Worthwhile Activity: London's Victoria & Albert (V&A) Museum - art, fashion, and design

It's hard to pick a favorite museum in a historic city full of lovely museums. But it's such a worthwhile activity since most museums in London are free.

But the V&A is definitely up there because it showcases an eclectic mix of art, architecture, and design spanning a few centuries.  I love seeing more than one medium at a time and especially loved the photography and artifacts from centuries ago (like the fancy Backgammon set and comb below).  The V&A is also a small to medium sized museum so it's not terribly overwhelming and can be leisurely be perused in a few hours. 

We entered the main hall and were presented with a piece from the exhibit, Decode.  This exhibit explores and uses computer code to create fluid pieces of work.  There is supposed to be a hidden message here, but I don't see it.  Do you?

One of my favorite pieces was this photograph of Lily Cole.  I think this was a Tim Walker photo (he loves surrealist photography).  Fashion model and the camera in equal proportions.

They actually transported this amazing 18th century staircase to the museum.  Wow.

Another highlight was a room dedicated to full size clay reproductions.  Wow, look at this pillar.

Finally I loved the small everyday objects from centuries ago...
...the loveliest comb with intricate carvings

...and the prettiest Backgammon set ever

...finally to the loveliest piano ever.

As always, though the museum is free special exhibits may require a fee.
Cromwell Road
London SW7 2RL
+44 (0)20 7942 2000

Photo Love: Fancy and Inspirational Graffiti a la Tate Britain

It is my last full week in London so I thought I'd post a few highlights of fun and interesting things I've done in London.

This is from the Sackler Octagon at the Tate Britain (a small but comprehensive museum of art spanning a few centuries in Britain).  It's a beautiful space in the center with quotes painted on the walls, floor, and ceiling.

I liked: "It's only just begun." and "I still believe in miracles."

Perhaps I am an optimist at heart.  Or maybe I'm simply not a pessimist and refuse to succumb to feelings of dread and hopelessness even when I'm down  We all have some times when we're blue, but hope and perseverance are still ours.  I can't guarantee that my next adventures will be amazing but it's just the beginning and I'm sure I'll have fun.

FFF - Hayden Harnett 5th anniversary contests

Woohoo, it's Friday in the house!  I had a great day at the Tate and am off with the husband soon to meet his coworkers (last day of their training, yay!)  Weekend plans are TBD but I'll definitely go to the Sunday Upmarket - my favorite market here and something I'll share with you!

I leave you with an introduction to one of my favorite first handbag, and now apparel and shoe designers who are celebrating their 5th anniversary.  They're running a fun, interactive weekly contest on their Facebook site - this week's contest is to share your favorite Hayden Harnett piece and why.  Check it out here.

Here are also some of my favorite pieces from their past and current collection.  I will definitely do a Designer Thursday post about them!


The Biblio bag is a new favorite.  I'm a sucker for a satchel and love the braided leather hangtag.  At $418.50 it's nothing to sneeze at but such a great investment

Celina Signature cuff is a prime example of their fabulous modern cuffs and at $78 is totally worth it.

 

How French Riveria in the 1950s is the Clio Ruffled Maillot bathing suit? At one point, it was only $49.50.  It's both vintage and modern - love it!

 I think I've enabled your shopping enough for now. Have a l♡vely weekend!

Fun Finds: Random meat flavored chips/crisps in London

Chips (or crisps in London) are my kryptonite  I LOVE them and English people know how to make some good crisps - Walker's Sensation caramelized onion and balsamic vinegar chip - soooo good!

I wanted to share some of the random things I see in my travels because I see a lot of stuff that is certainly unique to my North American raised eyes.  So now I present - random chip flavors in England.

These could make fun, cheap gifts for visitors as long as you have room for them!
 
Check it out...

Worcester Sauce...not just for steak now

Speaking of steak...

But what if I crave another meat...

And who doesn't like chicken right?

I remember having dill chips as well as ketchup chips in Spain.  Those were pretty good.  Ooh and I'll have to share random snacks I've seen in Taiwan.  Oh the fun food possibilities!

