Chanel: When a Dream Becomes a Reality

Coco Chanel said, "A woman with good shoes is never ugly". At first read that might sound slightly offensive to the modern woman. But, when you really break it down, what she's saying is, when you have shoes (or any article of fashion) on your person that makes you feel special, or beautiful, that is what shines through. Confidence is beautiful. I love who I am, I know myself, and what I want out of life. That's the foundation of my confidence, but I can't deny that a good pair of shoes makes me feel like a million bucks. 

When Chanel expanded to include footwear in the 1950's, so was born the Chanel ballerina. 

They have become a staple for anyone who wears designer, namely Chanel. They were a derivative of the classic Chanel two toned pump, but were designed with the idea in mind to bring comfort and freedom to women during a time when that was not the norm. They were thought to be less flattering to the female figure than heels. But that all changed when Audrey Hepburn, the personification of style icon, wore flats in the 1957 movie Funny Face. Hepburn's ability to show the feminine side of flats prompted women everywhere to question the height of their heels. Chanel flats have been a must-have among fashion admirers since those days. And they have been my must-have since fashion's first blip on my radar. 

If you'd like to read more about style icons throughout history who thought "Flats Were Fab" click here.

Years ago, I lived in Southern California. During that time, I was immersed in a world of beauty and fashion. The trends came and went so fast it could make your head spin. I do believe that's where my desire for, and leaning towards the classics, came into play. Trends are fun, and I like to incorporate them into my wardrobe here and there. But my style over the years has evolved into an appreciation for things that stand the test of time. I don't know that I'd invest in a trend, especially when there are usually some really good dupes out there. Chanel is definitely an investment, but these shoes in particular are absolutely timeless, and cannot be duplicated; they are 100% me. 

To me, Chanel is THE luxury brand. From perfume and cosmetics, to all things fashion. Now, I appreciate all luxury (and non luxury) brands and what they, specifically, have to offer. But it's what you do with what they offer that makes it you. Style is unique. Ten women might put on the same pair of shoes, but they'd all look different, because style and creativity is an individual thing. 

My dream shoes have always been, without question or hesitation, a pair of two toned, Chanel ballerinas. They were a dream for me that were put "on the back burner" for so many years. I'd been drooling over them and styling them in my head since those sunshiny days in SoCal.

So, how exactly did these lovelies come into my life? I'll start by saying that my husband is a saint. I'm pretty sure the man would move mountains, in fact, more than mountains, he'd move Heaven and Earth to put a smile on my face. It would take days, and endless hours of typing to really tell you all of the wonderful things he has done for me. So it shouldn't have been a surprise, but oh was it ever, when he got me these shoes to celebrate nine years together (seven married). He knows me well, I appreciate anything he gives me, even if its just a hug or a smile. I am so blessed to have his heart, and his love. But I like practical things. Diamonds may be a girls best friend, but I'd rather have something that I'll really use and love. So he bought me my dream shoes. But they're so much more than shoes. 

I feel like I've had these shoes long enough now, that I can give an honest opinion and review on them, as if Chanel needs a review of any kind, but here's my two cents anyhow. When I first own something this luxurious, I'm honestly afraid to use it. Handbags, and shoes especially, I don't want to take them out into the world. I don't want to ruin them. I'm terrified of every little scuff mark, every puddle, speck of dirt. But once we get to know each other a little bit, I introduce them to the world and really make them a part of my life. There's no use in owning them if I'm just going to stare at them in the box. 

So, on to the details. 

The leather is truly like butter. I have fallen in love with shoes before, and endured some discomfort for the sake of fashion. That is not the case with these beauties. They are as comfortable as they are beautiful. I could easily walk miles in them. They practically form to your feet, and literally feel like slippers. Coco Chanel also said,"Luxury must be comfortable, otherwise it is not luxury". So it makes sense that a pair of shoes by Chanel are the most comfortable designer shoes I have ever worn.

Another thing I love about them is the cut. I am not particularly a fan of "toe cleavage", as they call it. I think some women pull it off just fine, but it's not for me. Again, style and preference are unique. I like that my entire foot is covered in these flats, especially for the fall and winter months. 

