Saturday, December 26, 2009

What to wear with my little Black dress on New Years Eve


Hello Fashion Chicago Magazine (FCM) readers this truly the only time of the year when most of us dress up and celebrate. So, we want this night to be amazing and perfect. We have this stunning and magnificent black dress that we have bought earlier in the year. But, the current problem that I have, what shoes and other accessories to do I get to coordinate with this outfit? Fashion Chicago Magazine has the answer.

Here are five places that FCM recommends where you can purchase stunning accessories.

1. nikabutik.com

2. shop.lethrift.com

3. designer-discount.net

4. shopSHEboutique.com

5. cynthiarowley.com


Photo credits: FCM Face Model Alexandra Rubio
(UR Supermodels)

Dress- Soreyda Benedit, soreyda.com


If you stop at any of these magnficent sites, you will find what you need for the perfect New Years Eve with that signficant other or friends.

For more fashion tips, please check out the next issue of Fashion Chicago Magazine in January, 2010. fashionchicagomagazine.com


Azhar Harris

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Elin Steps out on the town

Fashion Chicago magazine would like to praise Elin Nordegren-Woods for being a woman of style, grace and substance. She looks stunning in this black evening gown. Her hair in a very neat updo. Designers this svelte former model can make you outfit look amazing and magnificent. Elin is an aspiring celebrity who is ascending to greatness. Please be sure to check her out in the future.

Fashion Chicago Magazine has pegged her as our IT Girl for 2010.

Azhar Harris

Victoria Beckham 2010 collection

Fashion Chicago magazine readers Victoria Beckham collections was stunning. Her very first collection debuted in New York fashion week this past September.

I really like this collection because she used some geometric shapes. The outfits were form fitted and sculpted to the entire women’s shiloutte.


Also, the pieces are very versatile and can be worn as ready to wore or after five by glamming it up with a pair of nice stilettos and a clutch purse.

So ladies, be sure to check out this line. For more information, go to http://www.victoriabeckham.com

Happy Holidays from Fashion Chicago Magazine

Azhar Harris

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

SIMPLY FABULOUS!!

Itziar Gorriz Summer 2010 collection was magnificent in the Valencia Fashion week. The Gorriz collection was very chic and elegant. She juxtaposed Silk and Sateen fabrics. The collection caused a magnificent buzz during this presentation. Gorriz uses bold color like pink to show her brilliance of capturing the perfect silhouette of a woman.

The only accessory needed was the pink bow. The pink dress is perfect for the office and a warm summer night out on the town This dress is for the woman that is on the go and independent.


Valencia, Spain

Azhar Harris

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Tis the Season of Volume

Gone are the days of skin tight tees and pants. This season is all about slouchy volume. Voluminous shirts and slouchy outerwear are this season's must haves. Paired with a pair of flowy pants pulls the look together. Rule of thumb: Keep your look tailored, showing a little shoulder is sexy and not too over the top.

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Punk Rocker







Thought you'd never wear punk glam? Think again! Studs, spikes, leather, and black ensembles are all in this fall season! Punk rock is in ladies! Studded dresses, shirts and jewelry are the new craze as well as leather jackets and vests.

Monday, August 3, 2009

Who Is Your Fav Designer???

Do you die over Donna Karan? Are you obsessed with Oscar de la Renta ? Designers these days have reached celebrity status ‑- and not just for their fabulous lines. Michael Kors contributes his opinion and his personality as a judge on the hit TV show Project Runway, and Isaac Mizrahi has become a humorous fixture on the red carpet. Share with us and others who your favorite designer is and why.


Post your opinions below!

Monday, July 27, 2009

The Biker Jacket


Designers went, ahem, hog wild for zipped and shrunken toppers this season. Balmain's Christophe Decarnin is the poster boy for the tough-chic trend, of course, but Haider Ackermann, Alexander Wang, and Roland Mouret also revved up the look's have-to-have-it factor



Post your opinions about this new fall look that's topping the charts!

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Fall 2009 Trend Reports

Trend Report: Metallica
Whether it’s over-the-knee boots or a cocktail dress, a bevy of pressed studs take center stage











Trend Report: Iron Maiden
Rock spikes and chains for a dark, tough-as-nails effect








Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Spring 2009 Fashion Trends by Glamour Magazine







Zipper Accents
Once relegated to Michael Jackson impersonators and lead singers in punk bands, zipper accents turned up on spring’s most feminine pieces. The flirty zipper trim on Phillip Lim’s silk tank balances downtown edge with uptown elegance. (Rachel Bilson, are you listening? This trend is made for you!)






