Source: vogue.co.uk

If you’re looking for a little slice of classic (yet still slightly over-the-top) fashion heaven, London just might have to be your vacation destination this summer as the new Chanel Flagship store just opened up shop!

Located on New Bond Street in one of the most luxurious fashion districts in the world, the 12,600 square foot store filled with everything from ready-to-wear, fine jewelry, handbags and beauty products, the new flagship boutique is said to showcase everything found in “the universe created by Karl Lagerfeld”.

Designing for fashion houses like Chloé, H&M and Fendi the iconic creative director of Chanel is known for his quirky eccentricities (his legendary white mane and black sunglasses!), but most importantly is known for taking the European brand to a whole new level internationally.

Designed by New York based architect Peter Marino (“the fashion architect for brands such as Chanel, Fendi, Dior and Louis Vuitton”), the three-storey space which is “spacious yet homely”, took over 15 months to fully execute.

Filled with lavish details everywhere, like a centerpiece sculpture “inspired by the strands of Coco Chanel’s iconic pearls”, “glass and mirrored walls” featuring gold ribbon encased within, “curtains [featuring] hand-stitched pearls” as well as gravity-defying staircases, it truly is a sight to be seen.

Said to be “an ode to Coco as much as Karl”, each section of the store is divided into sections with tweed chairs and coffee tables “adorned with Chanel books”, cozy fireplaces and “decadent changing rooms” all helping to set a relaxed yet dignified shopping mood.

We think the new Chanel flagship boutique in London sounds like a great place to do some high-end shopping this summer, wouldn’t you agree?

Source: vogue.co.uk

Source: gilbea.blogspot.com

Summer is the perfect time to get a little more experimental with your wardrobe. Brighter colors, intricate patterns and simply trying something new is more than okay during the summer months (since we all seem a little bit more carefree and cheerful this time of year!).

One of the biggest trends for accessories this summer 2013 season is playfulness. That’s right, now it’s completely on trend to let your freak flag fly a bit as you get out your brightest colored necklace or finally buy those whimsical bracelets you’ve been coveting for months.

To keep up with the playfulness of this trend, we’ve come up with a few great unique designer accessories that are fun, up-to-date and completely lighthearted!

Up first, you certainly can’t get playful this summer without making a little noise (with some bright colors!). This Big Rocky Envy Pink Lace Agate necklace is the perfect choice to make a big and bold statement this summer. Besides being vivid and beautiful, agate is considered to be a power stone that can help foster love, good luck and harmony. So, why not make the choice to be playful with your accessories this summer and add some bright color!

With this trend you can also play up something that may seem a bit more risqué, but is still completely on trend this season. The Pistol Bali earrings from Vinnie Day are made in silver and 24 carat gold-plated (vermeil) with a rich satin finish, complemented by beautiful semi-precious stones. Believe us when we say, nobody will mess with you when you’re wearing these unique designer earrings!

Lastly, it can also be fun to try something that’s a bit more wild (as in right from the jungle!). The Brass Giraffe bracelet from Creart II is just the piece of arm candy to give yourself some exotic edge. This unique designer bracelet is beautifully handcrafted and lovingly hand painted in Italy (and is perfect for you animal lovers out there!).

So, there you have it. A few unique designer accessories that will help you keep things playful and interesting this summer season!

Source: wallcoo.net

With the official arrival of summer mere days away, we couldn’t help but think about all the fun traveling that comes along with the warmer months.

But with those great vacations comes the task of packing… and over-packing for a lot of us!

What we tend to forget (even during those warm summer months) is that we can make it a week (or even two!) with just a few essentials that won’t weigh us down (literally) and will still allow us a few options while away on our summer vacation of choice.

So, we’ve come up with three easy tips that will help you lighten your load this summer (and allow you to not over-pack).

#1 – Make a List & Plan Ahead

Okay, with this tip we’re not saying that it doesn’t pay to be spontaneous at times, but when you’re packing for a two week-long trip where you’re going to be busy every single day, it might be a bit more practical to plan ahead!

So, what we’re talking about here is thinking long and hard about what your itinerary is going to be (also checking the weather for your destination is a great idea too) and going from there. If it’s a casual trip away to a friend’s cottage, there’s probably no need to bring anything fancy. Or if it’s a bus trip of sorts where you’re going to be getting off the bus each day and hitting museums, it’d probably be a great idea to pack two neutral sweaters (a light and a dark one) in case you get cold.

