completely different look.  It could be time for a new haircut. If you don’t want to do anything drastic  try some light layers around your face.

9.      Create layers- I am a huge fan of shirtdresses. A great way to wear them is to slip a thin knit or slip dress on and wear the shirtdress atop the slip dress. Top both with a skinny belt.

10.   Deliberate “tackiness”- Try breaking a fashion rule you once adhered to. I know you were told that black and brown do not go together, but I love to wear black skinny jeans with a black tee and then wear my cognac colored Frye boots and carry my cognac colored Cole Haan purse.  Another one to try is to wear white before Easter. Shocking! I know. Many celebrities have made this trend not so daunting by pairing white dresses with black accessories- shoes, tights, belts, and swanky clutch purses.

Until tomorrow,

Chamele

Cape Victoria at TJ MAXX

While doing my weekly perusal of the local TJMaxxes I found a Juicy Couture tote. Surprisingly 2 of the 3 I had previously seen were still on the rack. The Cape Victoria Tote is carried at theTJMaxx on Howell Mill in a blush suede with Mauve piping. I liked the shape of the purse, but I thought the overall look might have been a bit young for me. When trying to hunt down the original price,  I ran across the Cape Victoria in a beautiful wine color. "Perfect," I thought. The maroon color was definitely more versatile and mature looking than the blush suede. In fact, it is the perfect day purse to pair with shift dresses because it is a fun color but not too bright that you can't get into the doors of your corporate office. The Cape Victoria is on sale at Endless for $219.04, down from its original $307.98.

Rain Rain, Go Away...

 

The last two weeks have been miserable for me with only three days of sunshine. This weekend,I saw something that definitely brightened my day. TJMaxx is now selling a slew of chic galoshes. Wellie's are not that necessary here in the A because we do not have a horribly long rainy season (or at least we didn't use to).  But I saw the chicest, trendiest wellies on a recent trip to New York that inspired me. Nothing is wrong with solid colors, but if you have to endure the rain you might as well have some fun with it. Apparently TJMaxx agrees as they have stocked several types of Juicy Couture galoshes ranging in price from $79.99 to $99.99. Below are the Juicy Couture Shower Black Pulltie Rain Boot and Juicy Couture Black Ebony Rain Boot, $99.99 and $79.99 respectively.  I saw these both at  TJMaxx on Howell Mill. If April showers bring May flowers, what do January showers bring? Juicy Couture, apparently!

 

 

Until tomorrow,

Chamele

Tory Burch Sunglasses at TJMAXX!

On my weekly trip to TJMaxx, I found the cutest pair of Tory Burch sunglasses.  What can I say, all the nice weather has me in the mood for sun. The  aviators were tipped with color along the top of the frame. The lenses were dark and slightly rectangular. I checked the price; this was certainly a steal. I was already pairing the sunglasses with one of my recent purchases, in particular one patent leather orange oversized clutch by Hobo. However, there was a slight problem... the frames didn't fit my face.  Sniff, sniff. Maybe they will look cute on you. You can find the Tory Burch frames in navy and orange for only 49.99 at TJMaxx.  The originally retail for $175!


Until next time,

Chamele

Day 3: Glitter Pumps

Ease on Down the Road

 

On a hunt for some foot bling, I ran across a pair of sparkly glitter heels by Nine West. Sparkly heels are where it's at for this holiday season. Either glittered heels or sequined heels will add a little sizzle to your LBD. Just be mindful that all of the sequins or glitter are in tact. Here's a tip: smaller sequined circles or glittered specks draw less attention to empty spaces. Plus, the smaller size makes the shoe appear more chic.

 

The pumps I found were silver peep-toe glittered pumps with a four inch gold heel. Each fleck of silver glitter was encased by thin gold threads. These shoes were  an outfit all on their own; they sparkled like the morning sun!  I discovered these jewels at TJ MAXX!  I love a bargain!  However, Macy's has the Nine West Escher, which is quite similar to my TJMaxx treasure.  Because it comes in a fun Ruby Red, I think the Escher is the perfect pair to step out in, along life's yellow brick road.  What girl doesn't need a pair of Ruby Red slippers?  You can find the Nine West Escher at Macy's in red, silver and black glitter for $ 79.00.

 

Until tomorrow,

 

Chamele

Winner of the New Year New Beginnings Giveaway

Hello Divas!

Did you survive the extreme cold temps this weekend? I barely made it! Mucho Frio!

The Winner of the New Year New Beginnings Giveaway is: nicmac

I just loved her comment.  She did something she normally does not for the holidays.  She glammed up and received tons of compliments! Nice!  Remember Divas, we have to take care of ourselves and feel good. It just boosts our self-esteem.