Oversize Necklaces
Big glittering necklaces topped off many spring looks, but few shone as brightly as those seen on Vera Wang’s runway. Extra-long lariats like hers streamline the silhouette and update any outfit. Translation? One bold necklace is all you need to look fit and fashionable!






Black-on-White Print
The little black dress just got a big boost: As seen at Oscar de la Renta’s show, artful black stripes on a white background make a fresh, graphic statement. (Surely even the original LBD icon Audrey Hepburn would approve!)






Tuesday, July 7, 2009

FCM CHANGES

Hey fellow bloggers! Sorry FCM has been MIA lately! We recently changed photographers, if you haven't done so already check out the June and July issues, photographer Edward Estrada is phenomenal! We just finished up our swimsuit photo shoot on Lake Michigan last week and it went great! All the models looked beautiful! Can't wait til the Dec. 09 swimsuit issue!!! Let me know what you think about the magazine so far and my articles! I'm a newbie!!!!! :) Follow us on twitter too!!!

http://www.fashionchicagomagazine.com/main.html
http://twitter.com/FCM08

Emily Mancini
Fashion Chicago Magazine
Creative Writer and Stylist Intern

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Sneak Peek at our June Issue!

We just wrapped up our photo for June. We shot it at a beautiful outside location in Evanston. The sun was out, the flowers and trees were in full bloom. What could be better then that? Of course some hot fashions from our featured designer, James de Colon.




Thursday, May 14, 2009

Shop for Charity

Do for others while your doing your yourself. Love finding one of a kind jewelry and accessories? We have a great line for you. Daisy petals is a fashion jewelry line that creates colorful beaded earrings, necklaces, and more. These earthy ensembles are beautiful with their rich, vivid colorings and craftsmanship.

But the kicker is that in the month of May the designer will be donating 10% of their sales to the American Cancer Society. The jewelry is very affordable you might be able to pick up a few pieces. Its all available at http://www.daisyspetals.etsy.com/.


Thursday, May 7, 2009

The Big Shoulders of Fall 2009

We all know that 80s inspired styles have made a come back. I bet you all were dreading the return of shoulder pads. Most fashion revivals aren't the same exact look coming back onto the scene; and that is what happened for Fall 2009 and the big shoulders that were seen across the runways.
The volume at the shoulders on some of Fall's hottest designs is so exaggerated its chic. Balmain does it best with their jackets. Above are two examples of the jacket that leaves you looking like a total fashionista with a slimmer waist. Don this look with some knock out jeans and your ankle boots and you'll take the season by storm. FCM's advises you get a jacket with a little extra sparkle detail, everyone will notice you; and not the weather changing.

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

FCM's Offical Shoe Sponsor- Dave the shoe guy


Dave Sheehan, helped us out a great deal for our May issue. Now he will be our official shoe sponsor. Along with the help of Shirise.com an online boutique that sell high end shoes and accessories they are able to bring us shoes from various designers such as Jimmy Choo, and Yves St Laurent.

Stay tuned for the hot new shoes that are yet to come. Visit his site at http://www.davetheshoeguy.com/ for a chance to win a free pair of designer shoes.

Saturday, May 2, 2009

The new look of Fashion Chicago Magazine


WE GOT A MAKEOVER!!!

Our new website is up and running. Check it out while your viewing the latest issue of FCM at http://www.fashionchicagomagazine.com/. This issue we got some hot fashions with a futuristic twist.

If you are having trouble finding the link, try and clear your browser history and cookies. The link is just below the button the submit your e-mail address.

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

FCM Featured Designer Kristin Hassan now on new Bravo Series

From the pages of our magazine to your television screen. FCM's first featured designer Kristin Hassan has been chosen to be one of the lucky 15 fashion designers to compete on Bravo's newest addition to their reality show lineup. Its called " The Fashion Show," and is hosted by well known designer Isaac Mizrahi and recording artist Kelly Rowland.



We are proud to have helped Kristin on her journey to fashion stardom, and we will continue rooting for along the competition. The show airs on Bravo, May 7, 2009.


Kristin is a 23 year old Chicago native and graduate of the Illinois Institute of Art. She has her own eco-friendly label called organiK Revolution. Click here for more of her bio.


Monday, April 6, 2009

Be an insider- behind the scenes of the April shoot

Hey Fashionistas,

We know you are loving our April Bridal issue. Want a back stage look at the entire process? Take a look at these photos and videos.

Sunday, April 5, 2009

Interview with Arefeh Mansouri

If you've checked out our April issue of the magazine you know that our featured designer is Arefah Mansouri. We have conducted our own little interview for the magazine. But if your more of a visual person, then we have a treat for you. Take a look at this video with fashion designer Arefeh Mansouri and her gorgeous unique dresses.

