chez lashay

Vitamix - Blender Extraordinaire

2012-07-18T10:23:00.000-04:00

Since I have been on medical leave recovering from surgery, I decided to turn over a new leaf regarding my health and wellness. I haven't completely given up the burgers and fries, but I now consciously nourish myself with blended vegetable and fruit drinks. After a considerable amount of research, and talking with my doctors and health-nut friends, I purchased the Vitamix Professional Series 750.

This blender was freaking expensive - a whopping $649 at Williams Sonoma! I went to WS with the plan to buy the Pro 500 and decided that the quiter motor and the overall aesthetics of the 750 was worth the additional 50 dollars. I figured if I can drop the same amount for an iPad or a pair of Jimmy Choo shoes, I can make the investment in my health. For the last week, I have been making some really tasty drinks: Peach Cobbler Smoothie with Rolled Oats (from the Vitamix recipe book), spinach/strawberry/blueberry and spinach/apple/banana/pineapple smoothies. This morning, I thought i would get serious and make one with broccoli and bell pepper. I forced myself to drink it; the recipe needs work... I look forward to making ice cream, dips and soups with this machine. Perhaps it will make me look like a culinary expert!

Celebrity Brows - LAMIK Beauty

2012-05-28T14:19:00.002-04:00

One Thursday night earlier this month, I met a few of my sorority sisters at The House of Essence, a fragrance boutique on Pratt Street in Downtown Hartford (a fabulous source of body creams, salt scrubs, and smell-goods, by the way).

The House of Essence featured, Kim Roxie, the creator of an eco-chic cosmetics line, LAMIK Beauty. LAMIK's profound slogan is Beauty is Revealed...not Applied. Kim showed a group of about 30 ladies how we can accentuate our natural beauty without covering our faces with gobs of make-up.

Just as I walked in the boutique, looking flustered after a long day at work, Kim selected me to demonstrate the Celebrity Brow transformation. After overcoming the initial shock, I sat in her chair to let her perform her magic.

Me with Celebrity Brows

Kim was a ball of energy with southern charm. She applied the Purdy Brown Define Powder to my brows. The crowd nodded and smiled as they watched my eyebrows become a work of art. It had been a little while since my last wax treatment, so Kim used a brightening creme to further define my brow shape and cover up the "in-betweenies".

Considering how my work day ended, this quick eyebrow make over put a sincere smile on my face. Thank you Kim. I wish you great success with your beauty line!

Please visit the LAMIK Beauty website at www.lamik-beauty.com.

Kinky Curly Cutie

2012-05-28T13:16:00.000-04:00

I've had an idea for a brand that I have kept in my proverbial pocket since 2004. After a couple unsuccessful launch attempts, I finally decided to go public.

The brand is Kinky Curly Cutie - a brand of apparel and accessories for women and girls who wear their naturally curly hair with pride.

Please review my first line of products at www.cafepress.com/kinkycurlycutie (site is also linked to my navigation bar). I am completely open to feedback - please feel free to provide it!

Thank you in advance for your support!

chez lashay

2012-04-28T13:38:00.000-04:00

Happy Saturday!

These shoes are absolutely hot! I love Christian Louboutin - I love wedges. Check out the patent leather and lace versions.

These shoes would look fabulous with a fitted knee-length dress.

Blumarine boat neck dress
$835 - thecorner.com

Fitted dress
$340 - reissonline.com

Bright Spring Accessories

2012-03-31T12:43:00.001-04:00

Happy Saturday!

In roughly 6 months, I moved from Connecticut to Florida, and back to Connecticut. While dealing with the chaos during my physical moves, I've also made a few spiritual and mental transitions in my life.

With that said, chez lashay is back... and I am committed to living my truth and living out my passions.

Since moving back to Connecticut and to a smaller (yet swankier) place, I decided to wean myself off the shopping bottle. That decision lasted all of 2 months.

My relapse began with my search for hot pink pumps and a bright orange handbag.

I like this Orlina pump by Joan and David Pump (nordstrom.com)

I also like this Tory Burch Robinson tote, also from Nordstrom.

Stripes

2011-06-15T18:00:00.000-04:00

The summer weather brings out bright, stand-out outfits. Stripes are a great to stand out in a crowd. What's interesting is that the stripes in most pieces I found most attractive are horizontal.

You'll find hats, maxi dresses and skirts, tops and even shoes with this pattern. Feel free to mix and match with other patterns for an effortlessly chic look.

