My Random Thoughts: A lil Change

So if you haven’t noticed- I’m switching the tone of my blog just a bit. I stopped signing every post with Style Reporter because I was starting to really feel like a reporter and I abandoned those journalistic dreams around sophomore year in college.

Maybe two months ago my BF posed the question to me… "what do you really want out of your blog?"… and I finally know what I want… I want to use this blog to document of my fashion journey. Sort of like a fashion diary. Use my blog to help me figure out what I want to do in the enormous industry while sharing with you guys the latest trends I like, how you guys can look fabulous on a budget, how to style certain pieces, etc. I want this blog to be a FASHION blog. Chee's Fashion Blog!

I’m definitely going to be more personal, I want you guys to get to know me… and hopefully I’m interesting enough to attract others to join the reader circle. I want to interact with my readers… answer your questions… post what’s in my fashion mind… what’s hot from my POV… who style I like, what I found surfing the web, where to get certain items, learn about makeup... Shout outs to Keebs... I'm learning alot!!!... etc

I was reading a feature story that Beverly Smith wrote on http://www.21hustle.com/ where she says- everyone wants to be in fashion, wants to be a fashionista, they want to put outfits together, but a lot of these people do not know anything about fashion. It’s important to learn your craft, know the people in the industry, read and research. And that is what I want to use this blog for. I have a lot more learning to do.

I have a great eye, I have been in fashion since I received my working papers- I went from visual merchandiser at the Gap to doing PR for a designer, to working for Tommy Hilfiger doing licensing design, to working at Coach doing design development to where I’m at currently. (Sorry can’t reveal that right now- I'm still in fashion) but now its time I start to use all those skills I’ve acquired and knowleged I've gained to figure out what I want to be. I love this industry soo much I want to do it all- or at least find a space where I can incorporate all my skills.

I want my readers- even if its only 5 people who read Search.Style.Snap…. I want my readers to share this journey with me and I want to inspire yall. I want to hear what you guys have to say- see what you guys are wearing, what trends you like… which ones you don’t….

I love feedback and criticism… we can agree to disagree on a fashion tip… I love a good style debate!

Don’t worry fellas… I'mma try to do more post for you too….

So are you feeling my new approach?

Xoxo
Chee

Morning Inspiration: Become your Dream

Morning, My fav people!

Dropping some inspiration for you guys today.

Chase your dreams, look to God (or your divine power) to restore strength, faith and confidence in you, and look the world in the eyes and go for it.

Make today the first day you actually take one step towards your dream or living your passion.

I know its easier said then done, I know the fear of failure or judgment puts a speed bump in front of us, I'm a victim of this… but it’s worst if you never TRY!!!

With that said….

Today is the first day of the rest of your life! *Don't worry I'm acting on this advice too.... I have something brewing*

Be blessed and have a fabulous day!!

Xoxo
Chee

Recessionista VS Fashionista: Thigh High Boots

Stylisyas!!!!

This week of Recessionista VS. Fashionista it's the battle of the Thigh High Boots!!!

In the Left corner we have Jeffrey Campbell "Issue" over the knee boot battling height weight champ Stella McCartney Perforated thigh high boot.

This is going to be a tough one... both are actually very cute!!!

If you are any kind of shoe junkie- you and many other fashion heads were swooning over RihRih when she flaunted these beautiful Stella stems.

For a fraction of the price you can get your Rihanna on and strut with the Jeffrey Campbell inspired boots.

Which do you prefer? *I'm for the Stella- only because I love leather and the metal detail in the heel... but I would NEVER drop $1,600 for them*

Until Next Time

xoxo

Chee

Dope Style: Animal and Grey

Hey People!

Rih Rih was out and about across the Pond today, yesterday... one of these days and I couldn't help but noticed what she paired her Grey Sweatshirt fabric (Jersey) dress with....

Christian Louboutin Leopard Print Platform Ankle Boots

The reason I like Rihanna (well her styling team) is because she does the un-expectant rather than keeping it simple and predictable... it starts to get boring.

I never thought to pair a leopard print with a light grey hue. I'm feeling it!

BTW: I HATE THE HAT- NOT WITH THIS FIT!!!! I HATE IT HATE IT HATE IT!!! (Sorry- I'm just tired of seeing this hat paired with random outfits... lol... MAYBE: with a cute drappy tee- destructive shorts- cute booties and a Chanel bag- or a military style cropped jacket, skinnies and a YSL platform pump.... not with this fit! #imjustsaying

But this combo is interesting. It's very unconventional but its fun! *check out the shoulders.... Hawt*

So stylista's your fashion assignment this week is to push the envelope... Pair up two different patterns, pair two unlike colors you wouldn't normally pair up... or bring in a cool texture to your solids.... Send me some pics.