Decor Thoughts: Floral wall/background

I'm still on the lookout for interesting design ideas since I'm planning my brother' wedding (TBD date).  I came across these two images and was smitten.  I totally want to use them somehow but how?

Ruche's floral wall with flowers made out of butcher paper

I like this because:

• you can make it ahead of time
• they can be used afterwards
• different sizes can be created
• different colors can be created

The garland or runner idea could be kinda interesting too.

Then there's the real floral wall here

From here

Gorgeous.  Simply gorgeous.

But I can only think of using these backgrounds for the ceremony or a photo booth.  Would there be other uses for these floral backgrounds?  I am just a sucker for anything pretty...oh and if I made all those paper flowers, they'd find their way into a wall in my home.

Chic 'n Cheap Living Contest: Le Creuset 6 Quart stockpot (US & Canada)

Isn't it funny how our priorities and interests evolve as we get older?  We start thinking about types of wine glasses to have in our homes, sheets that should go in a guest room, baby gates that are best for baby shower gifts, and open ourselves up to a whole other world of shopping (hmm apologies if I'm just speaking for me here, just my shopping list in the last few weeks!)  It's only a matter of time before I have to look for kids bedding (not for me yet my friends are definitely starting up their little families!) 

Another aspect of evolved interests are well stocked kitchens.  I've got a soft spot for great kitchen equipment.  I totally vouch for quality cookware and tools because the cost of one great set will outlast a few sets of cheaper stuff.  One of my favorite brands is Le Creuset. I have bought and gifted quite a few pieces of Le Creuset (yes a few of my friends know to expect Le Creuset and a check for their weddings!).  They make fun, durable pieces in the happiest colors and there's a lifetime guarantee for many of their enamel cast iron pieces!  I wax poetic about them all the time and this is an item that I believe is really worth the price.
Le Creuset, call me if you ever need a brand ambassador!  ♥

Since I ♡ you and Le Creuset so much, I'm offering you a 6 quart Le Creuset stockpot in your choice of colors!  I require a bowl of your lobster bisque if you win (kidding, but yum right?)

I personally love the sky blue colors of Caribbean

At home though I have a few pieces in Cherry

This is more of a lemon than a dijon to me, but still adorable!

I also have a pot in this royal Cobalt color - yes I shipped that baby to Singapore!

Isn't this kiwi color like a pretty green delicious apple?  Yes I do actually have this in a 2 quart apple shape and yes it is freaking adorable.

Finally if you like to keep it neutral, there's always sweet dune

It's the first in my series of Bloggy Birthday giveaways lovelies!

Image from here

I've partnered with some pretty awesome vendors to bring you some coolio gifts.  Each contest will last 2 weeks.

Sneak peek of giveaways:
Giveaway 2: Couture garter
Giveaway 3: Modern aprons/crafts for the hostess with the mostest
Giveaway 4: Vintage style Hair accessory

This is for the Chic 'n Cheap Living family (aka blog followers - Blogger, Google Reader, etc.) only because you rock!  New followers are always welcome too of course.

To enter, tell me your favorite dish to cook and how you follow (if we're blogger bffs already no need to say this, you know who you are).

Note: Please WRITE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH EXTRA ENTRY, it will make the cross-referencing a little easier (esp. for people with different handles on different accounts).

Extra entries:
1. Become a Twitter Follower and tweet about this contest with this line: "Enter to win a Le Creuset 6 qt stockpot from @cncliving http://chicncheapliving.blogspot.com/2010/03/chic-n-cheap-living-contest-le-creuset.html" 
2. Become a Facebook Fan - for my friends who love to keep up via Facebook!
3. Blog about the contest/sidebar this on your page linking back here.

I'll leave this contest up until Tuesday, April 6, 11:59 pm PST.   Sorry, this is limited to US and Canadian followers.

Note: This giveaway was sponsored by CSN

Good luck

Photo Love: Sweep me off my feet lover and Bumble & Bumble winner

Happy Monday (well as happy as it can be)!

Picture from here

A lover, a cute pair of shoes, a hug, and the color pink - love it!  I'll let you in on a little secret - whenever I am a bit grumpy, Mr. Spend 'n Chomp (he said that he prefers this name to Mr. Gadget) picks me up and literally squeezes the crankiness out of me. Inevitably, I start laughing so I can definitely imagine us in that picture above.  I try to do the same thing with him, but it's a bit harder.