Stripes by chezlashay featuring a straw hat

Diane von Furstenberg cocktail dress
£187 - matchesfashion.com

Maison Martin Margiela striped dress
£125 - farfetch.com

Oasis striped dress
£60 - oasis-stores.com

French Connection long sleeve top
$70 - usa.frenchconnection.com

TopShop full skirt
$60 - topshop.com

Jessica Simpson platform high heels
$99 - heels.com

Lucy Barlow straw hat
$179 - barneys.com

Formal Wear

2011-05-14T11:56:00.000-04:00

It's been a while since I entered am entry. I am back!!!!

I am going to a fabulous black tie dinner and dance in New York City next week. Since this is a corporate event, I am going for a simply elegant look - a little bit of flash, but sleek and sophisticated. Here are a couple options. Tell me what you think:

Option 1: This was the first plan I had in mind. Black with flashy gold. The dress fits me well on top with the one-shoulder design (I just don't trust strapless dresses - I tugged them constantly even if they are not threatening to be a wardrobe malfunction). It also fits me well through the waist and hips.

Tadashi Shoji one shoulder evening gown

$388 - nordstrom.com

Jimmy Choo leather shoes

$695 - saksfifthavenue.com

Menbur clutch

$144 - endless.com

Option 2: I just bought this one yesterday. I tried it on just because. The saleslady told me that it had a Oprah-look. I felt pretty in this one. Besides, it's contrasts against my dark skin.

Kay Unger Dress by chezlashay featuring jeweled handbags

Kay Unger silk dress
$590 - saksfifthavenue.com

Jimmy choo heels
$950 - bergdorfgoodman.com

Jeweled handbag
$70 - nordstrom.com

Kay Unger silk dress
$590 - saksfifthavenue.com

Option 3: I just spotted this number online this morning. I love the teal color and I love the mermaid design.

Gown
neimanmarcus.com

Jimmy choo sandal
$675 - saksfifthavenue.com

Box clutch
$70 - nordstrom.com

Stationery Designed by Sistas

2011-01-22T20:55:00.001-05:00

Getting physical mail in my mailbox is so much fun. Check out the stationery collections by Effie's Paper and She's Got Papers, two African-American stationery designers. Sending a "thinking of you" note every now and then will really make your loved one's day....

Rose Gold Jewelry

2011-01-16T08:26:00.001-05:00

Rose gold is back! I remember when I received a rose gold necklace for my 11th or 12th birthday. The pieces below would be great statement pieces with an all white and all black outfit.

Rings by Soixante Neuf
Earrings by Ippolita

Romp Around the Town

2010-12-30T22:38:00.000-05:00

Rompers and jumpsuits are making a comeback. Paired with pumps, statement jewelry, or a turban, you can turn a simple suit into a effortlessly chic look.

MOTO Tailored Denim Jumpsuit - Topshop USA
$145 - topshop.com
TopShop jumpsuits »

As Seen In Style Notes - Shops - Topshop
62 GBP - topshop.com
TopShop shoes »

Stella McCartney Embossed faux-leather saddle bag
$483 - net-a-porter.com
Faux leather handbag »

Sculptural Ribbon Cuff, Gold
$295 - charmandchain.com
Punk jewelry »

CHANEL CC ROPE EARRING
$700 - aloharag.com
Rope jewelry »

Missoni Turban Brown
169 EUR - jades24.com
Brown hats »

Aqua Jumpsuit Snoop Wool Tailored Wide Leg All In One
$224 - asos.com
Wide leg jumpsuit »

Via Spiga 'Evanna' Lace Bootie
$250 - nordstrom.com
Peep toe boots »

DAREEN HAKIM Le Icon Wine Clutch, Designers Dareen Hakim, Designer...
$295 - dia-boutique.com
Clutches »

Ainsley Cuff, Gold
$150 - charmandchain.com
Kendra scott jewelry »

Giles & Brother 10-karat gold-plated hoop earrings
$90 - net-a-porter.com
Stamped jewelry »

Womens Misses Wide-Leg Bandeau Jumpsuit - Brown
$59 - spiegel.com
Brown jumpsuits »

Quinta mirrored-leather sandals
$398 - theoutnet.com
Ankle heels »

Jane August "Lungarno" Blue Python Handbags
$550 - shirise.com
Python bags »

Nakamol CNMM1
$78 - lorisshoes.com
Bib necklaces »

Maharajah Couture Earrings
$495 - charmandchain.com
Boho jewelry »

Home Decor by African American Designers

2010-12-29T19:40:00.001-05:00

I searched high and low for home decor finds by African American designers - the results of my search were rather limited...perhaps this is a niche that has yet to be filled. Here are 3 finds that I would like to add to my collection. If there are other designers who have home decor lines, please enlighten me.