Side note: I'm getting some spiked bracelets from pnkelephant.com this week. I'm so excited about these bracelets. I'm going to break these out this Saturday... We celebrating my bestie's bday! :)

Don't worry I will post pics....

Until Next Time

xoxo

Chee

Source: Rihannadaily.com

Style De Jour: Ye and Amber

Morning Beautiful Readers

Style Du Jour: Presents Style Couple Kanye and Amber Rose

I'm so voting these two couple of the Year!!!

I see everyone is on the All Black Everything Wave!!! I can dig it!

Peep Ye's blazer, tee and jean combo! Loves it. I heart how Ye mixes and matches two different styles and create a look... Sort of how Justin Timberlake is styled. Ye can take a jean and pair it with a Blazer and V-neck tee and manages to stay chic.

The secret to achieving this look is finding the best fit blazer, tee and jean. Finding a pair of jeans that are not too baggy- you will loose the chic factor and loose the proportion to the blazer. Making sure the tee is not too long and just hitting the hip. Lastly making sure the shoulder seam of the blazer does not exceed your shoulders, the arm of the blazer hits your wrist and the length of the blazer does not resemble a night gown. Great styling tip for the fellas!

WATCH YOUR PROPORTIONS!!!

If you do not know your size- Barney's will fit you for free!!! Use your resources.

Ooh what can I say about my girl crush- in her usual tight spandex dress and a bad a** leather jacket with pointy toe ankle boots. HAWT!

Keep it classy
Peace out

xoxo
~Chee



Source: YBf for Photo

SUPER: Sunnies on Deck

Anyone who knows me know my LOVE of a dope pair of Sunnies...

After a sweet visit at Sunglass Hut this pass weekend I was telling myself... I have to get a new pair of Sunnies for the Fall and Winter Months (Yes I wear sunnies during the winter.... Sue Me)

Check out these bad boys!!! ooowwweeee!

Super Fall 2009 collection. These joints a MEAN! They are so different... Sometimes you have push the envelope.

I Heart the shape- makes me think of Logos or Robots... lol

The brown options are calling my name....

Shhhh shhhhh!!! You hear them???

Keep is fabulous

xoxox

Chee

Source: C'est la Vie

Sleeping Beauty: Vintage Undies

Hey Stylistas.

We always talk about what to wear on the night of the town, but we never talk about what to wear on the night in the house.

Nicki Minaj's Honey Mag shoot inspired this post. I love the shot with Nicki in a silk camisole paired with an over sized white button down shirt. Then I started to think about last month's Ashley Olsen's Vintage Romantic theme shoot for Marie Claire.

I love Lace for a great stylicious night in the house. Ladies throw the Pink sweats in the corner and reach for a vintage undergarment look.


I love "His" white shirt as a cover up. It will add a modern flare to your old vintage look. Roll up the arms and top off your lingerie with some pearls and a sweet scent.

Please do not forget your 4-5inch pumps.

How dreamy????

I was on polyvore to give you guys some inspiration.

Sleeping Beauty by SwagGirlChee featuring La Perla

I love a soft color palette. It screams dreamy, fantasy, and romance.

How sexy is that??

Do you guys have a sexy look you to rock in the bedroom?

Until Next Time

xoxo

Chee

Hey People!

Last week Honey Magazine did a fab shoot with Female Rapper Nicki Minaj.

I was just put on to this chick, and I've been living under a rock! Nicki Minaj is pretty dope. Surprisingly she is from South Side Queens. I like her style.

Honey Mag sat down with Ms. Minaj to talk about her career, her status, her many comparisons to Lil' Kim.... etc, but I was more intrigued about what she was wearing...

Duuuh I'm a style junkie and aspiring stylist- I am going to pay much attention to her looks. Nicki Minaj was styled by Charles Wade- Honey Mag's Fashion Director.

I have this great Jumper! I brought mine for H&M and I can not wait to wear it... Great Choice!

Sexy Kitten. I love this look. The Over sized white button down paired with great lingerie is always alluring and sexy! I always get that "Honey I'm Home" feel. Wearing "His" shirt to bed... LOVE IT!

Check out Nicki Minaj's interview with Honey Mag.

Dope chick- Dope shoot. Can't wait for the album to drop. *Let me find out Young Money tryna get Bad Boy early 90's status*

Until Next Time

xoxo

~Chee

Source: Honeymag

Style Beauty: All Black Everything

Hey Stylistas....

So this is Search.Style.Snap's first beauty post and please let me know what you girlies think about it...