I love the two toned look. First of all, its classic Chanel. The idea of the nude shoe with the blacked out toe, was meant to make a women's legs appear longer, and their feet appear smaller. The beige and black is instantly recognizable. They are the most sought after and desirable color when it comes to Chanel shoes. The dual color scheme makes them that much more wearable. They literally go with everything. Or rather, everything else goes with them. The interlocking C's (for Coco Chanel) on the toe are my most favorite part. As pointed out on "Rice and Beans Vintage", this logo is perhaps the most recognizable in the world. Read a little about the history of those C's here.

Stating the obvious here, but I adore these shoes. They are so special to me, because they were a gift from my husband. They remind me of the young girl I was, years ago, drooling over Chanel hoping "one day" they would be mine. And they remind me of who I am now, how I've grown and matured. I appreciate every single thing I have, because between myself and my husband, hard work, sometimes struggle, and at times sacrifice has built our life. We have earned anything and everything we have. And I believe anything that is earned, is more appreciated. Coco Chanel worked so hard to become a pioneer in the fashion world and build her brand, so it's fitting that these shoes for me, are a representation of the hard work my husband and I have put into our life together. Our years together are the most beautiful gift God has given me, but these shoes, my husband's gift to me on this anniversary, are and always will be, priceless. 

Check out these flats at your local Chanel boutique! You can also find them pre-loved at numerous places online! Happy shopping! 

I'd love to hear about your dream fashion item! Leave me a comment here, on Instagram, or twitter! 

Instagram @classicallycurvy

Twitter @classicallycurv

That's all for now.

Love, 

Kate

Sources:

http://www.thebagforum.com/shoe-box/23477-history-popularity-chanel-ballet-flats.html

http://www.vintagefashionguide.com/2015/02/history-chanel-logo/

http://justnowupdates.blogspot.com/2015/06/15-style-icons-who-prove-flats-are-fab.html

A Lularoe Love Affair! (Sarah Cardigan Look Book)

Hi Ladies!

If you have any kind of social media, I'm guessing you've at least heard of Lularoe! It seems like everyone is either selling it, or wearing it. I had no experience with the brand until recently. I always assumed that Lularoe was strictly leggings. But it's so much more!

One morning at the bus stop while dropping our kids off, a friend of mine was sporting this GORGEOUS mustard (although I think golden sunflower, is a better description), long cardigan. I'd later learn that it is called the "Sarah Cardigan". I had been in the market for a long cardigan to begin with, but the right one just hadn't caught my eye. Well this particular cardigan more than caught my eye!

Since social media is the platform most Lularoe consultants use, I took to Facebook to find this gem. I wrote up a post asking who of my friends was a consultant, or knew a consultant, and if they had a mustard "Sarah" cardigan in a size large (they are so roomy and comfortable). Within a couple days I had two messages from friends, who had friends, who were in possession of my dream cardigan. It was at this point that I hit a tiny roadblock. My husband and I are currently in the process of purchasing a new forever home. So for the time being,  I have to budget and save for any additional purchases. The thing with Lularoe is, you have to get it while you can! I had no idea how fast items can go, until this experience! So it was with great difficulty, and lots of personal restraint, that I reluctantly informed both ladies, that I would need to wait a bit before purchasing. I just prayed one would still be available when I was ready to purchase.

Cut to two days later, my husband brings our mail in and hands me a package. I have no idea what it could possibly be. When I opened it, the first thing I saw was that beautiful gold! There was a note attached that informed me that the cardigan was anonymously purchased for me. Well, I knew immediately who had done this for me. Kind and good-hearted are an understatement when it comes to describing this beautiful soul. She is one of the best people I have ever known, and is the very definition of selfless. Oh, and did I mention that she saves lives and makes people feel better all day long? When I contacted my friend to confirm my suspicions, I insisted she let me repay her. All she asked, was that I pay it forward. Yeah. I know. She's the BEST. One of those people who makes this world a much better place to be, and I couldn't be more grateful that she is in my life.

All of a sudden, a cardigan became so much more. I'm not one to typically attach feelings and emotions to objects, or material things, but this cardigan will forever be special and so very cherished by me.