Sheila Bridges | Bridgewater Chair in Harlem Toile De Jouy fabric
sheilabridges.com

AphroChic - Silhouette Black & White
aphrochicshop.com

B. Smith Furniture Line

Ski Gear - Before, During, and Apres

2010-12-28T12:26:00.000-05:00

Snowed in for the last couple of days? It's time to run for the hills and hit the slopes! I have been skiing (a season here, a season there) for about 9 years now. I absolutely love the culture. It's a great way to connect with other adventurous people during a season when most are in hibernation.

My ski parka and pants are as old as my fascination of the sport - I need an upgrade. The outfit has to protect me from the cold and wet snow with style and grace. I really like this Christy jacket by Marmot. The contour at the waist gives the jacket a nice feminine touch.

Which color do you prefer?

Wm's Chamonix Insulated Pant in Turtle Dove | Marmot Clothing and...
marmot.com

Wm's Christy Jacket in Turtle Dove| Marmot Clothing and Equipment
marmot.com

Wm's Warmest Mitt | Marmot Clothing and Equipment
marmot.com

Wm's Chunky Pom Hat | Marmot Clothing and Equipment
marmot.com

Wm's Incog Hat in Dark Purple | Marmot Clothing and Equipment
marmot.com

Wm's Christy Jacket in Walnut| Marmot Clothing and Equipment
marmot.com

Wm's Chamonix Insulated Pant in Walnut | Marmot Clothing and Equipment
marmot.com

Wm's Incog Hat in Vanilla | Marmot Clothing and Equipment
marmot.com

Wm's Christy Jacket in Black |Marmot Clothing and Equipment
marmot.com

Wm's Tioga Pant | Marmot Clothing and Equipment
marmot.com

Wm's Cirque 3-1 Mitt | Marmot Clothing and Equipment
marmot.com

Wm's Chunky Pom Hat | Marmot Clothing and Equipment
marmot.com

This set may be a little over the top - perhaps this is best for shopping at the ski boutiques and sipping an Irish coffee in the fire at the lodge. It's still very cute.

Adidas by Stella McCartney Winter Sports ski-suit
$353 - net-a-porter.com
Adidas by Stella McCartney »

Ignite Faux Fur Trapper Hat
$51 - asos.com

Wm's Cirque 3-1 Mitt | Marmot Clothing and Equipment
marmot.com

Lunch with Girlfriends

2010-12-27T10:39:00.003-05:00

Whether you're heading out to shop or to have lunch with your BFFs, here are a couple inspirational renditions of the neutral outfit - I'm in somewhat of a matchy-matchy mood this week.

Party Time!

2010-12-26T09:55:00.000-05:00

If you've planned a night out on New Year's Eve, and of course have nothing to wear, I hope that my finds below will inspire you to find that stand-out-knock-'em-dead frock. Let's celebrate!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-26T00:13:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas! by chezlashay featuring gray handbags

Wishing you and your families a Merry Christmas from chez lashay.

The First Date

2010-12-24T12:08:00.004-05:00

Tonight, I am having dinner with a guy I had a crush on (yes, a crush) 16 years ago. Could it be a Christmas wish? I am soooo excited! I plan to wear something stylish, yet conservative (see below). Do you think this outfit (and my engaging personality) will keep him interested?

The First Date by chezlashay featuring diamond earrings

Fur Trapper Hats

2010-12-14T22:02:00.002-05:00

The thermometer in my SUV read 19 degrees Fahrenheit this morning - I tapped it a couple times to make sure that it was working. I suddenly realized that I needed a serious hat for my head. My cute little felt hat wasn't going to cut the mustard.

I ran across these fur trapper hats that are amazing.

Nobis Faux Fur Trapper Hat

Juicy Couture Faux Fur Trapper Hat

Ignite Faux Fur Trapper Hat

I also like this hat by Adrienne Landau

I am on a MISSION to find this Adrienne Landau hat - it's so dramatic!

Cool Sunglasses

2010-12-12T21:37:00.001-05:00

I need a new pair of sunglasses. I love the Gucci shades pictured below. I am careful not to buy sunglasses that have the wide temples - it really limits my peripheral vision while driving.

A Chic Little Find in Hartford

2010-12-08T22:59:00.000-05:00

About 2 weeks ago, I visited a cute little boutique in Hartford called Vice Versa. I bought this hot little Ya Los Angeles number and I can't wait to wear it. Yes, fashionistas, you can wear pastels in the middle of winter!

More to come on Vice Versa...

10 Must Haves for Fashionistas

2010-12-04T10:09:00.005-05:00

1. Flesh toned heels. I am such a Christian Louboutin fan. Check these out at Neiman Marcus.

2. Flats: bright and ferocious. I love the Tory Burch Reva ballet flats at Saks Fifth Avenue

Me Too flats are super comfortable. This red pair is very chic.