A couple of weeks back I got some feedback from a reader asking to give beauty and make-up tips.... I am a fresh faced girl who only wears black eye liner, mascara, and Vaseline as my gloss... I know not sooo glamours... but I am taking out the time to learn more, and experiment more on this.

I knew I couldn't really give any tips- because I do not know ANYTHING about applying make-up nor the different brands out there... I only know MAC hahah.... So I reached out to my friend from the DMV (D.C Maryland Virginia area) to help me out.

Her name is Keyona... but we call her Keebs...

She will be helping me on the beauty tip, feel free to email some makeup inquiries, tips, advice etc...

I'm learning too- Can't wait for her to come up so we can explore Sephora and the Macy's makeup section... I feel beauty TV brewing.... That would be dope!

All Black Everything! : The Eyes Have It

Think, London New Goth. This Fall, Thakoon, Michael Kors and Yves Saint Laurant have all opted for this look with their collections. A well defined, deep eye will instantly glam up any look. Whether you decide to keep it more simple with a thick, smudged out liner, or kick up the wow factor and go dramatic with a powder or cream shadow that can be smoked out to the max, it's such an easy way to take your look to another level. The key to this look, whether simple or smoky, is a deep black volumizing mascara. I like to apply at least 3 coats when I do a smoky eye so that the lashes don't get lost in the background; you still want them to pop. Remember to keep the rest of the face muted. The eyes should be your stand out feature. A little concealer on problem areas, some powder to set it, a toned down blush/bronzer and a flesh toned lipstick with just a touch of gloss will guarantee that nothing else is competing with your fabulous eyes. Also, please take the time to groom the brows. Nothing ruins a great make-up look like unruly face framers. You will be amazed at the difference that clean, manicured brows create, whether you're wearing make-up or not!

Nars Eyeshadow Duo in Hungry Heart

NARScosmetics.com

*A highlighter is a great companion to the smoky eye. To create dimension and to keep the eye looking lifted, a highlighter right underneath the brow (on the browbone) is key. I like this duo, because it allows you to mix the two colors to create YOUR personal color.

Urban Decay Shadow Primer Potion

urbandecay.com

*Talk about a cult favorite! I discovered this primer some years ago from a fellow make-up artist and it's THE best. This should be the 1st step to your eye make-up routine. Especially when wearing darker eye colors, a primer is key in preventing creasing and fading on the lid.

Kevin Aucoin The Mascara

kevynaucoin.com

*This is an AMAZING mascara! It delivers tons of volume, separation and lift. Pile it on for a dramatic effect, but, remember to allow at least 15 seconds between each coat to prevent clumping.

Smashbox Cream Eyeliner

smashbox.com
*Gel based liners are a Godsend for us oilier skinned ladies (and Gents!!), because they dry down to a smudge proof, water resistant finish that won't run and disappear during the day. Remember to get an angled tip brush to apply the liner. I use the 266 Small Angeled Brush by

MAC maccosmetics.com

MAC Black Tied Eyeshadow

maccosmetics.com

*I love this shadow because it's not a flat wash of color. It contains metallic flecks that attract more light to the eye area and give it a little more pop!

Bobbi Brown Creamy Eye Pencils

BobbiBrownCosmetics.com
*These liners are really creamy, preventing tugging on the delicate eye area (especially if you have dry skin). Because of the soft texture, blending and smudging is a breeze.

Any questions for Keebs???

~Stay classy and fabulous- Your Glam-Puss!

Fashion Mags: Elle VS Vogue

Last week I picked up my monthly bundle of fashion magazines to get the month’s inspiration.
I normally pick up

Elle
Vogue
Italian Vogue
Bazaar
Allure
Essence
Marie Claire (Ever since Nina Garcia came aboard I like the mag so much more)
And my weekly gossip magazines (don’t judge me. I LOVE them and can’t get enough)

As I went through all publications, drooling over some of the editorials and advertisements, placing a post-it on the pages that make me swoon and tabbing the stories that look interesting... I had a thought….

I like Elle magazine sooo much better than Vogue.

Now I may get stoned for this by all fashionistas around the world, but Elle mag talks to me. I can relate more, I get inspired and the features stories, not only educates me on the fashion world, but the stories are entertaining.

The master minds behind Elle does a very good job in connecting with the younger fashionista, but still keeping the interest of their loyal reader….

Don’t get me wrong, Vogue is a fashion encyclopedia, but it’s starting to get boring!!!

This makes me think… is Vogue still the fashion bible?

What do you stylistas think?

Elle or Vogue???

Or which fashion publication you love?


Until Next Time

xoxo
Chee

New Yorkers Do Have Style

Hey Stylistas-

I know I have touched on this trend before but the importance of a statement necklace can set you style free.