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

The April Bridal issue is out and proud

After a long month of photo shoots, styling, writing, and editing we have put together another issue of Fashion Chicago Magazine for your viewing purposes. This issue is our second round of Bridal, but this month we are back with an edgy, sexy, take on the age old tradition. So what's more to say. Mosey over to http://www.fashionchicagomagazine.com/ and take a look for your self

Saturday, March 21, 2009

FCM report on Shecky's Girls Night Out

FCM likes to check out the local talent for our blog and to stay on top on the scene here in Chicago. So we went to the raved about shopping event Shecky's Girls Night Out. Over all it was a nice time. Chicago is lagging behind major cities so we don't have many events like these. There were many vendors selling spring dresses, denim, shoes, handbags, and even beanies. Most of the merchandise was nice but we took special notice to some designer feathered earrings.
These earrings were sleek and full of color. They are from Haji Couture's Mystic Collection and they are full of style and whimsy. They are our pick for the winners of the night.

If you appreciate shopping we suggest you go to this event. They tour the U.S. but they will be back soon doing what they do best. they bring the highlights from what the city has to offer. You never know maybe you will discover the latest trend.

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Street Lingerie: an edgy, feminine take on fashion

This fall you will see lingerie taken to the streets in sexy night wear inspired garments. We've all seen the camisole come in and out of fashion. The lacy, satin getups are back again but they are not alone. Robes are being belted to produced a chic, posh look. Nighties are being crafted for evening wear in gorgeous fabrics, patterns and details.

Fashion's hottest designers are bringing this trend into the lime light. Christian Dior, Balenciaga, and Stella Mc Cartney are just a few who are creating these billowy, soft, delicate pieces.


Heels in velvet, or satin and opaque tights compliment the smooth texture of these designs. The jewelry should be kept minimal with this trend. Stick with wearing one type of jewelry like necklaces, earrings or bracelets. The focus should be on the lingerie, so make sure your accessories allow that.


Wear these ultra feminine pieces on a night out on the town. The deep colors of most of the designs are two luxe for day.

Monday, March 16, 2009

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Thursday, March 12, 2009

Celebrity Hairstylists with Chicago Roots


Great hair is also a big part of fashion. Hair styles change with the times as does fashion. Our home base Chicago is one of the "hair-happening" places across the nation. All of these stylist have some Chicago tie. From styling Jessica Simpson to the first lady these celebrity hairstylists are making a big impact.

Kim Kimble, who's hometown is the Second City, styles divas like Beyonce. This down to earth hairstylist loves fashion and staying on top of trends. She combines these by being inspired by new fashion collections. On hair milestone she has not cross yet is runway hair, but we feel with her interest in Haute Couture she will do just fine.

Ken Paves, originally from Michigan has frequented the streets of Chicago many times while he was not in Hollywood performing his magic on celebrities: such as Jessica Simpson, Jennifer Lopez and Kim Catrall. Commonly known as one of the hottest hair dressers in Hollywood, Paves does much with his talent and fame. He believe everyone should have the hair they desire, and he achieve this by creating the hair care products, Flawless.

Last but definitley not least we have Rahni Flowers, a true Chicagoan at heart. He has owned his shop on East Huron for 21 years. Flowers has been styling Michelle Obama since she was in high school. He even tended to her hair thorough inaugration.

The famous, even celebrity hairstylists get their start somewhere. We are proud to have one of their stops be Chicago. FCM!

Saturday, March 7, 2009

Behind the Scenes of the March 09 Shoot

It was smooth sailing at the last Fashion Chicago Magazine photoshoot. The shoot was for our bridal issue. Thanks to the fantastic photographer, a great designer and on point models, our hair and makeup team we all had a great time.

Designer Jorge del Busto styling model Jennifer

Photographer: Robert Beczarski giving direction to model Lisa

Hot Bridal Hair


The dress, the flowers, the cake, the caterers, and the bridesmaids, the list goes on of things a bride must secure for her wedding. Another daunting task could be her hair. On this big day when everyone is staring at her, the hair must be stylish, and flawless. Here at FCM we make the decision easier with ideas of how to tackle the wedding day hair situation.

The first hair style is a classic updo. Women commonly choose updos for weddings because it provides a unique look that allows them to stand out, as they should. Done the right way an updo can produce a look of timeless style that radiates across the room. The classic updo ties in the back of the head, with the front hair brush back. This allows a tiara to be added if desired.