It’s not an exact science, but we promise that if you take a minute to sit down and think about what you’ll be doing and where you’re actually going, you can probably cut down on the bulk of your suitcase by about half!

Real Simple put together a great and incredibly practical checklist to get you started.

#2 – The Summer Essentials

We all have a summer uniform of sorts, don’t we? Whether or not you’re a sundress person or prefer unique designer capris and tank tops to help keep you cool, if you’re going on vacation in the summer all you really have to do is pack your summer essentials (with a few added bonuses).

Simply think about what you feel comfortable wearing and what you tend to gravitate towards on a regular basis and go from there. If you’re just going away for a week, it’s probably a good idea to stick to 3 – 5 bottoms that you’ll actually wear (this includes pants, shorts, capris, jeans and skirts) and 4 – 5 tops (blouses, tank tops, t-shirts) a couple of pairs of pajamas and two good pairs of shoes (a nice flat sandal and a good walking shoe). If the weather is a bit unpredictable where you’re headed, pack a light jacket and a couple of neutral sweaters you can swap out as well.

You might as well stick with what you’re comfortable with (even during vacation time) as nothing is worse than being stuck on an airplane or walking around exploring in uncomfortable clothes!

For destination-perfect ensembles that will guarantee you’re both stylish and equipped, Elle put together great looks no matter where you land.

#3 – Go with the Minis (cute & practical!)

As far as packing your toiletries goes, it can be such a waste of space bringing all your full size shampoo, conditioner and cleansing products, so why not opt for the mini size!

You can find mini size shampoos, body lotions, shaving creams, etc. at just about any department store (Target, Wal-mart), and not only are they super cute and inexpensive, but when you’re packing your toiletries, you’ll find yourself with a ton of extra space (which can be used for souvenir shopping).

So, there you have our three tips to packing a little lighter during the summer months (or anytime really).

Just to make sure you’re not hung up at the airport, be sure to check the TSA’s updated list on what’s okay to take with you on the plane!

Bon Voyage!

Source: luhky-bhutan.blogspot.ca

Source: collegefashion.net

For this summer 2013 season, fashionistas everywhere are busting out their green accessories!

We totally love the idea of green in the summer time because it reminds us of being outside, fresh cut grass and just all the pretty things that grow outdoors when the weather gets nice and warm.

So, true to Touch of Fabulous nature, we’ve come up with a few of our fave unique designer items that are green, earthy, bright and full of life!

First off, we thought the Saako Classic Scarf-lace (in forest green) would be the ultimate summer accessory for those cooler nights that sneak up every now and then! Inherently tactile and vibrant, the founders of Saako found a way to transform the famous ribbed Jersey fabric into a unique designer ‘scarf-lace’ that simply begs to be touched (and seen).

Second up, the Mayberry Emerald Circlet earrings are the perfect pair of unique designer earrings to add a touch of bohemian flair to just about any summer ensemble! These chandelier style earrings made with stunning emerald green onyx are weaved together in intricate circles that frame a beautiful green onyx teardrop. You can easily pair these beauties with your favorite long flowy skirt to create the ultimate carefree summer look!

And our last favorite green unique designer accessory is the LilyP Kalypso necklace (in apple green). Handmade with a sterling silver neck ring with a cascading waterfall of bright apple green resin beads and flowers, this unique necklace is perfect for the summer party girl who’s hitting the town (and wants to turn some heads).

Now that you have three green unique designer accessories to help you sail through summer in style, head on over to our Facebook page and let us know what your go-to color is for summer!

Source: fashion.telegraph.co.uk

Winner of last week’s CFDA’s Accessories Designer of the Year, Phillip Lim for his contemporary line 3.1 Phillip Lim, the “synergy of artistic vision and business savvy” has made his unique designer clothing and accessories line both a “critical and commercial triumph”.

Immigrating to the United States in the early 1970’s after growing up in Thailand with his family (he’s one of six siblings), his love of fashion started early on with watching his mother work as a seamstress to help pay the bills (he loved the hum of her sewing machine when she brought her work home).

Like any young person trying to find their way (and passion) in the world, Lim found himself enrolled in business school until one day he realized that it just was not the right place for him, so he decided to head to the “classroom next door” for “home economics”.