Ladies when going out to a club, or a first date, or even cocktails with the girls, pairing your statement necklaces with a simple look is golden.

Take a look at some New Yorkers in their statement necklaces looking fab during Fashion Week.

I have the necklace on the left. It's form H&M.

These are my Favorites!!!!!

Today I was having lunch with my bestie and she had on a very cute leather layered statement necklace. My eyes automatically was drawn to her neck.

And who said New Yorkers do not have style????

Some great low key inexpensive spots to get your statement jewelery: Forever 21, Strawberry (believe it or not) Street Vendors in Soho, H&M... and my new spot www.pnkelephant.com

(Look out for an exclusive interview with the girls behind www.pnkelephant.com. Dope jewelry. Can't wait to get my spike bracelets)

Until Next Time

xoxo

Chee

Source: WGSN

Style Du Jour: Kate Lanphear during Fashion Week

Each day I will post my Style Du Jour pick: This section of the blog is where I will expose dope style from our favorite stylicious people. Fellas I promise this will not be only stylistas I will post some styilsto pics as well!!

Kate Lanphear is not a stranger to my blog. If you do not know who this woman is- she is the Style Director of Elle Mag (My fav magazine... all you Vogue lovers do not hate me... I appreciate Vogue- but I love Elle sooo much more)

Talk about All Black Everything!!!

I love the proportions of her fit. The cropped leather jacket paired with a long drappy tee adds a messy but sexy touch to her outfit. Skinny jeans and high ankle boots are always a go!!!!

Enjoy. Get Inspired.

Peace out

xoxo

Chee

Fall Fashion: The Lanvin Sneaker

Morning Fellas

Whats up.... Today I give you some fresh kicks for the Fall season.

Now available on Aloha Rag, Lanvin presents a pretty dope sneaker for the fellas this season.

The Lanvin High Top Trainer comes in a nice new jersey felt/suede version. I pay attention to detail and I like the sweet add of gold accent eyelets.

The neutral colors are dope- pair these bad boys with a great chunky sweater, or a pair of heavy weight khakis, or keep it basic with a great pair of jeans.

The luxury look of the sneaker can definitely be rocked with a dope Wool coat during the winter months or worn with a trench coat during the warmer days.

Either way- if you have the cash to invest in- INVEST fellas!!!! (These are pricey people)

South of your ankles will thank you ;)

Peace Out

xoxox

Chee

Sunday Love: BFF's RULE!

Bless Sunday.

I was over at Rihannadaily.com (I occassionally make my rounds to stake out RihRih latest fashion choices) and spotted a pic of Riahnna and her bff Melissa walking down the street.. You can see the love... so I wanted to post some pics of my friends and I dangling.

Its nothing like a bestie or good friends around u!

Enter my world.... enjoy the pics of my girlfriends and I.

Im forgetting more dope girls in my life... don't hate me for not adding your pics... these are the only pics I have on this computer.

Be blessed today and thank God for the great friends you have in your life....

Peace Out!!!

xoxo

Chee

Style Inspiration: Mixing Metallics

Hey People!

I was looking through my jewelry and caught a glimpse of one of my gold bangles dangling next to my silver necklace and thought it looked good together... I thought mixing metallics would be pretty cute. So I decided to give you guys some weekend inspiration, whether you are hosting a small girls only cocktail party, or heading to dinner for a first date, or just hitting the club... check out what i put together through polyvore.

Side note: Gold, silver, black, and charcoal... Great color combo.




Style Inspiration by SwagGirlChee featuring Halston


Joining these color ranges and highlighting your nails and lip with Red makes for a great weekend outfit. Don't forget to keep your color story going and mix and match your silver and gold jewels as well.

Let's discuss this fit:

The Halston pant with a drape and harem detail are soo in right now. I finally tried on a pair and I actually loved how they fit. *I purchased a jumper with draping and harem detail- i will take pics once I rock it* This silhouette might not work for everyone, but don't be fashion closed minded... try it out :)

Adding a long sequin coat add glitz and glam! I fell in love with the 3.1 Phillip Lim coat. With your pants you can add a sequin blazer oppose to a long coat- whatever works. It will still add great spice.

A great graphic tee to tone down the outfit, because your sequin coat (or blazer) will do all the talking. Maybe a drapy tee. You can find this kind of tee anywhere, from H&M to Forever 21 to American Apparel.

Metallic silver shoes to add shine to your grey outfit.

Well here you have it.... some Mix Match Metallic inspiration.

Enjoy your weekend guys.... remember don't leave your cup unattended... always have a designated driver.. and look fabulous!!!

PS: Fellas... once I master my illustrator skills I will get you some style inspiration shots! :)

Until Next Time
same place

xoxo
Style Reporter