Photo Love: Experiencing the beauty of Nature

 Without a wish, without a will, 

 I stood upon that silent hill

  And stared into the sky until

My eyes were blind with stars and still 

I stared into the sky.

Ralph Hodgson

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The past few days have been full of excess - but excess in a good way.  My family and I have walked a little bit too much so that they can really see and experience different sites in Singapore.  We have eaten more than we should have so that no one would miss out on all the local flavors.  We are off to the hillsides of Malaysia now so that we can further indulge in some quality time together and laugh, snack, and hike.  We are excited to go into a different environment with cooler weather (in the high 60s F!) and some beautiful, natural scenery.  There will be strawberry tasting and tea plantation visiting.  I will definitely try to post some pictures as well!  In the meantime, I will only blog intermittently but try to catch up with my online friends when I can!

Enjoy your last week of the year and have a lovely week!

Worthy Reads Roundup - Aging Elegantly with Meryl Streep for Vogue, Gaga's Workshop at Barney's, and How to Pose

Hope you had a great week lovelies!

Here is what happened at Chic 'n Cheap Living the past two weeks:
- Photo Love: Staying Warm and Cozy in the winter
- {Party} Highlight: Hermès Scott Square Launch and Graffiti party
- Fun Finds {Fashion}: Aurora Second Skin Lighting by Kyeok Kim

- Wardrobe Staple: Sequin/Sparkling Apparel and Accessories
- FFF - DIY Photo Cards/Ornaments

- Photo love {Inspiration}: Aging Elegantly and Meryl Streep for Vogue

- Holiday {Entertaining}: Delicious and Affordable Tips for a holiday party
- Fun Finds/Travel: Igloo hotel in Kakslauttanen, Finland
- Fashion Highlight: Barney's NY and Gaga's Workshop

- FFF -  Joy and spending time with loved ones

Here are worthy reads from blogger buddies and beyond:
- I've kinda been tempted to get on the fashion post bandwagon but am still kinda shy.  At least this article tells me about the more flattering poses.

- A few food writers share their favorite holiday food memories (pancit when I visit the in-laws!) What foods do you associate with the holidays?

- Are you entertaining this holiday season?  What is your dress code when you have people over (I personally opt for a casual chic tone)

- In this season of giving, learn how you can give back!

FFF - Joy and Spending time with loved ones

Happy Fun, Free Friday lovelies!

I imagine many of you may be busy cooling cookies, putting together last minute touches around the house, and awaiting the arrival of family members.  I hope that you can remember that the spirit of the season is to celebrate joy, and not just the joy that comes once a year, but the unrecognized aspects of our lives that subtly, quietly, but undoubtedly bring us joy.  I'm not going to deny that a sparkly sequin clutch or possibly a new pair of leopard print shoes (my first!) are divine, but they pale in comparison to the happiness I feel when I look at my husband's dimpled smile and the lucky realization that we are both in good health and have each other as we go through life's journey.  It isn't always an easy journey, but having loved ones along for the ride definitely helps.  I am definitely looking forward to all the possibilities next year as well.

Otherwise, this weekend...
...I am constantly at the airport dropping off my cousin, and meeting my brother and parents.  I am unbelievably excited to see them for the holidays because it has been a few years since we have seen them this time of year.  My mother never takes vacations so we are so happy that she is traveling to see us.  We are excited to bring them to see the sites and cook as a family (it will be quite a hoot cooking in our tiny apartment!)  I'm thinking of lots of cookies since I did ask my poor mother to bring along my favorite ones from home.

What are you doing this weekend?

Have a fabulous weekend!

Fashion Highlight: Barney's NY and Lady Gaga for Gaga's Workshop

Still shopping for a unique gift (or do you just love looking like me)?  If you can rush online or stop by a Barney's store, Barney's NY has partnered with the unlikely, but undeniably fashion statement making Lady Gaga for Gaga's Workshop this season.   This collaboration brings together artists such as Eli Sudbrak with Lady Gaga Fashion Director Nicola Formachetti to create a modern day Santa's Workshop.  An entire floor of the store as well as special shopping bags will be redesigned for this initiative (I'd LOVE to see the store!)

In the spirit of giving, 25% of all proceeds from the Workshop will be donated to the Born This Way Foundation, which benefits youth empowerment and individuality.

While the prices for some items are astronomical ($4,100 for Noritake Tatehana shoes), I've selected some fun but somewhat more affordable options below.

