by | Oct 14, 2013 | Accessories, Fashion |
Hi Elegant Readers!
Today is a beautiful, lovely day.
I wanted to talk about how you can make a completely black outfit have flair and color. How do you say? Jewelry is a classic accessory that can spark a black ensemble.
Rachel Zoe bracelet and Amedeo NYC Cameo Ring
The collage above is me modeling my Rachel Zoe bracelet and Amedeo by NYC Cameo ring. Both jewelry pieces are fashion jewelry. I recently was looking at Tiffany’s website and saw a bracelet designed by Paloma Picasso Olive lead cuff in 18 KT gold that look like my bracelet and it retailed for $11,500.
Look at the similarities. My Rachel Zoe Bracelet is on the top and the Tiffany Paloma Picasso bracelet is on the bottom. Looks somewhat similar, don’t you think? But mine did n0t cost any where near $11,500. It was less than $100. I say I got the better deal.
I served in the computer ministry at my church on Sunday, so the standard outfit is all black. I spiced it up with sparkly jewelry and a colorful handbag or two.
The handbag on my shoulder is from the Bahamas. It caught my eye because of the vibrant colors from one of the many street vendor selling items in a small marketplace. My hubby and I visited the Bahamas while on a cruise in the Caribbean a couple years back. We had a fantastic time and you never know where you can find an inexpensive accessory that can add a big pop to an monochromatic look of all black. I usually carry my IPad and notebook in this bag. It is not heavy at all.
I have been wearing pink or adding in a pink accessory in the month of October for Breast Cancer Awareness. This is a favorite bag of mine and I have had it for some years now. You can’t go wrong with a Dooney and Bourke leather bag.
Dooney and Bourke pink handbag
You see black can have vibrancy with a few accessories. The Rachel Zoe bracelet is one of my favorites and I get compliments on it all the time. I purchase it from QVC. Unfortunately, it is not being sold anymore.
You can do so many things with a monotone palette.
How do you wear black? Do you add color or be smoked out in black?
by | Oct 12, 2013 | Travels |
Andrea Zucker
Copyright © Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau 2011 All Rights Reserved.
JT fans listen up, hear the horns now! (Justin Timberlake, that is.)
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEzREJbln-o[/youtube]
Have you been waiting for the chance to see JT in concert? The opportunity has finally arrived. ALIVE Magazine has teamed up with I Love Memphis to give give one blessed blogger and one blessed reader a chance to win a getaway trip to JT’s hometown, Memphis, for his upcoming concert and other fun activities.
This is so exciting!!!
THE PRIZE PACKAGE
- 2 Night Stay at the famous Peabody Hotel (November 17, 18)
- 2 Tickets to Justin Timberlake (November 18 at FedEx Forum)
- A round of golf OR lunch and private tour at Justin Timberlake’s Mirimichi Golf Course
- Tickets to your choice of local attractions like the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, Graceland, Sun Studio or the Stax
Museum
To enter the concert giveaway please click here. The winner will be announced Friday, October 18th. The winner will receive tickets to the Justin Timberlake concert as well as other attractions.
Memphis is a town that never sleeps and there is so much to do. I have been to Memphis and I still have a list things that I still want to do and see when I go back.
I am a foodie, so I have to get some barbecue. Yummy! Doesn’t this look mouth watering? Reminds me of when my family would barbecue in the backyard for holiday; but when I go to Memphis it will have their flair.
Justin Fox Burks
Copyright © Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau 2011 All Rights Reserved.
“Memphis barbecue is a delicious but complex culinary club that includes secret recipes, regional pride and kitschy vernacular. In Memphis look for barbecue, BBQ, Bar-B-Q and Bar-B-Que just to name a few.”
I have been to Corky’s, but I have to go back to try the pulled pork. That famous Corky’s barbecue sauce comes in so many different varieties that my taste buds always want to go back for more.
Baxter Buck
Copyright © Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau 2011 All Rights Reserved.
The Civil Rights Museum is one of the must see places to visit in Memphis. Housed at the Lorraine Motel, the site of Martin Luther King’s assassination, the museum examines the struggles and victories of Dr. King and other civil right’s activists.
Kerry Crawford
Copyright © Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau 2011 All Rights Reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced without written consent from the author.
In my Graceland review I write about how much I learned about Elvis. Please click on ELVIS IS GRACELAND to read more of my review.
I am an avid connoisseur of beautiful flowers and gorgeous landscapes, so I must see the Memphis Botanic Garden.
Baxter Buck
Copyright © Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau 2011 All Rights Reserved.
The Memphis Botanic Garden offers a haven of both natural serenity and fun for the family with its My Big Backyard children’s area, farmers market, plant sales, paths and Japanese garden. The Botanic Garden is also home to the summer concert series, featuring top-names of today and yesterday. Last year, my hubby and I saw Duran Duran perform at the Garden during their North American tour. It was an awesome show, one that I won’t soon forget.
