Preppy Stripes & Casaual Chambray

Posted on February 17, 2016 by Victoria

Chain reaction fashion /CHān rēˈakSH(ə)n ˈfaSHən/ noun: a series of outfits, each created by an item from the previous one.

December: Brr for Fur

January: Leopard Faux Fur & Preppy Stripes

February: Preppy Stripes & Casual Chambray

“I’ve never seen you wear anything more than once!” is a phrase I’ve become quite familiar with. If you’re doing a double take on some of the outfits in my recent posts, I can assure you that you are in fact seeing double. In a new series I shall call, “chain reaction fashion,” each month I will feature an item from the previous month, styled differently into a new outfit. Finally, I am going to prove that I DO wear things twice, just like how I put my pants on one leg at a time.

Old Navy chambray (similar) | Banana Republic striped tee (similar) | Zara jeans (similar) | vintage flower brooch (similar) | vintage belt (similar) | vintage handkerchiefs (similar here & here) | vintage purse (similar) | vintage Ferragamo slingbacks (similar)

This outfit challenge proves that dressing up a simple striped top isn’t so black and white. While the high contrast graphic print makes for a striking fashion statement, there’s room to add a soft touch of casual chambray in there too.

Jazzing up the basic stripes required a few small accessories: a skinny belt and a brooch. I rolled up the sleeves of my chambray top, and got right to work on fashioning a neck scarf, which is just two small handkerchiefs tied at the ends. Not only does this create a longer scarf to drape in the front, but it also incorporates two times the pattern play. My tiny red purse adds a pop of color to the outfit and brings out the specks of red in my neck scarf as well.

And the finisher to this outfit? None other than a classy pair of toe cap slingbacks. The only thing that could beat these vintage toe caps is a night cap.

Old Navy chambray (similar) | Banana Republic striped tee (similar) | Zara jeans (similar) | vintage flower brooch (similar) | vintage belt (similar) | vintage handkerchiefs (similar here & here) | vintage purse (similar) | vintage Ferragamo slingbacks (similar)

I Want You Back

Posted on February 9, 2016 by Victoria

This Valentine’s Day, I want you back. Oh, and I brought sexy back too.

My first infatuation with a boy crush was brief. He was in a band, and I fell in love with him upon watching his debut video on MTV. I’ll never forget his frosted permed hair and the way he moved was so in synch. Like all teenage love, I was only hooked for the first album, then broke up after the summer. That is, until he brought sexy back.

Whether you have been on the receiving end of a break up, or were the one doing the heartbreaking, I’m sure we can all agree that relationships are complicated. Break ups can mean good riddance to a coupling that was doomed from the start. But sometimes all you need is a little bit of time away to make you say I want you back, even if it might be as fleeting as a fashion trend. Like star crossed lovers, some trends you part with are gone forever, while others return years later, manifested in a different form. That’s what the backwards trend is all about.

This trend emerged from street style fashionistas last autumn, raising a few eyebrows while being hailed as the latest fashion must try. Is this fashion forward thinking backward?

Luckily, this is a no-strings-attached one-night-stand type of trend that’s easy to try because it doesn’t require investing in a new must have item. Ladies, just look in your closet. I’m sure you have a button down lurking in there behind all your shoes and emotional baggage.

And just like how I’ve heard single girlfriends describe the guys from the dating scene, I’m not sure how I feel about this fashion trend. It’s a little uncomfortable and impractical but the unconventionality of it makes it so exciting and unlike any outfit I’ve ever worn before. It doesn’t quite fit well, but I’m having fun with it, so why not see where it goes?

mini hat (similar) | vintage blouse (similar) | vintage belt (similar) | Express silk shorts (similar) | fishnets (similar) | Enzo Angiolni pumps (similar) vintage clutch (similar) | Victoria’s Secret balconette (similar)

Save for the rouge painted upon my puckered lips, I ditched the cliché red and pink color palette and opted for my favorite vintage sheer blouse in an outfit of classic black that proves to be just as cunning. When one dons a backwards blouse, one has to accessorize accordingly – wearing a necklace backwards or adding a vintage sweater clip as I did draws attention to the sultry open back. The sheer fabric hints at a lacy brassier underneath for eyes to see, while the palpable silk shorts and fishnets create a sensual stimulation to roaming fingertips. If that doesn’t tickle his fancy, well, I’ve got a feather on my mini hat that’ll do the job.

Whether it’s to get your ex back, to entice the person you’ve been admiring, or simply to spice up a longstanding relationship, it’s time to leave the cleave and bring sexy back.

Happy Valentine’s Day loves!

mini hat (similar) | vintage blouse (similar) | vintage belt (similar) | Express silk shorts (similar) | fishnets (similar) | Enzo Angiolni pumps (similar) vintage clutch (similar) | Victoria’s Secret balconette (similar)

White Christmas

Posted on December 24, 2015 by Victoria

I’m dreaming of a chic Christmas.

Chic Vic is officially back, just in time to usher in a change in seasons. Winter has arrived, bringing with it cold days and even chillier nights. The drop in temperature alone gives me goosebumps and all the more reason to be a homebody. But for all you social butterflies out there, it’s also time for family get togethers, friendship gifts exchanges, and all around excuses to have holiday parties with a mug of hot spiced cider to warm the soul and keep your fingers toasty.