Now that I'm done being all teary eyed and emotional, let me tell you just how fabulous this cardigan really is! It is so soft and comfortable. My husband even commented that it's like a big blanket, and he's exactly right. It's like wearing a fabulous, comfortable blanket, that makes you look and feel beautiful. This color in particular is just so perfect for fall. Navy blue is MY color. I wear navy almost every single day, and this cardigan is absolutely perfect paired with navy blue. I love the length so much. It's exactly what I was looking for. Long cardi's are so in right now, but I'm 5'6 and some of them tend to be too long for me. This one is perfect. The pockets are such a nice detail and they're totally functional. I love having pockets. As a mom, I am always needing to put things (especially my phone) down, but it's nice to have them within reach.

I knew before I even had it in my hands, that I could style this beauty a million and one ways, but the reality of styling it was so much more fun and, "oh-my-gosh" easier than I thought it would be! I'll never run out of ways to wear this cardigan! So lets get to it!

Look Number One

I wore my favorite gingham button up shirt from the Gap, over a white camisole from Torrid, with boyfriend jeans and leopard calf hair wedges, by Tory Burch. Unfortunately, Tory Burch no longer makes these wedges, but I will link to a similar pair below. I carried my navy blue Mulberry "Polly Pushlock" handbag. I finished the look with my gold toned bangles from Target, and my white and gold ClicClac bracelet from Hermes.  

I wore a vintage, nautical inspired, gold and white enamel statement necklace that was a gift from my husband during one of our trips to New York City. 

Unless I'm going out for the night, natural makeup is my go to look. I'm rockin' my natural curls in this look as well. Every now and then I need to give my hair a break from heat styling. I love the "Controlling Curl Creme" by Pantene Pro-V. It's so affordable, and it works! I've spent four times as much on styling products that don't do the job like this product does. A little goes such a long way, and it smells so clean and fresh. I put about a quarter sized dollop in my palm, and scrunch it through my damp, hair and let it air dry and it's good to go. Curls for daysssss. 

Look Number Two

Bohemian! Oh I loved this look! So simple and effortless, but the cardigan really adds something special. We are in this back and forth weather right now. Warm one day, chilly the next. This is me getting all I can out of one of those last warm days. My favorite distressed boyfriend jeans, and a white camisole from Torrid, are effortless and comfortable. I love these wedges by Stuart Weitzman. They are called the "Minx", and they are definitely in my top five favorite shoes of all time. They are so feminine and pretty, but comfortable to boot! Threw my hair in a messy bun, and I was out the door. 

For accessories I wore my monogram necklace by Jennifer Zeuner and my Hermes ClicClac bracelet with a couple of bangles from Target. 

My Mulberry bag is such a classic, it goes with everything, and totally works with this laid back look. I love this bag so much. I wear it over the shoulder or cross-body. It's contents are easily accessible with the push lock opening. It's worth the investment when you can get something that goes with anything and will always be in style. 

Look Number Three

Layers and booties for a fun day out! The same white cami from Torrid, as mentioned above, but under an open chambray button up, with this gorgeous ray of sunshine over the top, creates the quintessential fall layered look, that I, for one adore. I wore stretchy, black, skinny jeans from Old Navy, cuffed and paired with open toed booties from Target! I did an entire review and blog post of these booties, which you can read here. They are almost an exact dupe for a well known, higher end brand, (cough, Dolce Vita, cough) at about a third of the price!  

Simple accessories and my beloved Louis complete the look! 

Look Number Four

Finally "Sarah", with my black ankle jeans, by NYDJ, with a classic Breton top, and leopard Tory Burch wedges, create a classic look for fall. I added a silk, equestrian themed scarf, from Ralph Lauren to my Mulberry bag, for an added element of fun! 

This silk equestrian themed scarf from Ralph Lauren is so classic and the perfect addition to my Mulberry bag. Anytime you want to give your bag a makeover or create a different look, grab a scarf! You can really have a lot of fun with it. 

Look Number Five

Stripes and sunshine! I love this striped t-shirt dress I purchased this past spring at Walmart! I love mixing high end clothing and accessories, with more budget friendly pieces. Versatility is where it's at, in style and in budget. You don't need designer everything, to create a beautiful look. I wore my leopard print Tory Burch wedges, for a little bit of fun, and went with my vintage anchor statement necklace, to keep with the nautical theme of my dress. 

Sadly this t-shirt dress from Walmart is sold out online but check your local stores! I saw some on the clearance racks not too long ago. 