I am an advocate for animals, I have to go see Shelby Farms. The animals are so cute.
Baxter Buck
Copyright © Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau 2011 All Rights Reserved.
As the largest urban park in the United States, Shelby Farms Park is home to not only a herd of American Bison but also bike trails, horseback riding, running trails, playgrounds, and a lake. This is right up my alley because my husband and I love to be outdoors.
If you have ever been on a boat ride there is nothing like a cruise down the river. Riding on the American Queen would be a real treat.
Andrea Zucker
Copyright © Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau 2011 All Rights Reserved.
Oh my goodness! Rocking to Take Back The Night as I am dreaming of dancing on the American Queen while seeing the sun setting. I went to Memphis on a dinner cruise and it was so romantic my hubby and I had such a good time. To read my article on the review of the cruise and trip please click on MEMPHIS.
Andrea Zucker
Copyright © Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau 2011 All Rights Reserved.
If you have not been to Memphis to enjoy this great city, click here to enter the giveaway for a chance to win free tickets to the Justin Timberlake concert and other attractions. Winner will be announced on Friday, October 18th.
Okay lets rock side to side now and dance to Take Back The Night. Can you tell that’s my favorite? I am hearing JT channeling MJ.
* Official Rules for Giveaway *
Promotion is only offered to Missouri residents who reside within the St. Louis area. Only one entry per individual will be counted. Winner(s) will be contacted by ALIVE Magazine and have 72 hours to contact ALIVE Magazine to claim their prize. After that time, winner will be disqualified and another winner will be drawn.
Disclaimer
I have not been paid to write this article. However, I do have a chance to win the trip to Memphis.
“”References: Memphis Convention Center
by | Oct 3, 2013 | Fashion |
New Look Brown cut oout ankle boot
The summer seems to addle our brains when it comes to fashion. Perhaps it’s because we have spent so long wondering around in sun dresses and sandals that the thought of choosing clothes and matching footwear seems an insurmountable task. I myself notice that when I return to the high street after my summer holiday, I feel like I have entered some alien land.
Dark Red Patent Double Buckle Chunky Heeled Boots
If you have been shopping in the last seven days, chances are you have come across something called a Chelsea boot. You’re probably now scratching your head and thinking – ‘What is this Chelsea boot thing everyone keeps going on about?’ Never fear. A Chelsea boot is a low heeled, wide fit ankle boot which has an elasticated part on the side. The elasticated panel makes slipping the shoe on and off easier to do. The boots have actually been around for the best part of two centuries, but they are making a particularly spectacular comeback this season.
Tan Suede Chelsea Boots
Some have thin heels, or are wedged to add more height. However, most Chelsea boots have a small thick heel, just enough to add sophistication and a little glamour, without the hassle of having to commit to a full heel or risk a stiletto in the wet weather. Chelsea boots women fit really well with this season’s grunge, Nirvana trend. The grunge look features velvet dresses, black tights, and band t-shirts; all layered together with a leather jacket thrown on top. This grunge vibe really suits people are on the go all the time, because it’s easy to look fashionable without much upkeep. Imagine a pair of skinny jeans and a tartan blouse. With a pair of Chelsea boots added into this ensemble, you have a slick, sexy outfit in no time.
New Look Black Drape Chain Stud Ankle Boots
Chelsea boots also compliment this season’s trend for tartan and checks. So, if you want to try a ‘90s look, opt for a tartan playsuit over black tights, or a checked crop top and high-waisted leather skirt. Both of these outfits look striking combined with leather Chelsea boots, preferably in black. Or, if you want a more work-appropriate tartan look, go for some peg trousers in a vivid tartan pattern, and team with a block colour top half, some chunky bracelets, and a pair of Chelsea boots.
Tan Multi Buckle Worker Boots
As well as working with various fashions, Chelsea boots are popular for another reason – they’re so comfortable. Forget tottering around all day in high heels, or teetering precariously between puddles in your suede slip on boots. Chelsea boots have the low heel we’ve all been yearning to wear, and for which our backs will thank us. They also have a robust design, making them practical for everyday tasks. So whatever the weather throws at us, armed with our Chelsea boots we should make it There is no surprise that Chelsea boots have become so popular. They work with this season’s hot trends, they are comfortable and stylish, and they are totally practical. So hurry up and find yourself a good pair of boots before everyone else snaps them up.
Tan Leather Aztec Panel Ankle Boots
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by | Sep 28, 2013 | Fashion, Inspirations, Travels |
The last day of the Impressionism, Fashin, & Modernity exhibit in Chicago is tomorrow so if you are in the area, please go and see this exceptional exhibit. My husband and I were celebrating our wedding anniversary in Chicago and wanted to see this exhibit. In my first post, Impressionism, Fashion, & Modernity Exhibition: Perfection! I touched on some of my favorites and wanted to come back to show more photos because I couldn’t just pick a specific part of the exhibit.