If you're feeling down, perhaps all you need is a f♡rceful hug from the right somebody (and maybe a new, fun pair of shoes).

In other news, the winner of the Bumble & Bumble pack 'o goodies is one of the sweetest ladies you'll ever meet in the blogosphere - Honey my Heart.  Congrats darling!  Please e-mail me your info so I can send it along!
I didn't realize you ladies liked Bumble & Bumble so much.  I'll work my magic to try to procure more products for you in the future!

Worth it? Lanvin flats

I mostly live in flats or some form of Fit Flops during warmer weather (the most comfortable shoe ever though not the cutest).  I walk a lot, especially when I'm in London, so my shoes have to be pretty comfortable.  I'm always on the search for more flats, especially easy to wear and of course fashionable ones.
  
One option is Lanvin's classic ballet flats (in patent leather below). There is a leather insole with hidden inner wedge at heel - gotta love a tiny bit of height.

Found here for $515

The price is a bit steep though it may occasionally go on sale at Barneys or Saks.  Even at half the price, it isn't cheap.  It is a pretty classic shoe though and one that would go with a ton of things.

Lanvin ballet flats - worth it?

FFF - Gap/BR/Old Navy 30% thru 3/21, NYC Times Square Free Walking Tour, and Bumble & Bumble Giveaway extended

Yay for Friday!  We're not going away after all, but that's always a good reason to visit a museum, check out the markets, and perhaps go to the Burberry outlet (I am currently stalking a bag from last season- the bronze metallic Larson- fingers crossed I'll find it!)

Everywhere (US)
Shopping time.  Stock up on basics to work clothes at the GAP Give & Get event (works at Old Navy and Banana Republic too).  You get 30% off and 5% of your proceeds are donated to a charity of your choice (Note this link is to someone else who already selected WWF).

New York
Whether you're a resident or a visitor, you can attend a free Walking tour of Time Square "Times square exposé free walking tour".  A guide will take you around to some of the most well-known and historical sites.  Ooh, will they go behind the scenes at "Wicked"?  That would be cool.
 
Oh and since I'm not going away this weekend I figured I'd extend the Bumble & Bumble giveaway until Sunday.  Enter here!

Have a FABULOUS weekend!

Not your mama's pearls - some modern pearl loves

Throw back that stereotype - pearls are no longer that conservative piece worn only by women sipping tea and wearing elbow length gloves (though how fun is that?).  My mom lent me the most beautiful set of double stranded pearls to wear at my wedding and they were ridiculously fabulous - the stuff of Holly Golightly dreams.
I'll miss ma and of course her lovely jewelry collection.

In the meantime, I have to start building up my own collection and have been browsing for pearls on my own (and I've always been curious about that Mikimoto sale in NYC but that'll have to wait - that's possibly something worth the price).
Here are some picks:

They're bold, fun, and pretty reasonably priced for some faux pearl fun below.

At Ann Taylor for $45

Ooh a modern statement pair of pearl earrings at $100 - worth it (and Amrita Singh goes on sale sometimes!)

  Found here

Pearls, crystals, and tulle - nice combination indeed and only $34.99!

 

J. Crew here 

Pearls and chains - love the modern mix here!

  

Only $23 here 

 Pearls and ribbons...two of my favorite things together and for only $14.99

 

 At Ruche here

Speaking of moms and empty nests, this was a kinda fun "full nest" kinda item and only $16.

Found here, includes pendant and earrings!

 Thanks Pink Argyle for recommending Regina B - glorious pearl pieces with lovely silver tone embellishment.  Pretty investment worthy at $265.

Found here

and a lust item, glass pearls with Swarovski crystals...love the graduated sizes in pearls

 £758.30 here

What do you think about pearls?  Do you have any favorite pieces?

Semi-meaningful Musing: Moving for your Partner

How far would you move for your partner?  I've moved 9532 miles or 15340 kilometers for my husband.  Oooh yeah that's a long flight.  We had said that we would move for the person that got the better job first.  Mr. Gadget got an amazing opportunity in Singapore - one that could potentially put us into a much more comfortable financial situation.  So of course, we started packing and prepping for this trip.