If you have great long hair, and what to show it off on your big day, you can. We have a look that allows just that. We part the hair down the middle, curl the hair into thick wavy locks; we add a floral tiara here since it adds to the look where a traditional veil might distract from it.

If your hair is a medium length, you can have a great look too. A great idea is to have small side swept bangs. Tease your hair to add some volume and allow the tresses to fall naturally, and then secure them in place with a pin. Add a veil in the back to hid the pins or use the ones that are the same color of your hair and that can be hidden.

With these tips and ideas your wedding day list gets a little easier to check off. Remember confidence is the key to pulling off any look. You are marrying the man of your dreams, so just rock your hair style and you will look amazing.

A little extra sparkle


Bridal gowns are the main event at a wedding. Brides take time intricately picking out the perfect dress. But accessories make all the difference since they must flow and compliment, yet not over power. We have a few examples of veils and more that do just that.

One option is switching out a regular plain veil to a rhinestone and crystal one. Along the hem of this two tiered veil are rhinestones that shimmer in the light. Pair this with a jeweled tiara or hair clip and it will instantly take the dress to another level. The beading along the hem only measures two inches which creates a subtle effect.

There are a few options with one falling to your elbow and the other traveling down to the tips of your fingers. The veil is attached with a comb in a solid color. White, Diamond white and ivory are your colors to choose from.

If you wanted to steer a bit away from tradition the Bradshaw Bridal comb is good pick. The comb has one large ivory colored flower decorated with Austrian and Swarovski crystals. The flower resembles a rose in full bloom and it also has wispy feathers throughout the pedals. It compliments many styles of wedding dresses like contemporary, or vintage inspired gowns.

The comb is about 4 inches in length with a safety pin attached. It comes in white and ivory and matches any dress including champagne hues.

After the big day it can also be worn as a decorative brooch with formal wear or you can be unique and pair it with something casual like a spring or summer dress.

Great jewelry is the last note in the symphony of your wedding. It helps make the bride feel glamorous. The Couture Collection from Liliana will do just that. The necklace has a floral design that catches the light and sparkles because of the Genuine Swarovski Crystals. The look is complete with the matching earrings.

Measuring about 14-16 inches long the necklace is sure to fit with the included extender piece. The earrings have a perfect dangle falling just 1 ½ inches.

From veils to hair accents, to the jewelry we have it all covered to fit your bridal needs. Once everything is in place your big day will come at ease, and the only thing left is wishing the day would never end.

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Fashion Chicago Magazine " Annual Swimsuit 2009

Fashion Chicago Magazine had its first annual swimsuit issue. This issue is the first of its kind in the Midwest. The swimsuit edition features April Rose the announcer of ABC seven’s Chicago Huddle. The show provides analysis for the Chicago Bears prior to every game. April is one of the reasons for the show’s success. April dons a fabulous red leather swimsuit. She is looking fabulous and fierce. Also featured are a bevy of national fashion models. This is our first annual swimsuit issue. We expect this year’s issue to be bigger and better using more designer swimwear.

Fashion Chicago is eco-friendly. It’s the fist paperless magazine in the city. The magazine is unique where on-line it opens into an entire magazine. This is one of the fastest growing magazines on the internet. We feature international and national fashion showrooms. Fashion Chicago caters to Avant Garde & Haute Couture fashions. The trends presented are generally two seasons ahead. We want to be the forerunner in forecasting the latest in beauty and fashion trends. Please be sure to checkout our latest issue. Go to fashionchicagomagazine.com

Fashion Chicago Magazine "One on One with Asian Celebrity Model Isabelle Du"

Fashion Chicago Magazine (FCM): Hi Isabelle thank for granting our magazine an interview.

Isabelle: Thanks for asking

FCM: When did you get started in the modeling business? Which fashion model inspired you? (Explain)

Isabelle: Actually, it started with winning a magazine cover model contest for East West Magazine. The cover was my first tearsheet ever and after that gigs started rolling in. When you have strong tearsheets in your book, you start to book bigger work. I don't necessarily have one fashion model that inspired me per se, but there are a couple of models out there I do look out for – like Chanel Iman, Rila Fukushima, Mo Wandan, Du Juan, Devon Aoki …most are ethnically mixed and are on the shorter end of the height spectrum because I feel like I could relate to them and plus, I would love to see more diverse faces in the mainstream industry.

FCM: I see you are 5'7" tall, what are the challenges that you face being shorter fashion model?

Isabelle: There's so many that I'm drawing a blank at the moment. I think the biggest challenge is to convince people, whether they're agencies, casting directors and clients, that you're still able to do the same job just as well as a 5'10" model. But I have come to realize that if they really like your look, the height really doesn't matter at all.

