1.  Breakfast at Tiffany’s

It should be no surprise this one is on the list. The image of Audrey Hepburn’s character Holly Golightly in her black Givenchy sheath staring into the window of Tiffany’s is burned into almost every fashionista’s brain. Her elegant look, however, is really rather attainable. It starts with a little black dress and once you add a pearl necklace, black gloves, and some oversized sunglasses, you too can have the look.

Here’s my picks:

Pearl and Gem necklace from Chic Gems (which you can get 20% off on with code VIOLET20…woo hoo!), Black Pumps from Lori’s Shoes, Dior Sunglasses from Solstice, Long Black Gloves from Peaches Boutique, and Black Scoop-Neck Dress from Perchance Boutique.

2. The Notebook

I’m a huge fan of vintage looks! The Notebook wouldn’t have been the same without the beautiful fashions of the 1940s and 1950s. Rachel McAdam’s character Allie has impeccable fashion. Her look is a mix of  fitted vintage gowns with shorter hem lines, floral hair accessories, and understated shoes. In terms of color, her character is often seen in either light blue or crimson.

Here’s my picks:

Red Flats from Akira, Floral Hair Accessories from Love, Lulu Mae, Assorted Casual Dresses from She Boutique, Red Scoop Neck Dress from Mark Shale.

Now that you’ve got the romantic look down, feel free to sport it on a date with your sweetie. And don’t forget to give yourself some signature red lips!

3. The Devil Wears Prada

Every woman loves a make-over movie. This one is great to watch for both the comedy of work stress and the amazing fashions. Anne Hathaway’s (ok, how fab did she look last night??) character, Andrea, gets the benefit of the “Runway” closet, but you don’t need it to steal her look. Shoot for neutral colors, layered clothing, newboy caps, long necklaces, and stiletto boots or heels.

Here’s my picks:

Black Stiletto Boots  from Lori’s Shoes, White Coat and Tunic from She Boutique, Black Liquid Leggings from Dress-Up Boutique, Treasures of the Sea Necklace from Francesca’s Collections, Black Easton Dress from Perchance Boutique, and White Shirt from Mark Shale.

I hope you enjoy the look sans the crazy boss!

And don’t think I forgot everyone’s favorite fictional fashionista, Carrie from Sex and the City! Check out this previous article and get ‘Carried’ away. 

- Violet

• Breakfast at Tiffany’s Photo Credit
• The Notebook Photo Credit 1, Photo Credit 2
• The Devil Wears Prada Photo Credit

How to Look Like a Film Icon is a post from: Violet Revolution

New Years Eve is a celebration of YOU! Living in Chicago makes way for a great time, all the time! Celebrate the night by embracing the past and present of 2010. But most of all, celebrate the future of what 2011 holds for you.  So whether you had a great or a so-so 2010, it doesn’t matter. New Years Eve is an exciting, new start for everyone!

Truth be told, dressing for New Years Eve is a piece of cake! Why? Because this is the perfect Holiday to have fun with your outfit! Wear that glitzy dress you have been holding out for. Curl your hair, wear red lipstick, and strap on those killer heels! You should dress and feel like a celebrity on this special occasion.

Here are 5 must have items you will want to check out when planning your outfit. See the pictures below to check it out.

The dress is simple enough to be dressed up as much as one would like. The back of the dress is mesh so it gives it that vivacious factor. Accessorize the dress with the cute, sparkly handbag or shimmery, rhinestone ring. If you are feeling extra celebrity-like, purchase the studded high heels. These heels will absolutely take your breath away. They definitely have that WOW factor! Last but not least, keep those lips of yours shiny and bright with lip gloss. You’ll want to be dazzling for that midnight kiss.

You will be turning heads and known as the Fashionista wherever you go this New Years Eve. Trust me, you’ll want to meet 2011 in your best outfit!

Clockwise from Top Left:

Metallic Scoop Neck Mesh Dress –Front at Akira
Benefit Ultra Shine Lip Shine at Benefit Cosmetics
Rachel Leigh Long Crystal Ring at Scoop NYC
Metallic Scoop Neck Mesh Dress – Back at Akira
Sam Edelman Lorissa Peeptoe Spiked Heels at Akira
Silver Bells Bag at Francesca’s Collections

Lookbook: Five Must-Haves for New Years Eve is a post from: Violet Revolution

Filigree Flora Cuff
As the lights glisten this Holiday season, give your best friend an accessory that will make her dazzle! This beautiful cuff will be sure to light up any outfit! The cuff features an ornate design and is priced at $28.00. Stop in at Francesca’s Collection or shop online.