The only other option was for me to stay in NYC where I had more of a professional network. I know a few couples that had done or are doing long distance (as in different countries!)  But I remember one of those friends remarking "Long-distance is hard, but the saddest or scariest part is getting used to living your life without (your partner)."  Sigh, we already lived very separate lives when I was in grad school and the distance and separation of lifestyles was taxing on us.  I admire couples that can live apart but we knew that wasn't an option for us.

From here

But moving, compromising, and setting aside your immediate (and possible impacting your future) goals isn't easy either.   I'm a woman with a pretty solid academic and professional background.  I'm also distinctly aware that I only have limited years to fully concentrate on my career before any family possibilities could change everything.  Moving for your partner is definitely one of the ultimate tests of compromise.


I don't know if there's necessarily a magic formula for how to make it work.  For me, it's been about prioritization, faith and hard work.  If your prioritization is the relationship, then make that choice as hard as it may be on your other choices.  Then use both faith and your own perseverance to make the move work for you.  I'm in that process now - being open about the opportunities, getting to know our new neighborhoods, and of course hanging out with the Mr.   It's not always easy, but it gets easier.  Anyway, what use are my Chic 'n Cheap finds and adventures if I didn't have Mr. Gadget (or Spend 'n Chomp, his other name) to share them with me?


Oh and dear Mr. Spend 'n Chomp, I got a Hermes scarf as a little gift for myself from your signing bonus - you'll see that and maybe a handbag on my Paypal/credit card statements.  Moving does have its benefits. ♡

Chic 'n Cheap Living Contest - Bumble and Bumble Fancy Hair Products

I went back to NYC and discovered I have a lot of stuff.  Random floral pajamas, Anne Klein silk skirts that from 10 years ago, tons of designer handbags I bought to gift...  The list goes on and on.

Anyway, I'd like to thank my lovely readers for being with my through the weddings, the freakouts, and the journey.  So I'm gifting some of you my lovely goodies in a series of contests from now until my blog birthday.  This baby turns 1 next month!

So I present a few of my favorite (travel-sized) Bumble & Bumble shampoos and a hair spray (value of set: $30).  Their products are pretty darn good though pricey and you don't have to buy anything if you win this! 

Description from the Spring 2009 Products book (and don't worry these products are from fall)

• Creme de Coco Shampoo - "take unusual advantage of the coconut by incorporating its oil and extract to help condition, restore moisture and leave hair soft and shiny."
• Alojoba Shampoo - "fabulously creamy smoothies that soothe the senses, scalp and hair"
• Sunday Shampoo - "This once-a-week shampoo removes build-up, which can make hair lifeless and dull (not for the color-treated)."
• Thickening Hairspray - "helps fine hair achieve styling lift-off, but also works wonders on any hair type - thick, thin, or otherwise"

Bumble & Bumble is a well-known NYC hair salon and have been known to style hair for major fashion shows as well.  So yeah, it's fancy.  I've accumulated quite a few products because I was a hair model for them before I left NYC.  I volunteered my time and they gave me blowouts, updos, and haircuts.  That worked for me!  Check it out if you want to be a hair model too though it can be time consuming, especially for updos (up to 2 hours).  Only go if you have time to spare!

This is for the Chic 'n Cheap Living family (aka blog followers of some kind - Blogger, Google Reader, etc.) only because you rock!  New followers are always welcome too of course.

To enter, tell me your favorite hairstyle and how you follow.

Note: Please WRITE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH EXTRA ENTRY, it will make the cross-referencing a little easier (esp. for people with different handles on different accounts).

Extra entries:
1. Become a Twitter Follower and tweet about this contest with this line: "Enter to win Bumble & Bumble hair stuff from @cncliving http://chicncheapliving.blogspot.com/2010/03/chic-n-cheap-living-contest-bumble-and.html"
2. Become a Facebook Fan - for my friends who love to keep up via Facebook!
3. Post the contest/sidebar on your page linking back here.

I'll leave this contest up until next Sunday, March 21, 11:59 pm PST.  Yes, this is open internationally!

