Chimere Nicole, Author at Chimere Nicole ⋆ Page 19 of 34

Femininity: Five Ways To Become More Feminine

June 14, 2021 lifestyle

As a woman I never paid too much attention to the concept of femininity and the role it plays in my day to life. I mean I just figured, I’m a woman, hear me roar right? Wrong. I will be the first to say I was very rough around the edges and although I’ve come to love and embrace those aspects of my personality I also wanted to embark on a path of femininity. All of those years of being a tomboy growing up left a huge impact on me.

So I’ve made an effort to not only grow as a person but to embrace my own femininity, and today I am sharing five ways you can become more feminie.

As I mentioned in a previous post, this year is very personal for me as I am leveling up my entire life. I’m making it a priority to address all the areas of my life in which I feel I can improve and systematically doing so. This is just one of many ways in which to do so.

Femininity is very subjective and will vary from person to person. As it relates to me and my journey it means embracing my womanhood and everything that encompasses.

Here are just a few steps I’m taking on my path of becoming more femine.

How to become more feminine-Chimere Nicole

Hat HERE, Shirt Similar, Similar, Jeans HERE, Shoes HERE, Bag HERE

Updating My Signatures

There are many things in my life that are staples or “signatures” to me. This includes my style, my smell, hairstyles, and much more. As I take this journey of femininity I’m embracing chance. This includes all of these areas. My style is very much relaxed with a touch of glam here and there. I mean, I am a queen. However, most days you will find me lounging around in jeans and a t- shirt living my best life. Not to say nothing is wrong with this but I have tons of wardrobe I can wear and I’m going to be doing just that. So if you happen to see me at the grocery store with pearls and a suit just wave lol.

As a hairstylist I change my looks quite often however lately it has been kind of boring if you ask me. I haven’t added any color or changed the length in a while. I’m definitely going to be changing this asap. You will be surprised what a new hairstyle can do to boost your mood.

I also have 2-3 perfumes I grab throughout the week and they have become my go to. Even though I own tons I always grab the same ones. I have no idea why. It’s even gotten to the point my clients know what scents I’m wearing lol. No ma’am, time to switch it all the way up. I recently was gifted the new Chanel perfume and perfect for day to day wear. It’s soft yet, feminine and my husband loves it.

Here are a few of my new favorites,

Chanel Chance

Baccarat Rouge 540

YSL Black Opium Eau

Silk and Satins

When you have kids, cotton is king lol. My kids love touching me while they’re eating cheetos lol. As a result, I’ve stayed away from fabrics that stain easily. Recently I’ve been falling in love with satin and silk materials. These fabrics are breathable, can be worn dressed up or down, and so extremely femine. They just hug the body so effortlessly, and accentuate your curves.

Silk is a material I use for my investment pieces. These are items that I will never sell and continue to wear for 5 years or more. These are often my shirts and dresses. They will cost you a bit more however, they are staples in your closet. You will be able to average the cost of each piece over the year span.

My go to at the moment is satin as it is available everywhere, and has a really great price point for any budget. If you want to level up your wardrobe this year I recommend adding these fabrics to your closet asap. You will be seeing tons of these pieces here on the blog as well as my instagram very soon.

Here are a few of my favorite pieces.

Hygiene Routine Overhaul

Your beauty routine is something that is very personal and can vary each day or each week. I needed to overhaul my beauty routine to include better quality products for my skin and products for my mental health. Yes, your beauty routine can aid in your overall well being. When I look my best, I feel my best. So investing into my hygiene is a must.

It’s all about embracing everything that makes you feel fabulous.

I take one day out of the week and focus on everything that will help me relax, detox, and much more. Long hot soaks in the tube, bubbles and champagne. Yes, even if that means a Wednesday. The day doesn’t matter just as long as you make it a priority.

Oh and don’t forget the candles.

This means detoxing my body by fasting. Detoxing my mind by unplugging from social media and praying. I also detox my skin. Exfoliating and steam treatments are my go to each week and I upgraded the products I’m currently using.

Some of my current beauty favorites will be listed below.

Literature Is Queen

When was the last time you read a book for pleasure? I read a quote that said “If you want to hide information from people, place it in a book”. I think this holds true, especially in today’s digital age. We don’t read anymore. So I decided to include at least one book to read for pleasure each week. For me it is harlequin novels. Don’t judge my life choices lol, this is my personal favorite at the moment. I’m a sucker for a love story. But the fact remains the same, reading helps with better brain function, vocabulary, and can be very stimulating.