After years of studying and a degree (along with retail jobs and internships to help hone his craft), in 2005 Lim launched 3.1 Phillip Lim and moved to New York City (under the guidance of Wen Zhou, a fabric agent who is now the CEO of his company).

Describing the aesthetic of 3.1 Phillip Lim is a bit “tricky”, but it has been described as “intelligent clothes for intelligent people” that still incorporates enough “edge” to stand out.

How does Lim’s design process work to continually give the masses what they want? He’s not sure exactly, but he always designs for “what [he] wants and what [he] would love to see” on busy “people [who are] on the go who don’t have time to change three times a day”.

Personally, we think unique designer Phillip Lim is super deserving of his recent accolade and we can’t wait to see what he comes up with next!

Source: geekpurses.hk

Source: joannagoddard.blogspot.com

With the 1^st of June making its way into our lives (and on our calendars!) over the weekend, it’s safe to say that camping season has officially begun!

Whether or not camping to you means really roughing it in a bare minimum tent in the middle of nowhere (or in a first class style motor home with every luxury on board!), and even though us fashionistas enjoy being at one with nature, we still like to glam things up and bring our own little personalized (fashion!) touch on our camping trips!

So, we’ve come up with a few great unique designer ideas that will allow you to bring a little style out in the woods while not feeling completely ridiculous for ‘glamming’ things up a little too much out there.

First off, you’ll feel great bringing the Orbit ring from Linhardt Design out for a weekend camping getaway because it just looks so great out in nature! Made exclusively in NYC with all recycled metals and ethically sourced stones, this classy yet quirky ring featuring multiple wires for a chic “layered” look, would be a great statement piece to wear while roasting marshmallows!

You really can’t predict the weather when you’re headed out to be at one with nature, so by packing something that looks great that will also keep you warm, like the Saako Classic Scarf-lace (in light brown), you’ve accomplished looking stylish while still keeping things cozy for yourself! We love the idea of bringing a neutral color like this as it will go with everything you’ve packed.

And lastly, if you’re going to be out fishing on the river or spending your afternoon on a rocky beach, you need to protect those eyes from the sun! The Mosi sunglasses from Coco and Breezy are a great choice to pack up for a weekend of camping as they’re black, versatile yet still completely fashionable and cutting edge with the unique gold detailing and slightly lavender hued lenses.

So, there you have it ladies. A few great unique designer accessories that will allow you to ‘rough it’ in true style!

Source: joannagoddard.blogspot.com

Source: collegefashion.net

We’re sure that by now you’ve seen that ‘cut-outs’ (exposed patches or gaps of skin in clothing items) are just about everywhere this spring and summer.

Now, we’ve thought long and hard about this trend as it may seem kind of intimidating at first (especially if you’re not a size 2!), but we’ve discovered that truly anybody can wear the cut-out trend because there are all sorts of modest and unique designer looks out there that will work for just about anyone!

For instance, the Knit Harlequin top from M Missoni is the perfect example of picking out a unique designer blouse that features cut-outs done in a modest fashion. With two small teardrop shoulder slits along with an opened back, this high fashion cut-out top is a great one to wear to work as you can easily throw a blazer on over it during the day (and take it off at night when the real party starts!).

Source: shopstyle.co.uk

Another great way to rock a cut-out this season is to go small and allow for a tiny cut-out somewhere in the midriff (celebrities everywhere are loving wearing this trend for the red carpet!). With this look, although you would be showing off a tiny part of your stomach, most dresses that are made this way, like the Jacquard dress from Zara, make the cut-out portion small as to remain unassuming and still very ladylike. Check out blogger Chriselle Lim of the Chriselle Factor rocking a printed cut-out dress with bold lips and strappy sandals.

Source: Zara.com

Lastly, it’s also a fun idea to try a cut-out blouse that features a fun print like this Floral Cutout Tea blouse from Topshop as it allows the featured cut-out portion (which with this top rests in the back), to be a nice extra little attribute and not the sole focal point for your entire ensemble. Also, how cute would this blouse be with a distressed pair of denim shorts for a casual (but hot!) summer day of running errands around the city!

Source: thetimes.co.uk

Now that you have three great cut-out options to try out (that aren’t too intimidating!), head on over to our Facebook page to discuss your favorite!

Source: sharilynmiller.blogspot.ca

Do you ever experience a sort of fashion brain freeze in the warmer months? You know when it’s really hot outside and thinking long and hard about your clothing and wardrobe situation (especially when all you feel like throwing on is a tank top and shorts!) just sort of immediately makes you feel exhausted?