MOR Pretty In Pink Gift Set

There is no woman in the world that doesn’t enjoy a little pampering! Treat your best friend to a gift set from MOR. The set provides you with a lip balm, soap, hand cream, and nail cream. Need more convincing? It has the luscious scent of Marshmallow! This enticing ‘Pretty In Pink’ gift set is sure to satisfy a woman’s beauty needs! You can find the set at Art Effect at 934 W Armitage, Chicago or shop online.

Fringe Shoulder Bag

Does your best friend have a little hipster in her? Fringe is in! This bag is great for the everyday purse or for a special day out in the city. Carry it over your shoulder or as a cross-body bag. You can find it at Akira.

Reversible Amelia Cloche Hat
If your best friend is a woman on the go consider buying her a cold weather accessory! Squasht by Les has a large selection of stylish hats. My top pick is the gray, reversible Amelia Cloche Hat. Its color and style will match almost any outfit! Want more accessories? Check out Squasht by Les Boutique at 2556 W. Chicago Ave or visit them on the web.

Wrap Around Watch

Who doesn’t want time on their side? Perchance Boutique has a trendy Hot Pink watch listed for only $88.00 dollars! Your best friend will thank you for getting her a reliable gift and the ability to be on time…all the time! Perchance Boutique is located at 3512 N. Southport Ave, Chicago.

Excited to Shop? I know I am! What gift are you choosing for your best friend? We want to know!

Gift Ideas for Your Best Friend is a post from: Violet Revolution

-Handle With Care cordially invites you to a New York designer Jodi Arnold Fall Trunk Show. Thursday, Sept. 23rd- Monday, Sept. 27th, 1706 N. Wells. Join them in welcoming the Jodi Arnold Fall 2010 Collection! Cocktails and gift with purchase plus exclusive 10% off during trunk show.

- Chicago Twenty Something and Allison Gonabe invite you to show some Local Love

• Swag bag with over $150 in gift certificates and special discounts
• Experience the Chicago Kiss, a custom cocktail exclusively at Manor
• Friday, September 24th at 10pm at Manor 642 N. Clark
• Participating boutiques include: shebang, Audey, Dress Up, She, le Dress, Veruca Salt, p & L boutique.

-Objets d’Envy Flash Sale 2 days only! Rock Candy Bracelets specially priced at $100 save $80! Friday & Saturday Sept. 24th & 25th. Handcrafted quality made with Swarovski Elements available in 19 gorgeous colors!

- Don’t miss the final Market of 2010!! Shop for antiques, vintage collectibles and indie designer apparel from more than 200 dealers at the Randolph Street Market September 25th & 26th Sat. 10am-5pm & Sun. 10am-4pm between Ada Street and Ogden Avenue, and also inside the historic Plumber’s Hall (1340 W. Washington Blvd.). The seventh annual European-style fair also features food and beer vendors and themed mini-markets stocked with rare vinyl recordings, global goods and fancy foods such as chocolates, cakes and spices. Includes kids’ activities. Tickets $9 online & $12 at door include repeat entry all weekend. Outdoor market is pet-friendly.

- Stop by the Indie Designers Market inside Plumber’s Hall and visit Susan Elizabeth Designs & receive 15% off everything, including new designs! Be sure to check out the beautiful handbags by Brynn Cappella and contemporary clothing by Killion.

- Join Crescendo Apparel Saturday Sept. 25th 11am-2pm for Closetology: The Psychology of your Closet with Jackie Waller at Flourish Studios 3020 N. Lincoln. Fact: On average women only wear 20% of the clothing in their closets! Join Jackie Walker, Closetologist and author, and take a tour of your psyche by way of those rooms of emotions – your closets! Jackie will share the art of architecture when layering clothes against your personal space and everyone that attends will receive a copy of her Closetology Quiz which she will help you analyze. Meet Jackie and you will never say these words again….I Have Nothing to Wear! $20 per person RSVP 888.215.0270 or rsvp@crescendoapparel.com

- Join Lush Saturday, Sept. 25th for their Arty Party as they welcome the New Art Of  Bathing! Receive a Lush inspired Art Print with any purchase! Shop any location 859 W. Armitage, 2171 Northbrook Court, or 5 Woodfield Mall.

