Dear Girlfriends,

On Friday January 6 we had the pleasure to hear, listen, meet and interview an expert in the field of beauty and style – the one and only Mikki Taylor.  As Editor-at-Large of Essence Magazine and one of the nation’s foremost authorities on fashion, beauty and style Mikki Taylor herself is a ‘commander’.  She entered the room with such style and grace wearing a chic LBD and colored designer wine pumps. With her confidence, joy and genuine love in tow, Mikki shared her inspiration for her book, “Commander in Chic: Every Woman’s Guide to Managing Her Style Like a First Lady”.

Before we share our candid conversation, we must say we are looking forward to the potential of a new book inspired by Mikki’s anecdotes for bits of style – famously known as “Mikki-isms”.  Even before the book is born, we will be the first in line when this book hits the shelves.

When asked ‘how can the everyday woman carve out an effortless (quick) routine to make sure they walk out the door ‘on’ point?’ Mikki discussed the importance of carving out time to do things that are important to you. Style really begins with us.  We should all make our style effortless.  And as women we should have checklists.  Get used to having your name show up on your schedule (i.e. make yourself important).

When writing “Commander in Chic”, Mikki’s target audience is simply women.  The book doesn’t have age or demographic limitations.  The book is for every women who wants to own her life. For women who want to be better, be healthier and spend money wiselessly.

Commander in Chic Book Signing (Washington, D.C.)

Girlfriends, she wants all of us to consider the book as your personal style diary.  Though style is unique for each of us, we have common threads that inspire us.

The book has several chapters from style, beauty and health; and it delves into important things women should wear/carry from a smile, healthy lifestyle to defining your personal style and what makes you – you.  She knows that we all want to own a signature look and a wardrobe of ‘bankable’ pieces that define our style. In this colorful style guide, Mikki’s cover to cover advice, chic tips and photographs allow us to be our own ‘commander’ in chic.

Personally, we at Charm Chat can relate to Mrs. Obama’s style because she makes it realistic and attainable – in the words of Mikki Taylor its “effortless”.

We look forward to diving into this ultimate beauty and style resource guide!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

Can’t wait for more and want to stay in touch, follow Mikki Taylor on Facebook: I Am Mikki Taylor and Twitter @IAMMikkiTaylor

{Photos by Cheriss May}

On the onset of the winter season we all went scrambling for the perfect boots to take us through the season.  And now that January is here, we want to remain stylish and warm. Know those ballet flats with the satin ribbons that lace up your calf?

We offer you the top 5 ballerina-inspired boots; get ready to step out in style to all your winter events in boots.

• 

  CK Jeans Jill Boot

  A wrap-around bow brings a touch of sweet to the sassy lines of CK Jeans Jill boot. The ankle zipper grants quick access to the leather upper, while a wooden heel and lug sole offer trend appeal that’s so right now. Beautiful, clean and a little bit funky, CK Jeans’ Jill brings oodles of style to your boot-weather wardrobe.

• 

  Chloe’s Wrap Around Boot

  A super stylish shape from Chloé, these boots show-off many key trends and will add a modern twist to every look. Team with jeans or a skirt and wear from day-to-night.

• 

  YSL Grey Suede

  With a wide range of beautifully crafted shoes and accessories to choose from, Yves Saint Laurent will be your ultimate go-to designer. Boot features soft suede upper with plush dyed shearling lining; fur origin – Italy, rounded toe, wrap around tie and tassel with black stitched welt and black zig-zag trim around sole.

• 

  C Label Women's Chasity Boot

  Wrap yourself in style with this chic knee high from C LABEL. The Chastity-3 features a leather upper under a leather shaft-length wrap that ends with a bow at the back. A side zip makes on-and-off a breeze, so you can get out and hit the town in style.

• 

  Nina Henriq Boots

  It’s a tie! An elaborately wrapped ribbon embellishment surrounds the faux fur shaft detailing on Nina’s Henriq tall boots. With a pointed toe silhouette and high heel, they’ll make a striking statement whenever you wear them.

Shop online for the ballerina-inspired boots.  Remember you’re shopping with a flirty purpose.

Cotton Twill Shorts

Wimbledon is here so it’s time to get in the summer spirit and celebrate with some gorgeous chic looks from Isabella Oliver 365.