There is something to be said about spending quality time with yourself getting lost in your thoughts that we don’t praise enough. As women we often give of ourselves quite a bit to the point we have nothing left. So on my path to femininity I am learning to pour back into myself as often as I can. Reading is a great way to do so, adding a glass of wine also makes it 10x’s better..

Building A Mysterious

I’ve been on social media for quite some time, especially YouTube. Sharing my life, my beauty tips and everything in between. As of late my goal is to work a bit more behind the scenes and become more of a mystery. I find that the key to becoming more femine is not sharing or exposing so much about ourselves. Leave a bit to the imagination. This includes our personality, character, and yes, even our bodies.

I may not speak for everyone when I say this but, why would anyone want to buy the cow when you can get the milk for free?

Am I aging myself when I say this lol? Simply put, if you are showcasing everything to the world then what is the incentive to get to know you? What else can you offer that is exclusive? Give them something to chase and inquire about. As it relates femininity, I find that the the opposite sex, or even the same sex finds it very appealing when you leave a bit to the imagination.

Think of it this way, when you shop you don’t shop with the mindset I want to wear what everyone else wears. I want something exclusive to me. So when I wear it it’s new to everyone else. That way I can show it off knowing no one has seen or experienced it before. Right. Same thing applies to this scenario, keep a bit of mystery about yourself, that way you have so much more to offer people who deserve to be a part of your inner circle. Everything isn’t for everyone.

I plan on talking a bit more about my journey, and I’ve already done a previous post HERE about some of the other wonderful changes I’ve been making lately. Remember, femininity is very subjective and its going to vary from person to person so keep that in mind if you plan on starting your own journey.

How To Look Expensive On A Budget

June 1, 2021 fashion, lifestyle

You want the look for less right? Well, honey I’m here to let you know, money can’t buy style and having a great wardrobe is possible. Designer clothes aren’t always stylish nor does it always make you look put together. You don’t have to spend hours online looking for designer dupes or waiting for sales on you favorite designers. Learn to incorporate some of my tips into your shopping routines to get the expensive look on a budget. Remember style isn’t about designer its about showing your uniqueness and personality.

Quality over quantity

I recently did a complete wardrobe over and realized I had way too many items that were fast fashion pieces. What do I mean by fast fashion? These are items that are trending at the moment but in 6-12 months I would not be able to wear them or better yet, after a few washes they would not hold up. So instead of purchasing so many trendy pieces I know focus on items that are quality material. One quality made dress is better than 5 cheap ones that only last 6 months.

After calculating the cost, yes these items still had tags attached. I could have purchased some blazers from Zara, dress pants, and more. The blazer I’m looking at is a wool blend, very chic and will be in my wardrobe for years to come. Instead, I’m packing up these items to donate because they are out of style and don’t fit my style aesthetic. Staple pieces over inexpensive trendy items.

Avoid spandex and synthetic blends

I love a good bodycon dress. Especially for date nights and vacations. However, if you want to look expensive try to loosen up the dresses and choose a better quality fabric. Silk and satin fabrics just scream luxury and won’t break the bank. You can dress them up or down depending on the shoe selection and adding layers like an overcoat or blazer will further dress up the look. Also be sure that whatever material you choose flatters your body type. Again, not too tight and not too loose that you can’t see your figure.

Tailor your wardrobe

One of my top recommendations for being bougie on a budget. Tailoring your wardrobe is by far the best ways to look expensive on a budget. A well tailored pair of pants does wonders to any outfit. I myself have to get my pants tailored due to length and waist measurements. Thus, I need to size up and have the waist taken in. Tailoring your pieces is like applying a fitted blanket to your bed. It just lays beautifully. The perfect fit and looks stunning.

It’s not as expensive as you may think. Honestly, think about the amount of pants you currently own that you don’t wear because they don’t they don’t fit properly. Add up the cost of each pair. Now do you see what I mean? I usually spend an additional $7- $15 per pair and I wear them for years. Totally worth the investment.

Change your wardrobe colors. Nudes, gem tone color. Rich with pigments.

