Shopchantal Stylefile

If it sparkles and shines.

If it makes you remember something special and smile.

If when you wear it, you feel beautiful. Then it is worth every penny.

It doesn’t matter if you get it as a gift or if you buy it yourself, if a piece of jewelry has even one of these qualities, you know you have to get it.

Jewelry has that affect on me and when I saw the new Spring collection from Stella & Dot, I knew I had to be a part of it.  I hope you will check out my blog frequently to see some new Stella & Dot suggestions mixed into my fashion posts. As you’ll see they fit in nicely with the new Spring Collections! And if you are local and want to host a trunk show, send me a message here and we’ll get it booked.  In the meantime, check out my website for these and more pieces from Stella & Dot.

 

Chantilly Lace Cuff

I know this look is not what you’d expect from me, but the trend for Spring also includes some more delicate pieces, especially with bracelets and layering necklaces. And I intend to start with this Chantilly Lace Cuff with as much excitement as the larger, brighter statement pieces. I’d pair this cuff with a leather tank and white jeans and some tough heels for a night out.  Of course, it would look amazing paired back to my new Jason Wu floral skirt and a Rag & Bone Striped Blazer .

Obsessed doesn’t even begin to describe how I feel about these Serenity Drop Earrings! I love the color, the size and I’m so into Gold for Spring I can’t even tell you. These will be gorgeous with my new designer love, Mary Katrantzou dresses. Or pair them with with Elizabeth and James printed pants, a tank, some sandals, a floppy hat and a bright Tory Burch tote for a day out and about.

In case you are not familiar, click for the history/philosophy of Stella & Dot. I think you will find it speaks to all women, especially you. I hope you enjoy my favorite pieces from the new Spring collection. Add them to your jewelry box now before the sell out.

xo

c.

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A male friend once told me that every gift a man gives a woman should be one that is as precious to the skin as well as to her heart and soul.  Few things in this world can do that and jewelry is one of them. Jewelry is personal gift and one that is truely treasured by many.  If you have one of these admirers in your life, you are sure to know it.  I adore jewelry of all kinds so, I thought I’d make a list of some very special and unique statement pieces that a real fashion girl can wear day in and night out.

Statement Maker: Dannijo Knotted-Chain Cuff

Dannijo Knotted-Chain Cuff

 Girly Girl: Kate Spade New York  All Wrapped Up Pave Ring

Kate Spade New York All Wrapped Up Pave Ring

Fenton Pearl & Gold Spike Earrings

 Time matters in more ways than one: Michael Kors Runway Watch

Michael Kors Chocolate Runway Watch

BaubleBar Mix Metal Swing Earrings

 Modern & Sophisticated: Noir Jewelry Modernista Pendant Necklace

Noir Jewelry Modernista Pendant

 Boho Vibe: House of Harlow 1960 Jewelry Peacock Cuff

House of Harlow 1960 Peacock Cuff

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It’s official. I absolutely love the new fragrance “Diane” from Diane Von Furstenberg. I received my bottle last week and immediately went spray crazy (I am French, after all) and I’ve been wearing it everyday since.

I think a scent is an intimate relationship and as much as I’d like to say I’m committed to just one, I’m not. I really enjoy wearing different scents depending on my outfit and my attitude of the day. So, this fragrance and my continued interest in wearing it day after day, is quite surprising. I think we’ve gone beyond a crush to full blown love. Yes, it happens that fast sometimes. This fragrance is exactly what it says it is: Feminine, powerful and seductive.

I think this is an amazing gift for any woman in your life and feel free to pass along this blog post to those wishing to receive vs. give.

This eau de toilette is an elegant fragrance that contrasts the blossoms of frangipani and violet against the sensuality of patchouli, myrrh, and musk.

The eau de parfum elevates this fragrance’s concentration, amplifying the uniqueness and the character of the scent while highlighting distinctive ingredients such as patchouli, frangipani flower, and violet.

Available in Eau de Parfum and Eau de Toilette and in 2 sizes: 1.7 oz and 3.3 oz.

What is your favorite scent these days?

xo

c.

P.S. Just in case you ever wondered. . . The difference between parfum, eau de parfum and eau de toilette/cologne is simply the amount or concentration of oils in the fragrance. These oils are called “juice.” The highest concentration of “juice” is in parfum, followed by Eau de Parfum, then Eau de Toilette, and lastly Eau de Cologne.