Shop the Looks! 

Contact your local Lularoe representative about purchasing a Sarah cardigan! It comes in many different colors. I'm eyeing up a gray one for a future purchase! 

Similar Shirt

Plus Size Specifically Gingham Shirt

Similar Boyfriend Jeans

Similar Wedges

White Camisole from Torrid

Stuart Weitzman "Minx" Wedges

Jennifer Zeuner Monogram Necklace

 Hermes ClicClac Bracelet

Chambray Shirt

Opened Toed Booties from Target. 

You can read my blog post about these booties here. 

Shop Mulberry Bags here

Shop Ralph Lauren silk scarves here 

Breton Shirt

Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM

"Rain, Rain, Go Away"? Not when you have these gorgeous rain boots! (Hunter Boots Look Book)

Hi Ladies!

"Rain, Rain, Go Away", right? Not when you have these gorgeous boots! Do you have wide calves? I do! I've always had wider calves, it's just part of my build, but once I started long distance running, my calves just grew, and grew, and GREW! Now I have a hard time finding boots that fit my athletic calves. I was heartbroken several years ago, when I fell in love with these vibrant red Hunter wellies. I just had to have them. But my wide calves disagreed. Well imagine my sheer delight, when I discovered the "Huntress" boots, by Hunter. They are for ladies like myself, who need a little more wiggle room in the lower leg. I LOVE these boots.

First of all they have held up incredibly well. They are several years old now, and look as new as the day I purchased them. I take very good care to maintain them, per the instructions on Hunter's website. However, I wear them so much, and they are still just lovely. Any scuff marks they have obtained over the years are easily buffed out, and they shine like new every time I oil them. They are perfect for rainy days, snowy days (with warm Hunter socks underneath as they are not insulated), muddy adventures, and anything in between!

So now on to the fun part! How to style them. Obviously you can throw them on with any old thing, as I have done many times to walk the dog, run a quick errand, or get my son to the bus stop. But I wanted to show you how to really style them up! So here we go!

Look Number One

For the first look, I paired my favorite wellies, with a pair of distressed boyfriend jeans, by Lucky Brand, a gingham button up shirt from the Gap, and a quilted puffer vest in the color "Poppy" by J Crew Factory. This color, "Poppy", matches these boots PERFECTLY. 

Look Number Two

Next I went with a little more polished and accessorized look. Rainy day chic! I chose navy blue "curvy" jeans by Ann Taylor, my favorite gingham shirt from the Gap, my "Downtown Field Jacket" from J crew (which has that classic, English countryside look like a Barbour jacket, that I just love), and my Mulberry "Polly Pushlock" bag. 

This gold and white enamel statement necklace was a gift purchased for me by my dear husband. It has a nautical vibe to it with the anchor design. We found it in a little vintage shop in New York City. We were looking for a little adventure on one of our trips to the city, and we decided to walk from Battery Park to Central Park. We found so many hidden gems along the way, including this necklace, and the store where it was purchased. 

I also wore my trusty, and oh so affordable bangle bracelets from Target, (an entire set is less than five dollars). I paired them with my Hermes ClicClac bracelet, also a gift from my husband. 

The complete look! 

Look Number Three!

This is an easy, throw it on, and out the door look! Navy blue "Curvy" jeans by Ann Taylor. A navy and ivory Breton sweater by Ralph Lauren, under a navy and red buffalo check vest by J Crew is casual but pulled together. Noticing a theme here? Navy and red are just SO good together. You can't go wrong! Hair in a bun and you're good to go. Ten minutes tops, and you still look like you put some effort into your look. 

Look Number Four

This is a more adventurous and layered look! I don't know why but it makes me feel a little, "Indiana Jones-y", I need to invest in a fedora! Mental note to self: buy a fedora. Okay, moving on! Black skinny jeans by NYDJ, a white camisole from Torrid, Chambray shirt from J Crew Factory, and olive utility vest by American Rag, I featured this vest in a previous blog post, you can read about it here. I went with a dark, fall inspired lip. This is the color "Spice Cake" by NYX cosmetics, in their butter gloss formula, it's almost purple! I love it and can't wait to wear it more this season. I went with minimal accessories. I adore this dainty compass necklace that was a present from my best friend. It has so much meaning to me and I cherish it. Also I wore my halo diamond stud earrings from Nordstrom.