Gaga's Workshop x Barney's New York Python cuff, $55

Gaga's Workshop x Barney's New York Rock Stiletto Stocking, $45 

Yottoy shoe earrings, $15 (I may never have the Armadillo shoes, but love these!)

Gaga's Workshop x Barney's New York Rock NARS Born this way lip gloss, $26

A-Morir by Kerin.Rose Sioux Lace Sunglasses, $168

Fun Finds/Travel: Igloo hotel in Kakslauttanen, Finland

Cold weather definitely means it is time to head indoors.  But what if you headed into an igloo hotel?  I found pictures of this igloo hotel in Kakslauttanen, Finland and was totally intrigued.  Each guest's room is an individual igloo!  Of course you'll be nice and cozy inside your private ice cabin.  Most importantly, I would definitely consider staying in one to get a good view of this breathtaking horizon.

Growing up in NYC, I usually appreciated cold accompanied by snow (at least for a few days) because it at least made the weather more bearable and fun.  This kind of hotel and vista would definitely encourage me to brave the cold as well!

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Holiday {Entertaining}: Delicious and Affordable Tips for a holiday party

This is the season of holiday parties.  Perhaps you are in the festive spirit yourself and are planning a party yourself.  Maybe you are a gifted domestic diva like Ms. Martha Stewart, or maybe you are like me and love the concept of entertaining, but get a little overwhelmed with the details.
Whether you are hosting a party for 5 or 15, you can keep your sanity and serve delicious eats with just a little bit of planning.  Know your audience and what they like to eat as well so you know that they will enjoy the food (e.g. a plate of crudités when the party members are mostly male are usually not a big hit).

Here is my plan for a delicious and affordable holiday menu:
1.  Serve filling bites
This is where carbs and proteins come in handy whether you are only serving appetizers or a full sit down dinner.  Good quality French bread or crackers with great dips like a classic hummus are always nice.    Small skewers of chicken or black bean sliders (something blogger buddy Kim deliciously prepared when she had 30 people over!) serve up a great protein filled punch.

2. Have decadent touches
Consider adding one luxurious ingredient to an otherwise regular dish.  Why not add porcini mushrooms to a stew?  Or add truffle salt and/or truffle oil to mashed potatoes.  One of my favorite recipes (and a party hit) is for wine mushrooms which I'll have to post soon.  Ok I don't only eat mushrooms.   Cheese plates with a twist (how about baked brie) or composed of a fun variety of cheese would be a fun touch to your party.  Even if you're just making pasta, tossing in something like lobster is decadent and you don't have to use much of it to make it grand!

3. Get great frozen/prepared foods
I admit to stressing myself out and almost always insisting on making everything myself.  But prepared foods, like mini quiches or chicken bites can be delicious and easy.  Or you can go the semi-homemade route.  Buy ingredients like puff pastry dough, a decadent touch that can be filled with a variety of savory and sweet ingredients easily (and with a budget in mind!)

4. Don't feel like you have to serve too many dishes
It will cost you more time and money to make too many dishes so keep it simple.  Have your basic food groups covered - starches, meats, dairy, and vegetables and adjust accordingly to your diet as well as that of your partygoers.  Double up on one recipe if you're sure it will be a hit (hmm like maybe Carrie's peppermint bark which I've really wanted to try out!)  You may get some food additions from family or friends anyway so don't worry about providing all the variety yourself!

How do you affordably entertain?

Photo Love {Inspiration}: Aging Elegantly and Continually Growing via Meryl Streep and Vogue

Aging is not lost youth but a new stage of opportunity and growth.

Betty Friedan

 

US Vogue January 2012

There was a time when I used to miss my college days and early 20s.  I would reminisce about the carefree days of starting a new job, meeting new people, and dancing till dawn.  I also had a plan in those days of getting married at 24, having my first child at 26 and my second one at 28.  I thought I would be at a high flying role in a very fashionable industry.

Life didn't quite turn out that way, but I came to learn that it was perfectly ok.  I really enjoyed reading about Meryl Streep's story in Vogue for January 2012 and her unexpected life story.  She was a late bloomer by Hollywood standards and acted in her first film at 28.  But she never looked back and kept on excelling in her field to become one of the most celebrated actors of our time.  She has arguably gotten better with age and kept on giving herself new roles and challenges - why would age keep her from learning and growing?  Yes and one can still make her first Vogue cover, even at the age of 62.