Good luck

Photo Love: It only takes a moment

Suddenly, life can change in an instant.  Things are never the same.

 

Image taken from here 

I really want to get a great SLR to take high speed photography

Birth.  Death.  Joy.  Chance encounters.  Acceptance.  Rejection.  Love.  

Our lives can be so different because of one thing.

One day we were/are living in London, another I will in Singapore.  New York of course will always be my home though it's obviously harder to get to from SE Asia.  But I have to accept this change and make the most out of my situation.  I see a new (and hopefully cool) job, adventures in the silk markets in Thailand, and some self-defense lessons.  (If you really want me to tell you the story of the last part, I will later.  It was really bizarre and a little scary.)

"For time and the world do not stand still. Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or the present are certain to miss the future." John F. Kennedy.

So own that change, make another change, and live your life looking forward.

FFF - Make yourself an icon via Obamicon

Hello lovelies, TGIF!

Apologies for a late FFF.  I've been running around trying to buy things before my trip to London/Singapore.  I felt very accomplished today - I went to 6 stores, the dry cleaners, and the post office (twice!).  I'll be nice and relaxed on my flight tomorrow....well hopefully.

This week I wanted to share a fun little tool to turn any of your pictures into poster-worthy images inspired by the famous image of President Obama (while he was still a candidate for the presidency) - the Obamicon.  You upload your pictures and choose from a few styles for conversion - it's just plain fun to have a modern twist on your regular pictures.

I converted my Blogger profile picture in the same style as the classic Obama image:

You can fill in your own text and it is simple but could make some cute images.

Here's to hoping your weekend is like this!

Have a fabulous weekend!

Happiness in tights and socks and Spanish Damasquino 24k gold earrings winner!

How is it that a native New Yorker is freezing in temperature below 50 degrees F?  I have no idea, but I can't ever get used to cold.  That and now I have to wear socks or tights everyday which I don't love.  Yep I did get away for a long time in London in my sandals.

But I'm an open person and can still learn to love things, especially if they're cute!  So here are some fun tights and socks from across the web!

I'm semi-conservative so these crotchet tights are just the right amount of edginess with a cute skirt or dress.

$20 at Figleaves here

I love me some lace and if there's some vintage roses in the lace, even better!

$21.50 at Figleaves here

How about black socks that are so much more above and below the foot?
Oh the colors and the styles - they can only make me happy!  That and these won't be mixed up with my husband's laundry!

Happy socks, $10

I really love these tights - how cute is it in back?  The reviewers say it's a bit long though so be careful!

 

$29.99 here

Finally an animal print that's subtle as well?  Loving it!

$20.50 here

Finally, the winner of those lovely earrings from Spain is A Chocolate Lover!  E-mail me and I'll send them over.  Thank you everyone for entering and don't worry, I have more giveaways, including one tomorrow!

Spring is in the air - Lovely spring picks and a deal from Ann Taylor

Ahhh, when it's above 50 degrees in NYC - everyone gets really excited!  There are more people strolling through Central Park, window browsing in the Meatpacking district, and shopping with their friends and family.

I've been surprised and inspired by Ann Taylor in recent years. Their new designers have taken a much more contemporary, yet feminine spin on things.  Ann Taylor was my go-to store for business casual wear and it's nice to see they have some fun items as well.  I'd also suggest it for party dresses and bridesmaid dresses.

Deal alert: Now buy 2 pieces and save 25% off or 3 or more pieces and save 40% off their new lines with code annstyle.  I don't see an expiration date, but I'd use it ASAP

This watercolor tier floral dress is made for dancing.  Yes I also loved Rachel McAdam's watercolor print dress from Elie Saab at the Oscars.

$168 here

This silky dress with its bold colors could transition easily from day to night.

$168 here

I have tons of white t-shirts in needs of some cute cardigans.  This one is just perfect for spring.

$68 here

A basic top is flirty and floral with the addition of flowers at the neckline.  I'd get one in a few colors.

$48 here

This silky top is kinda fun and light - the colors could carry well to fall as well.

$78 here

Remind you of the Christian Loubotin petal sandals from two season ago?  Yep but cheaper and sold out online!  Look for it in stores.

$158 here

What's on your spring shopping list?