Archive for December 23rd, 2009

ExclusivelyZoe – fashionable jewelry for any budget.

December 23rd, 2009 by Ruth
Sophistication by ExclusivelyZoe, Etsy.com, $34

Sophistication by ExclusivelyZoe, Etsy.com, $34

I had the pleasure of meeting Ms. Amanda Massa, the beauty and brains behind the gorgeous ExclusivelyZoe line. Over some Leffe Blonde beer and delicious dishes, I learned all about her jewelry business. Offering Chicskates like us handmade statement pieces at insanely affordable prices, Amanda makes the show stopping line in the comfort of her Upper East Side, NYC apartment.

The classy and sophisticated jewelry has an edgy, alternative side that puts the collection into a different category. Available on Etsy.com from $18 to $85, there’s a perfect necklace, pair of earrings or bracelet for every one, no matter what the budget.

Check out more of our favorites after the jump.

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Daily Diamond: bliss triple oxygen instant energizing mask

December 23rd, 2009 by Catherine

My skin is behaving like a spoiled child this week. In an effort to get some momentum going for my resolution for 2010, I’ve cut out sweets. So, in natural retaliation for its sudden sugar deprivation, my skin has produced a couple of pimples in my chin (ha, and to think I was always told sugar caused breakouts) and has been looking super blah. I’ve been told by my dermatologist that dietary changes can show up on a person’s face, and while it’s nice to know that I’m not alone with this complaint, I’d prefer it to do so someplace I can cover up.

bliss triple oxygen instant energizing mask, $52.00

bliss triple oxygen instant energizing mask, $52.00

To fight back, I’ve been using a super-gentle mask from bliss called triple oxygen instant energizing mask. Created as an at-home recreation of their popular in-spa service, the mask “perks up dull skin” with Vitamin C and antioxidants to protect against environmental damage. The most impressive part of the whole mask is its delivery of oxygen directly to your skin through nerdy (read: scientific) Fluid02 Technology. In short, five minutes with the mask, and you’re left with brighter, moister, happier skin.

That, and the promise that your skin has learned its lesson for behaving badly and won’t do it again.

Dance, Magic Dance.

December 23rd, 2009 by Catherine

It might come as a shock to learn that as much as I adore going out, New Year’s Eve is at the very bottom of my list of favorite nights on the town. It’s partly to do with the pressure to have a really great time, but I also resent the “deals” that come along with the evening, usually requiring a boatload of cash for all-you-can-drink specials, which, quite frankly, irritate me. Why should I spend three times what I’d normally spend on a regular evening, where I can have just as much fun?

Split-Neck Sequin Dress, $159.99

Split-Neck Sequin Dress, $159.99

But then I start dreaming up all the lovely outfits I could wear to ring in 2010. And before you know it, I’m making plans to go out, wearing said outfit. This year is no exception with this dress from Victoria’s Secret. How can you not want to go out dancing in this sequined number?  With 3/4-length sleeves to beat the chill (if you’re like me and sticking around the East Coast for the 31st) and a figure-flattering gathered waist (if you’re like me and plan to have one too many desserts at Christmas), the pink will stand out against the predictable sea of little black dresses most women tend to lean towards.

Making the dress even sweeter is its sale price, marked down to $159.99 from $258. Dresses like this one (classic cut, with a dash of whimsy) are built to transcend trends, too. Can’t you see this dress on the dance floor at Studio 54 in the 70s?

House of Harlow for bebe.

December 23rd, 2009 by Catherine
Nicole Richie for bebe Sunburst Bangle, $29.99

Nicole Richie for bebe Sunburst Bangle, $29.99

We here at Chic Thrills cannot get enough of Nicole Richie’s chic, affordable jewelry in her House of Harlow collection. We were thrilled when we first heard she was designing for bebe (limited-edition designer pieces usually go for a LOT less than items in their original collection), and even more thrilled when we learned of the pieces going on sale this week. With all the vintage charm of her original House of Harlow pieces, bebe’s line embodies her signature hippie style, with price tags we can’t argue with. Our top pick is the Sunburst Bangle, marked down from $64.00 to $29.99.