Worthy reads roundup - Top 5 savvy tips for creating your ideal closet, Red velvet cheesecake, and voting for Top 25 Moms with Style

Hope you had a great week lovelies!

Here is what happened at Chic 'n Cheap Living this week:

- Photo Love: Glamour is a state of mind that starts at home
- Art Review/Etsy find: Cate Parr/Silver Ridge Studio Fashion Watercolor paintings
- LOTC/Decor Thoughts: Calypso St. Barth for Target
- My Top 5 savvy tips for building your ideal wardrobe
- Luxury Monograms and a trip to dim sum heaven

Here are some worthy reads from blogger buddies and beyond:
- Mangoes as a healthy food - what a pleasant surprise!  Shrimp and mangoes also sound like a winning combination!

- There are a few blogger buddies up for the top 25 moms with style (Bon Bon Rose Girls, In Honor of Design, Sarah, Get it Girl Style, and Style'n come to mind!)  You can vote for multiple bloggers so let's show our support!

- Red velvet + cheesecake = pure indulgence (Thanks Valerie!)  I'd love to try this soon if I can secure all the ingredients!

- Do you know that organic, natural products can possibly cause the worst allergic reactions?  Read those labels!

FFF - Luxury Monograms and jetting to Hong Kong

Happy Fun, Free (Royal Wedding) Friday lovelies!

Online Retailer
I saw the image at Luxury Monograms and was instantly smitten - modern monograms in contemporary colors on fun patterns.  This is totally chic (and cheap considering these are the cost of designer pillows, but are customized!)  They even have a contest now for a $150 gift card at their blog here.  Ooh I am thinking about all the vibrantly colored possibilities now...

Otherwise, this weekend I am...

...going to Hong Kong for a short trip!  It's my first trip there in 10 years!  Oh the food, the shopping, the food (dim sum, hand-made noodles, night markets)!  I hope my coveted DSLR camera is a good price there.  I'm going to ensure that I eat at the world's cheapest Micheline star rated restaurant - can. not. wait!

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What are you doing this weekend?

Have a fabulous weekend!

{Shopping} Tips: 5 Savvy Ways to Get your Dream Wardrobe

It's the eternal fashionista's struggle: how do I stay chic and savvy while building my ideal closet?

I've suffered my share of fashion mishaps, pristine but never worn purchases, and "ooh but it was on sale" regrets.  From now on, I'm stocking my closet with pieces that really contribute to my dream wardrobe without breaking the bank.

Here are my tips for how you can do it as well:
1. Buy only what you can love and wear (and is within your budget)
Buy it if you can wear it now and on multiple occasions (excluding special occasion gowns).   Constantly think about your wardrobe and how it fits in with your style.
That piece-regardless of price-will totally be worth it.  But don't just get it because it is on sale!  My blogger buddy, Tanvi explained her shopping philosophy and cost per wear rationale well in a post here.  Also don't spend your nest egg on a Hermes Birkin or Kelly if you can't comfortably afford it.  Remember to purchase pieces that still leave you enough for the rest of your expenditures.

Some day I will own you Ms. Exotic Kelly and pass you down through the generations...{Source}

2.  Shop often
Note, don't purchase often, but keep on walking through your favorite retail/department stores, consignment or thrift stores, and browse those e-tailers on a regular basis so you know their current selection well.  This may also give you a better idea of the pieces that you really love; if you keep on coming back to an item, it's a piece that deserves to be in your wardrobe.  That and you may become buddies with a sales associate or be the first to know about markdowns in retail and department stores.  Score!

Hope I can get a classic Burberry trench some day (like this double breasted wide cuff coat!)

3. Visit outlets and sign up for Sample Sales

The best deals I have ever received were at sample sales in NYC (and a few online ones have almost fully satisfied my Tom Ford sunglasses obsession).  I've bought everything from a $350 Nanette Lepore suit to a $50 in season DVF dress.  The trick to any sample sale is going in early and to know your buying strategy (will write another post on this some day).  Outlet shopping can also be great (remember my Burberry Prorsum find at the Burberry London outlet - visit when you can because great deals aren't just there around seasonal sales)

Outlets and sample sales enables you to purchase from brands that may be on your wish list but beyond your price point.  My favorite online sample sale sites are: Gilt (massive selection), Ruelala (great Final sales), Swirl (my favorite for <$120 Tom Fords and varied selection), and Ideeli (they have the most AMAZING clearance sales).  I try to join multiple sample sale sites so that I am aware of all the sales.  Please check out the left side of my page if you'd like any invites for fashion, travel, or decor sites.