This dress is exquisite and the shawl is gorgeous. Do you notice that the focus is not on the lady but what she’s wearing? Her face is looking away.
Installation shot of Impressionism, Fashion, and Modernity at the Art Institute of Chicago.
The dress and shawl on the mannequin below is the interpretation of what she’s wearing in the portrait above. It is so similar that I had to really take a second look to make sure I read that it was not the original pieces.
Installation shot of Impressionism, Fashion, and Modernity at the Art Institute of Chicago.
Edgar Degas interpretation of a lady in a hat shop. I have always seen Degas’s ballet portraits; but this is a first for me to see him show a lady either getting ready to try on a hat or has just taken the hat off. The portrait is done in pastels and shows blurred flowers and ribbons on the hats.
Edgar Degas. Millinery Shop, 1879/86. The Art Institute of Chicago, Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Larned Coburn Memorial Collection.
Edouard Manet was a sharp dresser and it was interesting to see him portrayed in a top hat carrying a walking stick. I guess I thought he would of been portrayed with a paint brush.
Henri Fantin-Latour. Édouard Manet, 1867. The Art Institute of Chicago, Stickney Fund.
This portrait by Édouard Manet below shows a women reading a book in the park. It looks like a park or a Forest? What do you think?
The brush work lets the viewer peak in to her world. What is she reading? The gloves on her hands or the ruffle around her neck. Is it cold?
Édouard Manet. Woman Reading (La Lecture de l’illustré), 1879/80. The Art Institute of Chicago, Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Larned Coburn Memorial Collection.
The exhibition has so much to see.
This is another portrait by Édouard Manet that shows a lady surrounded with a background of fans behind her. She is laying on her couch or bed so effortlessly. It almost seems like she’s saying with her eyes, “Édouard I have been in this pose for hours, are we close to being finished?” What do you think she’s saying?
Édouard Manet. Lady with Fans (Portrait of Nina de Callias), 1873. Musée d’Orsay, Paris, bequest of Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Rouart, RF 2850.
In the next post I will be focusing on portraits of Renoir, Seurat and some of my favorite dresses from the Impressionism, Fashion, & Modernity Exhibition.
* All photos courtesy of the Art Institute of Chicago.
by | Sep 27, 2013 | Fashion, From the Heart, Inspirations, Travels |
Hi Elegant Lovelies,
I enjoyed my visit to Chicago, my mornings were so relaxing and serene.
JTWisdom at Under the Ginkgo Tree Bed & Breakfast in Chicago for Wedding Anniversary
Going the the Art Institute of Chicago really verified what I always say, “a person never stops learning.” We are growing and changing and should pursue learning something new everyday. This is an exhibition I am so happy I had the opportunity to see it.
JTwisdom having breakfast before going to the Art Institute of Chicago
I have quite a few favorites. Click on the portrait to enlarge and see the brush strokes and dresses in more detail.
This painting is of Madame Georges Charpentier and her children. Her son is sitting on the couch and her daughter is sitting on the cute doggie and they are dressed the same. Renoir paid attention to detail in this portrait. Do you see the pleating in her son’s and daughter’s dress? Madame Georges Charpentier’s dress is beautiful and her gold jewelry is exquisite.
Pierre-Auguste Renoir. Madame Georges Charpentier and Her Children, 1878. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Collection, Wolfe Fund.
Renoir looks so relaxed and at ease in this portrait. He is dressed very dapper and looks very approachable and care free.
Frédéric Bazille. Pierre-Auguste Renoir, 1867. Musée d’Orsay, Paris, on deposit to the Musée Fabre, Montpellier, DL 1970 3.
This portrait was quite risque for the time. A woman being painted in her robe. She’s a very brave lady to be painted this way. I know we consider this very tame now but back then it was as if she had not a single bit of clothes on.
Édouard Manet. Young Lady in 1866 (also called La Femme au perroquet, 1866. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, gift of Erwin Davis.
This is one of the famous paintings that’s house at the Art Institute of Chicago, Georges Suerat (1859-1891), A Sunday on La Grande Jatte-1884. Everyone looks so relaxed and having fun at the Park. This painting is amazing to see with all of those series of continuous dots.
I had to add a couple of pictures of my favorite dresses.
Installation shot of Impressionism, Fashion, and Modernity at the Art Institute of Chicago.
The portrait in the foreground is by Édouard Manet, The Parisienne, 1875. This dress is haute couture of the time. Fashion at it’s best, this lady struts and holds her head up high in this dress. Beautiful!
Installation shot of Impressionism, Fashion, and Modernity at the Art Institute of Chicago.
*Photos courtesy of The Art Institute of Chicago”
*JTwisdom’s photo included in this post*
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