When you’re experiencing a bit of fashion exhaustion (from the weather, a long work week, whatever it may be!), a great tip is to ‘put a ring on it’ (more simply put, get your rings out and accessorize)!

We’ve come up with a few unique designer rings that you can throw on that will easily add intrigue, pizzazz and class to any summer outfit!

First off, we’re very proud to present for the first time the Spring ring from Linhardt Design. Cast in NYC with recycled metals and ethically sourced stones, Linhardt Design brings the world true works of art (that you can wear!). Surprisingly comfortable, the Spring ring moves well with your fingers as it features a metal hammered spiraling that makes a bold statement.

Next up is a great investment piece if you’re feeling fancy! The Mother of Pearl Vine ring from Katie Decker is an intricately made piece of fine jewelry that features stunning brown diamonds, white sapphires and black mother of pearl. We love the idea of having a contrast between a bright flashy summer outfit paired with this dark and alluring statement ring!

Lastly, if you’re looking for a great ring to throw on to funk up a more casual ensemble, the Kandinsky collection Moscow dome ring from Sobral could be your go-to! This unique designer handcrafted multi-colored ring just screams ‘summer’, as it’s attention grabbing, vibrant and was made to go with just about anything you throw on!

So, there you have it, folks. A few great unique designer rings that will help ensure you get through these next few months of fashion brain freeze unscathed!

Source: treasuresandthings.blogspot.com

Since we’re getting into the last few weeks of spring, we thought it might be nice to feature a few accessories that you can easily transition into the summer months (which is less than a month away now! Hurray!).

These unique designer items are great with the warmer temperatures, yet still work well if we happen to get the odd cooler day as well (which, let’s face it, is bound to happen!).

First up are the Coco and Breezy Zesiro sunglasses (in tortoise shell). A part of the Omorose Collection, we love these unique designer shades because of the distinctive shape and the overall ‘retro glamour’ feel. You can easily pair these with any spring or summer ensemble and feel absolutely fabulous to spend a day out on the town!

You simply can’t make it through the warm spring and summer months without a great new pair of sandals! We are loving the Idra sandals by LilyP because not only are platforms and wedges all the rage for this summer 2013 season, but the black with the beautiful Swarovski crystal, ceramic and mink jewelry embellishments really set these unique designer sandals apart (from all others!).

And lastly, you don’t find that many unique designer handbags that transition well from season to season, but the Odette handbag from Jamin Puech is definitely one of them. Made with great neutral leathers, this designer handbag is a versatile pick for the warmer months because it will easily fit all your essentials (and look great while doing so!).

Now that you’re all set with three great unique designer items that you can easily transition into the summer months, it’s time to start planning fun things to do July through August!

Source: fashion.telegraph.co.uk

This spring and summer 2013, lace is back in a huge way (and we couldn’t be happier about it!).

Quite often we find when we throw something on with a little (or a lot!) of lace, it instantly adds a hint of femininity and romance to our outfit and immediately makes us feel ready for any date or fun night out on the town.

Unique designers from all over have picked up on the lace trend this season, so we wanted to show you three great ways to wear lace this 2013 spring and summer season!

First up, if you haven’t noticed yet, you can find lace in all sorts of colors right now! What’s especially great for the warmer weather though are the short sleeved tops (like this one from Jason Wu). Pair a colorful short sleeved lace blouse with a pair of leather pants or a fun skirt for a night out on the town and you’ll find yourself feeling flirty and fabulous!

Source: vogue.co.uk

Another great way to add some lace to your spring/summer wardrobe is to find great pieces (that will also work well for work!) that don’t overdo it as they feature simple hints of lace in unique places. This skirt from Ports 1961 is a great example of a sexy skirt that’s still completely modest and perfect for the everyday.

Source: vogue.co.uk

Lastly, if you’re looking for a lovely lace shirt that you can wear to work (perhaps with a nice spring blazer over top!), this white lace blouse from Balenciaga would be a great addition to your wardrobe. Blouses like this are a great alternative to your usual white button up (that we all grow a little tired of every once in a while!).

Source: vogue.co.uk

As you can see, from skirts to dresses and blouses, lace has taken things over this spring and summer 2013, so it’s a great idea to figure out a few unique ways to make this trend your own!