Here is nicmac's comment:

"During the holidays I wanted to look like a diva. I put in a phoney pony, a sweater dress with leggings. Full make up. This is a change for me because I am a plain jane and my family was so surprised. I think I might glam up more often."

Nicmac you have 24 hours to contact me to claim your prize.  If not, I will have to give the goodies to the next runner-up.

Toodles!

New Beginning Giveaway!

Hello Hello Divas!

Happy New Year! I hope you are enjoying the New Year thus far! I know I have been absent awhile, but I needed rest. Plus a little house cleaning was in order!

Remember my 12 Days of Luxetips Before Christmas Posts? Well if you read them, you are in for a little treat! I am hosting a giveaway featuring some of the fab products mentioned in those posts! How cool is that? Here is the list!

1. Lumene Skincare. A full-sized Arctic Deep Cleansing Peat Mask and a full size of their new Sensitive Touch Day Cream! You guys know I LOVE Lumene Skincare...the best!

2. Revlon. 3 Sets of Revlon Color Allure Artificial Nails. These nails come in rich deep beautiful colors and are so easy to apply. They definitely come in handy when you are in a rush and don't have time to polish your nails. The lucky winner will receive a crimson red, deep wine, and deep purple color. HOT!

3. Lux Salon Gift Certificate. A gift certificate from Lux Salon for a Sebastian Colourshines by Cellophanes ($40 value) treatment. This treat provides incredible shine, condition, manageability, fullness and vibrancy to all hair types.

4.TJ MAXX. Gift Certificate from T.J. MAXX to purchase some of the cute clothing, booties, and accessories mentioned in the posts!

5. Lancome. A tube of Lancome Waterproof Hypnose Mascara. I have it and it gives mucho length and volume! Love Lancome!

Simple leave a comment on this post and tell me how did you get luxe and gorgeous for the holidays. Contest starts today and will end Sunday January, 10 at midnight!

Good luck and Toodles!

Q & A Thursdays!

Hello Divas!

I hope you are living life to the fullest!

Considering I get many emails from my beautiful readers seeking advice on fashion and beauty, I have decided to have a Q&A post every other Thursday. I hope you will find these posts helpful and if you have any advice or recommendations to share please do! Also if you have any questions, you can email me at latoicha007@gmail.com or leave a question in the comment section.

Today's question is from So Not a Fashionista.

Dear Luxe Fashionista,

Help! I could really use a fashion 411. I have been pregnant and/or nursing for three years and finally decided to rid my closet of my maternity clothes. Yippee! However, the unfortunate side is that my body is completely different than it was a few years ago, so my pre-baby clothes don't fit my post baby/nursing body. Not only that, but I don't think my clothes were particularly fashionable--safe choices (sweater sets and dark suits) for sure, but nothing exciting. So, can you give me some tips on staples to update my wardrobe?

Yours Truly,
So Not a Fashionista

Dear So Not a Fashionista:

I have been there myself. As a matter of fact, Luxetips was created because I too felt un-pretty and drab after having my son. I was constantly wearing jeans, a big t-shirt, and a ponytail. I felt I needed to get back to living the luxe life!

Here are my suggestions:

1. Spanx. Buy Spanx to hold it all in until you have the time or energy to work out. I wear Spanx all the time because my body will never be the same post children! LOL!

2. Wrap Dresses. They are simple, stylish and classic. I have several. You can dress them up or down with heels, flats, sandles or accessories. Plus they are designed to compliment any figure.

3. Shift Dresses. Shift dresses are great too! Since they don't hug the body, no one can really see those areas you want to avoid. A great trend for fall is to wear a cute shift dress with colored tights and high heels or open toe booties...I saw this look all day in New York and it was too fly!


4. Great pair of Jeans. Sylish jeans are always good. You can wear a tunic over the jeans. The tunic is loose enough to hide problem areas while also being stylish.

5. Shop at at TJMAXX, Marshalls or Target to find this items for less.

Toodles!

A.J. Wright! Like TJ MAXX but Less Expensive

Hello Divas!

I hope all is well! I hope your life is simply fab! I have been out of commission...super insanely busy, but I am getting back into the swing of things!

Last Wednesday I had the opportunity to attend a Sneak Peak Blogger event for the opening of the new A.J. Wright store at StoneCrest Mall in the greater Atlanta area. A.J. Wright is like the Old Navy of Discount Stores and is HUGE in Canada. You guys know how much I love shopping at discount stores. I always find designer items for less! So I can buy more while still on a budget!