- Akira presents the 7th Annual Garden of Eden Fashion Show: Folklorique benefiting Imerman Angels. Sunday, September 26th, 5pm at Galleria Marchetti. Featuring captivating aerial performances curated by Aloft Chicago, sound by DJ Madrid, runway by Ford Models. Tickets for this fabulous event are $15/$75 VIP (presale) or $20/$100 VIP (door). Purchase at all Akira locations or online!

- Fall gift with purchase at Heidi Hess 210 N. Halsted. Now through October 9th, receive a complimentary dress with new fall purchase exclusively at the showroom.

- Shop Brooklyn Industries and receive 20% off All Fall dresses in store 1426 N. Milwaukee Ave. and online offer ends Monday, Sept. 27th!

- Check out the Erin Gallagher deal of the week plus recycle your Erin Gallagher packaging and receive up to 50% off your entire order through September 30th, each box is 10% off! Return your Erin Gallagher pouches and boxes to their Chicago studio 1013 W. Webster for discount!

Deals and Events This Weekend is a post from: Violet Revolution

The event took place at Griffin Lounge where Helen Zhu (left in below photo), founder of Chictopia, kicked off a fashion show presentation of the latest summer styles and Chinese Laundry footwear all available at Akira.  Guests enjoyed giveaways and gifts, plus AKIRA stylists were on hand to help guests navigate the new features of SHOPAKIRA 2.0 and pick out chic outfits.

These were some of our favorites from the show, but it was hard to choose just a few!  See more pic’s on Facebook and let us know which is your fave!!!

Rompers are so in this season.  I just recently bought one and love it, although I’ve quickly determined they need to incorporate snaps at the bottom like a onesie (for those of you who don’t know what I’m talking about, those are those leg-less infant outfits that snap at the bottom) for easier bathroom visits.  This floral one is cute too, plus love the mirror studded bag along with it as it shows you can mix studs and floral prints, which at first thought would seem mismatched.

I like how this dress strikes a balance between dressy, but not too much.  It solves the problem of when you’re going somewhere and not really sure if you’re going to wind up being the only one over or under dressed.

What I like most about this corset and shorts combo is the ruffle at the bottom of the corset.  How many times have you thought about buying a fashion corset, but then reconsidered as it might be too binding and uncomfortable?  With the ruffle at the bottom, you don’t get that constricting feel, plus it hides the tummy well if that’s your problem area, while still looking sexy and trendy.  This is also a great look to dress up with studded heels or down with flat or low-wedge sandals.

How cute is this metallic strapless dress???  The model looked great in this, especially with the sunglasses, plus you could easily throw a cropped jacket or sweater over this once it gets a little cooler out (I know, don’t really want to think about that right about now, but I had to mention it).

ShopAkira 2.0 Fashion Show is a post from: Violet Revolution

- Summer Sample Sale at Clever Alice 1920 N. Damen in Bucktown. 4 days only Thursday June 24th- Sunday June 27th of up to 75% off French designer MC Planet, Porto from San Francisco, Vassalli from Italy and more. Summer stock of flirty dresses, sexy tops, fitted tees, skirts not found in Chicago.

- Chicago fashion staple Akira is celebrating the launch of Shop Akira 2.0 – their fabulous new website with tons of stylish items up for grabs! Betsey Johnson, Converse, Dolce Vita, Jeffrey Campbell, L.A.M.B. and Sam Edelman are just a fraction of the brands you can find both in any Akira store and online. Come and enjoy a night of festive fashion and mingle with the Chicago fashion set Friday June 25th 7 p.m. at Griffin Lounge 326 W. Chicago Ave. in beautiful Downtown Chicago. And be sure you stick around for the *Fashion Show starting at 9 PM*! You’ll get to see all of the latest styles available at Akira. Download this flyer for free entry! RSVP to: events@shopakira.com

- Hubba Hubba’s Yappy Hour June 25th from 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Bring your canine friend and enjoy 20% off full-priced merchandise, network & shop with people & pups from the area, wine and people snacks served, treat your pooch to delicious snack samplings from Zane & Zara’s & Three Dog Bakery. Guests receive coupons & gift certificates to Zane & Zara’s and a goody bag from Blum Animal Hospital. Information about helping a local shelter, Chicago Canine Rescue, provided!