FCM:
Kate Moss is 5'7" fashion model. What are your impression of Ms. Moss?

Isabelle: I've heard that she's shorter haha.

FCM: In your pictures, you photograph looking tall. What techniques do use to look tall in your pictures?

Isabelle: The obvious would be heels, of course. Pair them wisely with short shorts, skinny jeans and you'll add a few inches instantly in pictures without any real effort. Physique-wise, it's all about proportions. I may be short, but I'm proportionate so it translates well onto camera. Therefore, working out areas that need improvement and knowing what your best angles will also add to your height.

FCM: How do you change physical appearance in each photograph?

Isabelle: I can't take all the credit. Make-up, hair, wardrobe, styling and even the photographer take part in molding me.

FCM:
Being a fashion model has given you the opportunity to travel throughout the world. What is your favorite city?

Isabelle: Bangkok, Thailand for sure! It's very modern and there's always something exciting going on. People are unbelievably friendly and the food is worth craving for. I went out pretty much every night and made some great friends that I still keep in touch with. I'll definitely be coming back.

FCM: Who are your three favorite fashion designers?

Isabelle: Alexander McQueen, 3.1 Phillip Lim and Anya Hindmarch for her bags

FCM: What beauty and skin care products are in your purse?

Isabelle: I always carry hand sanitizer because you never know when you might need it, Smashbox's lip enhancing gloss because it works your lips like a dream and like three different sunscreens, all SPF 50, to protect my skin from sun damage.

FCM: Isabelle, you have television production and casting experience. Do you plan on working in this area after your modeling career ends?

Isabelle: Actually, originally I wanted to do production and casting! I had internships with E!'s True Hollywood Story and MTV specifically for those departments. But I decided that modeling has an expiration date so I should pursue it while I can.

FCM: How do stay in great physical shape?

Isabelle: I'm not the best person to ask about this haha. Before, I would never ever work out. In fact, I would eat fast food everyday, I'm the poster child for McDonald's. BUT, since I've been abroad, I have been working out every day and swimming every day to keep my body toned.

FCM:
Thank you for chatting with us. Fashion Chicago Magazine wishes you much success in your clothing boutique . Please keep us posted on any current fashion news. Thank you!

Isabelle: Thanks for having me. Bye!

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Fashion Chicago Magazine-"Feeling Fit with Chelsea"


Thank you for your overwhelming response to last months request for questions to kick off our column. I have chosen to post a question here, the others I have answered your personally. I am on a low calorie diet and I exercise (run, elliptical, aerobics class) 4 times per week, but feel that my body still feels soft and does not look toned. What should I do to get my muscles to look and feel toned? (Jenny, Chicago)

Thanks Jenny, two things we need to look at, your diet would be first on my list, followed by your workouts.

i. Your diet needs to consist of enough calories to support muscle maintenance (or development) and you need to be eating small meals 5 to 6 times per day. Each meal should contain Protein, carbohydrate (starchy and fibrous included), and fat (Polyunsaturated and Monounsaturated fats, found mainly in many fish, nuts, seeds and oils from plants). These small meals will help to keep your metabolism elevated, keeping your body from storing more fat.

ii. Your workouts need to consist of a good balance of strength training and cardio training. People looking to loose weight, all too often only focus on cardio. Weight training is essential for losing weight. Think of your body as machine that burns fat for fuel, wouldn't you want a more efficient engine?? More muscle = more calories burned….. its that simple. Being the second month in the year, I find it appropriate to talk about motivation. We start off the year with the best intentions to get ourselves in better shape and to lose those nagging pounds…… then we waive the white flag to failure! Frustrated and feeling down about ourselves, we put the task off as unobtainable. Changes to our body obviously require diet and exercise, what we often over look is the mental and emotional side of making change. Imagine how difficult it is to move to a new city where you don't know anyone. That is change! Why then do we get so frustrated with ourselves when we have a difficult time changing our habits in order to change our bodies. Be patient with your mind, get rid of your negative thought process and all of your excuses, these things will hold you back from ever making that change you so desperately want. Adding meditation exercises can help you to train your mind and your body.

NEXT MONTH will feature four printable exercises to help you succeed. Sign my guest list at www.chelseafitpro.com and be the first to access my blog, (coming soon).


Don’t forget to write me with your questions. Till next month, stay fashionably fit!


Chelsea
Kmiec Personal Trainer, Fitness Model & Competitor

email:chelsea@chelseafitpro.com

www.chelseafitpro.com

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enter the code "CHELSEAFIT" at check out for a free gift with your order.