The Chanel That Was

As an Instagram addict, I saw a lot of bloggers posting photos about the bags they acquired last year, 2017. Well, 2017 has been a good year and I have also purchased my dream Chanel bag- The Classic Flap Bag. So this inspired me to write a blog about my Chanel purchases from 2017, Chanel addict here! Okay, it’s not a lot but I’m truly contented of my Chanel collection right now. Well, almost! Still saving up for my next Chanel dream bag. 

My first Chanel purchase for the year 2017 was in February, a valentines gift for myself, a red colour nail polish.

I got this dream bag on my birthday and I’m so loving it. From the materials to the design, it’s the perfect bag! I admit, I wouldn’t mind having more of The Classic Flap Bag in different colours. I’m not really a fan of the Chanel perfumes, just not really my scent but when I accidentally tried the Allure at a duty free shop, it brings back memories. Then I remembered I already used this perfume back in college. Now, I’m loving the Allure smell, very alluring indeed.

These sunglasses were actually a Christmas present from my Swedish family. Well, let me tell you the story, my second family gave me money as my Christmas gift so I went straight to Chanel boutique. Lol! I’m really happy to have my first ever Chanel sunglasses. And my last Chanel purchase, The Coco Mademoiselle Fresh Moisture Mist. I was gifted a small perfume tester and I so love the smell but I took the mist because it's so fresh and lighter than the perfume.

So here are my Chanel purchases, what’s yours? Crossing my fingers to have more Chanel this year and be able to buy my second dream Chanel bag.

Want to see more of my Chanel collection? Click here and here.

Kisses

My Lovely Vintage Finds in Bangkok

Yes, I love vintage... Vintage cars, vintage Chanel, vintage costume jewelry and sometimes, vintage apparels. I have always been enamored of the 1920's, the epoch full of sophistication, elegance and great sense of style. With my antique taste, I do believe I'm an old soul. Vintage fashion would always stir my curiosity and keep me wondering how the previous owners would glamorously don the lovely pieces.

Since I've been to Bangkok countless times, I have discovered some wonderful vintage places around the city and I wouldn't call it thrifting as these are trendy vintage boutiques. So today's blog, I'm going to show you some of my gorgeous luxury vintage finds.


I. Burberry Scarf and Fendi Hanky.

I got these vintage Burberry scarf and Fendi hanky for US $10 each at Eco Shop in Terminal 21. The Fendi hanky is a perfect bag accessory, use it like a twilly or just tie it around the bag handle. The Burberry, I normally use as a neck scarf and I just love the book print.


II. Karen Millen Dress

The story behind this dress is funny! While out with friends in Bangkok, I needed a scarf badly since that night was a little chilly. Told them I will just look for a cheap scarf on the street but there wasn't. And since we're close to Terminal 21, so I just went there to look for a scarf but I found this dress instead, fell in love and bought it! But I made a lot of changes to this chiffon dress. Bought it for US $50 at Basement of Samantha, a vintage fashion shop in Terminal 21.

This is how the dress looks after I redesigned it.

III. Chanel Travel Line Handbag

You wouldn't believe how much I paid for this CHANEL handbag! I bought it for US $75, it was actually US $100 but I haggled so I got it for that price! And yes, authenticated and it's original! The bag was actually damaged on the bottom part so have to send it at a bag spa to have it repaired but then the outcome is perfect.

A Look For Less: Shopping in Ho Chi Minh City

One of the things I have learned from my classy grandmother Marina, It's better to be overdressed than to be underdressed. So whenever I go out, I always try to look good not for anyone else but for myself. Since my teenage years, I was already interested in fashion and style. In fact, when I was 14, I modeled for a local designer in my hometown. 

And my motto, I'd rather have a few clothes but with quality than having too many but breaks quickly. So let me tell you my secret on where to shop good quality designer clothes in Ho Chi Minh City. 

As I have mentioned in my previous blog post, Ho Chi Minh is one of the best shopping destinations in South East Asia. Being the factory hub to many International brands like Zara, Mango, Michael Kors, North Face, Nike and a lot more, you can find these brands in the market for half or even one-third of the retail price. Also, since most of these products came straight from the factory, you cannot guarantee to have your size available as sometimes they only come in a few or a piece.

For instance, some years ago, I was lucky to have found an original Tory Burch Travel Flats in my size. I bought at Lucky Plaza for about 100 USD and online it costs 250 USD.

The Kardashian Kollection jacket was also bought in Lucky Plaza for 15 USD
and the Tory Burch Flats for 100 USD.

230 Euros At ToryBurch.Com

If you're looking for winter clothes, sports wear or sports shoes, Russian Market is the best place to go. And for you ladies, the best place to shop for shoes and dresses is Lucky Plaza.