Kenneth Jay Lane - such inventive pieces and I've seen his pieces on sample sale sites as well

4.  Be informed and get on the list
Sign up for newsletters, e-mails, and sample sale e-mails.  Visit forums and blogs (Slickdeals and Purse Forum are two favorites) to find out about new retailers and sales.  Yes and then you too can possibly get a new $5000 Valentino jacket for under $6 (I did it).  You'll likely get early notifications of sales, exclusive e-mail discounts, and other special offers too.  Daily Candy and Racked give great information on local sample sales in the US and I've found newspapers to be a great source when abroad.

I have a few Lauren Merkin clutches from their NYC sample sales for as low as $15 though this Eve clutch at $180 is pretty reasonable!

5. Be patient and consider pre-loved or similarly styled apparel
You've stalked an item, becomes friends with the store staff, and waited ever so patiently for it to go on sale.  But what if it has already sold out or you can't find it in stores?  Consider hunting in local consignment stores or shop eBay.  Patience is essential but could pay off (remember my 90% off Monique Lhuillier gown?)
See my post regarding "saved searches" to see how you can be e-mailed if your item pops up.  Also look at other retailers that may have a similar item but at a lower price point (sometimes the differences are minimal, but sometimes the quality suffers so be aware!) My blogger buddy, Cafe Fashionista has a regular series for items that are similar but are priced quite differently.
But if you are looking for an original item, remember to check the authenticity and feedback of the seller.  Fake stuff is not cool and fake stuff that is sold for close to real prices is really not cool.

I bought my first vintage Chanel bag and can't wait to use it! {Source}

I hope these tips have helped you to stay savvy and chic!  How do you maintain a Chic 'n Cheap wardrobe?

LOTC/Decor Thoughts: Calypso St. Barth for Target Housewares

The vibrant colors and the fun shapes of the Calypso St. Barth collection for Target are the decor equivalent of summer.  The collection launches in stores May 1st and seem to be perfect for patio parties or a fun, tropical vibe in your kitchen/living room all year round.

Here are a few favorite picks from the collection.  Will you stop by to check it out?
Hmm I have absolutely no reason to get the elephant tea pots but they are so adorable!  I'm wondering if I could use it in alternate ways - perhaps as a penholder in the office?

What do you think of this collection?

Elephant teapot in coral, Target, $12.99

Elephant teapot in turquoise, Target, $12.99

Two-tier tray in coral, Target, $19.99

Two-tier tray in turquoise, Target, $19.99

Pouf in gold, Target, $59.99

Pillows, Target, $24.99

Pouf in silver, Target, $59.99

Metal candle holder, Target, $24.99

{Art Review}/Etsy Find: Cate Parr/Silver Ridge Studio Fashion Watercolor paintings and prints

I've always had a deep appreciation of artists and their ability to design a visual story. My mother also has this innate gift for creating beautiful illustrations of nature scenes and animals - unfortunately that ability got lost somewhere (err, maybe next generation especially since my husband's father was a great artist too?)

I've appreciated art even more while attempting to decorate our home here.  I discovered Cate Parr (Etsy shop: Silver Ridge Studio) when I saw one of her watercolor paintings featured in a Lonny gift guide.  I was smitten with her surreal and colorful watercolor work and ordered a few original paintings; her collection features high fashion figures, homages to classic magazine covers, and whimsical scenes of luxury and life.  As Cate says "Fashion is all around us!"

It evokes my post from yesterday that glamour can really begin at home with a small touch from a lovely gown to a beautiful painting or print.

Here are a few favorite pieces:

Dancer 1 with heart, Etsy, $35

Deutsche Vogue Cover, Etsy, $75

French Champagne, Etsy, $35

I was fortunate enough to receive a print from Cate along with the paintings that I had ordered (does it look familiar :)? )  I was blown away by the quality of the print.  It is a professional archival Glicee print on BFK Rives paper.  The colors are extremely vibrant and the lines distinct.

I placed the print next to a small watercolor painting - while the shading is more nuanced in the original painting, the colors are even more striking on the print.  This is a definitely a chic 'n cheap way to infuse color into your home!

Stay tuned for a giveaway soon featuring Cate's work!