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After a long search, I was pleasantly surprised when my November Shoe Closet email arrived from Sole Society and a gorgeous pair of snake loafers was waiting for me in my personal selection.

As I’ve mentioned in previous posts here, I am not a ballet flats kind girl so, this new loafer style is the answer to my dreams.

I’m loving the grey (faux) snakeskin with the caramel piping: a great color combo to wear with just about everything.  Be on the lookout, I think I’ll be wearing these a lot.  As a matter of fact, I wore them this weekend with some Current/Elliott boyfriends, a striped sweater, my DIY neon necklace (post to come) and a handmade, slouchy hat made by a very talented friend. The shoes were super comfy and made the outfit perfect for a day of walking.

Want a personal invite to Sole Society.  Click here and start getting your personal closet delivered every month too.

xo

c.

P.S. I got so many compliments on my DIY Neon Necklace that I’m thinking of doing a contest giveaway on Facebook for 1 of the necklaces. Anyone interested? Comment and let me know.

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I was thrilled when JewelMint asked me to join them in promoting the newest jewelry collection from co-designers Kate Bosworth and Cher Coulter.  If you know me or read my blog, you know how absolutely obsessed I am with jewelry so. this is extremely fun for me.  And, the fact that I get to offer my fans and readers 50% off their first order is amazing!  I love a good discount just like every other fashion girl.

If you are not familiar with JewelMint, here is a little background for you. You can also read the JewelMint Blog – which I love and read religiously.

To get started all you do is click here to join and then complete a brief personal style survey.  The survery is the key to JewelMint. Every month they will create a personalized selection of jewelry chosen just for you based on your style survery choices. It’s genius. I’m always amazed how spot on they are with my jewelry selection each month.

Once you sign up, each month you will receive a link to your personal showroom jewelry selection. Each jewelry piece is $29.99, but with the exclusive ShopChantal StyleFile Code, you will get 50% off your first order plus you get FREE SHIPPING.

Use code Fall105 at checkout, courtesy of ShopChantal StyleFile and the Mint Brand Ambassador Team and start adding amazing jewelery pieces to your closet. Below are a few of my favorites from the JewelMint Collection. Kate is wearing the Bullet Necklace in the photo above.

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Here is how I would style the Current/Elliott Blood Print Plaid:

 Below are some additional printed denim styles that I love. Would you choose the the bold, traditional leopard prints or the tonal, more subtle prints? 

BOLD STYLES:  Joe’s Jeans Chelsea Leopard print is a traditional take on the print. I’d love these with a chunky fisherman’s knit sweater and boots. Another style is the  J Brand Snow Leopard Super Skinny Jean. Both are  bold and an exciting way to wear this favorite animal print. Tone it down with a solid sweater and boots for a great day look.

SUBTLE STYLES: Love the leopard look, but want a more subtle look? Try the Current/Elliot Stiletto Skinny in Camel Leopard or Grey Leopard. You’ll get the same effect in a softer print.

I can’t wait to hear how you are wearing the printed denim look!  I’m looking forward to Spring so I can add a bright pop of color to these Current/Elliott Leopard prints!

xo

c.

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Look what just arrived in my shoe closet!  My new House Of Harlow leopard booties. I can’t wait to share outfit posts with these hot little numbers!

xo

c.

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A 4″ heel from LL Bean Signature is just one reason why I am so excited about this new Stow Wool Ankle bootie. Let’s not forget my obsession with orange and with colorblocking this season.

I traditionally like to pair my orange with camel, but this grey wool is perfect for a cozy, northeastern look; complete  with skinny denim, a Loft chunky knit sweater, a scarf, a Club Monaco slouchy Olga snood and some DKNY cashmere pop-top mittens. These booties also qualify as a Key Piece for Fall.

These boots are a wool felt and suede upper and are fully lined in leather.  Another Northeast Winter must: leather soles with rubber taps for traction!  I mean, that is genius, right!

  Plus, they are also available in Dark Mushroom Suede with Grey Wool.  Are you thinking what I’m thinking?  A Rebecca Taylor long, chiffon maxi skirt, chunky socks and a long sweater with a Club Monaco Cassie mini crossbody.  That’s another great fall look too.

I can’t wait to hear how you would style these boots. Make sure to share.

xo

c.

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This Ann Bangle in gold and jade is my new accessory obession this week.  It stems from my absolute adoration of Diane Von Furstenberg  (she is my fashion icon).  I am also deeply into anything gold right now and my recent interest in jade green is beyond me.  I’ve been on a search for a gorgeous jade green blouse for weeks and am not having any luck. If you see one, will you let me know?  Thanks.