I will be the first to admit I am a sucker for black. I mean I wear it to work each day at the salon and it has been a part of my wardrobe for years. But in order to look expensive I have learned to add nude jewel toned pieces to chic up the look. My favorites have been adding fuschia, emerald, and my favorite tone, nude. Depending on your skin tone, nude colors will vary and this is why I love nude so much.

Let’s imagine for a second, you took those favorite pair of tailored dress pants, added a flowy fuchsia top and paired it with your favorite dress pants. OMG. I can see this look costing you less than $100 minus the accessories and shoes. Add a cute belt and it’s a look.

Add texture. Wool, Silk,

Adding different fabrics to your wardrobe also makes your pieces look expensive. You will be surprised what you can find when shopping during the off season. For example. Shopping for fall and winter items in the spring. When stores are trying to move the previous season’s items is when I score the best prices. So those items you want are now 60% – 70% percent off.

Eliminate cottons and think silk, linen, chiffon, lace, and satin. Fabrics that move with the body.

Don’t over accessorize

Ladies, less is more. You will often see me wearing multiple bracelets however, three is my limit and I won’t add any additional statement pieces. I want the eye to look at specific elements of my outfit. Not all over because the look is too busy. Less is more. Find a statement piece and keep the other items to a minimum. Remember this is only if you’re trying to look expensive on a budget.

My personal rule of thumb, if wearing a statement necklace or pendant, keep the earrings small. Think pearls or diamond studs.

These are some of the many ways to look expensive on a budget. Listen, I love my designer brands as much as the next girl. But if I can save a few bucks by implementing the things I shared with you above then I’m a happy camper. Most of the money in my wardrobe is spent on accessories. My handbags and shoes cost the most because I wear them more often.

Learn how I save up for the pieces HERE.

What you should know before purchasing the Saint Laurent Canvas Tote Bag

May 25, 2021 fashion

I was looking for the perfect travel bag for the summertime. I currently have a large Louis Vuitton tote bag that I use while traveling and for everyday wear. Since I’ve been using this bag for a very long time and it was time for me to upgrade. Once I came across the new YSL collection and decided it would be the perfect bag not only for me to travel with but also for the summer. Before making the splurge I needed to do a little bit of research before purchasing. Here are a few things I think you should know before making your purchase of the Saint Laurent Canvas Tote.

During my recent purchase I took a minute to talk to my sales associate and got some really amazing feedback about the new collection and want to share with you a few things if you were in the market to purchase this tote bag.

PRESS PLAY

Pros

Coated Canvas

At the time of my shopping trip they currently have five different colors available. Upon arriving at the store I immediately fell in love with the army green tote bag. To my surprise this bag did not have the coated canvas. This is very important to note.

Out of the entire collection there is only one tote bag that includes a coated canvas. This is very important because if you are like me and are rough with your handbags it is important to note that the coated canvas. It provides you with an extra layer of protection. A friend of mine also has this tote bag and she told me that when she returned from a traveling trip she needed to clean her tote bag. Because of the coated protective layer, it made cleaning up a lot easier.

To remove stains from your tote bag I would highly recommend you take a magic eraser, lightly wet the area you need to clean and apply your magic eraser. Once that step is complete let your tote bag dry and then your stain will be removed.

Size

The size of the Ysl tote bag is perfect. Since I was planning on using it primarily for travel, I needed it to be large enough to store my laptop, some toiletries, and extra clothes if necessary. This bag has enough room to do just that and more.

Leather Handles

This tote comes in two handle colors, brown and black. I purchased the black leather handles. This also prevents the back from getting dirty. Makeup, hand creams and more will destroy the handles on any bag. I would also recommend adding cute silk scarves wrapped around the handles for a pop of color and added protection. I’ve even taken charmes from my other handbags and added them to this bag. Just to jazz it up a bit. You have a ton of options.

The Snap Closures

One of the other highlights to this bag. Most tote bags are designed to stay open and don’t provide adequate security. I love the fact that this page has snaps to keep it closed. They also provide shape to the bag depending on how you would like to wear it.

5. Price

This bag currently retails for $1,250 USD. This is a great price in comparison to other same sized canvas tote bags in this category. I was looking into the Christian Dior tote bag but for the price and the design of the canvas I knew I would get much better usage out of this tote. Not to mention the price, I can’t see myself spending over 3K for a canvas bag from any brand. That’s just my two preference of course. I just know I will be able to use this bag each and every day if I choose to.