Animal prints are also in

3. The neutral trench coat. I love this Burberry trench sold at Nordstrom.

4. Leather jacket. I bought this jacket in faux leather jacket at Lord & Taylor in winter white.

The biker jacket is also really fun. Here's one from Net-A-Porter.

5. A classic white shirt. Here's one from Thomas Pink. I like its simple, tailored design.

6. A sequined shirt. This asymmetric Jay Godfrey tank caught my eye on Nordstrom.

I stumbled upon this one at J.Crew. Pink sequins give the demure yet sassy look.

7. A wrap dress. It's very very flattering on the curvacious divas with curves. I cannot mention a wrap dress without mentioning Diane von Furstenberg, the original.

This Halston suede wrap dress is phenomenal

8. A statement evening clutch. Try carrying a stand-out bag while wearing an all neutral or black outfit

Change Your Spots at Anthropologie

Check out this Judith Leiber minaudiere at Neiman Marcus!

9. Pearls. Simple and Timeless - Mikimoto pearls are most exquisite!

10. Statement jewelry. Check out my previous blog on Statement Necklaces, also I am really into the cuff bracelets.

Kendra Scott Jewelry Salome Cuff

Living / Dining Room Inspiration

2010-11-26T14:52:00.001-05:00

So this is the inspiration for my dining / living room - courtesy of Candice Olson (is she amazing or what?).

Bustiers and Corsets

2010-11-26T14:49:00.004-05:00

The holiday party season is quickly approaching - it's time to find that perfect outfit to stand out in a crowd!
A really good friend of mine mentioned to me that she is looking for a bustier to wear under a jacket or a cardigan. Below are some suggestions I have for her:

Rare Opulence Sequin Bustier at Topshop

This dress is adorable - also by Rare Opulence - but I digress...

I thought that this bustier from White House Black Market was nice - conservative yet sexy.

Ok, I know that I am on a mission to find holiday party bustiers, but this Betsey Johnson casual bustier is REALLY cute. The "poofy" hem in the back is super cute. I may have to pick this one up at Nordstrom.

Loeffler Randall black lace an pink petal silk crepe bustier via ShopStyle

This Victoria's Secret corset top is ADORABLE - this is a top that is effortlessly flirty! It comes in pink and black.

My search continues. More updates to follow...

Statement Necklaces

2010-11-26T14:48:00.004-05:00

Most fashion experts will agree, accessories will make or break an outfit. I found this Devon Leigh turquoise necklace on www.neimanmarcus.com. This is simply gorgeous! I would wear this with a high-neck black top and jeans. I would also wear this with a brown one-shouler dress.

The Nest coral magnestite and howlite and the green agate necklaces are available at
Neiman Marcus too.

Painting the Walls

2010-11-26T14:47:00.002-05:00

Paint can add tremendous pop to the rooms you're decorating. The wonderful thing about paint is that you can change the color as often as you like.

When I lived in my townhouse in Seattle, there was one accent wall on my dining room that I painted at least 5 times! My friends would tease me because the wall was a different color every time they came to visit. I didn't care, I insisted on getting it right.

I recently discovered a pretty cool tool that will help me get the color right in my current place...at least the second time - Color Smart by Behr (www.behr.com). You can select colors from their color system, then try them out virtually with a template photo or a photo that you can upload to their site.

For my dining / living room, I chose Smokey Blue. The template photo is shown below. I will upload an actual photo in another post to see if it really works.

For my master and guest bedrooms, I think I'm going to go with Pencil Point and Twig Basket. Again, these are template photos.

I strongly suggest ordering or buying the 4 oz paint samples before buying pint or gallon sized cans. Trust me, you'll save yourself a ton of money in paint and trips to the paint store. The lighting levels in your room will be true test of whether you made the right color selection. The 4 oz samples will cover about a 4-foot by 6-foot wall area - plenty of space to determine will help you figure out whether you made the right choice.

Happy Painting!

Dining Room / Living Room Project

2010-11-26T14:46:00.003-05:00

My redecorating project is coming together very slowly... I am working on my Dining -Living Room of my townhouse now. It is small, but it works for me. The layout is a little challenging considering the location of the door and the fireplace.

I recently purchased this dining room table to go with the upholstered chairs I posted earlier. This table is from Better Homes & Gardens.

I'd like to hang a large mirror on the back wall behind the table - the room is small and I think place the mirror there should make the room look larger. Here are a few I spotted in my search:

I like the round mirrors, but a square mirror may better balance out the round table. What do you think?

Lexington Zacara Jet Floor Mirror - but I LOVE the chairs more.