- CUSP by Neiman Marcus in store at Northbrook Court or Water Tower Place or online save as much as 55% off when you take and extra 25% off already reduced prices + free shipping at any price! Sale going on now until July 5th, you don’t want to miss it!

-Chicago’s only traveling designer sample sale Re.Stock returns to the West Loop 901 W. Madison St.!  Weekend sales are open to the public Friday June 25th from 12-6 p.m. and Saturday & Sunday 12-5 p.m.! June’s featured designers include Kensie Denim, Colcci, JLee Silver, Interlud, Serpico & more!

- JLee Silver & Paoo Trunk Show Saturday June 26th 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. at Cerato Boutique 3451 N. Southport. Exclusive one day only- shop new designs & merchandise from JLee Silver & Paoo.  Receive a 25$ gift card toward future purchase when you spend $250 or more. Plus gift bags for the first 10 purchasers!

- Highland Park Festival of Fine Craft a premier showcase for the finest in Contemporary Craft sponsored by The Art Center of Highland Park. Saturday June 26th & Sunday June 27th from 10 a.m.-5 p.m Sheridan Road between Central and Elm. Highland Park Fine Craft Festival has an established reputation for quality and creativity at the highest level showcasing designers such as egjewelry.

- Eclectica Boutique 20% off clothing, jewelry, handbags, & accessories, including new arrivals, custom orders & already reduced prices! One week only June 29th- July 6th 1006 W. Armitage. Eclectica offers a contemporary mix of sleek and sophisticated ready-to-wear designs from Vika and Orlando Espinoza, complimented by exotic handcrafted handbags from Diego Rocha and fine jewelry designs from desginers like Manon.

- Girl’s Night Out! Come enjoy a special night of fashion and pampering at Viktoria’s Closet Monday, June 28th, 7pm-10pm 2482 N. Lincoln Ave. All guests will enjoy Free facials and sexy eye looks with the latest Mary Kay Anti- Aging products and mineral colors, professional manicures, & personal stylist consultations. Plus huge sales including 30-70% off the entire store and all Mary Kay products! Mingle and Network while enjoying champagne, wine, & appetizers. Gifts for all who attend & a chance to win free products and accessories!

- Objets d’Envy is excited to showcase new summer jewelry featuring clusters of crystals and gorgeous chains. These are pieces that can transform the simplest of outfits. There will be brand new styles introduced on this night. As a special thank you to all Objets clients, receive one free signature cocktail with any jewelry purchase. This is a not-to-miss event filled with fashion, food and fun! We heart our customers! A Customer Appreciation Event for fans of Objets d’Envy and Province Restaurant Wednesday June 30th 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. 161 N. Jefferson St. at Randolph. RSVP kindly requested to kirsten@objetsdenvy.com.

- Anna Hovet Signature Tee Release Party at Black Market Caviar 1945 W. Chicago Ave. Thursday July 1st 6p.m.-10. p.m. Mark your calenders this is gonna be a great party, come check out the launch of 3 new styles!

Deals and Events This Weekend is a post from: Violet Revolution

Okay, so I always tend to lean toward dresses for these types of events because a) they’re easy and b) they’re your best bet if you don’t want to be too warm or too cold as you can always layer or un-layer if need be.  These lightweight drop waist dresses are in right now and perfect if the weather is a little cooler and not suitable for something sleeveless.  This one is in black but they also are easy to find in denim or khaki.  I love this purple feather printed tunic as it’s perfect to wear alone or with leggings underneath.  For a warmer day (or if you’re just going to brave it no matter what the temperature), try this braided one shoulder dress which can easily take you from day to night, should you have the stamina to continue the festivities into the wee hours.

If you’re not a dress girl, rompers will offer you a trendy alternative this season.  Here’s a comfy racerback capri length jumper (rompers are have a short bottom, jumpers have a pant bottom) that you can easily accessorize with a trendy belt, long necklaces and cute shoes.  This deep-v black one by Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent is also versatile, but for more romper picks, check out my lookbook.

You can never go wrong with good ‘ol shorts and jeans.  How cute would this fun tunic be with these striped boyfriend shorts, or this floral embroidered peasant top with white denim capris?

Here’s an example of one of the dresses from above with cute shoes, and a cute bag:

What to Wear: Wells Street Art Festival is a post from: Violet Revolution

- Check out this slideshow put together by our friends at NBC Chicago of drink specials and other events happening around the city in honor of SATC2!