Overall this bag is a perfect day to day bag. It works well as a work bag and great as a travel bag. Compared to the other tote bags on the market I feel this one gives you more bang for your buck. It can be worn with almost every outfit and occasion. And styled multiple ways. Just imagine how cute this bag will be on the beach with a large floppy hat and a nice tropical drink. So chic, and I can’t wait.

Here is where you can purchase the same tote,

https://rstyle.me/+Fg-pbfTKIw2FT9iHIodU3A

In Black

https://rstyle.me/+QBJm8RQ6vD4aB1bfEIi5Qw

If you’re interested in learning how I save money to afford my luxury Items, I will include my previous blog post explains how HERE.

Learn How To Save Money And Afford Luxury Handbags

May 20, 2021 fashion, lifestyle

I have been in the process of revamping my entire wardrobe. In doing so I decided to invest in quality pieces that are timeless and can be used throughout the year. Also, I decided to invest in quality accessories including luxury handbags for my collection. So my focus for this year has been luxury brands that are timeless, with great quality and pieces I am able to pass down to my daughters. I want to share with you how I am able to save up money in order to afford luxury handbags.

One of the things I want to share with you today is how I save money in order to be able to afford these luxury items I have been adding to my collection. I do not want you to feel that you are not able to afford luxury brands that you see all over your social media or during those weekend trips to the mall. Black girls can have a luxury as well. If you think it’s not in your budget.

By no means do I think you have to own designer pieces. Style is subject and if you style a $10 handbag you can also style a $1000 bag. But by no means am I implying you have to have luxury brands in your closet. This is just my personal preference.

I have been purchasing luxury bags for quite some time and I have gone about this in many different ways. Many ways include, purchased consignment, directly from the stores, and I have also used layaway options in order to afford the luxury items that I love. Each time I set a budget for each piece and planned accordingly.

For example, My first Chanel bag I wanted to purchase directly from the store, which I did. You know, have the Chanel experience. It was fabulous. White glove service, champagne, you name it. However, I felt so guilty spending that amount of money that I returned it and found the same bag(in the jumbo size) for much less and amazing quality. I have an entire Youtube video unboxing that bag HERE. That’s when I knew preloved bags were for me.

Let’s discuss my top five ways I have been able to afford designer brands on a budget.

I stopped eating out. This included coffee and purchasing lunch. Brown bag me please. You may think that $2 coffee won’t be missed each day but let’s do some simple math.

If you order a basic coffee at $2 a day, 4 times a week that will equal $416. That’s the amount of a small Chanel card holder or preloved wallet. Now imagine if you cut out ordering lunch and coffee each day.

Currently, a salad from most retailers here in New Jersey range from $9-$11 dollars with tax. $8 per day, 5x’s per week. That’s $2,080 just from bringing your own lunch to work. See how small changes can yield a big reward.

Reselling my old clothes and shoes. I use sites like Poshmark to resell my items. You will be surprised at the amount of money you have sitting around in your closet. Those jeans that don’t fit anymore. Or if you’re like me, those items you got in a smaller size for when you lose weight. Time to go. This week alone I came across two items with the tags still attached.
I saved my tip money from work and never counted it. As a hairstylist, I’m blessed to have clients who also pay me gratuities after receiving their hair services. I just save the additional funds and compound on them over time. Again, that extra $5-$10 bucks adds up quickly.
I purchased pre-loved items. This by far has been the best way I have been able to afford designer items. The key is being patient, and being ok with a few imperfections. Remember, it will be preloved which means it won’t always be perfect. Knowing this beforehand and being able to access the quality of the items beforehand will be essential. I have an older post HERE, showing you how I saved over $1500 by buying preloved handbags.

One of my favorite sites even offers a layaway payment plan. And they discount items all the time. I’ll leave my favorite reseller below.

Lastly, I ask for cash on major holidays. Christmas, birthdays, anything special. Everyone knows I love cash and gift cards lol. I saved my Christmas money for 2 years straight to afford one of my purchases.

I also want to share that selling the bags I no longer wear has been another way to get the newest bags I wanted. It’s almost like exchanging for a new bag. However, there have been a few times I made more money than I spent on the bag. This happens when I resell my Louis Vuitton and Chanel items. Everything else is typically a trade in. I sell my items and use that money to fund my newest purchase.