No matter what the occasion, there’s only one color palette that will do you right. From lush creams to winter whites as pure as the driven snow, here are a couple of cozy items under $100 to pick up for yourself or a loved one as you finish last minute gift shopping. You’ll look like an angel on Santa’s nice list in no time.

And may all your Christmases be white.

1. STOLE / 2. EARMUFFS / 3. CABLE TIGHTS / 4. SWEATER / 5. DRESS / 6. GLOVES / 7. SCARF / 8. BEANIE / 9. COAT

One, Two, Three

Posted on September 12, 2015 by Victoria

Chic Vic turns three today, and all I’ve got to wear is my literal NSFW birthday suit.

It’s hard to believe how quickly time has passed since I started this humble old blog. I remember the days when I would be brimming with ideas, but never had enough hours in the day to post more than once a week. Yet for every burst of inspiration, I’ve also experienced long periods of writer’s block, where there is a stagnation of creativity. As much as I may have infinite style, the outfits I post to the blog aren’t meaningful to me unless they are accompanied by the perfect prose. It’s something I always strive for, but sometimes perfection can be a killjoy.

While I have never before properly identified myself as a “writer” as I do a stylist, maybe it’s time to reinvent the wheel. I like to think that I inspire readers with not only my pictures, but also with my words – be it something that makes you laugh, entertains you, inspires you, or have you rethink what it means to harness your own sense of style.

To fellow bloggers, I ask, how do you maintain your blogging momentum?

To the readers I say, thank you for following me, whether from day one or just now.

With the help of some of my favorite past outfits, here’s cheers to three years!

Day 12

A Sixties Summer

Posted on June 29, 2015 by Victoria

I’ve had many summers I loved, but none more than the one I’m presently in.

This is my summer of love around the world. For the past few months I have been roaming away from home. Whether it is climbing a mountain, exploring a village, or eating local specialties in another country, I am fulfilling my heart’s desire of wanderlusting.

Although my surroundings are always changing, one thing remains constant: while summer has barely began, I’ve been feeling the heat for some time now. I don’t particularly like sweltering and turning brown in the sun, but I do look forward to saying aloha to my collection of summer dresses when I return home.

pashmina turned headwrap (similar) / vintage maxi (similar) / mixed bangles (similar) / Urban Outfitters sunglasses (similar) / Ecote heels (similar)

From the archives is one of my faves. This 1960s maxi begs for a fun time at a tiki bar where I can cool down over a flaming scorpion bowl. The stinger in this outfit? A head wrap in the same punchy bright fuchsia that matches the bold watercolor haze of the dress. I had a little too much fun over accessorizing the outfit, stacking on more bangles than I would normally wear. But when one channels the 1960s, one must go with a bang, or several.

This dress is definitely made for a summer of love.

Burlap Gingham Girl

Posted on April 21, 2015 by Victoria

To care for Mother Earth, one must learn from thy mother.

My mom is the most resourceful person I know, maybe to the point of being extreme. She will find use for things I didn’t know could be repurposed, and growing up, I did the same. As a kid, I collected pretty juice bottles to store my knick knacks instead of buying fancy ones at the craft store. I remember using my mom’s leftover fabric scraps and hand sewed tiny quilts that were too small to be used for anything. In 5th grade, I made Valentines cards for everyone in my class using the blank sides of old flyers collected from school – everyone loved them. Part crafty and part growing up with limited resources, I guess it just helped fuel my imagination.

And so, when I received a quaint bouquet a while back, I not only saw artistry in the blooming arrangement, but also in the way the flowers were wrapped together. There is a beauty in burlap, and this wasn’t just my imagination.

repurposed burlap headband (similar) / thrifted blouse (similar) / thrifted skirt (similar) / thrifted purse (similar) / Urban Outfitters heels (similar) / vintage cuff (similar) / Urban Outfitters sunglasses (similar)

Together, with my gingham blouse and white midi skirt, I’ve created the perfect springtime outfit. Although I’ve had this shirt for years, gingham is having a moment right now. Characterized by a two toned pattern in even stripes (white + another color), it is reminiscent of picnic blankets. The only difference is, you should be eating in it instead of on it. The burlap is just the rustic touch this girly preppy outfit needed. If I had more time, I would’ve fashioned it into a rosette or big bow, but repurposing it into a quick headband will do. Sans the fab shoes, and some accessories, my head to ankle outfit is thrifted and cost just under $20, flowers included.

I’d like to think of my thrifty habits as my contribution for not just Earth Day, but for every day of the year. So whether you’re picking up waste at the local park, or reusing waste in new ways, I am sure that Mother Earth, like most mothers, will love you no matter what.