- Carrie On Citywide Shoe Shopping Tour on Sunday, May 30th from 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm.  Starts off from the SL Sports Lounge in the South Loop Hotel.  Shuttle service is provided on this tour which includes shoe shopping, signature commemorative gift, gifts with purchase and more!  Featured stores: Lori’s, Akira, House of Sole and others.  The tour is $42 per person and you can reserve tickets by clicking here. 

Non-SATC (although equally fabulous!) promo’s and events this weekend:

- Women’s Warehouse Sale this Saturday and Sunday at cityblue apparel & denim in OLD TOWN 1444 N. Wells St. from 10am-12pm.  Designer denim as low as $25!  

- Click here to learn how to get 10% off at Cerato Boutique throughout the month of May.  That means this is the LAST weekend to save…lucky for you it’s a 3-day one. 

- Save 20% on Evil Kitty‘s designs online with my promo code (LAST Weekend to save…offer only good until June 1st!).

- Save 40% Or More On Select Merchandise at Chalk Boutique‘s Blue Ribbon Sale at 2611 Prarie Ave. in Evanston.  Starting at 10:00am on Saturday, May 29th.

- Randolph Market Festival and Chicago Indie Designer Market in the Historic Plumbers Union Building at 1340 W. Washington, Chicago IL this Saturday and Sunday, May 29th-30th, 10 AM- 5 PM (4 PM on Sunday).  Spend the day and find art, fashion, vintage treasures, antiques; plus food, drinks, and music.  Admission is $9 online/$12 at the door.

- Pay Sophia Forero and Susan Elizabeth Designs a visit while perusing through art this Saturday and Sunday, May 29th-30th, at the Barrington Art Festival from 10am-5pm.  To view more of their designs, click here.

Deals and Events This Weekend is a post from: Violet Revolution

If it’s nice: Some cute dresses, like this red tank and striped skirted dress is breezy and fun for a BBQ or strolling around the city paired with flats.  You can dress this safari tube dress up by pairing with gladiator heels, or down with ankle cuff flats.  I also really like this a-line tank dress by Anna Sui.  It’s simple, there’s some beading at the neckline so you don’t even have to worry about finding a necklace, and you can dress up or down, depending on where you’re going.  Or for a non-dress look, this sequin-front jersey tank would be cute with these cropped “balsamic” (interesting name for a shade of pants) pants or gold zipper shorts.  I also absolutely love this La Rok cascading ribbons zipper tank — so cute to wear out to a bar or party, but you could keep it casual for day by pairing it with a fun skirt. 

If it’s not-so-nice: I personally would stick with jeans, as I never know how cold I’ll be in leggings and chancing that I can tough it out in a dress isn’t my idea of a good time.  You’ll need some stylish tops to go with them, of course!  This dolman sleeve pullover is a nice casual piece to wear to take in a movie or hang in at a casual get-together.  Or how about a simple, yet stylish soft tee tunic from SHE Boutique?  I could see this worn alone with jeans, or even some printed leggings.  Add a belt for a slimming look.  (Tip: The studded number I linked to has elastic so it will hug your shape and fit a variety of sizes.)  Another cute, casual style is going Bohemian with this silk top from Lucky Brand.  Any of these tops could be paired with these creme straight leg jeans or go for the ‘ol blue standby.  This bootcut pair isn’t too flared at the bottom so it would work with the boho top, but definitely the other two as well. 

If it’s naughty and nice: What this means is the day starts out cold and turns warmer or vice-versa.  In other words: layer.  If you’re really brave, try pairing a romper or this polka-dot bustier dress with a cardigan such as this metallic frosted white cardigan, or play it a little safer and pair it with a jumper instead, such as this easy to dress up or down, wide-leg halter one.

And if we encounter a little rain, brave it out in style with either Vaute Couture’s adorable ruffle indigo windbreaker (as seen in my StyleChicago article!) or this batwing polka-dot lined rain cape at Penelope’s.

What to Wear on Memorial Day Weekend is a post from: Violet Revolution

Generra Dress

AG Ponti Cropped Leggings

Seychelles jeweled sandals

Cheap Monday cats-eye sunglasses

The Brelli

Beverage Citronella Candles

Recycled Dent Pitcher & cups

Lookbook: Memorial Day Warm Wishes is a post from: Violet Revolution