Barbour is an English luxury and high quality brand. In fact, it is a favorite of the British Royal Family. When I was in Scotland a year ago, I went to a luxury shop called House of Bruar. The cheapest Barbour Jacket in the shop was about 180 GBP (230 USD). If you're lucky, did you know you can find them in Russian Market? And you wouldn't believe the price, sold for only 60 USD and yes, ORIGINAL!

These corsets are from La Senza and Victoria's Secret, also can be found in Russian Market. For those who asked me about Victoria's Secret, I took this photo for you! ;)

I found this Zara Leather High Heel Sandals for about 30 USD in Russian Market, which by the way, is still on their website for double the price.

Russian Market:  328 Võ Văn Kiệt, Cô Giang, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam.

Lucky Plaza Shopping Market: 38 Nguyễn Huệ, 69 Đồng Khởi, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

Shopping for friends and family in Europe.

If you're interested of making me your personal shopper, email me at rizlle@yahoo.com

Cacdemode Swim

It was a great privilege to be part of Cacdemode's Buns in the Sun. The event took place at Thao Dien in hustling and bustling, Ho Chi Minh City.

Cacdemode is local Vietnamese brand specializing in modern and uniquely-designed swimwear. Just perfect for any beach party or pool theme occasions. And since it's already summer in Asia, Ms. Cac Lam the creative director of Cacdemode turned an idea into reality about doing a Summer Squad Goals video wearing the latest designs from Cacdemode Swim.

If you want to own one of these lovely swimwear, visit www.cacdemode.com. 

My Chanel Collection Part Deux

If you're following me on Instagram, you will know that I'm an avid fan of the French luxury brand Chanel. The reason why I became a Chanel lover, as described on my first blog, is because of my mother.

My favorite Chanel pieces are from the 80's and 90's as I am really into vintage Chanel. Most of my Chanel accessories and bags were bought online or in a vintage shop during my travels abroad.

Since I wrote my first blog about my Chanel collection which was two years ago, here's an update of my growing collection.

I really like the black bucket bag (from Chanel Cosmetics) but I regret I didn't buy the big one. I first saw it in Sydney, Australia some years ago but I didn't buy. So happy I saw them again in Bangkok, Thailand. The shoes behind are really cute but I haven't use them yet.

The Jumbo Half Moon Caviar Bag behind was a birthday gift for myself. Really happy when I found it by accident, the moment I saw I said Yep I'll have that bag. :)

These are my costume jewelry earrings collection from the 70's, 80's 90's and now. My favorite earrings are the Christmas tree, very unique and rare. The bag behind is my first Chanel purchase.

My latest Chanel purchase! These are vintage and I love it. :)

If you want to see more of my Chanel collection, follow me on Instagram.

For the Love of Vintage Paris

During my short visit to Paris last month, I made sure to squeeze in a trip to at least one vintage shop. I have read from different blogs about their magnificent Paris Flea Market finds but sadly these flea markets are only open on the weekends.

I went to Réciproque, as it was recommended by Olivia Palermo on her blog, to check on their vintage Chanel pieces. The shop is located at Rue de la Pompe and from where I'm staying (Boulevard Hausmann), it only took 7 stops via the Metro. Réciproque is one of the biggest consignment shops or dépôts-vente in Paris. When I stepped into the shop, it felt like coming into a fashion heaven with arrays of Chanel, Dior, Givenchy, Hermés, Louis Vuitton, Christian Louboutin and many more.

Like a kid in a candy store, I was confused and couldn't decide which row to start first. Luckily, one of the owners of Réciproque was there and very helpful. Although my objective of this vintage tour is to find vintage Chanel earrings, I ended up shopping Gianvito Rossi wedge sandals and a new Hermés silk scarf.

With one of the owners of Reciproque.

My lovely Reciproque finds!

Reciproque Dépôt Vente
Address: 95 Rue de la Pompe, 75116 Paris, France

Tel: +33 1 47 04 30 28

Grand Opening of Mango Mega Store in Ho Chi Minh City

Yesterday, it was truly a great pleasure and a privilege to be invited to the grand opening of a Mango Mega Store at Vincom Center in Ho Chi Minh City.

Upon arriving at the event, I handed my invitation and they gave me a Mango Goodie Bag. Then I looked around the shop to see their latest collection. The new Mango Mega Store in Vincom Center is huge.

Photo from Facebook

As guests starts to arrive, food and beverage was served. The store was packed with guests like bloggers, the media and a lot of famous Vietnamese celebrities also promoting the event but my incomprehension of Vietnam's show business, I'm totally oblivious. Though I had my photo taken with a Vietnamese singer, Phuong, who performed that night.

The event started Phuong singing a song from Bruno Mars ''Just the way you are'' and at the same time, models walked around the store to feature Mango's new collection for men and women.