Photo Love {Inspiration}: Embracing glamour at home

Like charity, I believe that glamour should begin at home.
Loretta Young

 

 

 

Source

Confession:I sometimes love dressing up even if I'm just staying at home (of course if my home had the vaulted ceilings and beautiful molding of the one above, I'd probably do it more often.)  Sometimes, I feel a little more glamorous just by wearing something glamorous.  These stunning gowns with the voluminous trains have me instantly thinking of glamour.   But this feeling isn't necessarily only invoked by a beautiful gown, it could arise if I try on a beautiful piece of jewelry handed down by a great aunt or if I decide to sip champagne on a Wednesday evening.  I suppose glamour can definitely be a state of mind and here's to wishing you a glamorous week wherever you are!

Have a lovely week!  

Worthy reads roundup - Lace love (and a discount!) via Ann Taylor, homemade marshmallows, and Singaporean/Malaysian chicken rice recipe

Hope you had a great week lovelies!

Here is what happened at Chic 'n Cheap Living:
- Photo Love: Cherry Blossoms bring such spring cheer
- High Street Highlight - Ann Taylor lace tiered skirt and bateau lace dress are hot sellers, especially with the 40+% discount (ends Sunday!)
- A new favorite recipe - Singaporean/Malaysian Hainanese chicken rice
- Fun Finds/Etsy: a functional planter pendant - cuteness!
- LOTC - Designer Invitations Project from Uniqlo (loving the Costello Tagliapietra and Charlotte Ronson)
- Easter table inspiration via Gwyneth Paltrow

Here are other worthy reads from blogger buddies and beyond:
- Who do you think is the most beautiful royal - a fun recap of queens and princesses from across the globe (my pick for the most beautiful with one of the most beautiful gowns as well)

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- Have you checked out the Beauty Department, the new beauty site Lauren Conrad created with her stylist and makeup artist?  I'm liking the simple vintage curls tutorial.

- Homemade marshmallows with saffron/honey or pomegrante juice coloring - yes please!

- I just found this roundup of vintage finds (like this Dior set below) on eBay - my closet is in love, my wallet groans in protest

FFF - Easter Tablescape inspiration via Gwyneth Paltrow and Thai food love

Happy Fun, Free Friday lovelies!

Decor Inspiration
Easter is upon us and I am flooded with memories of Easter egg dye kits and lots of jellybeans (mmm, it's all about the food right?) We were thinking of throwing together a small brunch or dinner this year and if it transpires, this would be my tablescape inspiration.
Light and bright plates with eggs as placecards...

 ...matching linens and a simple table runner,

 ...and easy centerpieces of high and low elements

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This is rustic chic at its best!

Otherwise, this weekend I am...

...sitting down to some lovely Thai food at a well known place in town (and hoping my Thai friend gives the thumbs up to this place.)  Thai food is one of my favorite cuisines and I can have it fairly often. The sour, salty, spicy combination of flavors gets me every time and I know I should be more adventurous but get pad thai every time (love those soft noodles!)

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What are you doing this weekend?

Have a fabulous weekend!

LOTC: Designers Invitation Project - Uniqlo and Costello Tagliapietra, Charlotte Ronson & Vena Cava

Uniqlo is here again in another edition of Luxing it on the Cheap (LOTC).  It is partnering with nine designers this year as part of its Designers Invitation Project.  The designers are:  Costello Tagliapietra, Charlotte Ronson, Vena Cava, Double Standard Clothing, Nine, Suzuki Takayuki, Theatre Products, Tiny Dinosaur and Zechia.  Jersey and knit is prevalent and Charlotte Ronson's themes evoke springtime nautical themes while Costello continues to demonstrate great draping.
Each designer collection is released at a different time this spring season.  Costello will be introduced first and will hit stores April 21st.  The best part?  Each piece in the collection is $29.99.  This is another reason to stop by and love Uniqlo - they are one of my favorite fast fashion retailers and they're extremely generous too).


Here are some of my favorite pieces from the first trio of designers: Costello Tagliapietra (1,2), Charlotte Ronson (3,4) & Vena Cava (5,6).


I am LOVING the nautical motif!

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Fun Finds/{Etsy}: Wearing spring via a planter pendant

Is spring not apparent in your area?  Why not carry spring with you via this wearable planter.

Wearable planter no. 1, translucent by Colleen Jordan, Etsy, $30

This custom designed planter hangs from your neck and allows you to carry a small succulent, sprout, or flower in the small container.

Funky. Brilliant. Fun.  