I take her story to be a wonderful inspiration.  I did have a great time in my 20s and can not now do some of the things I did back then.  I have also undergone quite a few career and location changes (on my third continent now!) That is just part of the adventure.  I may not have done everything at the time I thought I would, but I know that there is so much more to do.  I will keep on growing and seeking those new opportunities.  I look back on those days with fondness, but will do everything I can to ensure the future is exciting in different ways.

Have a lovely week!

FFF - DIY Photo card ornaments and weekend exploring

Happy Fun, Free Friday lovelies!

DIY
I love gifts that can serve multiple purposes.  I found this DIY photo card that could also serve as an easy ornament.  How lovely that someone can receive your card and put it on their Christmas tree to admire all holiday season!  I need to get my act together to do this on time next year!

Otherwise, this weekend I am...
...going to explore either the park or botanical gardens with Mr. Spend 'n Chomp.  We feel like we haven't really gone to some of the sites in our own city so we decided to have our own weekend adventure and do something out of the ordinary.  I'm looking forward to doing something new and it will great research for when my family comes visit and we really have to play tourists!

What are you doing this weekend?

Have a fabulous weekend!

Wardrobe Staples - Sequin apparel/accessories for the holidays

There is one simple style rule during the holidays - wear something sparkly (or risk being outshined by someone else).  It isn't necessarily a contest to see who can wear the most sequins, but it is one of the few times in the year where a little shine is not only expected, but welcomed.  Just remember that you don't necessarily have to wear a sequined pieced of clothing (though they are fun!), you can wear something with a metallic thread or also opt to shine on in your accessories and jewelry (like you needed another excuse to buy more jewelry!)

What are your sequined picks for the holidays?

Here are my picks to bring a little shine to your holidays:

1. NADRI Pave crystal necklace, Lord & Taylor, $140

2. Gold/silver sequined skirt, White House, $168

3. Touch - Sequin Scarf, Mango, $64.90

4. French Connection Fan Clutch Bag, French Connection, $154.53

5. Betsey Johnson Mesh bows crystal square stud earrings, Zappos, $30 (I love the art deco feel of this!)

6. Knitted lurex jacket cardi, Topshop, $84

7. Sequin Hair wrap, Topshop, $15

8. Dolce Vita hidden platform pump, Last Call by Neiman Marcus, $125

Fun Finds {Fashion}: Aurora – Second Skin by Lighting by Kyeok Kim

Artisans have utilized many different mediums for creating jewelry - gold, silver, pearls, shells, etc.  These materials are usually natural materials that have been manipulated into beautiful shapes.  Well a new age of jewelry may be upon us as Aurora creates jewelry from patterns of light that emit from a single ring or piece.  The different patterns of lights directly on the skin are definitely unique.  But is this something that will catch on or will consumers stick to traditional materials that are not from Tron?
Would you wear this jewelry?

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{Party} Highlight: Hermès Scotts Square Launch and Graffiti party

When I think of Hermès, I think of carriages, galloping horses, ladylike bags, and lots of orange.  Graffiti is probably the last thing to come to mind! Well Hermès has shown that their style is ever evolving.  The luxury brand collaborated with French graffiti artist Kongo to not only create a few new scarf styles, but also to design an edgy look and feel for their Scotts Square in Singapore.  I still like the classic scarf designs, but it is nice to have options!

I was intrigued by this funky new collaboration and promise of macarons so I had to stop by the store opening on Friday, December 9.  I was definitely greeted by that oh so lovely orange and the macarons with the most decadent fudgey center (I may have had a few, don't tell my low carb/sugar diet).  Kongo created all the windows for the story in psychedelic colors and also contributed to Graff Hermès - a fun photo booth where anyone could take pictures in a Hermès cutout.   He also created custom graffiti tags for a few hours as well (I totally missed this part, but seriously how fun would that have been?)

I love that art isn't confined to or designated only as street art.  It is just art - an image that expresses the emotions of its creators and evokes a response in the rest of us.
The macarons may have made me philosophical...

Here are a few shots from the event:
Photo booth cutout - it looks exactly like the scarf!

Yum...

 Exclusive scarf created for Scotts Square

 Yep I need this belt!

 This color way is my favorite!

More pictures on Flickr here!

Photo Love: Staying Warm and Cozy in the winter

Tatler, December 2011

The weather is getting a tiny bit cooler now.  While it isn't cold enough for me to put on sweaters or coats (sigh that Mackage Jamie coat is still pristine and unworn back in NYC), it is at least less humid these days.  I was always a fan of this time of year - it is just the beginning of winter and the air is still crisp.  It isn't usually terribly cold yet on the East coast, but just enough for me to dig out my boots, layer on my sweaters, and throw on a cute faux fur vest or stole (you know faux fur is fab).  I stay warm as I head out to meet friends and see all the holiday decorations in store windows around town (Lord  & Taylor and Saks usually have cool displays).  While I'm on the beach these days without a fur jacket, I still appreciate the thoughts of staying warm on cold winter days.
What are your favorite items that keep you warm?