Photo from ngoisao.net

Photo from ngoisao.net

Mango Kids also showcased their latest collection. Cute Vietnamese models walked confidently around the shop to show the guests their outfit.

Photo from ngoisao.net

The event ended with a raffle draw and great prizes like six winners of 250 USD worth Mango voucher as the 3rd prize, Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge as the 2nd prize and for the grand prize winner, a Samsung Flat Screen TV. Sadly, I'm never lucky with raffles.

#ootn

Dress: Soaked in Luxury

Shoes: Christian Louboutin

Bag: Chanel

Accessories: Trollbeads

Ideas for Empty Spaces/Corners

Convert empty spaces/corners into something fun and useful.
For instance, if you are dreaming of having your own walk-in closet, you don't have to utilize a big area or even a room for it. And especially if you have a tiny place, make an awkward space in your room into an open closet wherein you can finally decorate your clothes, handbags, shoes and accessories.

An enjoyable Do-It-Yourself activity and you don't have to spend a lot of money. You can even reuse old cabinets from the storage; recycle shabby furniture and paint them with rustic or vibrant colors; or simply purchase a cheap bookshelf from IKEA.

Last year, I turned a dead space at our apartment in Saigon into a corner closet. And for about $100 US, I was able to conveniently display my favorite or most-used accessories, bags and shoes. Definitely an accessible and tidy way without digging through my whole closet.

All You Need:
Shelf
Rack
Small Carpet/Rag
Screws
Hooks
Screw Gun

My Vintage Love Affair

My love for vintage started when I went out shopping with my grandmother. She loves vintage and would always go to Thrift and Vintage shops. I was in high school when my grandmother asked me to accompany her to a thrift shop and at that age, vintage wasn't really my thing! I was more into pink and glitter but then my concept for vintage changed during that trip. 

When I became interested with fashion and style, I was drooling over some of the lovely designer pieces I saw on Fashion TV or in the magazines but at that time, I couldn't afford to buy expensive designer clothes so I would go to a thrift shop. Although I'm not always successful of my trips to thrift/vintage shops but whenever I do, I would always find something really amazing. 

Whenever I travel and if I have time, I would go to an antique or vintage shops to look if there's something for me. What I'm really interested in is vintage costume jewelry. I love to collect gorgeous pieces of vintage costume jewelry of any designer but I guess my favorite would be Chanel because of the bold and eccentric design, although I only have 1 vintage Chanel earrings since the others were bought new. I wish my next visit to a vintage shop, I would find a nice Chanel earrings or brooch. ;) 

Below are some of my good finds during my thrifting adventures.

This is a Versace sweater, one of my favorite vintage finds! Got it some years ago at a thrift shop in the Philippines for about 5 USD.

Got these Trifari earrings for 5USD each at a Vintage Jewelry shop in Saigon.

I got this Anne Klein necklace for 10 USD, also bought at a vintage shop in Saigon.

This Marcel Broucher bug brooch (10USD) was also acquired at a vintage jewelry shop in Saigon. 

London Musicals

As the capital of one the most powerful countries in the world, London is not only rich in history but as well as performing arts. Known for its magnificent theatre, the vibrant city hosts many musicals that will surely make your trip unforgettable.

This spring, my husband and I were crazy enough to consecutively watch two musicals during our 3-day trip in London. The first night, we headed to Prince Edward Theatre to see Miss Saigon. I wanted to see Miss Saigon because many of the casts are from the Philippines. Miss Saigon is a love story about a young Vietnamese girl and an American soldier that occurred during the Vietnam War and even though it has a tragic ending, it is one of the best musicals I have ever seen.

While preparing for the Musical date. :)

Outside the theatre and very, very excited for my first London Musical.

Inside Prince Edward Theatre, patiently waiting for the show.

The second night, we watched Les Misérables at the Queen's Theatre. Originally a French historical novel written by Victor Hugo, the musical elaborates upon the history of France, politics, moral philosophy, anti-monarchism, justice, religion, and love. Les  Misérables is definitely a must-watch musical if you're into history.

Outside the Queen's Theatre, the musical was packed.

Glad to have watched Les Miserables- The world's longest running musical.

:)

So when you're in London or planning a trip to the city, never miss a chance to check the musicals.

West End Theatre

#ootn

Dress: Hervé Léger

Shoes: Asos

Bag: Chanel

Coat: Bershka

Necklace: Zara

Earrings: Silver Amber from Lithuania

Watch: Tissot

My Chanel Collection!

Ever since I was a kid, I have already heard about the Luxury brand CHANEL. I knew about it because my mother uses Chanel No.5 perfume, Chanel make-up and has a gorgeous red Chanel bag with the famous CC logo. I could still remember sneaking into her bedroom and tried one of her Chanel lipsticks.