You can see this DVF chunky cuff and more of Brad Goreski picks here.

xo

c.

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I’ve been getting a lot of emails and facebook messages lately asking me what the key pieces are for Fall.  It was a lot of fun to put the list together, but because it is a half dozen or so items long I did it in two parts. Here is my Part One list below to get you started. Stay Tuned for Part Two – coming later this week.

I have also included some suggestions and links to help you with your shopping and styling.

Rachel Bilson

Cape, Cape, and Another Cape 

This is a must for Fall and if you take a look at the options, you may even find one you can wear into Winter (I even found a puffer cape).  If not, you can plan to bring a ligherweight Fall cape back out in the Spring so either way, it’s a good investment.

How to wear: Throw over everything, especially a bright knit turtleneck like  this Reed Krakoff style and add leather gloves or a slouchy hat ala Rachel Bilson.

 Best Buy: Cut25 – Three-In-One Coat

Runway Colorblock Coat

Tweed Blazer

The Tweed blazer is another must.  The version should be a feminine cut and if you can find one with some leather patches or a collar, go for it. Or spluge and get this Rebecca Taylor tweed/faux fur version I am dying over.

How to wear it: A ladylike bow blouse in a pattern is a sophisticated look with a pencil skirt or flared jeans. Or throw over the season’s sweater dresses.

 Stripe Shirts

For years I have bought stripe tees because I love them and my collection is substantial, but I need to refresh my selectionwith the looks of this season. You can never have too many Breton stripe tops, in my opinion. Don’t be afraid to play with bright, colorful stripes and get both tees and turtlenecks as well as short sleeves. I’m searching for a yellow l/s stripe version myself.

How to wear it: Layer the short sleeves over your button ups for Fall and the long sleeves under colorful sweaters this winter so we get a sneak peek of the sleeves.

Tracy Reese Emmy Loafer

High Heeled Loafer

These heels are a very feminine take on the classic loafer and the heel is usually a wedge or stacked making them very wearable. Or if you want flats, then these! 

How to wear: Great with a long, pleated skirt for a 60′s vibe or with a midi length floral skirt and chunky knit sweater.

 Part two of Key Fall Pieces will be posted Friday.  In the meantime, if you have some suggestions or want me to add a particular trend, let me know. I”m happy to include more on the list.

xo

c.

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I’m calling it the return of the cool girl flat.  A penny loafer turned bad ass is the only way to describe it and it is breathing new life into the ever -desperate “Flats” section of my shoe closet.

I have repeatedly tried to wear ballet flats ranging from one side of the money spectrum to the next, but alas, it is not meant to be. Ballet flats and me seem to have a serious personality conflict. I want to look cool, and they make me look the exact opposite. 

But, the return of this loafer (or the popularity of it since it never really left) has brought me new hope to wearing flats again.  It’s studded and satin and if there was ever a flat my wardrobe could agree with, it would be this one.

 The Adena studded loafer from Sam Edelman is beyond the coolest flat I have ever seen and has answered my prayers for ever owning/wearing a balletesque type flat again.  I am obsessed with the Gunmetal, but the Black or the Rosegold would be just as amazing.

I’m already planning my sock choices!  How about some argyles or maybe some patterned tights from Happy Socks?  And I think these DVF Naples Trousers in Lipstick will be a chic way to show my new found love of flats; flats that I can finally wear. . .  my way.

xo

c.

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Image courtesy of Erickson Beamon

The newest collaboration that I am anticipating more than anything and can’t wait to get my hands on this Fall is from one of my favorite, new accessory sites: Baublebar.com.

Beginning October 14 2011, Erickson Beamon x Baublebar will be available for purchase with a variety of items all prices $250.00 or less.  Here is a personal invitation from me to get your account set up.  Use invitation code: 17794. You can thank me later.

My first order from Baublebar.com arrived a couple of weeks ago and I have been in accessory heaven ever since. Not only are the pieces gorgeous and high quality, but the prices are beyond wonderful. It’s no wonder there is a wait list for some of the items. Each of my pieces also arrived with a beautiful storage pouch and I even received a sweet, handwritten note. 