NYX buttergloss' are one of my favorite lip products. Not only do they have staying power, they are so moisturizing and you never get that cakey look that happens when some lip products dry out on the lips, and they're super affordable. 

Look Number Five 

Lets get fancy with it! This look would be perfect for the holidays! Especially if there happens to be a little snow on the ground, or there is less than perfect weather. Navy blue "Curvy" jeans by Ann Taylor. Tartan button up shirt, red sweater, and the ever so sought after, Herringbone puffer vest (They're back in stock! RUN!) by J Crew. Throw on some multi strand pearls and you'll look fab at the Holiday dinner table. 

Look Number Six

Bundle Up! I could seriously live in my blanket scarf during the chilly months. This blanket scarf from "Meg's Knit Shit" on ETSY is probably one of my favorite accessories, I wore it SO much last fall and winter. It's held up beautifully, and I know I'll have it for years to come. I've added some new blanket scarves to my collection for this winter season, and I'll be posting a haul and how to style them in an upcoming blog post, so stay tuned for that, if you're interested! Black skinny jeans from NYDJ, and Breton top, and quilted puffer vest in "Poppy", from J Crew Factory. 

Look Number Seven

Errand day! Another of my absolute most favorite brands is Vineyard Vines. I love their shep shirts, t-shirts, and hats, I really just can't get enough of them. I have several sweaters by the brand as well, and can say that they are just as awesome. Their t-shits are just so soft and comfy though. I've had one of my VV long sleeve T-shirts for almost five years, it's been washed and dried countless times, and it still looks new. I think it's always worth it to spend a little more on the things that really last, and Vineyard Vines clothing LASTS. I threw on my Champion leggings from Target. Side note, these bad boys are another one of those things that just last forever. I run in these, workout in them, I wear them to lounge around in, and recently, I've decided I'm okay enough with my big booty, that I wear them out to run errands. They are also thick enough, that you don't have to worry about showing your panty lines to the people in line behind you at Target. I've ran, and trained, for four half marathons in my several pairs of these leggings, and they are not even beginning to wear. Highly recommend. Oh and if you've been nervous about wearing leggings out in public, like I was, I say go for it! I'll never look back! I need to be comfortable when I'm running a gazillion different errands! So what if I got a little junk in the trunk. 

Champion leggings from Target, hat and long sleeve t-shirt by Vineyard Vines, and the same "Poppy" puffer vest from J Crew factory. 

Look Number Eight (Whew!)

Cute and feminine, but again, easy and out of the door in minutes. White camisole from Torrid, navy cardigan from J Crew Factory, and distressed boyfriend jeans by Lucky Brand. I accessorized with my monogram necklace from Jennifer Zeuner (present from my husband) and my Target bangles, statement bracelet from Nordstrom, and my Hermes ClicClac braclet. 

That's all for now! Lots more coming your way next week! 

Until then...

Love, 

Kate

This is from the first year I had these boots! As you can see they still look just as new! 

Shop the Looks! 

Oh it's your lucky day! They're on sale! I have these boots in red and black and I love them both. Obviously I LOVE my red pair. But if you can't find them in your size in red, or red just isn't your thing, check out the other colors!

The Boots! Also available in Navy, Black, and Purple!

If you don't need the wide calf version, check these out. 

My gingham shirt from the Gap sold out after it was seen on the Duchess of Cambridge, but here are several great alternatives!

Similar Gingham Shirt

Plus size

J Crew Factory Puffer Vests

J Crew Factory Herringbone Vest

Torrid Camisole 

Ann Taylor "Curvy" Jeans

Torrid Plus Size Skinny Jeans 

Downtown Field Jacket by J Crew 

Alternative Jacket

Similar Ralph Lauren Breton Top

 Breton Top

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Similar Boyfriend Jeans 

Chambray Shirt

Navy Cardigan

Pearl Necklace 

Vineyard Vines Long Sleeve Pocket Tee

Vineyard Vines Hat

Blanket Scarf

Black Skinny Jeans by NYDJ

Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM 

Mulberry Polly Pushlock is sold out, but you can check out other Mulberry Bags here

Jennifer Zeuner Monogram Necklace

Hermes ClicClac Bracelet