Look the part in the beautiful Boat neck Breton Jumper or Breton Boyfriend Cardigan, both guaranteed to put you in the tennis trend. These stunning items are perfect for adding a bit of warmth as you enjoy the outdoors, and are designed to fit you perfectly leaving you looking elegant and stylish as well as comfortable.

The Cotton Twill Shorts will also add some elegance to your Wimbledon wardrobe by making you look and feel sophisticated. Designed in three of this season’s key colors, these shorts are incredibly versatile so you can team them with all your summer tops for instant winning style.

To view the latest 356 collection, simply visit www.IsabellaOliver365.com.

Check out these ways to wear the always-chic color combo.

• Don’t tell me you’ve never seen those cows at the circus or the giraffes on the jungle gym! Well then, the Zebra on the Zip Line Strapless Dress is sure to show you a thing or two! With a padded strapless bodice and a scattering of stripes over bust and waist, this snazzy dress is sure to add some pizazz to your wardrobe! Darts and pleats add style and shape for acrobatic appeal.
• Give a nod to that stylish mouse in the Minnie Mouse Mambo Polka Dot Dress. This darling ivory dress is dotted with retro black polka dots from collar to slightly rounded hem, with a retro ascot-like neckline and elasticized puff sleeves for a little extra flair. Wear over a colorful tank and jeans, or pair with a black bandeau and cut-offs!
• Like your favorite airy treat, the Pillow Mint Strapless Ivory Dress is a sweet confection that will just melt in your mouth! Luxurious ivory fabric flows elegantly from lightly padded bodice to classic tulip skirt in a satiny embrace, while three lines of black piping run along left side of dress for a tailored finale. Delectable darts at front and back create the perfect silhouette, and removable black belt cinches for shape.
• If you want sassy and chic, then look no further; the Korina Black and White Striped Purse is here for your every fashion whim! A black and white striped canvas exterior is accented by a vegan leather fold-over flap in rich tan, with matching tan strips down sides and across bottom. Push in black metal lock to reveal a black-lined interior with three compartments.
• It’s going to be hard to put down your binoculars this year, with thousands of snow geese and the Back to Birdwatching Black and White Top to keep you interested for hours! This satiny short sleeve top has a flurry of black bird silhouettes atop an ivory background.

Some fashionistas just love attention, and you’re sure to get it wearing black and white!

Spa Week

Dear Girlfriends:

If you’re living in the East Coast, metropolitan Washington, D.C. and anything like me you are tired of wearing a coat and donning a chic winter scarf – right fashionista?!  SpaWeek 2011 is happening just in time!  We are all ready to showcase our beauty this Spring. 

This year’s Spring Spa Week is April 11th-17th and offers everything from spa treatments to pedicure paradise. Girlfriends, its simple.  Visit SpaWeek today and get ready to indulge.  Day spas, medical spas,resort spas, fitness centers and other wellness facilities will offer 2-3 of their most exclusive services for a discounted price of $50 each. Yoga/Pilates and Fitness/Weight Loss Centers, Eyelash Boutiques and even Salt Rooms are just some of the beauty and wellness institutions becoming regulars on the Spa Week roster.

 Here are 10 of the top spas participating in the DC area for SpaWeek: 

• Clarins Skin Spa at Nordstrom
• George Bacchus Salon and Spa
• Hela Spa (2 locations participating – DC + Chevy Chase, MD)
• Jamachi Plastic Surgery Medispa (formerly Trendz Rejuvenation Medi-Spa)
• Lord & Taylor Salon & Spa
• O’HAIR Salon + Spa
• Parma Center for Health & Medicine
• Red Door Spa (8 locations participating throughout the DC area)
• The Salon & Spa at Saks Fifth Avenue (2 locations participating – Chevy Chase, MD + McClean, VA)
• The Spa Room
• Zoe Salon & Spa (3 locations participating in the DC area – Fairfax, McLean, Gaithersburg)

Can’t get enough?  Want more?  Visit SpaWeek online and follow them on Facebook (SpaWeek) and Twitter @spaweek!

Don’t just get your winter wardrobe in gear, glam up your nails!  Serena Williams, tennis player and fashion icon, has teamed up with Suzi of OPI to create a duo of new shades.