There are a few fun ways to shop the BaubleBar site including “Shop by Trend“ ; which gives you a range from bright,colorful pieces in Maasai Madness to classic, statement pieces in Portrait of a Lady. If  you are intested in shopping quickly and by function,  check out  “Shop by Type” for a quick search.   A favorite section of mine is “Shop our Press“.  It is quite extensive;  showing editorial from Refinery29.com to Vogue Magazine and beyond.  The site also has a curated section called “Styled for Me” that shows ideas on how to wear their jewelry for events and occassion such as a Creative Job Interview or a Date Night.

Here are a couple shots of my new baubles from Baublebar.  I purchased three necklaces and am anxiously awaiting the Erickson Beamon collaboration to add some fun, colorful pieces to layer with these beauties.

BaubleBar Leaf Bib Necklace

 The Leaf Bib Necklace  (left) looks more like the feathers of a bird to me, but no matter what you think it resembles, the compliments will be flying in your direction. I love how the v-neck style allows me to wear it with a lot of different necklines.  I also wear it  layered with chunky, short necklaces to make a stronger statement. $32.00

BaubleBar Pearl Curl in Black

The Pearl Curl Necklace (right) was a “Buried Bauble” item. This means  I was offered the opportunity to buy it for only $10.00.  I love how the necklace has the perfect shape to wear with tanks and scoop tees. It’s also very sculptural, which I like alot.

I had no idea they did the Buried Bauble promotion on the site and think it is the cutest idea.  I guess it pays to take your time and really shop the site because you never know what treasures await.

I  encourage you to shop their site now and see the amazing collections and definitely make plans to shop the new collaboration later this week. Take advantage of my invitation, you won’t regret it, I promise.

I can’t wait to hear what you pick out and how you are wearing it. Please share.

xo

c.

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 I think one of the feared colors of all time has got to be orange.  Why?  I think it depends on where you live. In the Northeast, it is reminiscent of bouys. When I lived in the Midwest, it reminded us of highway cones. I’m sure all across the country, hunters are laughing that the fashion world is embracing what they’ve considered a necessary color of survival – from each other, mind you, not the animals.

I think it’s time we take back the color orange and start having some fun with it. It’s a great color for a colorblocking look because it works with so many other bright colors and prints. I love the H&M skirt above. It’s very high-waisted and the perfect midi length for transistioning into Fall.  I paired it with a bright purple silk top (also from H&M) and leopard accessories that I’ve actually had for several years. See, it pays to hold on to great trend pieces.

I also wore the skirt (yes, I’ve worn it twice already) with a cropped, dark brown cashmere sweater from Vince (similar here) and some brown Suede boots from Joie (similar here). My new Baublebar necklace was a perfect accessory.   The pop of color on the skirt made me feel that even if the weather is chilly, it was okay to feel bright and cheery. You can see it on my Facebook page. Feel free to comment.

Give this Color Trend a try this season.  I found some great pieces you should think about adding into your closet.

Like this J. Crew Cardigan: Now on Sale for $39.99.

Or, if you want to really make a statement: This Burberry Prorsum Collarless Coat from Net-a-Porter is a scene stealer, especially in orange.

Not ready to wear it?  Then carry it.  This DVF evening clutch is a great way to show you know the trends.

Enjoy.

xo

c.

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Isabel Marant Spring 2012 Look

Isabel Marant Spring 2012 Look

Isabel Marant showed her Spring 2012 collection today at Paris Fashion Week and it was  a runway of  gorgeous prints and cool-girl styles. 

These two looks from the collection are perfect for Spring  in the Northeast.  It’s still chilly here in Maine in the Spring and shorts with heels and a chunky knit is exactly what the fashion forward yet, reasonably smart girl would wear. Me Included.

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I’ve been collecting brooches for many years and although they’ve come in and out of “fashion” for the last several years, I have continued cherishing my collection and adding to it regularily.

Tom Binns Fauve hand-painted Swarovski crystal drop earrings

Back to the Brooches

I think the reason I’ve been able to keep wearing brooches is that I use them creatively; sometimes to solve or avoid fashion mishaps and other times to just add a bit of my personal taste to a basic look. See my post from a couple of weeks ago where I wear a brooch at the collar.

Here are a few ways I wear my brooches. Hope you get some ideas.

Make a low cut cowlneck dress or top more work day appropriate.

Clip on a brooch to update your favorite necklace.

Add a brooch to a scarf around your handbag.

Mix a feminine brooch with a masculine fedora for a fresh look.

Are you loving the bright trend as much as me?

Please let me know how you are wearing your Fall jewelry and especially if you are wearing a brooch in a new and unexpected way. 

xo

c.

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