Boho FOMO

Posted on April 8, 2015 by Victoria

Rarely do I ever suffer feelings of FOMO (fear of missing out), yet when I found out a couple of my good friends were planning to lose their Coachella virginity this month, I admit I felt just a tinge of jealousy. I still remember vividly my experience from last year: the flower crowns, flowy dresses, fringe, and colorful prints. Yes my friends, I have festival fashion FOMO and the only cure for it is more boho.

thrifted scarf (similar) / vintage dress (similar) / thrifted bangles (similar here & here)

Luckily I found my fix right under my nose, hanging in my closet. This handmade vintage dress makes me feel groovy but elegant, youthful yet mature. With a stylized paisley floral print bursting in a melange of vivid colors, it only seemed right to accessorize accordingly, else do the dress injustice. An urban turban and an arm chockfull of bangles fit the boho bill quite nicely.
Sometimes I wonder about who made and wore this dress, and to where did she wear this psychedelic beauty? Perhaps to a music festival in the 60s or 70s? Whoever she was, she is my body twin and style soulmate.

Wearing this dress takes me back into time and that’s better than any overpriced Coachella weekend. Peace out FOMO!

Pop Your Easter Collar

Posted on March 31, 2015 by Victoria

Hardboiled, scrambled, or sunny side up? I personally like ’em easy – and for eggs, make that over easy.

Although I don’t participate in any egg hunts or other Easter festivities, I still like to dress the part in a floral spring dress. By the transformative power of my sewing machine, I turned this drab, superfluous fabric of a 1980s dress complete with shoulder pads, puffy sleeves, and prude ankle length into a flirty feminine sleeveless sundress. The oversized collar is so wide, it takes popping your collar to new heights.

I hate to dangle a carrot before you, but that’s all this bunny rabbit’s got for you today. Hoppy Easter!

Express cardigan (similar) / vintage dress (similar here & here) / Crown Vintage sandals (similar)

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Late Bloomer

Posted on March 25, 2015 by Victoria

“After women, flowers are the most divine creations.” – Christian Dior

There is something remarkable about flowers’ unmistakable beauty, fragrance, and natural wonder that helps lift spirits and brings smiles to those who receive them. Now that it is officially spring, many beautiful flowers are in full bloom as well as increased usage of antihistamines much to the dismay of allergy sufferers everywhere. To them I say, have you tried some local honey lately? I’m available in the Bay Area.

vintage scarf (similar here & here) / thrifted Tracy Reese blouse (similar here & here) / Cooperative denim pant (similar) / GH Bass & Co. shoes (similar here & here) / vintage earrings (similar) / H&M flower bracelet (similar) / vintage flower cuff (similar)

I can’t remember the last time I was sprung in the spring, but I experienced those same feelings of enjoyment, happiness, and obsession when I thrifted this lovely silk floral blouse. It’s been patiently waiting in my closet for the darkness of winter to pass so that it may bloom in the spring sunshine.

A green thumb I do not have, so on the contrary, how does my garden grow? With a silk blouse, a matching headscarf, and a pair of goody two shoes, all in a row. There’s no beating around the bush: I sowed the seeds for this floral spring outfit to sprout one thrift shop at a time. Flowers for moi? You shouldn’t have!

While there’s no doubt that my style is in full bloom, I often question whether I have fully blossomed, or whether I am a late bloomer. The permeation of social media and status updates about professional accomplishments and milestones achieved leads me to believe that my friends and acquaintances have it all figured out. I am left to wonder: am I there yet? Comparison is the thief of joy so I should nip this in the bud right now. You can’t force a flower to bloom, and in the end, everything will come up roses. Preferably a dozen please.

Kiss Me I’m Stylish

Posted on March 17, 2015 by Victoria

Before the whole blue and black vs. white and gold dress debate, there was the green sweatshirt incident.

I was minding my own business on the playground during morning recess when he cornered me.

“That’s more like an aqua color,” he taunted, pointing to my outfit of choice for St. Patty’s Day. I was wearing my favorite mint green Care Bears sweatshirt that had each bear hanging out on a fluffy cloud. I insisted it was green, but to no avail. I was no match for this class clown who was very gifted in the skill of debate. He had me seeing red as he proceeded to torment me with his book of jokes and pranks and wouldn’t leave me alone until the end of recess, when he disappeared into a hawthorne tree.

What the silly boy failed to understand is that there are different values of color. Value refers to the darkness or lightness of a color. My dear Care Bears sweatshirt happened to be of a very high value mint green versus the medium value kelly green that is usually associated with four leaf clovers and leprechauns.

Banana Republic blouse (similar) / Urban Outfitters skirt (similar) / H&M necklace (similar) / Urban Outfitters belt (similar) / vintage purse (similar) / Nine West pumps (similar)

Green symbolizes harmony, balance, and calm – but perhaps this head to toe monochromatic outfit will inspire some envy too. The monochromatic look is great for helping elongate the figure because of the long uninterrupted silhouette. You may remember this skirt from a past St. Patty’s Day post, but it just so happens to be the luck of the Irish that I thrifted a blouse that matches it exactly. For accessories, nothing beats a beetle necklace – I love how the iridescent hues from the rhinestones complements my head to toe green. Considering my lucky streak, maybe it will continue if I stay up all night.

Whether you recycle, compost, carpool, or smoke it, I’m sure you can agree that nowadays, green is the new black. Happy St. Patrick’s Day!