For the past two years I’ve created a separate savings account that I use for these types of purchases. I don’t own a debit card for this account and if I want to withdraw from the account I have to go into the bank. This has helped me not touch these funds and helps manage my money efficiently. I’m one of those people who will find other uses for the money and never treat myself to anything. Not anymore.

I work hard, and deserve nice things. Period.

I had to repeat this to myself time and time again. Now that I believe it I’m able to splurge on the things I love. Without an ounce of regret or guilt.

Here is the website I use the most to purchase preloved designer handbags. They also have a layaway plan, just FYI. Don’t say I never shared my secrets lol. HERE

Become A Better You In 30 Days

May 10, 2021 lifestyle

I am a woman who’s willing to try something at least once. I mean, if you don’t like the end result you can just move on to the next thing right? Well, that’s my perspective anyway. I truly don’t believe in restrictions of any kind. As soon as I feel like I’m being boxed in or my creativity is being minimized I instantly pivot. I’ve been this way all my life and not having an idea as to why I struggled so much with being consistent. Then I realized, it was my time to pivot. It was time to become a better version of myself.

Honestly, doing the same thing day in and day out seems so boring to me. I need to live an abstract, colorful life. Does this also sound like you? Each day should be filled with new challenges and ways to push past your potential. This is why I live the “Girl Yes” lifestyle each day. I’m always looking for ways to level up my life and become greater. My personal goal is to present the best version of myself each and everyday.

Being ambitious requires a level of openness. You have to be moldable and teachable. Being open to learning new things and growing mentally is a skill we should focus on mastering. Wanting something you never had before will require you to do things you’ve never done before.

Now the question is, Are you ready for a new life?

Being willing to challenge your skills and perspective are ideal to saying ‘Yes” to the life you want to lead. Now let me share with you HOW you can start today.

Girl Yes Challenge Accepted

I challenge you. Yes you!

I want you to write 3 things you want to accomplish over the next 30 days. This can be anything from starting a daily journey, drinking more water, or even start working on that business plan you’ve had sitting on. The next 30 days are about to change your life! This is ONLY if you’re serious about reaching your goals.

It’s not going to be enough for you just to write out the three objectives. We now need to create a game plan. Luckily for you, I’ve already done most of the work for you. I’ve mapped out your next 30 days, all you have to do is follow the game plan.

HOW WILL YOU EXECUTE?

This is where being “bold” in your methods will come into play. You will have to get serious at this point.

If you really want to change your life you have to cut out the distractions and eliminate anything that will take your focus away from your top 3 goals.

What does that REALLY mean?

This means:

No more endless hours on social media scrolling at the same pictures and post.
Wasting money on items you don’t need.
Partying with friends every weekend.
No more being lazy.

If you can work 8-12 hours a day for someone else you can dedicate 2-3 to your own goals.

Please don’t tell me or yourself that you can’t find the time. Because if you have watched television this week, watched a movie, or went out to dinner then you have the time. How badly do you really want success?

This is the secret!!!!

Being able to silence the noise around you to key. I have become a master of this. Once I set my mind to something there is nothing that stands in my way. I truly mean nothing. But it took years to train my mind to do so. I’ve identified the three attributes needed to change your lifestyle in 30 days and now I’m sharing it with you.

No Excuse

Where there is a will there’s a way. This statement remains true because if you want something bad enough you will stop at nothing to get it. So why don’t we apply this level of thinking to our personal goals? We do it at work, with the kids, with our relationships, and other areas of our lives. But once it comes to our personal development we become stagnant. You can either find a way or find an excuse. The choice is yours.

No more excuses. It’s time to say “Girl Yes”.

Take Action

I’ve made it easy by outlining your next 30 days. It’s a simple way to take daily action towards working on your daily goals as well as affirming that you are capable of greatness. All you will have to do is follow the Girl Yes system.

I personally have used this outline multiple times in my business, my health, and even in pageantry. So I know first hand that it can be applied to every area of your life that you want to improve. You just have to be serious about what you truly want.

I know you hear that voice inside you telling you it’s time. Time for greatest, time to accomplish everything your heart desires. But you are in a state of fear, fear of failure, fear that you aren’t capable. We’ve all been there. Now is the time to push past those negative thoughts and take steps to ensure you have the life you’ve dreamed of.

Grab your copy of the 30 Day Girl Yes Guide Here.