Jimmy Choo for H&M winner and Malaysian/Singaporean hainanese chicken rice for dinner {recipe}

A new week, a new winner!  The winner of the Jimmy Choo for H&M bracelet is...

...Dawn, the Alternative Wife (thanks for being a Bloglovin' follower - that was her winning entry!).  Please contact me at cncliving{@}gmail.com within 3 days with your mailing address.


Now onto a new staple recipe in our house - chicken rice!  This chicken rice is one you'll find all over Singapore and Malaysia and is somewhat of a national dish in both countries (also known as Hainanese chicken rice in Malaysian restaurants).   The simple, poached chicken (or roasted which I actually prefer) is paired wonderfully with the most fragrant and tasty rice accentuated with hints of garlic, onion, and the aroma of pandan leaves.  I just made it yesterday and am glad I have tons of rice left (this recipe will make rice for at least four people!)  I combined a Mark Bittman recipe with a more traditional one.  The sauce is very sour and spicy but provides a nice tang when paired with the chicken and rice.  


Most importantly, this recipe is easy, affordable, and not too unhealthy (if you remove the chicken fat from the stock).  Enjoy!

Malaysian/Singaporean Hainanese Chicken Rice

Serves 4 to 6

Chicken and stock
- Salt and freshly ground pepper
- 1 whole (2.5 - to 4-pound) chicken, trimmed of excess fat
- 5-7 cloves smashed garlic
- Several 1/4" slices fresh ginger

Rice
- 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 shallots, roughly chopped, or a small onion

- 5 cloves minced garlic
- Several 1/4" slices fresh ginger, minced
- 3 cups long-grain rice (I used one part brown rice but this needs to either soak or more stock is needed)

- 8 pandan leaves, tied in a knot (I know this may be hard to get and this will still be tasty without it!)
- chicken stock (about 6 or so cups)

Sauce
- 1/4" slice fresh ginger, minced

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- juice of 3 limes (or equivalent in calamansi)

- 5 tablespoons of chicken broth

- 1/2 teaspoon of sugar
- dash of hot sauce (optional because this will be hot!)

Garnish
- one cucumber, sliced
- one tomato (or several cherry tomatoes), sliced

1. Chop all ingredients and set aside - I sectioned off the portions for the soup, rice, and sauce.

2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and salt it. Add chicken to pot along with smashed garlic and sliced ginger. Bird should be completely submerged, but only just. Cover, reduce heat to medium, and cook for 10 minutes. Turn off heat and let bird remain in water for 45 minutes to an hour, covered, or until it is cooked through.

3. Remove chicken from pot, reserve stock, and let bird cool to room temperature. Taste test stock and flavor by adding salt 1/2 teaspoon at a time (salt should really come through in order to flavor the rice appropriately). 

4. Put 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat; you may add trimmed chicken fat to this also (err for chicken fat lovers but don't do this if you didn't skim your broth too much, it will already be somewhat oily). When oil is hot, add remaining garlic, ginger, along with shallots/onion; cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned, about 3-5 minutes. 

5. Put rice and enough stock to fully cook rice (about 6 cups or so) into rice cooker along with the bundle of pandan leaves if you have it.  

6. Combine the ginger, garlic, pepper, and other sauce ingredients.

7. Shred or chop chicken, discarding skin. Put rice on a large platter and mound chicken on top of it; decorate platter with cucumbers, tomatoes, and serve.

{High Street Highlight} Ann Taylor antique lace tiered skirt, bateau lace dress (wedding/lace inspiration)

I'm deviating from the norm and including two items in this High Street Highlight post because they're both lovely lace numbers from the same retailer.

The tiers and slightly shorter length on this skirt makes it a versatile option for spring and summer events.  Dress it up or down (love the fun styling with the high heeled oxfords here).  This looks very short, but I believe is the picture for the petite version.

Antique Lace tiered skirt, Ann Taylor, $138

This dress sold out online within a week of appearing and I think I snagged the last one in my size Saturday night (there is some availability in stores).  It would be a fabulous wedding dress alternative, particularly if you are looking for a more romantic and youthful look.  I bought it because I envision wearing it under blazers or as a skirt for a feminine and fun vibe. The price (particularly with more than 40% discount below) was icing on the cake.

Bateau lace dress, Ann Taylor, $198

Save!

- Go to Ebates or Mr. Rebates first and get 3% cash back.
- Get 40% off everything with code spring40 through 4/24