I became interested with fashion and style during my University years. I used to save my allowance to be able to buy stylish clothes and of course, I also borrow designer bags from my mother. At that time, I still can't afford to buy designer brands so I go to second hand shops/flea market hunting for high-end designer clothes like Ralph Lauren, Oscar de la Renta, Versace, Emanuel Ungaro, DKNY, Calvin Klein, Morgan de toi, etc.

But my love for designer brands started when I was working as a flight attendant. My first designer purchase was a Louis Vuitton monogram neverfull MM. It has been with me for almost 7 years and I'm still happy using it. But I guess my most expensive purchase was a Bvlgari 18K white-gold earrings from a fellow flight attendant who used to work at the legal department of a big jewelry company in the Philippines. And the rest is history.

Lately, I have been really into vintage Chanel. It's not because it's a luxury brand or it's expensive but I just find Chanel very classy and elegant. I also adore Coco Chanel's style and I love the vintage Chanel designs. So as a beginner, here are my few Chanel make-up collection and some vintage pieces.

Most of my Chanel Make-up were bought at Galleries Lafayette in Paris.

The CC pearl drop earrings was purchased in Chanel Singapore and the vintage gold earrings with pearl was bought online.

My first Chanel bag, 2.55 Reissue Suede Patchwork, was bought at a vintage shop in Bangkok. Expensive but I'm very happy. :)

Right now, I'm just crazy searching for the beautiful vintage Chanel bags and accessories from the 80's and 90's. Hope my collection will grow quickly. LOL!

A Wardrobe Staple: Little Black Dress

My husband and I always find time to go on a date. We believe that going out on a date not only solidifies the relationship but also builds a happy marriage. We have been married for many years but every time we go out for dinner or have a glass of wine or go to the opera, I still feel excited like it's our first date. And we have this quirky tradition that started when we were still dating, we dress up!

A little black dress is a staple for every woman's wardrobe. It doesn't have to be expensive, as long as it's classy and it looks good on you then it should be among your clothing items. Black dresses usually hide flaws and highlight your attributes. During the day, you can wear it with a scarf or a cardigan or bolero or jacket and some flats and for date nights,wear it with high heels and some accessories.

During our Holiday in Spain some months ago, my husband and I went back to Torrevieja Marina to have dinner at the Italian Restaurant.

#ootn
Little Black Dress: Forever 21
Shoes: Yves Saint Laurent
Bag: Prada
Accessories: Tissot Watch; Ruby Earrings; Silver Bangles

The Alhambra of Granada

The Alhambra of Granada depicts a rich boundless history. The eminence of its beauty influenced many great authors like Washington Irving, Paulo Coelho, Salman Rushdie, Philippa Gregory and many others to write novels set in The Alhambra. Many musicians and composers wrote songs about its magnificence. And numerous movies were filmed in its grandeur walls.

Th Alhambra (al-qala’a al-hamra), an Arabic name which means ''the red castle'', was originally built as a fortress in the 9th century. Many years later, the fortress was abandoned and left to crumble. However, in the mid-11th century, a Nasrid ruler named Mohammed ben Al-Ahmar restored the old fortress by adding the palace and walls. His successors proceeded with the reconstruction but it was not until the 13th century The Alhambra became a royal residence. Sultan Yusuf I of Granada constructed the Gate of Justice, Chamber of the Ambassadors (Throne Room), The Baths of Comares and some of the Towers. His son Muhammed V, completed the embellishment of the Royal Palace and added the Court of the Lions.

In 1481, the Emirate of Granada reclaimed the Castillian town, Zahara de la Sierra and this regain gave the Castillians the pretense to invade Granada. The last Nasrid ruler of Granada, Muhammad XII was convened by the Catholic Monarch, King Ferdinand II of Argon and Queen Isabella of Castille to surrender Granada. The Muslim ruler capitulated the Emirate of Granada in 1492 without The Alhambra of being attacked and destroyed by the Castillians. After the Christian conquest, the Alhambra mosque was changed into a church and a convent was built. Emperor Charles V, grandson of the Catholic Monarch, replaced some of the interior of the palace.

After many centuries of being forgotten and disclaimed, The Alhambra was occupied by vagrants and robbers. The rediscovery of Alhambra in the 19th century, prompted its renovation and development. Today, Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Spain's Major Attraction.


The Alhambra of Granada
Address: Calle Real de la Alhambra, s/n, 18009 Granada, Spain
Coordinates: 37° 10′ 0″ N, 3° 35′ 24″ W
Admission: 15€

#ootd
Dress: BCBGMaxAzria
Bag: Prada
Shoes: Salvador Artesano
Accessories: Silver from Spanish Market