Representatives from the company gave us information on the company; brands carried by AJ Wright; and a tour. I was pleased to discover that in addition to men, women, and children designer clothing items, AJ Wright also carries home decor items, brand name toys, and bridal party dresses!

The company provided me with a $100 gift card to see how many items I could buy with $100! Considering I am a bargain shopper I was up for the challenge:

I purchased the following items:

Luxe hubby a Ralph Lauren Polo shirt for only $12.99! Yes only $12.99! This is by far the least expensive price I have ever seen for Ralph Lauren Polo shirts. Amazing!

I purchased Luxe baby several play wear items. These sets were only $6 a piece.

Luxe son was in tow and I picked up several 3-pack Hanes Briefs for only $2.99. These briefs are $5.99 in Target! Woot! I also purchased Luxe son Hanes undershirts for $3.99. In addition, he talked me into buying him a set of Transformers. Fortunately the Transformers were only $19.99 for 3.

For myself, I purchased a pair fabulous and cute beige flats for $10, Levis dark wash straight leg jeans for $12.99, and a men's oxford shirt for only $12.99.

Another thing I like about AJ Wright was their selection of dresses! So cute and affordable! This dress is 100 silk and was only $29.99! You can't beat it!

I would certainly become a regular shopper at AJ Wright for cute dresses, adorable shoes, and items for the luxe kids. Like I said this discount store caries the same items as TJ MAXX, Ross, and Target but at significantly better prices. As you can see, you can shop for the whole family and get a ton of items for the low! Prices at AJ Wright are up to 70% off retail! Now that is my kind of store!

Toodles!

Effective Discount Shopping

Hello Divas!

How is life treating you? Fabulous right? Well some of my girlfriends always ask me two questions: 1. Where did you find that item of clothing, shoes, purse, etc.? and then after I tell them what I paid for it, 2. How do you find such great deals? So this post is for them and the rest of you ladies who love to shop but loooove a bargain.

1. Consignment Shops/Thrift Stores: Based on what I am looking for, my first line of defense is always consignment shops or thrift stores. When looking for great deals on high end jeans or bags, I always shop here first. Usually, I can find very gently used or never used, jeans, bags, and shoes at the Junior League of Atlanta's Nearly New Shop. Check out my previous post on this fantastic thrift shop here. Junior League members, who are very posh and stylish women, donate tons of designer wear to this shop. The clothing is always in good shape and very reasonably priced. A $400.00 Bestsy Johnson bag sold for $75.00! Paper Denim and Cloth Jeans....$15.00. This is a MUST stop if you live in Atlanta. If not, check your local Junior League to see if they also have a thrift shop.

2. Discount Stores. My Second line of defense is discount stores that sell designer fashions for less. These stores include your Loehmann's, Sims, Ross, TJ MAXX, Marshalls, and Burlington Coat Factory. If I am looking for semi-formal or formal wear, cashmere, or shoes, I usually shop at Loehmann's. I shop at Ross if I am looking for dresses for myself or clothing for my son. I purchased my son several stylish but classic Ralph Lauren polo shirts at Ross for 13 bucks! You can't beat that! TJ MAXX and Marshalls are favorites for Jeans (True Religion Jeans at the TJ MAXX and Marshalls in Buckhead (Atlanta) usually go for $99.), suits, handbags, or high end bath and body products. Lastly, Burlington Coat Factory is excellent if you are looking for a high end but affordable coat or business suit. My favorite Burlington Coat Factory is located at Discover Mills Mall in Duluth, GA.

3. Department Stores and Speciality Stores. My last resort is Department Stores. Of course, If I am buying high end make-up or beauty products, I usually shop at Sephora or a Department Store. I like shopping for beauty products at Department Stores because they usually give you a gift with purchase. Love these! But I only shop at Department Stores for clothing or shoes if they are having a major sale.
For example, most Department Stores and speciality stores will have a couple of semi-annuals sales a year. This is a great time to get real bargains. Also, I shop at Nordstrom's for my Stuart Weitzman shoes. I discovered that Nordstroms will most likely have a sale on Stuart Weitzman's shoes that the boutique does not. In addition, I do frequent a couple of boutiques that I really like, but I have found that if I wait 2-3 weeks, an item I am in love with will usually go on sale. This is when I go in to swoop it up!

My motto is to never pay full price. Especially now that I have kids! LOL! And if you are not on a budget, effective discount shopping only gives you an opportunity to buy SO-MUCH-MORE!!!!

Toodles!