Have a lovely week!

Worthy Reads Roundup - Metallic Love, Zara Evening Lookbook, and Karl Lagerfeld's new affordable line

Hope you had a great week lovelies!

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

- Photo love: Metallic Sparkle and Shine
- Fun Finds {Art}: Canstruction and Alexander McQueen in NYC
- Fashion highlight: Zara Evening Style (asymmetry and sequins rule!)
- Fun Finds {Fashion}: Muppets Style!

- FFF - Miu Miu Glitter heels discount and fine dining

Here are worthy reads from blogger buddies and beyond:
- The first image from Karl Lagerfeld's new affordable line, Karl, was released.  What do you think of this look (the metallic top is pretty crazy/awesome in my eyes!)?

- Latkes remind me of NYC and crunchy bites at the 2nd Avenue Deli.  I love this apple version and will try it soon!

- Yoshiyuki Mkiyame of Issey Miyake was inspired by Georgia O'Keefe for the Spring 2012 collection.  What beautiful and powerful inspiration!

- We are fully in the midst of holiday shopping and spending so it is interesting to come across a TEDtalk like this one by Graham Hill about less spending and more happiness.  What do you spend on that is truly  important (I'm thinking about this while planning a family trip and also contemplating a Chanel bag as a luxury for this year, hmm)

FFF - Madewell 25% off $150, Miu Miu Glitter Heels 30% off at Neiman Marcus, and fine dining

Happy Fun, Free Friday darlings!


Online discounts

Neiman Marcus

Use code FSHURRY to get 30% off sale items through Dec. 9!  I'm looking for a pair of fabulous shoes and I know that these Miu Miu heels have been pretty trendy this year.  I'm on the fence about them myself (perhaps a little too 1970s for me?) but do admit that they are unique!

Miu Miu Glittered Curve-Heel Pump, Neiman Marcus, $295.40 after discount

Madewell
There is no lack of shiny objects this holiday season and I love to find more shiny and chic objects.  This imperfectly perfect pouch has such a great glazed look and is almost artistic while remaining simple.  Get 25% off orders $150 automatically as well as free shipping.

Sweet Bella Shimmer Pouch, Madewell, $39 after discount

Save!

- Go to Ebates first and get an additional 4% cash back!  Here is my invite if you need it!

Otherwise, this weekend I am...
...eating out a lot! We are meeting a friend visiting from out of town.  She wants to try Osteria Mozza (Mario Batali can definitely cook) and a fun new brunch place.  We are of course happy to accompany her.  We are also attending a swanky bbq (yes there is such a thing) for Mr. Spend 'n Chomp's colleague.  This individual invites bbq chefs to cook skewers, burgers, and local specialities while the guests mingle and munch.  It should be fun and I am excited to sneak into their screening room.  Yes the house is ridiculous in a most awesome way.


What are you doing this weekend?


Have a fabulous weekend!

Fun Finds {Fashion}: Muppet style! nOir jewelry and Jerome C. Rousseau shoes

Oh Miss Piggy!  If you can't have Kermit, you can still have your glamorous wardrobe.  While I would have normally never considered peeking in her closet, I am loving the pink.  The Jerome C. Rousseau shoes are quite Loubotin-esque (the height, curve, and sparkles are pretty chic).  I'm a little bit on the fence about the jewelry.  It is probably more for my nieces than for me, but you have to admit that the ring is too fun!
Have you seen the Muppets movie?

Would you rather watch the Muppets or Sesame Street (puppet face-off!)

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{Fashion} Highlight: Zara Evening (asymmetry and sequins rule!)

When I think of evening wear, I think of apparel that is a little darker, a little sleeker, and a bit slinkier.  It is also the time to wear something a touch more bold - maybe you could show a little leg, throw on something glittery, or put together an unexpected combination.
This Zara evening collection puts together unexpected asymmetrical looks in muted colors and also includes the now obligatory sequined tops.  I'm of course a fan of the sparkles for evening, but am also drawn to the asymmetrical looks (I don't know if I would have the guts to wear it, but I'm intrigued!)

What is your evening look?

Zara lookbook