Monthly Archives: December 2012

Red + Green Holidaze

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There’s an elephant in the room and it isn’t white. Because white shouldn’t be worn after Labor Day, duh.

If you’re wondering what to wear to that white elephant party, look no further than your Christmas tree. The red, green, and sparkle that are associated with the holiday’s décor can be applied to your outfits as well. This is the only time of year that you can pull off these color combinations while being appropriately called the Grinch, Santa, or a Ho (ho ho). I’ve been nice and naughty; may I have hot coal with that?

Red and green can be effectively worn together with careful accessorizing. I cheated with this awesome 80s dress that has pops of bright red roses with olive green foliage, purchased at Salvation Army during one of their regular weekend sales (50% off all clothes!). All it needed was some TLC: I removed the shoulder pads, reinforced the buttons, washed, and pressed it. I didn’t think my outfit screamed Christmas until someone at work exclaimed, “What a great holiday dress!”

This dress is an example of 1980’s “power dressing.” As more women started to enter the work force in that decade, the emergence of shoulder pads became in vogue in order for women to feel equal to their male counterparts. The rise in shoulder pad popularity correlates with women’s increasing role in the work place, as evidenced in the 1940s war era as well. In fact, some fads synonymous with 1980s fashion can be traced back to the 1940s.

To soften the power-dress look and stay warm in the frosty weather, I added a vintage knit sweater cape with gold detail buttons that I found at Mercy Vintage. As there are no visible tags, I can only imagine it was lovingly knit by some adorable granny in her rocking chair with a pet cat named Sylvester at her feet. I completed the look with herringbone fishnets and a pair of high platform peep-toe pumps with rhinestone details to keep the outfit from looking dated. All I am missing is a poinsettia or mistletoe brooch on my cape.

Santa, I hope I don’t get stuck with a shake weight this year.

The Grinch

Pleatha Please!

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Pleatha makes everything betta.

I had always been subconsciously looking for a nice fitted leather bomber jacket, but never wanted to pay the price for it. It also seemed like an impractical purchase. So, I turned to pleather. Many of the options out there for pleather jackets are often very cheap looking or too juniorsy in style for me. Le sigh, will I ever find The One?

My prayers were answered by Urban Outfitters; a decent looking pleather jacket exists! I stumbled upon this gem at their famous 50% off sale. I love the feminine silhouette of this jacket, and how it fits my frame so snuggly. The quilted seam detailing, zippers at the sleeves, and collarless look can say, “simply chic,” or even “Where’s my Harley?” when worn with the appropriate coordinating pieces.

I chose the “simply chic” ensemble and paired the jacket with another animal component, the leopard print. I found this awesome knit DVF skirt at Buffalo Exchange. Not only does she make a mean wrap dress, but this skirt will flatter your assets for days.

No animals were harmed during the writing of this post.

Chic Vic

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Even blogs need a makeover from time to time.

Http://victoriasstylesecrets.wordpress.com was simply a too much of a mouthful for people to handle, and for me to say. Quite frankly, I was tired of seeing another Victoria’s Style Secrets blog come up on Google instead of mine. So, I spent many a day thinking of a domain name that was available, easy to remember and spell, and most importantly, still represent me and my witticisms. My ah-ha moment literally came to me on a rainy day while I was on the toilet (I kid you not): Chic Vic was born.

Fear not, readers! I may have a new site name and new look, but I promise to continue to deliver the same great fashion, style, and humor in my posts!

I’m not sure if I can upload a permanent banner photo, so here are the shoes from the old Victoria’s Style Secrets site for you to delight over.

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+1

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Chestnuts roasting on an open fire.

Jack Frost nipping at your nose.

Company holiday party time is here.

Rhyming isn’t my best suit. But I love a holiday party where men must wear suits. Anybody need a plus one?

The holidays are upon us, which means it is time to be a plus one to company holiday parties galore. Normally I find it quite awkward partying it up with other people’s co-workers, let alone my own colleagues. I often think back to my past experiences at conference room potlucks with the obligatory White Elephant gift exchange. However, when the occasion calls for “black tie optional,” that changes my perception quickly. This party went from awkward social gathering to an off the chart fancy soiree topped with bubbly champagne and delectable hors d’oeuvres. Time to bring out my shiny number.

I found this maxi romper suit at my local Buffalo Exchange. “New and recycled fashion” is their mantra. Although Buffalo Exchange mostly offers a lot of contemporary pieces, I would say that out of all the chain resale-clothing stores, you are more likely to spot an authentic vintage item in their racks for a very reasonable price. This one-piece was in great condition and fit as if it was custom made for me. I couldn’t have been more elated, especially when it was only $17.

I had a blast at the company party, and couldn’t get enough of the delicious appetizers, the bubbly, and of course, the elegantly dressed ladies and dapper gentlemen. Unfortunately as the night went on, my photographer/date’s beer goggles started fogging up. The pictures don’t do this classy onesie justice; you’ll just have to take my word for it.

Now, go on and get your fancy pants out there. It’s time to get drunk and say some inappropriate things to people you will never see again. Oh, the joys of being a plus one. Cheers!

The Holiday Party