Serena says, “Everyone knows that I’ve always loved fashion and design, but they might not know that I’m manic about my nails.  That’s why I’m super excited to partner with OPI to create my Glam Slam Collection.  And on top of that, I am well on my way to receiving my nail technician license.  Working with OPI is really a dream come true.”

OPI-Serena-Williams-Glam-Slam-Collection

OPI-Simply-Smashing-Black-Shatter-swatches

Arriving just in time for the Australian Open, Glam Slam Australia includes Simply Smashing, a shimmering gold-green lacquer, and Black Shatter, a revolutionary new color that creates a “shattered” effect when applied over dry lacquer.

Try the shades together for a smashing hot look that’s fierce and fashionable-just like Serena.

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

Urban Expressions Lace Clutch

La Regale 28985

Dear Girlfriends -

Are you ready for a fabulous night out for New Year’s Eve?  Are you heading to a hot party?  an indoor celebration and chic soiree?   Do you know what you are carrying? 

With this welcomed winter weather and this season carry a party-inspired clutch.  When selecting a clutch for the New Year’s eve celebration its very likely, you’ll want to buy more and more!  Generally, the size and style of the bag can be selected to suit your personal style preference.  But of course, girlfriends here are a few that I would consider carrying to a chic soiree or night out!

Want to dazzle at your next party? Do it with sparkle! The Lulu Townsend Sequin Flower Clutch is adorable and sure to grab some attention. 

Lulu Townsend Sequin Clutch

From designers Whiting and Davis this clutch a plated brass mesh minaudiere with metal frame featuring top clasp closure with 24″ drop in snake chain and satin lining with shirred gusset.

Whiting and Davis Heart

Adorned with an oversized bow, Valentino’s black satin clutch epitomizes the label’s ladylike aesthetic. Carry this glamorous style to add sophistication to a contemporary cocktail look.

Valentino Bow Embellished Clutch

Fancify your evening with La Regale’s 28985. This fabulous fabric clutch has a sparkling crystal mesh overlay that glistens and gleams. An optional strap allows for easy, hands-free carrying throughout the night.

SANTI Sequin Camo Clutch

This pretty little Santi bag will add a breezy air to special occasion attire. Fashioned from soft satin and dripping with beautiful sequins, it shows both elegance and playfulness. An extra-long drop-in chain adds easy, across-the-body wear.

Vintage chic and modern appeal combine flawlessly in this Menbur clutch. Its softly pleated, beautifully sheened satin is topped with a neat-as-a-pin frame, and emboldened with a retro-modern resin clasp.

Menbur Pleated Satin Clutch

Bring back the 80′s with a hip handbag. The Urban Expressions Lace Clutch is fancy and fun. The Lace exterior is oh so chic, and with plenty of interior room for lip gloss and more, you can’t go wrong.  This flirty silk evening bag features playful silk ruffles and laser-cut flowers.

Liven up your winter wardrobe with bags so affordable you’ll want them all.

Are you ready for chic holiday gatherings and glam office parties?  From subtle sophistication to understated glamour, I have the perfect party dresses to suit every style and occasion.

Shop from this collection of strapless and body-conscious dress styles in silks and satins.

Midi dress by Vero Moda Very featuring a bandeau neckline with a drape front, tulip skirt and a double layer, semi sheer hemline.  Sequin dress by Rare. Featuring a round neckline, sheer mesh finish to the top and sleeve and all over sequin embellishment.

Vero Moda Midi Dress

Rare Mesh & Sequin Dress

Nothing says femininity like a pretty party dress. Whatever shape or size, all women look fabulous in dresses.

Pleated fan bandeau dress. Featuring fitted main, with pleated fan detail to the side, and concealed zip closure to the reverse.

Chiffon dress by TFNC. Featuring a scoop neckline, elbow length bell sleeves, layered hemline and mini length design.  Or consider this party dress – its unique! Asymmetric dress by TFNC. Featuring a contrast swirl print, single draped sleeves and a sheer overlay.

Fan Pleated Bandeau Dress

Open Bell Sleeve Chiffon Dress

Pleat front shift dress by Vero Moda. Featuring satin finish, and keyhole notch to the reverse with covered button fastening.

Pleat Front Shift Dress

Asymmetric drape T-shirt dress Featuring cap round neck, cap sleeves, and draped hemline to one side.

You’ve gotten all the style options for the best party dresses for the upcoming holiday – now its up to you to pick!

Until the next style adventure.